Comet at Hersheypark Celebrates 80 Years in 2026
Classic Wooden Roller Coaster opened to the public in May 1946
Comet, the oldest continuously operating roller coaster at Hersheypark, marks its 80th anniversary in May 2026. The classic wooden coaster is best known for several airtime-producing bunny hills and its rich history of thrills within the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania.
History of Comet
Comet was introduced during the 1946 season and was the last coaster personally added to the park by founder Milton S. Hershey. Built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC) and designed by PTC President Herbert P. Schmeck (1890-1956), the wooden coaster uses a staggering total of 248,919 feet of lumber. While an exact opening date is unknown, the coaster is believed to have officially opened during the week of May 26, 1946 (per the Hershey Community Archives).
Comet was the largest roller coaster in the United States at the time of its opening. It was originally painted green as Mr. Hershey preferred his rides this color to blend into the scenery and atmosphere of the Park. The coaster was eventually painted white and remains so to this day.
A Guest Favorite
Located in The Hollow region of Hersheypark, Comet is best known for delighting generations of riders 42" and taller (Reese's height category and above) and is often the first coaster of many parkgoers. Comet offers rides during Spring Weekends, summer and Hersheypark Halloween. Although the coaster is closed for the Christmas Candylane season, it makes a great photo spot with a light display featuring Santa and his reindeer ascending the lift hill.
During its 75th anniversary season in 2021, Comet was recognized with the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) Preservation Award and designated an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark for its historic significance.
Ride Experience
The modified double out-and-back classic wood coaster has two, 24 passenger trains aptly named "Mork's Comet" and "Halley's Comet." The ride experience begins as soon as the train leaves the station and immediately climbs 96 feet up the chain lift hill. The coaster then rumbles down the first 47-degree drop and flies back up the next hill to make a swooping 180-degree turn that reveals a stunning view of The Hollow. Comet dips back down towards Spring Creek and sends riders on a series of twisting turns and hair-raising hills. A handful of airtime-filled bunny hills give riders a final thrill before arriving back at the station. Comet reaches a top speed of 50 miles per hour during its 3,360-foot journey that lasts 1 minute 45 seconds. Night rides aboard Comet feature a trail of shimmering lights that line the entire track length.
Take a virtual ride on Comet below.
An Especially Celestial Update
In the spring of 2024, Hersheypark introduced all-new, custom trains for Comet featuring a three-tone blue color scheme and a glittering metal flake treatment. Along with these shimmering new trains, the ride logo was updated as an homage to the early 70's iconography of the ride, creating the perfect blend of old and new aesthetics. Just as Hersheypark continues to evolve as a world-class destination for family fun with new attractions and experiences, the team takes great pride in preserving the legacy of iconic rides such as Comet to ensure it continues to thrill riders for generations to come.
We hope to see you for a ride on Comet during its 80th anniversary season!
Guests can save on Hersheypark tickets valid any operating date through Jan. 3, 2027, by purchasing online. Summer tickets include three parks in one with over 70 rides and attractions, including the largest coaster collection in the Northeast, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park (open daily from May 23 through Sept. 7) and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park featuring animals native to North America.