Hersheypark
Hersheypark, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is one of the most beloved theme parks in the Northeast. With more than 70 rides and attractions, including 15 roller coasters, a massive water park, and tons of chocolate-themed entertainment, it’s a perfect blend of thrills and family-friendly fun — all in the “Sweetest Place on Earth.”
History & Background
Hersheypark opened in 1906 as a leisure park for employees of the Hershey Chocolate Company. Over the decades, it evolved into a full-fledged amusement destination. Today, it includes top-tier rides, seasonal festivals, live shows, and access to the Hershey’s Chocolate World attraction next door. The park is privately owned and operated, separate from major chains like Six Flags or Cedar Fair, and continues to expand under the vision of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts.
Ticket Prices & Packages
One-day tickets typically range from $55 to $85, depending on date and season.
Package options include:
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Multi-day tickets
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Season Passes (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Bite Size)
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Fast Track passes (skip-the-line)
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Hersheypark + Chocolate World bundles
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Resort + ticket packages
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Hersheypark is open from April through early January, with seasonal events like Dark Nights and Christmas Candylane.
Typical hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, extended in summer and holiday weeks.
Best times to visit:
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May or mid-September (mild weather and fewer crowds)
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Weekdays in June
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Late November for Christmas, Candy Cane lights, and atmosphere
Top Rides & Attractions
Candymonium – B&M hypercoaster with smooth airtime and a chocolate-themed plaza
Skyrush – Intense coaster known for its extreme airtime and speed
Storm Runner – Launch coaster with 0–72 mph in two seconds
Fahrenheit – Vertical lift, 97-degree drop, and inversions
Great Bear – Inverted coaster with twists over water and terrain
Lightning Racer – Dueling wooden coasters that race each other
Jolly Rancher Remix – Reversed, launched boomerang coaster with scent effects
Wildcat’s Revenge – New-for-2023 hybrid coaster from RMC — smooth, wild, and relentless
Family & Kids Rides
Reese’s Cupfusion – Interactive dark ride with blasters and candy targets
Ferris Wheel, Kissing Tower, and Dry Gulch Railroad – Classic park attractions
Mini Pirate, Tiny Tracks, and Sweet Swing – Located in The Hollow and Founder’s Way for smaller riders
ZooAmerica – Included with admission; walk-through wildlife park with 200+ animals
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark (Water Park)
Included with general admission, open Memorial Day through Labor Day:
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Breaker’s Edge – Water coaster that uses rafts and lifts
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Coastline Plunge – Slide complex with 6 unique routes
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East Coast Waterworks – Massive interactive water play structure
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Bayside Pier and The Shore – Wave pool and family beach zone
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Sandcastle Cove – Kid-friendly splash area
Dining Options
Chickie’s & Pete’s – Famous crabfries and cheesesteaks
The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio – Elevated dining inside Hershey’s Chocolatetown
Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor – Classic desserts and hand-spun shakes
Spring Creek Smokehouse – BBQ favorites and covered seating
Nathan’s, Moe’s, and Subway are also available
Plenty of candy stands and chocolate shops throughout the park
Meal Deal plans and Fast Pay wristbands are offered for convenience.
Hotels & Accommodation
Hersheypark has three official resort properties:
The Hotel Hershey – Historic luxury resort with elegant amenities
Hershey Lodge – Family-friendly with indoor water play area
Hersheypark Camping Resort – Cabins, tents, and RVs
All resort guests receive:
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Early access to the park
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Free shuttle to the front gate
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Discounted admission packages
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Exclusive resort guest events
Getting There & Parking
Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033
Easily accessible via I-81, US-322, and PA-39, about 20 minutes from Harrisburg.
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General parking: $25
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Preferred parking: $35
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RV and oversized parking available
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Resort guests receive free parking and shuttle service
Tips for Visiting
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Arrive early and head straight to Wildcat’s Revenge or Candymonium
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Use the app to track ride wait times, mobile order food, and locate family rest areas
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Chocolate World is free to enter — don’t miss the factory tour and shop
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Night rides on Skyrush or Lightning Racer are fan favorites
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Don’t skip ZooAmerica, especially on hot days — it’s shaded and relaxing