Pat McAfee Show Takes Over Kennywood [video]

With Pittsburgh playing host to the 2026 NFL Draft, a wave of big names has rolled into the city, including Pat McAfee.

Among their stops around the city, The Pat McAfee Show crew made their way to Kennywood for a unique on-location broadcast that put one of Pennsylvania’s most historic amusement parks in the national spotlight.

Filmed during a private, closed-to-the-public day at the park, the segment delivers a mix of ride reactions, behind-the-scenes moments, and a broader look at what continues to make the park stand out. The show’s personality-driven format is on full display, with unscripted commentary that feels more like a day out with friends than a traditional media feature.

One standout moment features Boston Connor taking on the park’s Steelers-themed Steel Curtain roller coaster. During the ride, he visibly blacks out multiple times. It’s clearly captured in the video and has quickly become one of the segment’s most talked-about and most laughed-about moments.

Darius Butler and Boston Connor weren’t the only ones to take on the park’s Steel Curtain. Coaster Nation’s own Dan Hower and Ben Albert have also experienced the ride firsthand, delivering a wild run of their own!

The visit puts a spotlight on the park’s legacy attractions while introducing them to a wider audience that may not be as familiar with Kennywood’s coaster lineup.

The national attention also comes at a notable time for the park, following its transition to new ownership under Herschend Family Entertainment Corp. Known for operating destinations like Dollywood and Silver Dollar City, Herschend brings a strong focus on guest experience and long-term investment, something many will be watching closely as Kennywood continues to evolve.

For Kennywood, the exposure is significant, bringing fresh eyes to a destination that continues to balance history with modern appeal.

Follow Coaster Nation for more updates from Kennywood and the latest stories from across the amusement industry.