Nestled in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Hersheypark is an iconic theme park that has been delighting visitors for over a century. Known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," Hersheypark offers an array of attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides, all infused with the rich heritage of the Hershey Chocolate Company. This expansive park, which includes a water park and a zoo, is a premier destination for families, thrill-seekers, and chocolate lovers alike.
The Roller Coasters of Hersheypark: An Adrenaline Rush in Chocolate Town
photo by Hersheypark
Hersheypark is renowned for its impressive collection of roller coasters, each offering unique thrills and experiences. Among the most popular is Candymonium, the park's tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster. Opened in 2020, this hyper coaster reaches speeds of up to 76 mph and features seven camelback hills, providing plenty of airtime for daring riders. Designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, Candymonium is a must-ride for any coaster enthusiast.
Another standout attraction is Skyrush, a hyper coaster that offers an intense ride experience with its 200-foot drop and speeds up to 75 mph. Riders sit in winged seats that create a feeling of flying, adding to the thrill of the ride. For those looking for an indoor experience, Laff Trakk provides a unique spin on the traditional roller coaster. This indoor, spinning, glow-coaster combines funhouse elements with coaster thrills, making it a family favorite.
Hersheypark also caters to younger guests with rides like Cocoa Cruiser, a junior coaster designed for kids ready to experience their first coaster ride. This diversity in roller coasters ensures that guests of all ages and thrill levels can find something to enjoy. Other notable coasters include Fahrenheit, with its 97-degree drop, and Storm Runner, which launches riders from 0 to 72 mph in just two seconds, offering heart-pounding excitement.
In addition to its thrilling coasters, Hersheypark offers a variety of other rides that appeal to a wide range of tastes. The Kissing Tower, a unique observation ride, gives visitors a panoramic view of the park and surrounding area from a height of 330 feet. The tower's distinctive kissing shape is a nod to Hershey's iconic chocolate kisses. Reese's Cupfusion, an interactive dark ride, allows guests to embark on a mission to protect the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Factory from mischievous characters, combining fun and a bit of friendly competition.
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark: A Splashing Good Time
photo by Hersheypark
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is a water park within the main park that offers a refreshing escape during the hot summer months. This water oasis features a variety of water attractions, from wave pools to water slides, ensuring a splashing good time for visitors.
One of the highlights is the Tidal Force, a massive water ride that takes guests on a 100-foot plunge, creating a gigantic splash that soaks everyone in its path. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Intercoastal Waterway provides a leisurely float through a winding lazy river, allowing guests to soak in the sun while drifting along.
Younger visitors will enjoy the East Coast Waterworks, a multi-level water playground featuring slides, sprinklers, and interactive water elements. This area is perfect for families with children, offering a safe and fun environment for water play. Another family-friendly attraction is the Bayside Pier, a large wave pool where guests can enjoy gentle waves and a beach-like atmosphere.
For thrill-seekers, The Boardwalk offers high-adrenaline water slides like Vortex, a spiral tube slide, and Whirlwind, a racing slide that pits friends and family against each other in a race to the bottom. The Shoreline Sprayground provides a splash pad with numerous fountains and water jets that offer a cool respite from the summer heat.
The Boardwalk also features dining and relaxation areas, ensuring that visitors can take a break and refuel without leaving the water park. The Chickie's & Pete's Boardwalk Fries and Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs are popular food options, while cabanas and shaded areas provide a place to relax and unwind. With its variety of water attractions, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is a highlight for many visitors, offering a refreshing break from the park's other activities.
ZooAmerica: An Animal Adventure in Hersheypark
photo by Hersheypark
ZooAmerica, located adjacent to Hersheypark, offers a unique opportunity to explore North American wildlife. This 11-acre zoo is home to over 200 animals from five distinct regions of North America, providing an educational and entertaining experience for guests of all ages.
The Eastern Woodlands section showcases animals like black bears, white-tailed deer, and river otters, native to the forests of the eastern United States. The Southern Swamps feature creatures such as alligators and bobcats, offering a glimpse into the wildlife of the southeastern wetlands.
