Spanning eight weekends from Sept. 12 to Nov. 1, 2026, Pennsylvania's largest amusement park will showcase more than 60 exclusive, themed food and drink creations as part of the seasonal event.

Explore our 2026 Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Foodie Guide for a scary-good lineup of sinister savory dishes, dreadfully delightful desserts and spine-chilling drinks designed to conquer any craving—if you dare!

Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass

The Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass is back by popular demand! Designed to let guests sample ghoulish culinary creations, the pass is valid exclusively during Hersheypark Halloween operating hours. Parkgoers can choose five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts and beverages from more than 30 specialty options featured across 11 park locations.

The Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass is $39.99 and can be purchased online or in-person at Guest Services locations. New this year, Tasting Passes are digital only for guest convenience. Guests will receive a barcode via email that can be easily scanned five times.

Every Tasting Pass item is also available for individual purchase. Operating hours, locations and menu items remain subject to change and availability.

The Butcher Shop

Located in the Avenue Of The Afterlife (in front of The Inlet & The Island at Bayside Pier)

Welcome to The Butcher Shop, where the whispers of chilling secrets are deliciously dark.

• Cheesecake Egg Rolls (NEW) - $8.99
  • Deep-fried egg roll filled with cheesecake, served with a strawberry dipping sauce
• Pierogi Bowl (NEW) - $9.99
  • Mini pierogies topped with smoked kielbasa, braised red cabbage, green garlic sour cream and onions
• Pork Dragon Noodle Cup (NEW) - $9.99
  • Rice noodles with ground pork, cucumbers and peanuts, served cold
• Ranch Cheese Curds (NEW) - $9.99
  • Crispy ranch cheese curds served with buffalo aioli
• Pulled Pork Slider - $9.99
  • BBQ pulled pork and crunchy apple coleslaw served on a soft potato roll

Reactor Rations

Located in the Avenue of the Afterlife (at East Coast Burger Works)

Reactor Rations is a place where nature and survival are the only things left.

• Avocado Egg Rolls (NEW) - $10.99
  • Filled with avocado, black beans, corn, vegan chorizo and cream cheese; served with green chili ranch
• Brisket Cuban Sandwich (NEW) - $9.99
  • Potato slider roll with smoked brisket, sliced ham, pickles, mustard aioli and Swiss cheese
• Spicy Peanut Wings (NEW) - $11.99
  • Fried chicken wings tossed in a spicy peanut sauce, topped with chopped peanuts
• Cherry Boba Iced Tea (NEW) - $6.99
  • Sweet iced tea with cherry boba
• Fall Out Fries - $10.99
  • Sweet potato waffle fries topped with green chili carnitas, white cheddar cheese sauce, Pico de Gallo and sour cream

Afterlife Delights

Located in the Avenue Of The Afterlife (in front of The Inlet & The Island at Bayside Pier)

Satisfy your sweet tooth craving with a stop at Afterlife Delights.

• Blackberry Mousse Cup (NEW) - $5.99
  • Butter cookie base layered with blackberry mousse and blackberry sauce
• Tres Leches Cake (NEW) - $4.99
  • Sponge cake soaked in a rich blend of three milks
• Taro Cold Brew (NEW) - $6.99
  • Vanilla cold brew coffee topped with taro cold foam
• Churro Bites with Spiced Chocolate Sauce - $7.99
  • Warm churro bites served with a spiced chocolate sauce

Dips of Decay

Located in Pioneer Frontier (near the entrance to Fahrenheit)

Dunk your chips in some dreadfully delicious dips at Dips of Decay.

• Crab & Corn Dip with Fritos Corn Chips (NEW) - $8.99
  • Warm crab and corn dip served with Fritos
• S'mores Dip with Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips (NEW) - $8.99
  • Chocolate dip with marshmallows and graham cracker crumb served with cinnamon sugar pita chips
• Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cool Ranch Doritos - $8.99
  • Warm buffalo chicken dip served with Cool Ranch Doritos
• Cheeseburger Dip with Tortilla Chips - $8.99
  • Warm cheeseburger dip served with tortilla chips

Berks Dogs of Doom

Located in Pioneer Frontier
Open until Dark Nights closing

Grab yourself a juicy hot dog from Berks and cool down with a Pepsi Slush!

• Birria Dog (NEW) - $9.99
  • Hot dog topped with birria beef, birria aioli and diced onions
• Jalapeño Dog (NEW) - $9.99
  • Hot dog topped with jalapeño popper dip
• Buffalo Dog - $9.99
  • Hot dog topped with ranch seasoned chicken, buffalo cream cheese, celery and pickled onions
• Maple Pecan Blondie (NEW) - $5.99
  • Topped with candied bacon
• Pomegranate Lemonade (NEW) - $6.99
  • Lemonade with a syrup syringe

Dispatch Pizzeria in The Hollow

Located in The Hollow

After a visit to Darkstone's Hollow, stop by Hollow Pizza for some dark and delicious grub, courtesy of the professor himself!

• Skillet Cookie (NEW) - $7.99
  • Warm chocolate chip cookie skillet topped with vanilla ice cream
• Nashville Hot Chicken Flatbread (NEW) - $13.99
  • Flatbread pizza brushed with a creamy garlic parm sauce, topped with shredded mozzarella, Nashville hot chicken, and housemade pickle relish
• Flamin’ Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets (RETURNING FAVORITE) - $11.99
  • Corn dog nuggets tossed in hot honey and topped with crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos

Spirello Cottage

Located in Founder's Way (across from Monorail)
Open until Dark Nights closing

Spirello Cottage provides a haven for those seeking delicious food.

• Spirellos - $11.99
  • Onion Fondue (NEW)
    • White cheese sauce, onion petals, diced pepperoni
  • Cheddar Bacon
  • Original
  • Pickle Dip
• Cinnamon Apple Cider (NEW) - $6.99
  • Cinnamon apple cider with green apple boba
• Chocolate Potato Chip Crispy (NEW) - $4.99

The Thirsty Ghost

Located in the Avenue Of The Afterlife (near 8-Cut Crust)

Quench your thirst for a tantalizing cocktail or brew at The Thirst Ghost, available only during Dark Nights. Cheers to the afterlife!

• Pizza Bombs - $11.99
  • House-made pizza dough stuffed with a three cheese blend and thick-cut pepperoni

Milton's Ice Cream Parlor

Located in Hershey's Chocolatetown for guests with or without a Hersheypark ticket
Hours vary

Milton's Ice Cream Parlor is inspired by Mr. Hershey's early ventures in sweetness that came before his famous chocolate factory.

• Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Cups (NEW) - $7.99
  • Fresh strawberries and house-made cheesecake topped with melted chocolate of your choice
• Cinnamon Sugar Blondie (NEW) - $4.99
• Pumpkin Horchata (NEW) - $6.99
  • Iced horchata with pumpkin cold foam
• Apple Fritters with Vanilla Ice Cream - $6.99
  • Freshly fried apple fritters with powdered sugar and vanilla ice cream

Shorty's Funnel Cake Trailer

Located in the Avenue Of The Afterlife (near 8-Cut Crust)
Open until Dark Nights closing

The air is thick with the sweet scent of the supernatural and the sizzle of bubbling mysteries at Shorty's.

• Fried Eyeballs
  • Fried sandwich cookies topped with gummy eyeballs
• Peanut Butter Explosions
  • Fried peanut butter sandwich cookies topped with peanut butter sauce and marshmallow drizzle

Walking Taco Food Truck

Located in The Hollow

• Fritos Toffee Crunch Cookie (NEW) - $4.99
• Spine-Chili Chicken Walking Taco - $9.99
  • Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos topped with green chili chicken and your choice of Walking Taco toppings

Additional Seasonal Food and Beverage Offerings

Beyond the Tasting Pass lineup, the Hersheypark culinary team has crafted an array of limited-time, only-in-Hersheypark treats and drinks that are worth the trip alone this Halloween season. While these unique offerings are not included with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, each item can be bought individually during the event.

Simply Chocolate

Located in Founder's Way

• Peanut Butter Cookie King Size Shake
  • Reese’s peanut butter King Size Shake topped with a jack-o-lantern peanut butter cookie
• Brownie Marshmallow King Size Shake
  • Chocolate King Size Shake topped with a brownie tombstone and marshmallow ghosts
• Pumpkin Roll King Size Shake
  • Pumpkin King Size Shake topped with a slice of housemade pumpkin roll

As the iconic King Size Shake celebrates its tenth birthday this year, the Birthday King Size Shake will remain available during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Spring Creek Smokehouse

Located in Pioneer Frontier

• BBQ Smoked Wings (NEW)
• Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potato Hash
• Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding (NEW)
• Seltzer’s Lebanon Bologna Burnt Ends Sandwich (NEW)
• Turkey Leg (RETURNING FAVORITE)
• Chopped Brisket Sandwich

Park Cocktails

Guests ages 21 and older can enjoy a spine-chilling lineup of specialty cocktails.

• The Burning Cleaver
  • Ole Smoky Mango Habanero Whiskey, Pineapple Juice & Starry
• Calavara Margarita
  • El Jimador Silver Tequila & Owens Sparkling Margarita Mix
• Crimson Canary
  • Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Whiskey, Apple Schnapps, Cranberry Juice & Ginger Ale
• Pitstop Pick me Up
  • Chocolate Vodka, Owens Espresso Mix, topped with Cold Foam
• Type O Negative
  • Grey Whale Vodka & Owens Transfusion Mix

Milton's Ice Cream Parlor

Located in Hershey's Chocolatetown for guests with or without a Hersheypark ticket

• Cinnamon Roll Donut
• Dubai Chocolate Donut
• Espresso Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
• Maple Cookie Ice Cream

The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen

Located in Hershey's Chocolatetown for guests with or without a Hersheypark ticket.
Hours vary

• Fresh-Baked Cookies
  • Brown Sugar Toaster Pastry Cookie
  • Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookie
• Fresh-Baked Cupcakes
  • Apple Butter Cupcake
  • Chai Cupcake - Vegan-Friendly
  • Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcake
  • Turtle-Stuffed Chocolate Cupcake
• Housemade Fudge
  • Apple Cider Donut Fudge
  • Pumpkin Pie Fudge
• Tiramisu Grab-And-Go Cake

Overlook Food Court

Located in Kissing Tower Hill

• Soup Bar: Chicken Enchilada, Chicken Noodle, Loaded Baked Potato, Housemade Mushroom Bisque

Unlock Savings on Halloween Tickets

Guests can experience all the seasonal excitement for less during the Hersheypark Halloween Pre-Sale by securing their admission online. Tickets start at just $36.99 when you pick the day of the week of your visit. One-Day Any Day Halloween tickets are also available for $54.99, offering flexibility to attend on any public operating day through Nov. 1, 2026.

Every Hersheypark ticket grants full access to five haunted houses and five scare zones—featuring the debut of Reese's Depot Of Doom—plus 50 rides and dark coasters, the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail and much more.

Discover Spirit's Rooftop Bar

Hungry for more? Get a second helping at Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier! Back for another spine-tingling season, this haunted rooftop experience offers breathtaking views perched high above Hershey's Chocolatetown. Opening at 4:30 p.m. on all operating days for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, it's the perfect spot to elevate your evening. Stay tuned for the Spirit's Rooftop Bar Foodie Guide, where we'll reveal all the spooktacular menu details!

Don't forget to capture your favorite moments! Share your top food choices on social media using #Hersheypark and #HersheyparkEats throughout your visit.

Spanning nearly 25 days and including Halloween night, a single ticket grants guests access to more than 50 rides and dark coaster experiences, Hershey’s Trick Or Treat Trail, live entertainment, five haunted houses and five scare zones. Visitors can also indulge in exclusive seasonal food and beverage offerings—including themed menu items along the Avenue Of The Afterlife path—or opt for the fan-favorite Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass.

Hersheypark Halloween is recognized as one of the top Halloween events in the country. The seasonal experience was just nominated for the USA TODAY 10Best Theme Park Halloween Event for 2026, with daily voting open through Sept. 21 at noon. 

Hersheypark Halloween event hours are 5-10 p.m. on Fridays (beginning Sept. 18), 12-10 p.m. on Saturdays and 12-9 p.m. on Sundays. Dark Nights begins each night at 6 p.m. and extends one hour after the Park closes, running Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. and Sundays until 10 p.m.

Dark Nights Presented by Reese’s and Kit Kat®

Dark Nights at Hersheypark Halloween returns for its fifth year of spine-tingling haunts nightly at 6 p.m. Dark Nights features five haunted houses with evolved stories.

• Kill ‘N Fill Garage: The lights are back on at the Kill ‘N Fill Garage, but it’s not for a tune-up. The group of killers has returned, trading grease for blood and bringing reinforcements. Navigate the wreckage of the body shop and a gore-soaked car wash as the cries of bending metal drown out the screams. They aren't fixing cars anymore; they're stripping you for parts.
• Estate of Evil: A long-forgotten room has been discovered, and there’s a reason it has been sealed away for generations. Enter with caution; a collection of never-before-seen horrors awaits you, and it will leave you questioning what monster would curate these malevolent mementos.
• Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir: Auntie Mortem has a new partner and now features prime beef, but the secret to the specialty sausage is how it blends old family flavors with the fresh stock entering the back room. The blades are sharper, the floor is slicker, and the meat is fresher than ever.
• Twisted Carnevil: The Hypnotist presides over the never-ending hall of illusions where greasepaint drips like blood. Punchlines echo through the dark, but with a jagged edge as he stitches together his most sinister act yet.
• Haunted Coal Mine: Drip… drip…. drip. Something dark is flooding the mine. Something new is crawling out of the black water. The mud is moving, and the mine is hungry for more than just oxygen. Escape before the murky waters drag you further down.

