Yes, you should visit Hersheypark, especially if you enjoy roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and a uniquely themed experience centered around chocolate. It offers a solid mix of thrill rides, a water park, and entertainment that appeals to a wide range of ages, though it may not be the best choice if you are seeking the extreme intensity of parks like Cedar Point or the immersive theming of Disney World.
Background and What Makes It Unique
Hersheypark began in 1907 as a leisure park for employees of the Hershey Chocolate Company. Over a century later, it has grown into a major destination that spans over 120 acres. What sets it apart is its seamless integration of chocolate-themed branding throughout the park, from the iconic Hershey’s Kisses streetlights to the Chocolate Town area. The park is divided into themed sections, including Founder’s Way, Kissing Tower Hill, and the newer Chocolatetown, which opened in 2020 and serves as the main entrance with a large fountain and the signature Hershey’s Chocolatier restaurant.
In addition to the amusement park, the complex includes Hersheypark Stadium, ZooAmerica (a separate 11-acre zoo included with admission), and Hershey’s Chocolate World, an attached attraction center that offers a free chocolate-making ride and plenty of shopping. This combination makes it more than just a coaster park; it’s a full-day (or multi-day) entertainment campus.
How It Works: Tickets, Admission, and Layout
Hersheypark operates on a standard theme park model. You purchase a ticket or pass, enter through the main gate at Chocolatetown, and then have access to all rides and attractions, with the exception of some premium experiences like the Skyview (seasonal) or certain games. ZooAmerica is included in your admission on the same day, but you must exit the main park and re-enter the zoo through its own entrance, which is adjacent to the park.
Key operational details:
- Season: The park is open from late March or early April through New Year’s Eve, with varying hours. It is typically closed on some weekdays during the spring and fall.
- Ride Access: Most rides have a standard queue. There is a Fast Track system (paid skip-the-line passes) that can be purchased for specific days.
- Lockers: Available for rent near major coasters for storing loose items.
- Food and Drink: Outside food and drinks are allowed, but no coolers larger than 16 quarts. Reusable water bottles are permitted.
How to Choose the Right Ticket or Pass
Your choice depends on how many days you plan to visit and whether you want extras. The basic one-day ticket is the most straightforward. However, if you are staying overnight or want flexibility, a two-day ticket often costs only slightly more than a single-day ticket. Season passes are worth it if you live within a couple of hours and plan to visit more than twice, as they include free parking and discounts on food and merchandise.
Consider these factors:
- Group size: Children under 2 are free. Ages 3-9 pay a reduced child rate, but note that children under 54 inches tall have limited ride access.
- Parking: Standard parking costs extra (around $15-25 per day, depending on the season). Premium parking closer to the gate is more expensive.
- Water park: The Boardwalk (water park) is included in admission, but it is generally open only from late May through early September. If you visit in cooler months, it won’t be operational.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
One of the most frequent complaints is the cost of add-ons. Parking, fast track, and food can quickly double your budget. Another issue is crowds; on peak summer weekends, popular coasters like Candymonium or Skyrush can have wait times of 60-90 minutes. The park also has a policy where you cannot re-enter with outside food after you leave, so plan your meals accordingly.
To mitigate these issues:
- Go on a weekday in May or September when school is in session.
- Arrive at opening and head to the back of the park first, as most guests gravitate toward the front.
- Buy tickets online in advance; you’ll save compared to gate prices.
- Use the Hersheypark app for real-time wait times and mobile food ordering.
Comparisons: Hersheypark vs. Other Parks
Compared to larger parks like Cedar Point or Six Flags Magic Mountain, Hersheypark has a smaller but well-rounded collection of coasters. It has 15 roller coasters, including the hypercoaster Candymonium (210 feet tall) and the intense Skyrush (with a 200-foot drop). However, it lacks the record-breaking height or speed of some competitors. On the other hand, it is much more family-friendly than a typical Six Flags, with a larger number of gentle rides and a cleaner, more pleasant atmosphere. Compared to Disney or Universal, Hersheypark has far less theming and no dark rides with elaborate storylines, but it also has shorter lines and lower ticket prices.
Costs and Budgeting for a Trip
A one-day ticket for an adult typically ranges from $75 to $95, depending on the date. Children’s tickets are about $10 less. Parking adds $20, and a meal plan (all-you-can-eat at participating restaurants) is around $35 per person. A family of four can easily spend $400-500 for a single day without souvenirs. To save money, consider bringing your own food (allowed in a small cooler), staying at an off-site hotel that includes shuttle service, and skipping the Fast Track unless you are visiting on a holiday weekend.
Safety and Accessibility
Hersheypark is generally safe, with standard ride safety restraints and regular inspections. However, be aware of the height requirements, which are strictly enforced. For example, Candymonium requires riders to be at least 54 inches tall, while many kid-friendly rides have a 36-inch minimum. The park offers a Rider’s Guide that lists all requirements. For guests with disabilities, the park provides a Boarding Pass program that allows you to reserve a return time for rides without standing in line, similar to Disney’s DAS system. You must visit Guest Services with documentation to obtain this. The park is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs and ECVs can be rented at the entrance.
Template: Sample One-Day Itinerary
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Arrive and park | Go to the back of the park first |
| 10:00 AM | Ride Candymonium and Skyrush | Minimal lines before 11 AM |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch at Chocolatetown | Use mobile ordering |
| 1:30 PM | Visit ZooAmerica | Exit and re-enter through the zoo gate |
| 3:30 PM | Boardwalk water park | Bring swimsuits and a locker |
| 6:00 PM | Dinner and evening rides | Lines drop after 5 PM |
Sample (fictional): The Johnson family from Lancaster, PA, visited on a Tuesday in June. They arrived at 9:15 AM, rode three coasters by noon, and left at 7 PM after seeing the fireworks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hersheypark worth it for adults?
Yes, if you enjoy roller coasters. The park has several world-class coasters like Skyrush and Candymonium that are intense enough for thrill-seekers. The chocolate theme adds a unique charm, but adults without children may find a full day too much, so consider a half-day ticket if available.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring outside food and non-alcoholic beverages as long as they fit in a 16-quart cooler or smaller. Glass containers, alcohol, and straws are prohibited. You can also bring a refillable water bottle, and many restaurants offer free water cups.
What is the best day of the week to go?
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are typically the least crowded, especially in May, September, and October. Mondays can be busy due to school groups, and weekends are always crowded. Check the park’s online calendar for special events like Halloween (Hersheypark in the Dark) which can draw large crowds.
How much time do I need to see everything?
For a complete experience including all major coasters, the water park, and ZooAmerica, plan for at least 10-12 hours. If you only want to ride the coasters, you can cover most in 6-7 hours on a weekday. A two-day visit is ideal if you want to do everything without rushing.
Is there a dress code for the water park?
Standard swimwear is required. No street clothes, jeans, or shoes with buckles are allowed on slides. You must wear a swimsuit, and water shoes are recommended because the concrete can get hot. Lockers are available for rent near the Boardwalk entrance.