Top 13 Reasons to Visit Hersheypark In The Dark in 2019

If you love hair-raising thrills and sweet treats, then Hersheypark In The Dark is a must-add to your fall to-do list this year. The family-friendly event kicks off on Friday, October 18 and runs for three sweet weekends through Sunday, November 3. Here are 13 reasons why you don't want to miss out on this spooky (not scary) Halloween attraction.

1. Rides and Coasters

More than 50 rides and attractions are slated to be open (weather permitting) during Hersheypark In The Dark. It is a great opportunity for coaster fans to get in their last ride of the season on some of their favorite roller coasters.

2. Unique Dark Ride Opportunities

Exclusively for Hersheypark In The Dark, thrill-seekers can experience a lights-out ride on three wooden roller coasters - Wildcat, Comet and Lightning Racer - during the last hour of operation each evening. The indoor glowing Laff Trakk coaster will also be dark during all operating hours.

3. New for 2019: Reese’s Cupfusion 

Have you joined the mission on Reese’s Cupfusion? The all-new interactive gaming ride featuring the most targets in the world will be open during Hersheypark In The Dark. There is even a Halloween scene! Plus, the Hall of Fame leaderboard will reset for the new season, so agents are on an even playing field!

For insider tips and tricks, check out this article on 5 Tips to Get a High Score on Reese’s Cupfusion.

4. Trick-or-Treating

There’s no better place to trick-or-treat than The Sweetest Place On Earth! A trick-or-treat trail with 13 stops will be set up for children 12 and under throughout Treatville trick-or-treat trail in Hersheypark, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park and Hershey Hallow in Hershey’s Chocolate World. Costumes are encouraged but not required to receive a free treat bag.

5. Creatures Of The Night

The Halloween season is the only time of year ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open after dark for guests to experience the nighttime habits of nocturnal North American animals. ZooAmerica is open daily this fall with Creatures Of The Night starting at 6 p.m. on the same dates as Hersheypark In The Dark. Guests are encouraged to bring their flashlights to use as they walk on the wild side at ZooAmerica! Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark In The Dark when entered via the Park. Separate admission is also available at the zoo’s off-street entrance.

6. Sweet Treats

It's not a trip to Hersheypark without some sweet treats! Guests can indulge in festive food and beverage offerings, such as Pumpkin King Size Shakes, pumpkin funnel cake sundaes and fried cheesecake. Need we say more?

7. Hops & Harvest

Hops & Harvest is returning with special menu items at Spring Creek Smokehouse and Dietz & Watson Country Grill each weekend of Hersheypark In The Dark. View the menus here. Guests ages 21 and older can also enjoy fall beer and cider flights in the Yuengling 1829 Patio & Pavilion. The new Yuengling Hershey’s Chocolate Porter will be served while supplies last!

8. Spooky Live Entertainment

Did you know that live entertainment is included with admission to Hersheypark In The Dark? The “Screaming Mummies,” a rockin’ band of misfit mummies, will play classic Halloween tunes and interact with guests whenever they take the stage.

9. Character Glow Dance Party

Young guests can join a variety of Hershey Characters for dancing and fun during a Character Glow Dance Party located in the Midway America area at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. It's the perfect photo opp!

10. Games

Who doesn’t love a good game of skee-ball? Hersheypark is home to two arcades for guests to win Halloween-themed prizes. Play Dome Arcade, which is located in the Pioneer Frontier area, features video games, crane machines and redemption games. Across the Park is Overlook Arcade, the largest arcade located in the Kissing Tower Hill area.

11. Cooler Weather

It can be quite hot in Hershey during the summer months, but the temperature often drops on autumn nights, which makes for an even more #HersheyparkHappy visit. Plus, the Park is decorated for the season with pumpkins, hay bales, lights and more to put guests in the Halloween spirit.

12. Unlimited Visits For 2019 Season Pass Holders

2019 Season Pass holders can enjoy unlimited visits during Hersheypark In The Dark. Pretty sweet, right? Learn more about our Season Pass options here.

13. Getaway Packages

With so much to do in Hershey during the fall season, guests should consider turning their visit into a two or three-day getaway. Anyone who books the Hersheypark In The Dark Package will enjoy accommodations, Hersheypark tickets, a Halloween themed breakfast with the Hershey Characters, and more!