Also, as part of Dark Nights, midways will transform into five scare zones - more than ever before - each evening for guests to come face to face with the creatures that haunt their nightmares.

• NEW Reese’s Depot Of Doom: Follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom, but beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?
• Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse: The whispers have come to a roaring bubble. It’s true: the coven has grown. Prepare for all-new rituals and spells, but heed this warning: the newest converts hold an unimaginable darkness.
• Fallout Zone: The green fog has yet to be contained. Chaos continues to rise, and the peak of destruction is still on the hazy horizon. Fight through the dense smog to unearth the souls that were left to survive the wreckage.
• Midway Of Misery: The Midway Of Misery remains under The Decayed Brigade’s regime. Escape beyond the fiery arches but stay alert, the creatures that lurk within are faster, fiercer and each spark and scrape brings louder screams.
• Darkstone’s Hollow: Darkstone’s victory was a delusion. Jezebeth has returned to reclaim her throne, igniting a brutal battle in the shadows. Traitorous secrets are spilling, and the creatures are clashing. Choose your side wisely. The real war begins now.

Hersheypark Halloween

For more than 40 years, the fall season has meant sweet Halloween fun at Hersheypark. Guests of all ages can experience Hersheypark Halloween as they play by day and fright by night with the following family-friendly offerings:

• Thrills on more than 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting)
• Dark rides on select coasters during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation, plus lights-out rides on Laff Trakk indoor coaster during all Hersheypark Halloween operating hours
• Trick-or-treating with 14 stops (10 in Treatville region and four at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction) for guests 12 and under
• Meet and greets with select Hershey Characters dressed in their Halloween costumes at Hershey’s Hangout and Reese’s Cuphouse during the day
• NEW Monster Meet & Shriek show offered nightly in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue to meet featured creatures from the haunted houses and scare zones
• Avenue of the Afterlife to dance, dine and celebrate the season with Hershey Characters (new location) and a crew of family-friendly creatures

The original Creatures Of The Night flashlight tour will also return to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park for three weekends starting Oct. 16. The Halloween-themed, after-hours experience features a special nighttime flashlight tour and new themed activities included with admission.

Limited-Time Culinary Creations and Retail

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights will feature an elevated food and beverage scene with more than 60 scary good eats and spell-binding drinks. Guests can taste five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts and drinks with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass. New items include Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets, Brisket Cuban Sandwich, Tres Leches Cake and Pumpkin Horchata. Stay tuned to the Hersheypark social media channels for official reveals in early September.

Located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio will bring back Spirit’s Rooftop Bar, a rooftop rendezvous available during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days. The all-new menu features 10 savory items, including an Auntie Mortem’s Butcher Block with wagyu brisket pastrami, duck breast prosciutto, smoked chive liver pâté, spicy soppressata, crostini and dips. Back by popular demand is the Carnevil Wheel, with new items including Diesel Smoked Wings, Marksman’s Empanadas and Burnt Rubber Elote Dip, to name a few.

Guests ages 21 and older can also enjoy theatrical cocktail presentations, such as drinks served through a vintage TV screen, in beakers and syringes, inside decanters brimming with heavy fog and illuminated by black light, or in a retro cooler with red party cups. Select beverages feature dramatic touches like theater-style kettle corn, a flaming sugar cube, or swirling silver luster dust designed to mirror the look of a flickering television set.

Visitors can bring home a ghostly keepsake from Dark Nights with new, event-exclusive branded merchandise to be unveiled as the season approaches.

Ticketing Information

Hersheypark Halloween admission includes access to the Dark Nights haunted houses and scare zones, more than 50 rides and attractions, Hersheypark Halloween entertainment and ZooAmerica when guests enter through Hersheypark during Park hours. Hersheypark Halloween pre-sale tickets are available now, starting at $36.99 when you pick your day on Hersheypark.com. One-Day Any Day Halloween tickets are also available for $54.99, giving guests the flexibility to visit on any Hersheypark Halloween public operating day. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Guests can get to the scares faster with Fast Track program, enhance their experience with Halloween Cabanas and enjoy limited-time food and beverages with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass - all available for purchase now.

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

During the Halloween season, guests can extend their stay in Hershey, Pennsylvania, at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, including The Villas at The Hotel Hershey experience, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. All guests receive Free Resort Benefits like free front gate shuttle service and Preview Plan hours. Overnight guests of Hershey Lodge receive exclusive access to Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey Lodge indoor pool complex. Hersheypark Halloween One-Day and Two-Day packages, and a Dark Nights Two-Night package are now available.

Check out our top recommended attractions and signature Hershey activities for a visit over the long holiday weekend.

Spend a Full Day at Hersheypark Amusement Park

Open Daily; Hours Vary

The sun is setting on the summer season at Hersheypark, as Labor Day weekend marks the end of daily operations. Pennsylvania's largest amusement park offers non-stop excitement with more than 70 rides and attractions, an entire water park and one-of-a-kind sweet treats. Don't miss out on your last chance to see the Sweet Land of Liberty live stage show inside the climate-controlled Chevrolet Music Box Theatre, take a final plunge on Tidal Force or get your loops in on sooperdooperLooper before it temporarily closes for a new station.

Guests can save on their visit with $49.99 summer tickets available for purchase online.

Please note that Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 7) is the last operating day of the 2026 season for The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park.

See Wildlife Up Close at ZooAmerica

Open Daily; Hours Vary

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily through Sept. 6 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It's the last chance for animal lovers to participate in free daily activities, including keeper talks, animal encounters and feeding and training sessions. For a more personal experience, premium animal feedings allow visitors to feed favorite foods to gray wolves, a black bear or a river otter.

Access to the 11-acre zoo is included with a Hersheypark admission ticket. Those interested in visiting ZooAmerica in the morning before Hersheypark opens must purchase separate Zoo admission tickets online or at the Zoo Admissions Building.

Stay Overnight and Save with Summer Resort Packages

Availability Varies

Turn your trip into an extended long weekend getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! All resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free front gate shuttle service to and from Hersheypark, extra hours at the Park, resort activities for the whole family, free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum Experience, and plenty more perks.

Make the most of your time in Hershey with a 2-Day Stay And Play Package offered at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites. The package includes 2-Day Hersheypark admission for each guest, deluxe accommodations and daily breakfast. Outdoor enthusiasts can book the Summer Camping Package at Hersheypark Camping Resort for top savings on Hersheypark tickets.

