Hersheypark

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania, Hersheypark is more than just an amusement park. It is a fun-filled experience that combines thrill rides, delicious treats, and a lively atmosphere. Since its founding in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey, the park has grown into a favorite destination for families, thrill seekers, and chocolate lovers alike. With over 121 acres of rides, attractions, and fun, Hersheypark has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through the park’s different zones, top attractions, and tips to make your visit a magical one.

Zoning of the Park

Hersheypark is divided into beautifully different zones, each offering unique experiences and attractions that cater to a variety of interests.

Chocolatetown

The newest entrance area, Chocolatetown immerses guests in the world of Hershey’s chocolates. Upon entering, guests are immediately enveloped by the sweet smells and fun atmosphere. Features of this vibrant zone include:

• Candymonium: Park’s tallest (210 feet), fastest (76 mph), and longest (4,636 feet) coaster.
• A variety of dining options, including chocolate-themed treats and quick bites.
• A store selling Hershey products and limited edition items.

Chocolatetown is a fun introduction to Hersheypark and an ideal starting point for your adventure.

Founder’s Circle

Founders Circle is a heartfelt tribute to the origins of the Park and the legacy of Milton S. Hershey. The area features:

• Historical exhibits celebrating the founding of Hershey Park.
• Interactive exhibits that teach visitors about Hershey’s history and values.

A stroll through this zone provides an understanding of the dedication and vision that shaped this iconic destination and provides the perfect backdrop for family photos.

The Hollow

For a more tranquil experience, the lush The Hollow is the place to be. Here you will enjoy the following attractions:

• Gentle rides for families and young children.
• Beautiful scenery that invites relaxation and exploration.

This zone is the perfect place to unwind between thrilling adventures and strengthen family bonds in a peaceful setting.

Midway America

Midway America captures the essence of a classic amusement park with carnival rides and games. This lively zone includes:

• Iconic rides that evoke nostalgia, such as the Ferris wheel and carousel.
• Food stalls offering traditional fairground treats such as funnel cakes and corn dogs.
• Game booths with prizes to be won, tickling the competitive spirit.

Midway America’s lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit area for those seeking classic amusement park fun.

Pioneer Frontier

Thrill-seekers will enjoy Pioneer Frontier, an exhilarating experience reminiscent of the Wild West. This zone features:

• Roller coasters that simulate the rugged adventures of the pioneer days, such as Storm Runner and Wildcat.
• Themed attractions that immerse visitors in the spirit of exploration and adventure.

Pioneer Frontier provides an adrenaline rush that will satisfy even the most daring visitor.

Kissing Tower Hill

Kissing Tower Hill offers a leisurely ride on the iconic Kissing Tower and breathtaking views of the entire park. This area features:

• Panoramic view of the observation tower, perfect for taking memorable photos.
• Families can relax and unwind.

After an exciting day at Kissing Tower Hill, you can relax and soak up the stunning surroundings in a charming atmosphere.

Roller Coasters and Major Attractions

Hersheypark is famous for its impressive collection of roller coasters and attractions.

Top Attractions

The park has several must-see attractions that attract visitors from around the world:

• Candymonium®: As mentioned, the highest, fastest, and longest coaster in the park, it offers a thrilling experience with smooth, exhilarating drops and turns.
• Skyrush®: Known for its intense airtime and speed, this hypercoaster offers guests an unforgettable ride that will take their breath away.
• Great Bear: A floorless coaster that offers breathtaking views and excitement. The unique design allows riders to feel the rush of the wind without a floor.

Classification by Thrill Level

Hersheypark classifies its rides according to thrill-seekers’ preferences. The classifications are as follows:

• Mild Rides: Ideal for families and young children, these rides feature gentle swings and slow-paced attractions.
• Moderate Rides: Suitable for those looking for something a little more exciting without being too strenuous.
• Extreme Rides: Ideal for thrill-seekers, with heart-stopping drops, inversions, and high-speed attractions.

Height Measurement System

To ensure safety, a system is in place to measure the height of guests using the attractions. This system includes:

• Specifying the required height for each attraction.
• Friendly staff will assist families to ensure that their children meet the required height.

Ride Strategy

To maximize your enjoyment of the attractions, it is wise to plan strategically. Here are some tips:

• Arrive early: Arriving at the park before it opens will give you a head start on the most popular attractions.
• Prioritize major rides: Ride popular rides like Candymonium® and Skyrush® before the lines form.
• Take advantage of off-peak hours: Late afternoon tends to be quieter, making it an ideal time to ride popular rides.

Fast Track System

Hersheypark also offers a fast-track system that allows visitors to skip the lines for popular rides. This system includes:

• Purchasing Fast Track Passes for select attractions to minimize wait times.

