Hersheypark

About

Hersheypark is a 121-acre theme park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, built by chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey in 1906 as a leisure ground for his factory workers. Today it's grown into one of the East Coast's premier amusement parks, with over 70 rides spanning 15 roller coasters, a sprawling water park called The Boardwalk, and the beloved Hershey's Chocolate World attraction right next door.

The park is organized into themed regions, each offering a mix of thrill rides, family attractions, and kiddie areas. From the record-breaking Candymonium hypercoaster to gentle dark rides like Reese's Cupfusion, there's something for every age and comfort level. Live entertainment, character meet-and-greets with the Hershey's candy mascots, and seasonal events round out the experience.

The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is included with admission and features a wave pool, lazy river, water slides, and a sandy beach area. It's a welcome cool-down on hot summer days and a destination in its own right. Cabana rentals are available for families who want a home base.

Just outside the park gates, Hershey's Chocolate World offers free chocolate tours, candy-making experiences, and more shopping than you can shake a Twizzler at. The whole complex sits in a town that smells like chocolate, with street lamps shaped like Hershey Kisses lining the roads.

Hersheypark operates seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall, with special Halloween and Christmas events extending the calendar. Planning ahead helps, as the park draws big crowds on summer weekends. Purchasing tickets online often saves money, and the park's app is useful for checking wait times and show schedules throughout the day.

Accessibility

Hersheypark offers a Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) designed to help guests with disabilities enjoy the park. Guests should visit the Accessibility Services location upon arrival to enroll in the program and receive guidance on accessible entrances at attractions. The park welcomes visitors who bring their own wheelchairs and mobility devices.

The Boardwalk water park includes wheelchair-accessible options, and Hershey's Chocolate World next door is fully wheelchair accessible, including the Chocolate Tour, Create Your Own Candy Bar, Great Candy Expedition, and Unwrapped experiences. The Chevrolet Music Box Theatre has an accessible main entrance, though accessible seating is limited, so arriving 20 minutes early for shows is recommended.

For guests arriving by car with ADA plates or placards, designated accessible parking lots are located next to Hersheypark Stadium. Follow the signs on Hersheypark Drive to the main entertainment complex entrance, pass through the parking booths, and continue past GIANT Center to reach the ADA lots.

The park also provides accommodations for guests with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing differences, with services designed to help families make the most of their visit beyond just managing wait times. Contact Hersheypark's Guest Services before your visit for the latest details on sensory guides, quiet spaces, and any additional accommodations that may be available.

For the most current accessibility information, including specific ride requirements and any seasonal changes to services, reach out to Hersheypark directly or check their accessibility page online before planning your trip.

More accessible places in Pennsylvania

• The Franklin Institute (Philadelphia)
• Carnegie Museum of Natural History (Pittsburgh)
• The Andy Warhol Museum (Pittsburgh)
• Barnes Foundation (Philadelphia)
• Eastern State Penitentiary (Philadelphia)
• Independence National Historical Park (Philadelphia)