Hersheypark

Hersheypark, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a family-friendly theme park known for its thrilling rides, entertainment, and, of course, its sweet connection to chocolate. Dubbed "The Sweetest Place on Earth," Hersheypark is part of the larger Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company, which includes attractions like Hershey's Chocolate World, The Hershey Story Museum, and ZooAmerica. Established over a century ago, the park has grown into a beloved destination for families, thrill-seekers, and chocolate lovers alike.

History of Hersheypark

Hersheypark was founded in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey, the visionary chocolatier behind the Hershey Chocolate Company, as a leisure park for his employees and their families. Originally designed as a place for picnics and boating, Hersheypark quickly expanded to include attractions such as a merry-go-round, dance hall, and a band shell.

By the 1920s, it evolved into a full-fledged amusement park with roller coasters, carousels, and a variety of games and amusements. The iconic wooden roller coaster, "The Wild Cat," built in 1923, was one of its first thrill rides. Over the decades, the park continued to grow, adding new rides and areas, and eventually opened to the public as a top-tier amusement park.

In the 1970s, Hersheypark underwent a major renovation, transforming into the modern theme park known today. It has since expanded with themed areas such as Pioneer Frontier, Midway America, and Hershey’s Chocolatetown, offering attractions and amenities that appeal to guests of all ages.

Main Attractions and Rides

Hersheypark boasts a variety of attractions, from exhilarating roller coasters to gentler rides for younger visitors. Here are some of the highlights:

• Candymonium: Opened in 2020, Candymonium is the tallest, fastest, and longest coaster at Hersheypark. This hypercoaster reaches speeds of 76 mph and offers thrilling airtime and smooth turns, making it a must-ride for coaster enthusiasts.
• Skyrush: Known for its extreme airtime, Skyrush is one of the park's most intense rides. With a top speed of 75 mph and 200 feet of height, this coaster is often referred to as the park's "winged coaster," offering unique seating configurations that heighten the adrenaline rush.
• Great Bear: This inverted steel coaster takes riders through corkscrews, loops, and turns at high speeds. With its bear-inspired name and intense experience, it's a favorite among thrill-seekers.
• Comet: A classic wooden coaster dating back to 1946, Comet is a Hersheypark staple. Its nostalgic appeal and gentler ride experience make it perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a piece of the park’s history.
• Reese’s Cupfusion: This interactive dark ride lets riders help save Reese’s factory from malfunctioning robots. Using laser guns, guests can compete for the highest score as they zap through chocolate-themed scenes.
• Hershey’s Triple Tower: These three drop towers, varying in height and intensity, let guests choose their thrill level. Named after iconic Hershey’s treats (Kisses, Reese’s, and Hershey), they provide a heart-pounding vertical drop experience.
• The Boardwalk: For water enthusiasts, The Boardwalk offers a water park experience with slides, a lazy river, wave pool, and interactive water play areas. Open during the summer season, it’s the perfect spot to cool off.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Hersheypark isn’t just about thrills; it has a wide selection of family-friendly rides and attractions that cater to younger children and those seeking gentler experiences:

• Kissing Tower: A signature ride that offers panoramic views of Hersheypark and the surrounding area. The gondola features large, heart-shaped windows, making it a peaceful and romantic experience.
• Carrousel: Operating since 1919, the Carrousel is a beautifully restored classic ride that has been delighting guests for over a century.
• Hershey’s Chocolate Tour: Located adjacent to the park in Hershey’s Chocolate World, this free tour ride gives guests a behind-the-scenes look at how Hershey’s chocolate is made, complete with singing cows and the rich aroma of chocolate.

ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica is a unique, year-round attraction located within Hersheypark, focusing on North American wildlife. With over 200 animals and 75 species, the zoo is divided into five regions: Southern Swamps, The Great Southwest, Northlands, Big Sky Country, and Eastern Woodlands. Park guests can enter ZooAmerica for free with their Hersheypark admission, making it an educational addition to a day of fun.

Seasonal Events

Hersheypark is a year-round destination, with unique seasonal events that add to its appeal:

• Hersheypark in the Dark: Held during the Halloween season, this event features "roller ghosts," trick-or-treating, and special light effects that transform the park into a spooky yet family-friendly experience.
• Hersheypark Christmas Candylane: During the winter months, the park is transformed into a holiday wonderland, complete with millions of twinkling lights, Santa and his reindeer, and festive rides. Guests can also enjoy special holiday-themed shows and treats.
• Hersheypark Springtime in the Park: Kicking off the season, this event features a selection of rides and attractions along with a vibrant spring atmosphere.

Hershey’s Chocolatetown

Opened in 2020, Hershey’s Chocolatetown is the newest area of the park, serving as the main entrance and a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. It includes:

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio: A full-service restaurant offering elevated American cuisine and signature desserts inspired by the park’s history.
• Hersheypark Supply Co.: The largest retail store in Hersheypark, where guests can purchase exclusive Hershey merchandise.
• Candymonium Plaza: Home to the park’s signature hypercoaster, Candymonium, this plaza also offers picturesque photo spots and a relaxing atmosphere.

Tips for Visiting Hersheypark

• Arrive Early: To make the most of your day, arrive early. Hersheypark’s popular rides, such as Candymonium and Skyrush, can have long wait times during peak hours.
• Purchase Tickets in Advance: Save time and money by purchasing tickets online. Consider seasonal passes if you’re a frequent visitor.
• Plan for the Weather: Pennsylvania weather can vary, so dress in layers and pack rain gear if needed.
• Use the Mobile App: The Hersheypark app is helpful for checking ride wait times, navigating the park, and finding dining options.

Hersheypark’s mix of thrilling coasters, family-friendly attractions, and, of course, chocolate-themed fun makes it a unique destination for visitors of all ages. Its rich history, beautiful setting, and variety of seasonal events ensure there’s always something new and exciting to experience. Whether you're a local or planning a vacation, a trip to Hersheypark is bound to be a sweet adventure.