PHOTO COURTESY OF KENNYWOOD PARK

Most of the characters associated with Kennywood Park are smiling, whimsical creatures. Kenny Kangaroo, the park’s official mascot for generations, beams from beneath his jaunty cap. The bright, yellow Kennywood arrow, Parker, has evolved from a wayfinding mark into a character of its own. Happy-go-lucky Jeeters has made a comeback, complete with his own pub.

And then there’s a hulking, faceless Phantom, glowering at you with sinister eyes.

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In a park built on nostalgia and old-time charm, the 1991 arrival of the Steel Phantom was an exception. Built in sinister black and purple, it seemed to underline its distinction from the park’s wooden coasters; those are fun thrills, but this is something different. At the time, it was the fastest coaster in the world — a hulking, harrowing ghoul sending you on an impossibly fast journey through the park.

A decade later, the ride got even better, trading loops and head-rattling turns for a smoother and faster journey. Rebranded as the Phantom’s Revenge, the details were jaw-dropping — or, perhaps, stomach-dropping. A top speed of 85 mph. A terrifying plummet of 232 feet. Two trips through the track of the Thunderbolt, so close that approaching cars on the rival coaster seem like they’re coming straight at you.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KENNYWOOD PARK

Thirty-three years after the Phantom’s first ride (and 23 years after its most recent refresh), the impact of this ride hasn’t diminished — and it’s still getting national attention. USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards assembles an annual expert panel to nominate coasters as among the best in the nation; the nominees are then voted on by readers. This year, the Phantom’s Revenge received top honors, outranking newer and faster coasters in vacation destinations from coast to coast.

He may not be a smiling kangaroo or a cheerful yellow arrow, but with plaudits like that, this Phantom is a key part of Kennywood’s identity.

No wonder, then, that he’s the marquee name in Phantom Fall Fest, the park’s autumnal celebration. Held each year starting in mid-September (this year’s event is the longest yet, lasting from Sept. 12 through Nov. 1), the event offers fall flavors and decor during the day and roving zombies and haunted attractions at night. It’s a can’t-miss spooky season experience, with the whole park firmly in the Phantom’s grasp.

Insider’s Tip

Heading to the park with kids who aren’t yet tall enough for the big coasters? Good news: There’s a Lil’ Phantom haunting Kiddieland. The area of the park dedicated to young guests features a mild, all-ages coaster inspired by its big brother, complete with an adorable painting of a pint-sized Phantom.

While You’re Here

Long line at the Potato Patch? After you ride the Phantom’s Revenge, go just past the beginning of the ride’s queue, heading toward Lost Kennywood. You’ll find Small Fry’s, a quick-service restaurant dishing out the same fries you’d get at the Potato Patch. (Small Fry’s also offers gluten-free chicken tenders for guests with gluten sensitivities.)