MAIN Recreation Theme Parks Hersheypark

Hersheypark, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania and billed as "the sweetest place on Earth" has for decades remained one of the US East Coast's most popular amusement parks for kids and families.

The park was originally envisioned by Milton Hershey in 1903. Four years later, in 1907, Hersheypark was officially opened as a leisure park for the many employees of Milton Hershey's company, the Hershey Chocolate Company.

In its infancy, the park included an athletics field, an amphitheater for various performances, a merry go round, a carousel, several bowling alleys, and a tennis court. This served its original purpose well, as a getaway for Hershey Chocolate employees.

Over the years, the park continued to add rides and venues. In 1923, the park got its first roller coaster, in 1929, its first swimming pools, and in 1933, its first log ride. Eventually, the park was opened up to the general public, which greatly increased its popularity.

Today, Hershypark encompasses some 110 fun-filled acres featuring more than 60 rides, from numerous kiddie attractions to a total of 11 thrill-ride roller coasters.

Since 2009, the park has continued to expand the famous Hersheypark Boardwalk to include a number of additional water features, such as a new wave pool and a new lazy river, along with a number of support facilities.

Also don't miss nearby ZooAmerica which can be accessed with a Hersheypark pass. The zoo was built in conjunction with the amusement park in 1907, and was the fruits of a partnership between Milton Hershey and Franz and Louise Zinner, who were German immigrants with a small personal collection of animals. The zoo received many more animals over the years, and got its first lion in 1914. By this time the zoo was growing so much that it became a noteworthy attraction in its own right.

Of course, no visit to Hersheypark today would be complete without a stop at Hershey's visitor center, Hershey's Chocolate World which specializes in everything related to - what else? - chocolate!

Have fun!

Hersheypark hours and admission

Hersheypark is open all year round. During peak summer months the park is open from 10am to 10pm weekdays and Sundays and from 10am to 11pm on Saturdays.

Ticket prices for adults range from about $60 to about $40 for a Hersheypark Jr/Sr 1 Day Ticket (ages 3 – 8 & 55 – 69).
Season passes at Hersheypark — which include free parking and unlimited visits — begin around $150.

The SuperDooperLooper is one of 12 thrilling roller coaster rides for which Hersheypark is justly famous.

For great savings on tickets, be sure to search online for special promotions from consumer groups, companies, and discount coupons offered by online coupon sites throughout the summer. While traveling through Pennsylvania also note that discounted tickets to Hersheypark are also available at participating Giant Food Stores and other retailers.

Hersheypark fun facts and insider tips:

• What's the best time to go to Hersheypark? Saturday is the busiest day of the week while Tuesdays through Thursdays are less so. June and early July are not as busy as August. 

• Roller coaster rides are so popular at Hershey that a 'Fast Track' program has been initiated so roller coaster fans don't have to wait on line. Fast Track passes are available in limited quantities at hospital services just inside the park for an additional fee, so get there early!

• For a 'no tears' visit with kids, be sure to get a complimentary wristband for your child to wear while in the park. The wristband has your cell phone number on it and will help reunite you should you become separated.

• Hershey's Chocolate World is located just outside the main gate where guests can enjoy the Great American Chocolate Tour Ride FREE to all visitors.

More about Hersheypark around the Web:

hershey park.com - The park's official site features a complete guide to rides & attractions, ticket information, opening hours, online resort booking, summer events, maps & directions.

Hershey PA - Check out the complete guide to the amusement park and ZooAmerica, with more on nearby attractions including Dutch Wonderland, online hotel booking, suggested restaurants, and chocolate recipes.

Hersheypark reviews - Read visitor reviews of major rides and rollercoasters and onsite restaurant ratings, from Theme Park Insider.

also see -> Dollywood | 10 Best Kids Activities at Disney World

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