Take a Dip in the Outdoor Resort Pools

Open Daily; Hours Vary

Labor Day weekend calls for one last dip in the outdoor pools at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort before they close for the summer. Guests of The Hotel Hershey will enjoy an infinity-edge adult pool (18+) and family pool with zero-grade entry, while guests of Hershey Lodge can look forward to a spray fountain and lounge area. Two swimming pools and a kiddie pool are located at Hersheypark Camping Resort, along with plenty of other outdoor activities for guests of all ages.

Relax with Seasonal Spa Treatments

Availability Varies

Take time to unwind over the long weekend with an appointment at one of Hershey's award-winning spas! Both The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa in downtown Hershey offer an array of signature chocolate treatments and seasonal services. 

Ready to dive right into fall? Embrace autumn early with pumpkin spice facials, body scrubs and massages starting Aug. 25 or indulge in classic Hershey's Chocolate Treatments—ranging from soothing massages and facials to salon treatments and body wraps.

Savor Local Dining Across Hershey

Operating Days and Hours Vary

Hershey features an incredible array of dining choices to suit every taste, ranging from relaxed, casual spots to refined culinary experiences. Downtown Hershey offers a vibrant atmosphere with interactive dart games alongside craft culinary creations at the new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. Guests can even choose to enjoy prime seafood and steaks in a sophisticated setting at Devon Seafood + Steak.

Visitors of The Hotel Hershey can start their day off with fresh coffee and breakfast at Chef's Market, enjoy Italian classics at Trevi 5, or savor American classics and bold flavors at The Circular and 1933 Restaurant & Tavern. Hershey Lodge also offers all-day dining options, from over-the-top creations at Stacks to indulgent meals at The Bears' Den, Fire & Grain or Revelry; the choices are endless.

Hungry after a day of coaster rides at Hersheypark? Don't miss out on a fun-to-table meal at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio. From a unique Ferris Wheel appetizer to delicious handhelds and more, The Chocolatier has something for everyone in the family. Reservations at all properties are strongly encouraged.

Tour the Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

Open Friday, Sept. 4, and Saturday, Sept. 5; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Milton Hershey School (MHS) Founders Hall Visitors Center is open for visitors to explore more than 110 years of MHS history. The free tour explores the story of the School's past, present and future. Founder's Hall is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, PA 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Ln. and East Governor Rd. (Rte. 322).

Discover the Botanical Wonders of Hershey Gardens

Open Daily; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Spend part of the long weekend immersed in nature at Hershey Gardens. Spanning 23 scenic acres, the destination features 13 distinct themed grounds along with a tropical indoor Butterfly Atrium.

Guests visiting Sept. 4 to Sept. 6 can also view the fabulous works of art at the “Blooming Art” display inside the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory as part of the Hershey Area Art Association Show & Sale. Entry to the art exhibition is included with standard admission.

Learn about Milton S. Hershey's Legacy at The Hershey Story

Open Daily; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Hershey Story Museum honors and preserves the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. While exploring the museum's exhibits, visitors can grab tickets for the interactive Chocolate Lab to try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating, and Chocolate Tastings to experience a flight of warm drinking chocolates from around the world. 

We look forward to welcoming you to The Sweetest Place On Earth. Start planning your long weekend getaway today, and don't forget to tag your favorite moments on social media with #HersheyPA.

Read on to learn about the history and unique ride experiences of the 14 roller coasters and 1 water coaster at Hersheypark and take a virtual ride on each of them.

Comet (1946)

Located in The Hollow region

Comet is the oldest continuously operating roller coaster at Hersheypark, celebrating 80 years of thrills in 2026. It was the last coaster to be purchased by Milton S. Hershey, though he would never get to see it open. When it was first constructed, Comet was the largest roller coaster in the United States. It was initially painted green as Mr. Hershey preferred his rides this color to blend into the scenery and atmosphere of the Park. It was eventually painted white and remains so today.

The classic wooden coaster is best known for delighting generations of riders of Reese's height category (42-48") and above with several airtime-producing bunny hills. During its 1-minute and 45-second ride, the coaster climbs 96 feet and reaches a top speed of 50 mph along 3,360 feet of track.

In June 2021, American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) recognized Comet at Hersheypark as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, a designation reserved for rides of historic significance. The accolade was presented by ACE at Coaster Con 43, which was held during Comet's 75th anniversary year.

In spring 2024, Comet received a new out-of-this-world train design and new seats for the next generation of riders.

Trailblazer (1974)

Located in the Pioneer Frontier region

Trailblazer is the second-oldest running coaster in the Park and the oldest operating steel coaster. It is a family favorite and often one of the first coaster rides for young guests of the KISSES height category (36-42") and above. Trailblazer features a helix that circles four times and reaches a maximum speed of 45 mph during the 75-second ride.

At its opening, Trailblazer was the first major coaster to be added to Hersheypark in 18 years. Kicking off the Park's expansion of Pioneer Frontier, it was the first attraction at Hersheypark to be completely themed.

sooperdooperLooper (1977)

Located in The Hollow region

When it opened in 1977, the sooperdooperLooper was the first modern looping coaster on the East Coast and only the second of its kind in the United States. Over the years, it has served as the first “upside-down” coaster ride for many young Hersheypark guests of Reese's height category (42-48") and above.

Throughout the nearly 2-minute ride, riders experience a family-friendly course of small dips, drops, bunny hills and the famous vertical loop. The classic steel coaster features a ride height of 57 feet and a maximum speed of 45 mph.

The famous “I Survived the sooperdooperLooper” phrase was coined in 1977 after one of the first riders on the opening day came off the ride feeling as though he really had survived the ride. As a souvenir, riders can purchase an “I Survived the sooperdooperLooper” shirt—the most popular shirt ever sold at Hersheypark.

Great Bear (1998)

Located in the Kissing Tower Hill region

Feel the roar of Great Bear, the only inverted roller coaster at Hersheypark and the first of its kind in Pennsylvania! The popular roller coaster is known for its signature roaring bear noise from the wheels' vibration resonating against the hollow track beams.

Great Bear lifts riders of Twizzlers height category (54-60") and above with their feet dangling 90 feet off the ground and launches into a thrilling yet graceful course of drops, loops, corkscrews and a zero-g roll at a maximum speed of 61 mph!

Wild Mouse (1999)

Located in the Midway America region

Thrill-squeakers agree that Wild Mouse is a can't-miss coaster at Hersheypark. It is the only roller coaster at Hersheypark to never stop with its continuously moving station!

