How To Beat The Heat in Hershey, PA

July means some of the hottest days of the year so it’s the perfect time to splash in a water park or cool off with great food and cocktails. If you’re planning to visit Hershey, PA, this summer, check out these seven ways we recommend to beat the heat.

1. Pack Smart

When packing for a hot day at Hersheypark, there are a few important items to add to your packing list. Visitors should consider wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing. Small bags and backpacks are allowed, so it doesn't hurt to bring a poncho in case of a passing storm. Guests planning to visit The Boardwalk At Hersheypark should also pack a bathing suit and towel. 

Most importantly, don’t forget the sunscreen! The American Academy of Dermatology recommends everyone spending time in the sun to apply a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays), SPF 30 or higher and water resistance.

2. Stay Hydrated

The best way to keep your body cool is to drink water - and lots of it. Each visitor is allowed to bring one sealed bottle of water into Hersheypark. Free cups of water are also available at any Hersheypark-owned food and beverage location, and our Pepsi Fast-Fill options dispense free ice and water without a scan as well.

We recommend taking advantage of the All-Day Drink Deal for $19.99 to save with free refills on fountain drinks all day long!

3. Take A Plunge on the Water Rides at Hersheypark

Included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark is The Boardwalk At Hersheypark, an 11-acre water park with more than one million gallons of water and 16 water attractions for guests to cool off on during a hot summer day. 

Thrill-seekers can plummet through the Breakers Edge Water Coaster, the first hydromagnetic coaster at Hersheypark, or race against their friends on Whitecap Racer, one of the longest mat racing slides in the world. Those looking to relax can enjoy a 1,360-foot, slow, winding lazy river ride. Plus, guests of all ages can catch a wave at the 378,000-gallon wave pool or make a splash at Sandcastle Cove, Shoreline Sprayground and East Coast Waterworks, which offers more than 600 interactive water features alone.

4. Hang Out At The Swimming Pools At The  Official Resorts of Hersheypark

A stay at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark comes with many sweet benefits. This includes complimentary access to all of the resorts’ fun amenities, including their pool complexes. 

The Hotel Hershey

Guests can cool off at the outdoor pool complex at  The Hotel Hershey which features a family pool with zero-grade entry, two large waterslides, a kiddie spray deck plus an infinity pool for guests ages 18 and up. Guests can also enjoy a refreshing drink or meal from Poolside, the resort's pool-side café. 

Hershey Lodge

The outdoor pool complex at Hershey Lodge features a zero-entry pool, spray fountain and lounge area available daily through Labor Day. If you're looking for some sweet indoor fun, the Lodge's indoor pool complex, Hershey's Water Works, has interactive water features, such as a zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, lighthouse tipping bucket, basketball hoops, Twizzler's Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk and more. 

Hersheypark Camping Resort

The pool complex at Hersheypark Camping Resort has two swimming pools and a kiddie pool, making it the perfect place to cool off after an afternoon at Hersheypark. The pool complex is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day.

5. Go Shopping

A visit to Hersheypark is not complete without a sweet souvenir to remember all of the #HersheyparkHappy memories made. Many of our shops inside the Park are air-conditioned, including the brand new retail store designed to beat the heat, East Coast Surf Co. Located next to The Boardwalk, East Coast Surf Co. is your one-stop-shop for all of your summertime needs. Retail items include bathing suits, hats, water tumblers, sunscreen and more. Or, don’t forget to stop by some of our other favorite retail shops in Hershey's Chocolatetown on your way out - Hersheypark Supply Co. and HP Collections.

6. Grab a Bite to Eat Indoors

Hershey, PA offers a variety of dining locations for guests seeking AC or shade while eating lunch or dinner. Let us break it down for you. 

Hershey’s Chocolatetown

The Chocolatier

The Chocolatier is a full-service restaurant, bar, and patio filled with delicious food, signature desserts and hand-crafted cocktails. The space features nods to past and present elements from the Hersheypark ride collection, one-of-a-kind views of neighboring attractions, and two bars, including a second-story patio with a bar that provides panoramic views of Hersheypark. Be sure to check out at the top 10 items to try before you go!

Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor

 Inspired by Mr. Hershey's early ventures in sweetness, Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor pays homage to all that came before his famous chocolate factory. Expert Ice Creamologists will craft custom creations from 100% local dairy house-made ice cream, Hershey’s candy toppings, decadent sauces, and savory shareables. 

The Sweeterie

The Sweeterie is a confectionery kitchen with a curated collection of mouth-watering confections including chocolate-dipped treats, decadent desserts, signature hand-crafted fudge and more.

Downtown Hershey

Houlihan’s Restaurant + Bar

Houlihan’s Restaurant + Bar can be found in the heart of downtown Hershey just steps away from Hershey Theatre and MeltSpa by Hershey. It’s the perfect place to wine and dine with fresh, from-scratch dishes and hand-crafted cocktails for lunch or dinner. Check out some of their top menu items, or,  click here to view the full Houlihan’s menu.

Devon Seafood + Steak

Devon Seafood + Steak is a staple of downtown Hershey. Featuring premier seafood and steak cooked over an open wood fire, Devon has continuously been a phenomenal dining destination. Here, guests are able to enjoy the finest cuts and catches of the day for dinner while hearing the excitement of Hersheypark. 

7. Visit The Hershey Spas

What better way to beat the heat this summer than with a day of complete relaxation at one of Hershey’s decadent spas? The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey offer one-of-a-kind signature chocolate treatments and seasonal treatment collections that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed on even the hottest summer days. 

We hope you enjoy your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth! Stay cool!