Best time to Visit Hershey Park: Ultimate Tips and Guide
HersheyPark in Pennsylvania is the ultimate family-friendly theme park destination, offering a blend of thrilling rides, entertaining attractions, and sweet experiences that cater to visitors of all ages. Nestled in the town known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," the park features over 70 rides, including 14 roller coasters, making it a paradise for adrenaline seekers. Younger children will delight in the many family-friendly rides and attractions like the Kissing Tower and the Reese's Cupfusion. In addition to the rides, the park is home to a variety of shows, family attractions, character meet-and-greets, and a vibrant water park, ensuring that every family member finds something to enjoy.
Best time to Visit Hershey Park: Ultimate Tips and Guide
Beyond the thrilling roller coasters and rides, HersheyPark offers a unique experience with its chocolate-themed attractions. Families can embark on a journey at Hershey's Chocolate World, where they can learn about the chocolate-making process, create their own candy bar, have a chocolate tour and indulge in delicious treats. The amusement park also features numerous dining options, ranging from quick snacks to full-service restaurants, catering to all tastes and dietary needs so you can have a sweet start to your day at this really fun park. With its combination of thrilling rides, engaging attractions, and a touch of chocolate magic, a full day visit to HersheyPark promises a memorable and delightful experience for the entire family.
Best Day and Time to Visit HersheyPark: Your Ultimate Guide
HersheyPark, the iconic amusement park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a dream destination for thrill-seekers, families, and chocolate lovers alike. With its thrilling rides, delightful attractions, and the sweet smell of chocolate wafting through the air, it's no wonder that visitors flock to this park However, to make the most of your visit and avoid the longest lines, choosing the best day and time of year to visit is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan the perfect first visit to Hershey Park for lots of sweet fun.
Planning a Visit to HersheyPark:
Timing your visit to Hershey Park can significantly enhance your experience. By avoiding peak times, you can enjoy shorter wait times for rides, less crowded walkways, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Here are some factors to consider:
Seasonal Trends: Hershey Park sees varying levels of crowds throughout the year, with peak times during summer, holidays, and special events. Be sure to check the website for any seasonal events happening before you book tickets if you want to avoid mass crowds above the typical regular season crowds.
Weather Conditions: Weather can affect park attendance, with rainy days typically seeing fewer visitors. Our family visited the park on a rainy morning and a staff member commented that rainy days are great to visit because it deters so many visitors. My younger kids did not have to wait in lines for kiddie rides at all. They had so much fun and having easy access to do all of the rides on a least busy day. Best of all it only rained for 15 minutes as we walked in and then it was all sun from that point forward.
Special Events: Concerts, holiday celebrations, and other special events can draw larger crowds. If you plan ahead for Hersheypark tickets and know that the ticket prices will be a bit more, you will enjoy these seasonal events.
Choosing the best time of year to visit Hershey Park can significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to enjoy the attractions with minimal wait times and maximum enjoyment. Here's a detailed look at the seasonal variations and special events that can help you decide the optimal time for your visit. Hershey Park typically opens for the year in early April, starting with weekends and gradually expanding to daily operations as summer approaches
Spring Visit Pros and Cons:
Milder Weather: Spring temperatures are generally comfortable, making it a pleasant time to explore the park without the summer heat and with shorter lines.
Fewer Crowds: Early spring, especially on weekdays, tends to be less crowded as schools are in session and the peak summer vacation period hasn’t begun.
Springtime in the Park: This special event features seasonal attractions and activities, often with beautiful spring decorations and Easter-themed events.
Limited Park Hours: The park has shorter operating hours and fewer days of operation (weekend only) compared to the summer months.
Water Park is not open.
Summer Season Visit Pros and Cons:
Full Operation: All rides, attractions, and dining options are typically open, and the park has extended hours, including special nighttime events.
Water Attractions: The Boardwalk, Hershey Park’s water park, is fully operational, providing a great way to cool off in the summer heat. Water slides, wave pool,
Special Events: Summer often brings concerts, fireworks, and other special events.
Crowds: Summer is the peak season, with higher attendance levels, especially on weekends and holidays.
Heat: High temperatures can make the park experience less comfortable, though water attractions and lazy river do help mitigate this.
Fall Visit Pros and Cons:
Milder Weather: Cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable visit compared to the peak summer heat.
Hersheypark in the Dark: This Halloween-themed event features spooky attractions, trick-or-treat trails, and special decorations, offering a unique experience even for young kids.
Reduced Crowds: After Labor Day, crowds tend to diminish, particularly on weekdays, making it an ideal time for a quieter visit.
Limited Park Hours: Similar to spring, fall can bring shorter operating hours and fewer open days.
Seasonal Closures: Some water attractions and seasonal rides may be closed.
Winter Pros and Cons:
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane: The park transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights, holiday shows, and special attractions like Santa’s reindeer. This event provides a magical holiday experience.
Less Crowded: Generally, the park is less crowded during the winter months, especially on weekdays.