Riders of Hershey's height category (48-54") and above experience the wild illusion of falling, as the coaster scurries through a course of tight corners, exciting drops and six 180-degree hairpin switchback turns during the nearly 2-minute ride. The best part? It's open for all four seasons, weather and maintenance permitting!

Lightning Racer (2000)

Located in the Midway America region

The race is on between thunder and lightning! Lightning Racer was the first wooden racing and dueling roller coaster in the United States when it took its inaugural laps over 25 years ago.

The double-track wooden roller coaster features two staggered lifts, so riders of Hershey's height category (48-54") and above experience a race against each other. Throughout the 1-minute, 20-second ride, Lightning Racer reaches a maximum speed of 50 mph for a thrilling element of competition. Although you see lightning before you hear thunder, the winner of Lightning Racer is primarily based on the weight of each train.

Storm Runner (2004)

Located in the Pioneer Frontier region

"Now get ready, here we go!" Storm Runner is the only launch coaster of its kind on the East Coast and one of only three left in the United States. The high-thrill roller coaster hydraulically launches riders of Twizzlers height category (54-60") and above from 0 to 72 mph in only two seconds, lifting them 18 stories straight up and then down. The coaster exerts more than 8,000 horsepower - quicker than the world’s fastest vehicle.

During the 1-minute ride, this one-of-a-kind coaster takes riders through a thrilling 135-foot cobra loop, barrel rolls, a dramatic flying-snake dive and a screeching halt before slowly gliding back into the station. Storm Runner is the first coaster to feature a dual-loading station with switch tracks, enabling quick transitions between rides.

Fahrenheit (2008)

Located in the Pioneer Frontier region

It's 97 degrees and falling fast! Fahrenheit is the steepest coaster in Hersheypark and in the state of Pennsylvania with a 97-degree negative drop following a 90-degree, 121-foot ascent.

Riders of Twizzlers height category (54-60") and above fly through a memorable course of loops, corkscrews, dives and plenty of thrilling airtime as they reach a maximum speed of 58 mph, which is faster than a lion.

Skyrush (2012)

Located in The Hollow region

Prepare for takeoff - Skyrush is the ultimate roller coaster for thrill seekers. Riders of Twizzlers height category (54-60") and above take a first-class flight 200 feet into the air before flying downhill at 75 mph on Skyrush. The coaster features four high-speed turns and five zero-G airtime hills along 3,600 feet of yellow track over Spring Creek. Supports to hold the force of Skyrush down were drilled up to 120 feet into the ground - the same height as the tallest drop on Fahrenheit.

In spring 2024, Skyrush upgraded its flight to first class with all-new seats and restraints. Passengers now board Skyrush from a reimagined station platform featuring an all-new paint scheme, lighting effects and custom soundscape. The investment in the high-thrill attraction provides coaster lovers with added comfort while experiencing the adrenaline rush they know and crave.

Cocoa Cruiser (2014)

Located in the Founder's Way region

Cocoa Cruiser is a steel family roller coaster at Hersheypark that allows the youngest guests of KISSES height category (36-42") and above to experience a sweet coaster thrill for the first time. Parents can enjoy the fun milestone alongside their child as they race around the Hershey's chocolate-inspired track for two fun-filled minutes.

Laff Trakk (2015)

Located in the Midway America region

Themed after traditional American funhouses, Laff Trakk was the first indoor spinning glow-coaster in the United States. It spins riders of Reese's height category (42-48") and above through an exciting adventure of sights and sounds, complete with glimpses of colorful characters, a dizzying hall of mirrors and more.

Laff Trakk often receives seasonal overlays featuring custom soundscapes, lighting and more. Most recently, the coaster was transformed into Star-Spangled Laff Trakk as part of the Park's larger All-American Summer Celebration for America's 250th Birthday. For Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, the coaster boasts a special neon tree at the center.

Breakers Edge (2018)

Located in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark

While not a traditional roller coaster, Breakers Edge Water Coaster combines everything guests love about water attractions with a coaster experience. Located in the 11-acre water park, the first HydroMAGNETIC coaster at Hersheypark rockets riders of Reese's height category (42-48") and above on rafts through thrilling splash-filled hills, intense open-air FlyingSAUCER turns and high-speed tunnels.

Candymonium (2020)

Located in the Hershey's Chocolatetown region

Candymonium spans seven acres along 4,636 feet of chocolate-brown track at the front of Hersheypark in the Hershey's Chocolatetown region. The hypercoaster features a lift height of 210 feet and a maximum speed of 76 mph, making it the tallest and fastest roller coaster at Hersheypark.

Riders of Twizzlers height category (54-60") and above will experience seven camelback hills and a 123-degree hammerhead curve that serve up the ultimate feeling of freedom with the most airtime in the Park. The finishing touch is an impressive panoramic banked curve that wraps around a fountain. The out-and-back-style coaster is open for all four seasons, weather and maintenance permitting!

Jolly Rancher Remix (2022)

Located in the Pioneer Frontier region

In 2022, the Hersheypark skyline got brighter with Jolly Rancher Remix. Formerly known as Sidewinder, the reimagined boomerang roller coaster takes guests on a flavor ride, sending them and their senses forward and back along the same flavorful track. The coaster boasts a seasonal overlay with special lighting and scents during Hersheypark Halloween and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, weather and maintenance permitting.

Riders of Hershey’s height category (48”) and above blast through the flavor tunnel, invert six times in 90 seconds and jam to sweet tunes. Each ride is different with five randomized flavor rides like Watermelon or Green Apple, complete with unique music, lights and scents for an only-in-Hershey sensory experience. Because of its shape, Jolly Rancher Remix is the only major coaster at Hersheypark to use only one train.

Wildcat's Revenge (2023)

Located in the Midway America region

Wildcat is back and seeking vengeance. Wildcat's Revenge hybrid coaster opened to the public in June 2023, 100 years after the first Wild Cat roller coaster debuted at Hersheypark. Manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC), Wildcat's Revenge combines the best of wood and steel by adding an all-new steel track with unique elements to the wooden framework for a one-of-a-kind, thrilling ride experience found only at Hersheypark. It is the first hybrid coaster at Hersheypark and the first of its kind in Pennsylvania.

Riders of Hershey’s height category (48”) and above climb a 140-foot hill, hit a maximum speed of 62 mph, dive into an 82-degree drop, invert four times and stalk their prey through the World's Largest Underflip on three custom trains.

Wildcat's Revenge pays tribute to the unique history of the “Wild Cat” name at Hersheypark, which was the eventual name of the Park's first coaster purchased by founder Milton S. Hershey in 1923. The current hybrid coaster also reuses the existing wooden framework of the Park's 5th coaster, Wildcat (1996-2022), and features a segment of the former coaster's original wooden track at its entrance.

