Hersheypark
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In what may be the best-smelling town in America, Hersheypark is located in Chocolate Town, also known as Hershey, Pennsylvania. The famous chocolatier Milton Hershey created the town and the park for his factory workers. Although Mr. Hershey originally opened the park in 1906 to allow employees to have a picnic or go boating, it has evolved over the years into what it is today: the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania. With 76 rides and attractions, as well as a zoo and visitors center, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
How to Get There
The closest major city to Hershey is Harrisburg. Harrisburg also has the nearest airport to the park, less than 10 miles away. Although Lancaster is a bit farther away, it's another option with an airport. Multiple transportation methods, including buses, rental cars, and ride-share services, are available.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to Hersheypark
Visit Hersheypark
Something that sets Hersheypark apart from other amusement parks is the attraction at the visitors center, Hershey's Chocolate World. It's a free tour where guests can make their own candy bar. This stop is sure to be a sweet spot in your day.
Ticket Information
Tickets are available through the Hersheypark website where you'll find various options, including multiday tickets, evening-only tickets, and tickets for special events. Discounts are available for military personnel, healthcare workers, teachers, and first responders. Prices start at $42.95 for an evening-only Happy Hours ticket and go up to $84.95 for a one-day ticket.
Family-Friendly Options
Hersheypark has a lot of family-friendly rides. Some of the most notable ones are The Shore, a 378,000-gallon wave pool, the monorail, which gives you a round-trip tour of the park and surrounding area, and the iconic kissing tower that provides a 360-degree view of the park.
For those with younger children, there are plenty of more mellow rides to make your little ones smile. Kids may also like meeting the Hershey characters and seeing the animals at ZooAmerica.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
To experience everything Hersheypark has to offer, you'll want to visit for at least three days. On the first day, take advantage of the Preview Plan. This perk is included with the cost of your ticket and allows you to visit for a couple of hours in the evening before a full day in the park. On the second day, arrive when the park opens to experience all the rides and attractions. After a busy day of exciting rides and a lot of walking, spend the third day relaxing by spending all day at The Boardwalk, the park's huge waterpark.
To capture precious memories of this fun-filled vacation, purchase the Family Photo Pass. This pass will give you digital access to all ride and photographer photos of you at the amusement park.
Hersheypark Accommodations
On Site Accommodations
Hersheypark offers accommodations at three official resorts. Benefits of staying at the official resorts include complimentary shuttle service to the park and extra hours.
The most luxurious resort is The Hotel Hershey. With the Chocolate Spa and Sports & Fitness Complex, there are amenities to suit everyone. Guest rooms, suites, and cottages are available to fit every kind of traveler.
The Hershey Lodge is a great place for families. There's an indoor and outdoor pool complex, a recreation and fitness complex, an arcade, planned family activities, and miniature golf. Your kids will be entertained even during time away from the park.
Hersheypark Camping Resort
Full and partial hookups available
Free Wi-Fi
Pet-friendly, but pets are not allowed in buildings or tents
Maximum RV length is 60 feet
Other amenities are the outdoor pool, recreational activities, playgrounds, basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard
Campgrounds Nearby
Hershey Park is a major reason why many visitors come to this part of the state, and the Hersheypark Camping Resort is the only campground in the area that’s actually owned by the park. As a result, there are more than a few chocolate-themed attractions in the campground, which makes it very family-friendly. There are 301 RV sites available, which means that you’ll have options.
The town of Hershey is one of the most visited areas in this part of the state, and since it is mere minutes from Harrisburg, Hershey RV & Camping Resort serves as a great base camp for visitors to the Harrisburg area. This campground encompasses 200 acres and provides 320 sites for RVers. On top of all of this, the campground is only 6 miles from Hershey Park.
Elizabethtown / Hershey KOA Holiday is a large RV park. This York, Pennsylvania campground is in a rural area, but it is also relatively close to downtown Elizabethtown. In addition, this RV park has a mini-golf course for the whole family to enjoy.
Activities Near Hersheypark
Things to Do
Fishing
For fishing enthusiasts, Adventure Explorations, located in The Hotel Hershey, offers Guided Fishing Adventures. Both Tenkara fly-fishing and conventional tackle are available. The fish caught are mostly trout, smallmouth bass, and sunfish. All participants over the age of 16 need a Pennsylvania fishing license.
Hiking
Adventure Explorations has guided hiking trips for guests who would like to add some exploration to their journey. These unique hiking trips include lessons on basic survival skills and some bird-watching. Remember to pack your hiking boots if you're interested in a hike.
Boating
The Boathouse Park is a short drive away next to Swatara Creek. If your family wants to add boating to your vacation, you'll find a boat launch here. The park also offers picnic tables and fishing to enjoy a nice day outdoors.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Hershey, PA enjoys four distinct seasons. It will be sweltering in summer, so you want to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit. There are days in the winter when the temperature drops below freezing, so if you're visiting during that season, you'll want to pack layers and a winter coat. Fall and spring are more moderate seasons and an excellent time to visit; just be sure to pack a light jacket.
Safety & Accessibility
Guests with health conditions should not ride anything that could worsen their condition. Visitors must wear shoes and secure all safety devices on each ride. Please note that taking pictures or videos while on a ride is prohibited.
Hersheypark has an Attraction Accessibility program that allows all guests who can utilize safety restraints and meet the attraction manufacturer's requirements to enjoy the rides. Service animals are welcome, and quiet areas can be found in different parts of the park for those with sensory sensitivities. There are wheelchairs available to rent.
Conclusion
Hersheypark is the only amusement park in America combining chocolate with family fun. From Milton Hershey planning for picnics to the thrilling coasters of today, this park has been helping families create memories for more than a century. Visit today for an exciting and entertaining experience.
FAQ
Yes, the Hersheypark Camping Resort is one of the official Hersheypark resorts.
Yes, the resort can accommodate RVs up to 60 feet in length.
Check ticket prices, order them beforehand, and check the weather the week you plan to go.
Yes, besides kiddie rides and character meet and greets, there is also a zoo and plenty of family attractions.
Pets are not allowed in the park. There is a kennel where pets can stay for a fee. Service animals are permitted.