In the Great Southwest area, visitors can encounter animals adapted to the arid desert environment, including roadrunners, thick-billed parrots, and Gila monsters. The Big Sky Country section highlights animals from the northern plains, such as bison and elk, while the Northlands exhibit features species like the Canada lynx and snowy owl, representing the cold northern regions.
ZooAmerica focuses on conservation and education, with programs and exhibits designed to raise awareness about wildlife preservation. Interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and educational programs make ZooAmerica a fascinating addition to the Hersheypark experience. The zoo's Creature Feature program allows guests to get up close and personal with some of the animals, offering a hands-on learning experience that is both fun and informative.
ZooAmerica also participates in various conservation initiatives, such as the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which aims to manage and conserve endangered species populations. The zoo's breeding programs have been successful in helping to preserve species like the ocelot and the American kestrel. Educational programs, including guided tours and school field trips, further enhance the zoo's mission to promote wildlife conservation and education.
Hersheypark in the Dark: Halloween Festivities
photo by Hersheypark
One of the most anticipated seasonal events at Hersheypark is Hersheypark in the Dark, a Halloween-themed celebration that takes place during October weekends. The park is transformed with spooky decorations, and special Halloween-themed attractions are added to the mix. Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout the park, with designated areas for collecting treats.
Rides take on a new dimension during Hersheypark in the Dark, with attractions like Laff Trakk offering a glow-in-the-dark experience, and Ghostly Gardens providing a spooky walk-through adventure. The park also features Halloween-themed entertainment, including live shows and character meet-and-greets, making it a fun and festive experience for visitors of all ages.
Christmas Candylane: A Winter Wonderland
photo by Hersheypark
As the holiday season approaches, Hersheypark transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas Candylane event. The park is adorned with over five million twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere that delights visitors of all ages. Special holiday-themed attractions and entertainment, such as Santa's Reindeer Stables, where guests can see live reindeer, add to the festive spirit.
Christmas Candylane offers a variety of holiday activities, including ice skating, festive shows, and holiday shopping. The park's rides are also open during this time, allowing guests to enjoy their favorite attractions amidst the holiday decor. The NOEL Light Show is a highlight, featuring a dazzling display of lights synchronized to holiday music, creating a mesmerizing experience.
Conclusion: A Visit to Hersheypark is a Sweet Adventure
photo by Hersheypark
Hersheypark continues to be a top destination for families, thrill-seekers, and chocolate enthusiasts. Its combination of thrilling roller coasters, refreshing water attractions, and the educational ZooAmerica makes it a versatile and appealing park for all visitors. The park's commitment to providing a memorable experience is evident in its well-maintained attractions, friendly staff, and ongoing efforts to introduce new and exciting elements.
In recent years, Hersheypark has continued to innovate, adding new rides and experiences to keep visitors coming back. The park's seasonal events, such as Halloween and Christmas celebrations, add an extra layer of fun and excitement, ensuring that there's always something new to see and do. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning fan, Hersheypark promises a sweet adventure that you won't soon forget.
In 2024, Hersheypark celebrates its 117th anniversary, a testament to its enduring appeal and success. As the park looks to the future, it remains dedicated to its mission of creating sweet memories for all who visit. From its thrilling roller coasters and water attractions to the educational and engaging ZooAmerica, Hersheypark offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in the heart of Pennsylvania. The park's ongoing commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction ensures that it will continue to be a beloved destination for generations to come.
Discover why LetsJourney.info is your ultimate travel companion for exploring Hersheypark in Pennsylvania. Learn about thrilling roller coasters like Candymonium and family-friendly attractions at The Boardwalk. Uncover the wonders of ZooAmerica and its diverse wildlife. Stay updated on seasonal events that add extra magic to your visit. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or looking for a family-friendly adventure in Chocolate Town, LetsJourney.info has all the insights you need.
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