Since its debut, Wildcat's Revenge has received multiple awards, including the prestigious Golden Ticket Award for Best New Coaster of 2023, a top 10 new attraction in 2023 by USA Today 10Best and a top 10 coaster nationwide in 2024 by USA Today 10Best.

$49.99 Ticket Offer for Coaster Fans

Have you braved all 15 mild-to-wild coasters at Hersheypark yet? If so, then you've experienced over 38,928 feet of track and over 25 minutes of coaster-riding bliss!

There is still time to plan a visit this summer to get your coaster credits. Guests can purchase 1-day summer tickets for $49.99 plus taxes and fees on Hersheypark.com. The tickets are valid through Sept. 7, 2026, for more than 70 rides and attractions, including a full water park open daily through Labor Day, plus access to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park when entering from inside Hersheypark.

Simply Chocolate

• S’mores King Size Shake - $17.99
  • 28-oz chocolate marshmallow shake topped with a chocolate chip pretzel rod, sprinkle pretzel rod and a s’mores bar

The S'mores King Size Shake is one of a few shake varieties in celebration of the 10th birthday of this iconic, award-winning treat in 2026!

East Coast Burger Works

• S’mores Burger - $18.99
  • Half pound burger topped with bacon meringue and chocolate balsamic sauce; served with chips
    • Available as an entrée option on all of the dining plans

Spring Creek Smokehouse

• S'mores Pudding Pie - $7.79
  • Graham cracker pie crust filled with chocolate pudding topped with toasted meringue and Hershey’s milk chocolate

Create Your Own S'mores Station

• Create Your Own S'mores - $6.99
  • Set up on the Tidal Force Dippin’ Dots pad near Boardwalk Kettle Corn
  • Guests can roast their own marshmallows to create a s’more

Milton's Ice Cream Parlor

• S’mores Donut - $3.09
  • Fresh made chocolate frosted donut filled with marshmallow
• S’mores Beignets - $7.79
  • Freshly fried beignets tossed with graham cracker sugar and topped with melted milk chocolate and marshmallow drizzle
• S'mores Caramel-Coconut Ice Cream Sandwich - $6.99
  • House-made caramel-coconut cookie with Milton’s toasted marshmallow ice cream
• S'mores Strawberry Cup - $8.99
  • Fresh strawberries, melted chocolate, marshmallow sauce and crushed graham crackers

The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen

• S'mores Marshmallow Pop - $5.00
  • Milk chocolate filling with ground up spiced cookie inside a milk chocolate shell, dipped in meringue and toasted
• Housemade S'mores Fudge - $10.00/slice
  • Fudge topped with marshmallows and graham cracker dust
• S'mores Krispy Treat - $6.50
• S'mores Cookie - $6.00
• S'mores Cupcake - $4.50

Milton's Ice Cream Truck

• S’mores Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich - $5.99
  • S’mores cookie with Milton’s chocolate marshmallow ice cream 

Funnel Cake by Shorty's

• S'mores Funnel Cake - $11.99
  • Original Funnel Cake topped with chocolate syrup, marshmallow drizzle and powdered sugar

1906 Marketplace

• S'mores Fudge - $10.00/slice
  • Fudge topped with marshmallows and graham cracker dust; made in-house at The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen
• S’mores Snack Mix - $6.99
  • Crispy rice squares, golden grahams, chocolate chips, Hershey’s chocolate pieces, marshmallows and pretzels

Philly Cheesesteak Co. on the Roll

• S’mores Milkshake - $8.49
  • Vanilla and marshmallow milkshake with graham cracker crumbs, topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate syrup

Nut Hut

• S’mores Nut Mix - $6.79
  • Hershey cocoa dusted almonds, milk chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, salted cashews and golden grahams
• S’mores Chocolate Dipped Banana - $5.14
  • Frozen banana dipped in chocolate and topped with graham crackers and marshmallow drizzle

Rita's Italian Ice

• S'mores Ice - Small $7.49, Large $8.49

Oola Bowls at 1906 Grill

• S'mores Acai Bowl - $17.49
  • Acai bowl topped with graham cracker crunch, banana, strawberries, chocolate-hazelnut spread , dehydrated mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs
  • The S'mores Acai Bowl will also be available at Oola Bowls at Kissing Tower Hill and Oola Bowls at The Boardwalk.

East Coast Mini Donuts Truck

• S’mores Mini Donuts - $7.99 (half dozen), $12.99 (dozen), $29.99 (bucket)
  • Fresh mini donuts topped with chocolate and marshmallow sauce and graham cracker crumbs

The town built on chocolate is the perfect destination to celebrate this classic summer treat. Visit today to try all of the s’mores inspired creations that are sure to make your mouth water. Don't forget to share your food photos with us by using #HersheyparkEats!

Head to our website to find the best deals on Hersheypark tickets and join us for the ultimate celebration of s'mores!

A cornerstone of the MHS experience is the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Through this program, high school students in grades 9-12 select one of 10 distinct career program areas to focus on and complete a specialized internship designed to prepare them for future employment. The business program area (my career focus) specifically offers many different pathways, including retail operations, marketing and media communications.

This summer, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) welcomed 17 MHS students to immerse themselves in professions of interest as One Hershey Summer Interns. During the program, we had the opportunity to connect with professionals in various departments across the destination, including construction, security, real estate, culinary, communications, legal, marketing, guest experience and information technology. These internships with HE&R provide students with invaluable, hands-on opportunities to become familiar with the work requirements of their desired career paths.

As a Milton Hershey School Student and One Hershey Intern in the communications department, I have had the opportunity to become fully engrossed in everything The Sweetest Place On Earth has to offer. Here are my top five sweetest moments from my summer adventure.

Content Creation

One of my favorite things I did during my internship was creating various forms of media content for all of the different HE&R brands. Some of my most memorable content to capture was at Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. In addition to my internship, I am a part-time employee there, so being able to promote the brand was a fun change of pace. Having creative liberties to capture and write content was extremely rewarding and made me feel as if I could give back to the town I call home. In doing this, I was also able to develop skills in social media content development, media outreach and blog post writing - all these are great skills I can use as I look to further my education and begin applying for universities later this year.

Participating in Special Events

There was no shortage of special events this summer in Hershey, and I was lucky to take part in some of them. On July 7, 2026, the Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 came chugging through the tracks of Hershey. Being on site to capture content for such a historic event was truly memorable, and I’m glad I was there to help ‘conduct’ it.

Just two days later, on July 9, 2026, Hersheypark hosted more than 100 mascots for its inaugural All-American Mascot Day. I shadowed the Communications team as they helped to coordinate parade logistics, escort local media and capture content. In fact, I presented the team with a TikTok trend idea that I was able to execute that day. It was posted on The Official Hersheypark TikTok and garnered over 13,000 views. Getting to shoot content and be with media for this event reiterated my passion for my career goals and reminded me just how much I love the hospitality and communications industry.

