Ultimate Guide to Hersheypark: Tips, Tricks & Where to Stay

Hersheypark Essentials for First-Time Visitors

What to Know Before You Go

Hersheypark has recently gone completely cashless, so you'll want to bring Visa gift cards or have a credit card ready. Be prepared for parking fees and ensure your payment method is easily accessible upon arrival. Comfortable shoes are essential, as Hersheypark spans a vast area, making foot comfort crucial for an enjoyable day. Using the Hersheypark mobile app will greatly enhance your visit by providing real-time information on ride wait times, park maps, and dining options. Planning your visit strategically and arriving early will help maximize your experience.

Navigating Hersheypark Like a Pro

One of the best strategies is starting your day at the back of the park, allowing you to avoid large early crowds and move forward as the day progresses. Utilize the Preview Plan, which lets you enter the park for free the evening before your main visit—ideal for experiencing popular attractions with shorter lines. Ensure kids carry lightweight drawstring backpacks for essentials such as water bottles, sunscreen, and small souvenirs. Wearing swimsuits beneath regular clothing makes transitioning into water attractions seamless and convenient.

Best Hersheypark Tips and Tricks to Maximize Fun

Ride Smarter, Not Harder

Arriving at the park early in the day will grant access to shorter lines and more ride opportunities. Take advantage of the Fast Track programs if you prefer minimal wait times, as this allows skipping regular queues for major attractions. The HPGO wristband further enhances the park experience by tracking your ride stats and integrating seamlessly with Fast Track access. Remember, strategic planning with these tools can significantly boost the amount of fun and rides you experience in a day.

Packing Tips for Families

Packing smartly can make a huge difference. Encourage your kids to use drawstring backpacks for personal items, teaching responsibility and relieving your own carrying load. Bringing refillable water bottles is essential for hydration and will save significant costs compared to purchasing drinks inside the park. If visiting during summer, pack minimal towels—microfiber towels are perfect as they're compact and quick-drying.

Food & Dining Hacks

To save money, eat a hearty snack before entering the park, delaying the need for pricier snacks or lunches inside. Consider the meal and drink plans for convenience and savings, especially if you have a larger or particularly hungry family. Sharing a meal plan can be an effective way to keep your family satisfied throughout the day without overspending. Refilling water bottles at drink stations is a smart, economical way to stay hydrated.

Weather Secrets and Rainy Day Tips

Don’t immediately dismiss visiting on rainy days; these can often provide shorter lines and fewer crowds. If heavy rain impacts your visit, Hersheypark offers rain passes at Guest Services, allowing you to return on another day without extra charge. Always check weather conditions and prepare accordingly to make the most of your park experience, rain or shine.

Hersheypark by Season: Special Experiences

Hersheypark Summer Guide

Summer visits should start at the Boardwalk Water Park to beat the heat and crowds. Aim to experience popular water rides like Coastline Plunge early in the day. Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen and quick-drying towels. Wearing swimsuits beneath your regular clothes streamlines the transition from rides to water activities, maximizing your fun time.

Halloween & Christmas Events at Hersheypark

For Halloween, don’t miss Dark Nights, a thrilling seasonal event perfect for older kids and adults. Christmas Candylane offers a magical holiday experience with dazzling lights and festive entertainment. Both seasons provide unique park atmospheres and special attractions worth experiencing.

Must-Do Experiences Beyond Hersheypark Rides

Visiting Hershey’s Chocolate World

Chocolate World offers interactive experiences like Create Your Own Candy Bar, the historic trolley tour, and free Chocolate Tour rides. Purchasing attraction bundles can save you money and time. It's wise to book timed tickets online in advance, as slots fill up quickly during busy periods.

Hershey Story Museum—A Hidden Gem

This museum offers enriching chocolate tastings and engaging chocolate labs where you learn and create your own treats. It’s less crowded than other Hershey attractions, making it a relaxing and educational visit. Plan at least two hours here to fully enjoy all it has to offer.

ZooAmerica and Hershey Gardens

ZooAmerica is included with your Hersheypark ticket and is best visited during cooler parts of the day when animals are more active. Combining visits to Hershey Gardens and ZooAmerica can create a relaxing break from park rides and offer a diverse range of experiences.

Where to Stay Near Hersheypark

Staying at Official Hersheypark Resorts

Staying at an official resort like Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge provides early park entry, complimentary shuttle service, and additional perks such as resort credits and VIP chocolate amenities. These accommodations offer convenience, luxury, and added value to your Hersheypark visit.

Recommended Hotels Near Hershey

For budget-friendly options, staying slightly away from the park, such as in Harrisburg, can be economical. Hotels like the Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey provide full amenities and spacious rooms, making them an excellent alternative to pricier park-adjacent hotels.

Family-Friendly Dining Near Hersheypark

Best Restaurants Close to Hersheypark

Troegs Brewery offers excellent microbrews and gourmet casual meals, perfect after a long park day. Chocolate Avenue Grill and Fenicci’s serve family-friendly meals with menus that satisfy both adults and children. Advance reservations at popular spots like The Chocolatier are recommended to avoid long waits.

Bonus Tips for Hersheypark Guests

Hersheypark’s Accessibility Program

Hersheypark offers a comprehensive Accessibility Program, catering effectively to visitors with special needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable park experience for everyone.

Hershey Bears Hockey—Adding Extra Fun

Enjoy a Hershey Bears hockey game during your visit for affordable, family-friendly entertainment that enhances your Hershey experience.

Saving Money with Season Passes

Explore various season pass options available at Hersheypark. Passes provide significant savings and perks for frequent visitors, including free parking, discounts, and exclusive events.

Planning Your Perfect Hersheypark Visit (Travel Advisor Tips)

How a Travel Advisor Can Enhance Your Hershey Vacation

Booking through a me as your travel advisor offers added value such as complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, resort credits, and VIP chocolate amenities. Personalized itinerary planning tailored specifically for your family’s preferences ensures a stress-free, memorable visit.

Request a Customized Hersheypark Vacation Quote

Reach out to effortlessly plan and book your customized Hersheypark vacation, maximizing both savings and enjoyment. Professional booking assistance simplifies your travel planning, ensuring your Hersheypark experience is everything you hoped for.