The Fast Track System is ideal on busy days when wait times tend to be long. However, it is recommended to check the crowds for the day before taking advantage of this option.

Boardwalk Waterpark

The Boardwalk is Hersheypark’s exciting water park, featuring a variety of thrilling water attractions.

Major Water Attractions
This expansive water park features numerous slides and attractions, including:

• Breaker’s Edge® Water Coaster: A unique hydro coaster that combines the thrills of a roller coaster with the element of water. You can enjoy the thrill of running downhill while splashing through the water.
• Whitecap Racer: The world’s longest mat racing slide. An exhilarating experience as riders slide down the slope side by side.
• East Coast WaterWorks: A huge water play facility that offers endless fun for guests of all ages, including slides, water cannons, and a splash zone.

Operational Features

The Boardwalk is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. During this time, guests can escape the summer heat and enjoy refreshments. Key features include:

• A variety of seating options, including lounge chairs and shaded areas.
• Food and beverage stands offering snacks and drinks for refreshments throughout the day.

Tips for Visiting

Here are some tips for visiting the Boardwalk:

• Arrive early: Get a good spot and enjoy the popular attractions before they get crowded.
• Bring sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun when enjoying outdoor attractions.
• Use lockers: Many areas have lockers for storing personal items for your greater convenience.

More Entertainment

Hersheypark is more than just rides. We also offer a variety of entertainment to enhance your stay.

ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is a fun addition to your Hersheypark experience. This year-round zoo features:

• More than 200 animals native to North America, including bears, cougars, and a variety of birds.
• Themed areas where visitors can explore a variety of habitats, including deserts and wetlands.

Shows and Entertainment Programs

The park offers live shows and entertainment programs ranging from musical performances to theatrical productions. Highlights include:

• Musical Performances: Featuring a variety of genres and talent to entertain guests of all ages.
• Theater Presentations: Engaging shows that bring stories to life in an interactive format.

Character Greetings

Part of the fun of visiting Hersheypark is the chance to meet your favorite Hershey characters. At these Meet & Greets, you can:

• Take pictures with your favorite characters, including Hershey’s Kiss and Reese’s.

Kids and adults alike will have a fun and memorable experience.

Monorail and Transportation System

The monorail and other transportation systems are available to make it easy to get around the park. Key features include:

• A monorail that provides a panoramic view of the park and its attractions.
• Shuttle service to and from various areas.

This transportation system will enhance your experience and allow you to relax and enjoy your visit.

Dining and Shopping

Enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options when you visit Hersheypark. Hersheypark offers a variety of dining options and unique souvenirs to enhance your day.

Restaurants and Cafes

Hersheypark offers a number of restaurants to suit a variety of tastes. Highlights include:

• The Chocolatier: A full-service restaurant offering a delicious menu featuring Hershey chocolates. Chocolate BBQ ribs and tempting desserts can be enjoyed while overlooking the park.
• Hersheypark Supply: Casual dining featuring quick service burgers, pizza, salads, and more.
• Dine with the Characters: Children and adults alike will be enveloped in a magical atmosphere at this special dining experience with Hershey’s characters.

All-Day Dining System

For those who plan to spend the entire day at the park, the All-Day Dining System is a great option. Key features include:

• All-you-can-eat meals at participating restaurants in the Park.
• Convenient dining options at various times of the day, perfect for families with different appetites.
• Ideal for those who want to enjoy the Park to the fullest without worrying about food costs.

Special Desserts and Sweets

As you would expect from the chocolate capital of the world, Hersheypark offers many sweet treats. Don’t miss:

• Chocolate Dipped Sweets: From pretzels to strawberries, these snacks are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Hershey’s Ice Cream: Your favorite flavor for a hot day.
• Specialty Candies: Try our seasonal and signature treats made just for Hersheypark visitors. These sweet treats are a highlight for many visitors and must be tasted during their stay.

Souvenir Shops

Hersheypark has a variety of stores where visitors can find unique souvenirs to remember their stay. These stores feature the following:

• Hershey’s Chocolate World: A huge selection of Hershey’s chocolates and themed merchandise.
• Park Merchandise: Apparel, toys, and merchandise showcasing the park’s attractions and characters.

Budget Recommendations

While Hersheypark offers many dining and shopping options, it is important to keep an eye on your budget. Here are some tips:

• Consider all-day dining: If you plan to dine in the park multiple times, this option is a great way to save money.
• Take advantage of dining deals: Look out for special offers and combos offered at various restaurants.
• Budget for souvenirs: To avoid overspending, decide in advance how much you will spend on shopping.

Seasonal Events

Hersheypark hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year that transform the park into a festive wonderland. These events create a unique atmosphere and offer exciting experiences for visitors of all ages.