Connection Opportunities and Networking Breakfast

In the fourth week of our internship, HE&R hosted a networking breakfast at Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar in collaboration with The Hershey Company. At this breakfast, we had the opportunity to connect with leadership from both companies. We learned more about how they work together as separate entities to further the legacy of their joint founder, while investing in Milton Hershey School Students and our futures. Click here to learn more about our history and partnership.

Collaborating With Professional Interns

Being an MHS One Hershey Intern, I got to work closely and share space with the other six MHS Interns in The Hershey Press Building. We also had the privilege of working alongside nine college interns, two of whom were MHS alums, through the Professional Internship Program. Together, we collaborated on a campaign centered on the upcoming 125th birthday of Hersheypark, which we presented to the company's upper leadership. I had the pleasure of starting the presentation and speaking about our recommended concept for an all-new tilt coaster located inside Hershey’s Chocolatetown. While I was extremely happy with how the project turned out, I was even happier with the true connection we had and the friendships we made with each other.

Unique Out of The Classroom Experiences

Through this internship, I experienced a unique way of learning through real-world on-the-job projects. At any normal high school, this experience might never have happened, but because of the gift of our mutual founder, Milton S. Hershey, I can receive an education unlike any other right here in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Despite being sad that my time here this summer is ending, I am proud of what I have taken away and how much this will improve my skills for the future. I am eternally grateful for all of the support from my mentors, supervisors, teachers and my school for this opportunity, and I cannot wait to see what is next.

1. Spend The Day at Hersheypark

Open Daily; Hours Vary

Coasters, delicious eats and more are calling at Hersheypark amusement park! The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania features three parks in one this summer, all accessible via a single admission ticket. Guests can enjoy more than 70 rides, including the most coasters in the Northeast, a full water park and an 11-acre zoo.

2. Cool Off at The Boardwalk

Open Daily, Weather Permitting; Hours Vary

Enjoy the last splashes of summer at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park! Experience two new water play areas, The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier, or get drenched by the massive East Coast Waterworks and its 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. Plus, take a thrill ride on Whitecap Racer and Breaker’s Edge Water Coaster, or relax on the 1,360-foot Intercoastal Waterway lazy river. Access to The Boardwalk is included with general Hersheypark admission through Labor Day, weather permitting.

3. Visit ZooAmerica

Open Daily; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open every day in August for guests to explore a variety of habitats housing North American animals, including a river otter, Canada lynx, gray wolves and a black bear. The 11-acre zoo offers daily summer activities, such as special animal enrichment and training sessions for guests to watch.

Hersheypark tickets include entry to ZooAmerica only by accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Those interested in visiting ZooAmerica in the morning before Hersheypark opens must purchase separate Zoo admission tickets online or at the Zoo Admissions Building.

4. Jazz On The Veranda at The Hotel Hershey

Aug. 7, 8 & 14; 7 to 10 p.m.

Unwind on the veranda at The Hotel Hershey with live music, sweet views, cocktails and light shareables available for walk-up service. Seating is first-come, first-served. The Veranda offers the sweetest viewing area for the fireworks presented by HERSHEY's on Aug. 8!

5. Fireworks Display at Hersheypark

Aug. 8; 10:15 p.m.

Spend the day riding coasters and close it out by enjoying a patriotic fireworks show! Saturday, Aug. 8, marks the final fireworks display presented by HERSHEY's in celebration of America's 250th. Hersheypark guests can stay inside the amusement park or the parking lots to watch the fireworks.

6. Celebrate S'mores Week at Hersheypark

Aug. 10-16; Hours Vary

National S'mores Day is celebrated on Aug. 10, and Hersheypark will once again mark the occasion with a weeklong lineup of delectable s'mores treats. From a S'mores King Size Shake to a S'mores burger and other themed baked goods, the sweetest amusement park has something to satisfy your cravings.

7. See A Live Show

Dates and Times Vary

Concert season is still heating up across the destination, with popular acts making their way to Hersheypark Stadium presented by Penn State Health and Hershey Theatre this month.

• Aug. 1: Guns N' Roses at Hersheypark Stadium
• Aug. 14: Tyler Childers at Hersheypark Stadium
• Aug. 15: Kesha at Hersheypark Stadium
• Aug. 18: Dogstar at Hershey Theatre
• Aug. 19: The Wiggles at Hershey Theatre
• Aug. 21: Killers of Kill Tony at Hershey Theatre
• Aug. 22: Pitbull at Hersheypark Stadium

8. Music in The Gardens at Hershey Gardens

Aug. 13, 20 & 27; 6 to 8 p.m.

Grab your favorite snacks and beverages to enjoy three nights of live music at Hershey Gardens. Performances include Generations Big Band on Aug. 13, The Best of Broadway on Aug. 20 (rescheduled to Sept. 9 from 5 to 7 p.m.) and Rhythmic Groove ft. Rose Hudson on Aug. 27.

9. Enjoy Outdoor Dining

Daily; Reservations Available at Select Locations

On nice weather days in Central Pennsylvania, join us for sweet outdoor dining (weather permitting) at the locations below across the destination:

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio in Hershey's Chocolatetown
• Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar in downtown Hershey
• Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey
• Trevi 5 Italian Restaurant at The Hotel Hershey
• 1933 Restaurant & Tavern at The Hotel Hershey
• Revelry Chophouse, Bar & Patio at Hershey Lodge
• STACKS all-day breakfast and lunch restaurant at Hershey Lodge

10. Relax With A Summer Spa Treatment

Daily; Appointments Highly Encouraged

Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey or MeltSpa by Hershey this month! Summer spa packages at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey include the Vacation For A Day Package, or indulge in the Summer Strawberry Collection at MeltSpa by Hershey with treatments like the Summer Strawberry Immersion, Scrub, Manicure and Pedicure.

11. Explore Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

Open Monday - Saturday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Milton Hershey School (MHS) Founders Hall Visitors Center is open to visitors, offering an opportunity to explore more than 110 years of MHS history. The free tour explores the story of the School's past, present and future. Founders Hall is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, Pa., 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Lane and East Governor Road. (Rte. 322).

12. Book an End-Of-Summer Getaway

Extend your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth with an overnight getaway to one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! Save with popular summer packages, including the guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. With this package, kids under 17 can enjoy deluxe accommodations, free breakfast and free Hersheypark tickets.

Additional packages and offers at these properties include:

• Hersheypark 1-Night Package
• 2-Day Stay & Play Package
• Ultimate Summer Fun Package

Safety and Fun Go Hand-in-Hand in Hershey

We strive to ensure our guests have fun and stay safe at all of our water attractions. If you are planning a visit this summer, keep these five water safety tips in mind:

1. Learn to swim.

   The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. This includes both adults and children.

