Exterminator

Pittsburgh, US

Exterminator
Exterminator
Location
Pittsburgh, US
Category
iconic bucket list
Coordinates
40.3894, -79.8677
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Exterminator is an iconic steel roller coaster located within the historic Kennywood amusement park in West Mifflin, just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As a premier destination for thrill-seekers, the attraction offers a unique indoor spinning coaster experience that distinguishes it from the park’s traditional wooden coasters. Riders board four-person cars that navigate a dark, enclosed track filled with sharp turns, sudden drops, and unpredictable rotations. Because the cars spin freely based on the distribution of weight and the force of the turns, no two rides are ever exactly the same. Visitors looking for exciting places to visit in the Pittsburgh area often prioritize the Exterminator for its intense, disorienting nature and its creative 'pest control' theme. The ride is particularly popular during the morning or early afternoon, as wait times can increase as the day progresses. When planning your trip, it is advisable to check the local forecast before visiting, as weather conditions can occasionally impact park operations. Whether you are a coaster enthusiast or simply looking for memorable trip ideas in Pennsylvania, the Exterminator provides a high-energy experience set against the backdrop of one of America’s oldest and most beloved amusement parks.

General information

The Exterminator is an iconic steel roller coaster located within the historic Kennywood amusement park in West Mifflin, just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As a premier destination for thrill-seekers, the attraction offers a unique indoor spinning coaster experience that distinguishes it from the park’s traditional wooden coasters. Riders board four-person cars that navigate a dark, enclosed track filled with sharp turns, sudden drops, and unpredictable rotations. Because the cars spin freely based on the distribution of weight and the force of the turns, no two rides are ever exactly the same. Visitors looking for exciting places to visit in the Pittsburgh area often prioritize the Exterminator for its intense, disorienting nature and its creative 'pest control' theme. The ride is particularly popular during the morning or early afternoon, as wait times can increase as the day progresses. When planning your trip, it is advisable to check the local forecast before visiting, as weather conditions can occasionally impact park operations. Whether you are a coaster enthusiast or simply looking for memorable trip ideas in Pennsylvania, the Exterminator provides a high-energy experience set against the backdrop of one of America’s oldest and most beloved amusement parks.

Did you know

  • The Exterminator features a 'pest control' theme, complete with oversized props and dark-ride elements.
  • The ride is a spinning coaster, meaning the cars rotate independently as they move along the track.
  • Kennywood, where the ride is located, is one of only two amusement parks in the United States designated as a National Historic Landmark.

History

The Exterminator opened at Kennywood in 1999. It was manufactured by Reverchon Industries, a French company known for their portable spinning coaster designs. The ride replaced the park's 'Gold Rusher' coaster, marking a shift toward more modern, high-intensity steel attractions within the park. Since its debut, it has remained a staple of the Kennywood experience, known for its indoor setting which allows the coaster to operate regardless of the bright daylight outside, heightening the disorienting effect of the rapid spins and sudden drops.

Cultural significance

Kennywood holds a special place in American amusement park history, and the Exterminator contributes to its reputation by blending classic park charm with modern thrill technology. It represents the transition of 20th-century amusement parks into the modern era of high-capacity, high-thrill steel rides. The coaster is frequently cited by enthusiasts as a classic example of a 'mouse' style spinning coaster, valued for its ability to provide a high level of re-rideability due to the randomized spinning motion, which changes depending on the passengers' weight distribution.

Geography and landscape

The Exterminator is situated in the West Mifflin borough, southeast of downtown Pittsburgh. The ride is housed within a large, nondescript industrial-style building inside Kennywood, which is perched on a bluff overlooking the Monongahela River. The park's layout is unique, featuring a mix of historic, tree-lined walkways and steep terrain that reflects the geography of the Pittsburgh region. The surrounding landscape provides a scenic backdrop for the park, though the Exterminator itself is entirely enclosed, focusing the rider's attention on the interior thematic elements.

More facts

  • Imported from Wikidata

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