Halloween (September-November)

In the fall, Hersheypark transforms into a spooky delight with Halloween events. Highlights include:

• Haunted Attractions: Thrilling haunted houses and scare zones to scare and excite the bravest guests.
• Trick-or-Treating: Family-friendly activities will keep the little ones safe and entertained this Halloween.
• Special Entertainment: Live shows and themed attractions add to the festivities, making it an ideal time to bring the whole family.

Hersheypark’s Halloween events combine spooky fun and exciting rides to ensure a memorable experience.

Christmas Candy Lane

As the holiday season approaches, the Christmas Candy Lane will grace the park. Key features of this event include:

• Holiday Illuminations: Millions of dazzling lights illuminate the Park, creating a magical winter wonderland.
• Seasonal Attractions: Special holiday-themed rides and attractions offer unique experiences.
• Meet and Greet with Santa: Visitors can interact with Santa Claus and have their picture taken with him to create cherished memories.

Spring Weekend

Once winter is gone, Hersheypark welcomes visitors with Spring Weekend events. This seasonal event features the following:

• Blooming flowers and fresh air: Enjoy the beautiful spring weather as you stroll through the park.
• Family activities: Special programs for children, including crafts and games.
• Early Ride Access: Thrilling rides and attractions open for family summer adventures.

Summer Season

During the summer months, Hersheypark comes alive, with extended hours and plenty of activities. Major attractions during this time include:

• Water attractions: The Boardwalk water park is in full operation, providing a welcome respite from the summer heat.
• Nightly entertainment: Special evening shows and fireworks add to the summer atmosphere and keep visitors entertained well into the night.
• Extended park hours: Longer hours allow guests to maximize their enjoyment of the rides and attractions at the park.

Where to Stay

When planning your visit to Hersheypark, consider lodging options to enhance your experience. Staying close to the park will allow you to maximize your time and enjoy all that Hershey has to offer.

Official Hotels

Hersheypark has several official hotels, each offering unique amenities and experiences. Notable choices include:

• Hotel Hershey: This luxurious hilltop resort offers beautiful views, a spa, and fine dining. Guests have access to exclusive park privileges and shuttle service to the park.
• Hershey Lodge: This family-friendly option features spacious rooms and a cozy atmosphere. The lodge has an indoor pool and is conveniently located near the park entrance.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

For those who prefer a more rustic experience, Hersheypark Camping Resort offers a unique alternative. This family-friendly campground features:

• Cabin rentals and RV sites surrounded by nature.
• Close proximity to Hersheypark and easy access to the park.
• Activities and amenities such as pools and playgrounds.

Advantages of Staying at an Official Hotel

Staying at an official hotel offers the following benefits:

• Exclusive Park benefits: Early access to attractions, complimentary shuttle service to the parks, and more.
• Convenience: Staying close to the parks reduces travel time and maximizes your enjoyment of the rides and attractions.
• Amenities: Official hotels often offer pools, dining, and entertainment to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Plan Your Visit

Careful planning is essential to a smooth and enjoyable experience at Hersheypark. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Best Days and Times to Visit

Visiting Hersheypark during off-peak times will greatly enhance your experience. The following tips will help you get the most out of your visit:

• Weekdays and Weekends: Weekdays are generally less crowded, and rides and attractions are more accessible.
• Arrive Early: Arrive before the park opens to experience popular rides with minimal wait times.

Ticket Purchase System

Hersheypark offers a variety of ticket options to suit your budget and preferences. Here is what they include:

• Advance Purchase Discount: Purchase tickets online in advance and save more than at the gate.
• Season Pass: If you are a frequent visitor, a season pass is a great way to save.

Understanding the ticketing system will help you choose the best option for your visit.

Parking and Directions

Parking at Hersheypark is straightforward and ample. Please refer to the following:

• On-Site Parking: Convenient for visitors arriving by car.
• Public Transportation: If you do not have access to a car, please use local transportation. Shuttle buses are often available from nearby hotels.

Mobile App and Its Features

Hersheypark’s mobile app is a valuable resource for visitors. Key features include:

• Ride Wait Times: Real-time updates of attraction wait times.
• Maps and Navigation: Detailed maps help visitors navigate the park and find dining options, restrooms, and more.
• Event Schedule: Stay up-to-date on showtimes and special events throughout the day.

Policies on Personal Belongings and Food

Hersheypark has specific policies regarding food and personal items. The following are important guidelines:

• Food and Beverages from Outside Sources: No food or beverages are allowed in Hersheypark, with the exception of those with special dietary needs and infants and toddlers.

Bags and Storage: In addition, lockers are available for guests to rent to store personal items while they are enjoying the park.