Cold Weather: Winter temperatures can be quite cold, which may limit the enjoyment of outdoor rides and attractions.
Limited Attractions: Some rides and attractions may be closed for the season, and park hours are reduced.
The best time of year to visit Hershey Park depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the type of experience you’re seeking. For those looking to enjoy the full range of attractions with extended hours, summer is ideal despite the larger crowds and higher temperatures. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, spring and fall offer excellent opportunities, especially during special events like Springtime in the Park and Hersheypark in the Dark. Winter provides a unique, festive experience with Hersheypark Christmas Candylane but comes with colder weather and limited attractions. By considering these seasonal variations, you can plan your visit to Hershey Park to match your preferences and maximize your enjoyment.
Dining at Hersheypark is an adventure in itself, with numerous eateries and snack stands scattered throughout the park. Guests can indulge in everything from classic amusement park fare like burgers and fries to more unique offerings such as chocolate BBQ ribs and customizable whoopie pies. The park's dining plans provide added convenience and value, allowing visitors to enjoy multiple meals and drinks throughout the day without breaking the bank. With options for every dietary need and preference, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan choices, Hersheypark ensures that every guest can enjoy a delicious and memorable culinary experience during their visit to one of the best places in Pennsylvania. Guests can bring outside food and save money on the visit!
Best Days to Visit Hersheypark
Weekdays vs. Weekends
Weekdays (Monday to Thursday): Generally, weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Locals and tourists alike tend to visit on weekends, leading to longer lines and busier attractions. If you can, aim for a mid-week visit to enjoy a more leisurely experience. Our Thursday visit was absolutely perfect. Highly recommend.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays: Among weekdays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the least crowded. Visitors who have just started their week may not yet be looking for a mid-week break, making these great for the day of your visit if your schedule is flexible.
Avoiding Holidays and School Breaks
Avoid Major Holidays: Holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day attract large crowds. If possible, plan your visit around these dates.
School Breaks: Summer vacation, spring break, and winter holidays see a surge in family visitors. If your schedule allows, visit during school term times for a quieter experience.
Best Times of the Day to Visit Hersheypark:
Morning vs. Afternoon vs. Evening
Early Mornings: Arriving right when the park opens can give you a head start on the most popular rides and attractions. The park is typically less crowded in the first few hours, allowing you to enjoy more with shorter wait times.
Late Afternoons to Evenings: If mornings aren’t an option, consider arriving in the late afternoon. Crowds often start to thin out as families with young children head home. Additionally, the park often has extended hours in the summer, providing a few extra hours of fun with fewer visitors.
Pro Tips for Visiting Hershey Park
Sweet Sneak Peek - When visiting Hersheypark all tickets include the preview plan. This allows guests to enter the park 2-3 hours before park close and visit the full next day. If you are a hotel guest you get an hour of extra time. Exact times can be found here. guests of the official resorts of hersheypark also have access to Sweet Start.
Use the HersheyPark App: The official app provides real-time updates on ride average wait times, show schedules, and park maps. This tool is invaluable for navigating the park efficiently.
Plan Your Must-See Attractions: Prioritize your favorite rides and attractions. Head to the most popular ones first to avoid long waits later in the day.
Consider Fast Track Passes: If you’re visiting on a busier day, Fast Track passes can significantly reduce wait times for top attractions. These passes allow you to skip the regular lines on some of the park’s most popular rides, potentially saving you a significant amount of time. However, the decision to buy them depends on various factors, including the time of year, day of the week, and your personal preferences. Here's a detailed analysis to help you decide whether Fast Track passes are worth the investment.
Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Especially during the summer months, stay hydrated and take breaks to avoid fatigue. There are plenty of shaded areas and dining options to relax and recharge.
Special Events and Seasonal Tips
Hersheypark in the Dark: During Halloween, the park transforms with spooky attractions and themed events. Visiting on weekdays close to Halloween can offer a festive experience with manageable crowds.
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane: The holiday season brings a magical atmosphere to Hershey Park. Early December weekdays are often less crowded and beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Visiting Hershey Park is more than just a day at an amusement park; it's an immersive experience that combines the thrill of rides with the charm of a chocolate-themed wonderland. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie eager to conquer towering roller coasters or a family looking for engaging and delightful attractions for all ages, Hershey Park caters to every type of visitor. The park's diverse offerings ensure that everyone, from the youngest children to adults, finds something to enjoy, making it an ideal destination for family outings, special occasions, or a memorable vacation stop.
Moreover, the unique blend of entertainment and education, especially through attractions like Hershey's Chocolate World, adds an extra layer of enjoyment and learning to your visit. The attention to detail in theming and the variety of dining and shopping options enhance the overall experience, making it both fun and convenient. By planning your visit to optimize for the best days and times, and considering options like Fast Track passes, you can make the most of your time at Hershey Park. Ultimately, a trip to Hershey Park is not just about the rides; it's about creating sweet memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Hershey Park veteran, timing your visit just right ensures you make the most of every sweet moment. Visit Central Pennsylvania and enjoy your trip!