2. Parents are the first line of defense.

   If your child is in the water, you should be too! Make sure an adult is constantly watching young children swimming, playing or bathing in water. Do not participate in any distracting activities while supervising children around the water.

3. Wear a life jacket.

   Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should also always wear a life jacket when in and around the water. Inflatable toys can be fun but are not a substitute for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. At Hersheypark, guests of the Miniatures, Kisses and Reese's height categories must wear a life vest on certain water attractions. Guests may bring their own life jacket, as long as it is Coast Guard approved. Life jackets are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Outside wave boards, inner tubes, inflatable toys, or other inflatables, including water wings or swimmies are not permitted in The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park.

4. Look for lifeguards.

   Be sure the area is well supervised by lifeguards before you or others in your group enter the water.

5. Never swim alone or in unsupervised places.

   Teach your children to always swim with a buddy.

Hersheypark also encourages guests to wear proper foot protection in queues and on all walking surfaces as they may become hot in the sun. Aqua shoes are not permitted on the body slides. There are complimentary shoe drops available to guests. Furthermore, only appropriate swimwear is allowed on the attractions. Revealing bathing suits, shorts with rivets, snaps, zippers, metal ornamentation, cutoffs and jeans are not permitted.

Award-Winning Certified and Trained Lifeguard Staff

The lifeguard staff is well-trained to keep all guests safe as they take a break from coaster riding and beat the heat in the water park. Currently, there are 19 Certified Lifeguard Instructors who are certified to train lifeguards and one Lifeguard Instructor Trainer who is qualified to train the Lifeguard Instructors on the Hersheypark Team. All Hersheypark lifeguards are trained and certified through Jeff Ellis & Associates, a leader in water park safety.

Every Hersheypark lifeguard completes a 24-hour class, followed by a minimum of four hours of continued in-service education per month to maintain test-ready skills. Lifeguard certifications are valid for one year only, which ensures that seasonal team members receive updated training every year.

In 2025, Hersheypark was awarded the prestigious "Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award.” Earning this award demonstrates that The Boardwalk consistently exceeds industry standards in risk management and epitomizes aquatic safety excellence. International Aquatic Safety Awards are conferred to deserving aquatic facilities by Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. - International Aquatic Safety and Risk Management Consultants. Hersheypark has received a total of ten Platinum Awards, four Gold Awards and one Silver Award.

International Aquatic Safety Awards are presented annually to participants in E&A's Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program (CARMP) and are based on the results of multiple random Unannounced Aquatic Facility Operational Safety Audits throughout the year. These audits include undercover video surveillance of individual lifeguards while they protect their Zone of Protection areas in order to accurately evaluate their professional diligence. Additionally, individual and team basic life support and rescue skills are evaluated, along with simulated emergencies that measure the effectiveness of established Emergency Action Plans. The audit concludes with administrative, supervisory and facility evaluations.

International Safety Awards are presented only to E&A's most elite clients. Presented in three levels - Silver, Gold, and Platinum - only the top 10% of E&A clients in the world receive a Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award each year.

Earlier this year, we welcomed Periwinkle (Peri) the Ringtail back to the ZooAmerica family. She and her three sisters were born here in 2018 to parents, Violet & Rambo. All four female ringtails then moved onto other accredited zoos. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Ringtail Species Survival Plan made the recommendation last October to pair Remington and Periwinkle for breeding. Remington (Remi) came to us from a wildlife rehabilitation center in California. Peri and Remi were introduced in early March, and we are thrilled that one of our former kits has welcomed a baby of her own. She even gave birth to Teddy in the same nest box that she was born in nearly eight years prior!

Periwinkle and Teddy will be visiting the ringtail habitat soon! Teddy is gaining more confidence in his abilities to walk, run, jump, slide and climb in his behind-the-scenes area. Once he is more skilled in his mobility, he will begin to explore the larger ringtail habitat. We will keep you updated when he and Periwinkle can be viewed by our visitors!

Other New Animal Additions to 11-Acre Zoo in Hershey

Teddy joins some other new arrivals at ZooAmerica this summer, including two black bear cubs and nine prairie dogs. You can read more about them here.

Briar and Bramble, a pair of orphaned black bear cub siblings, recently arrived in Hershey through the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks after being classified as non-releasable. The male and female cubs are acclimating behind the scenes, where they will grow and eventually be integrated with the zoo's resident bear, Chief, before making their official public habitat debut in the Eastern Woodlands region in 2027.

In the Big Sky Country, nine black-tailed prairie dogs can be spotted, though they frequently retreat inside their burrows to escape the heat.

Foodies can enjoy a perfectly patriotic selection of red, white, and blue sips and eats created just for the occasion. Discover all the themed savory and sweet treats available across Hersheypark this summer and let the flavors ring!

King Size Shake at Simply Chocolate

Simply Chocolate dessert shop is the proud home of the iconic, award-winning King Size Shake! This season is the 10th birthday bash for this 28-ounce masterpiece, served in a souvenir mug and piled high with gourmet treats. To celebrate, Hersheypark offers a Birthday King Size Shake and just unveiled an exclusive July-only variation: the Star-Spangled King Size Shake. It's a patriotic twist on our classic vanilla shake, bursting with red, white and blue sprinkles and crowned with a decadent sugar cookie ice cream sandwich.

Hot Dog, Milkshake and Cocktails at The Chocolatier

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is celebrating America's birthday with an exciting lineup of themed dishes, desserts and drinks! An exclusive for July, diners can enjoy the Liberty Dog topped with smoked cheddar cheese sauce, bacon jam and crispy onions on a brioche bun and served with fries and a pickle. Be sure to save room for dessert and try the Apple Pie Milkshake featuring a mini apple pie on top!

A wide selection of patriotic pours is waiting for guests 21 and older that can be enjoyed at our Carrousel Bar, Patio Bar or with your lunch and dinner throughout the restaurant. Experience classic American flavors in cocktail form with drinks like the Firecracker Margarita and the Liberty & Lime Old Fashioned. Enjoy a mini cocktail selection with “Freedom Flights” like the Summer In The States for even more unique flavors.

Reservations are available online and strongly encouraged for sit-down table service. Please note that reservations are not accepted to sit at our outdoor patio bar or the Carrousel Bar.

Apple Pie-Inspired Treats at Milton's Ice Cream Parlor

Inspired by Milton Hershey's early ventures in sweetness that came before his famous chocolate factory, Milton's Ice Cream Parlor in Hershey's Chocolatetown specializes in handcrafted ice cream and fresh-baked donuts. Celebrating America’s birthday, the menu features new, seasonal treats: Apple Pie ice cream, a festive Vanilla Donut with Red, White and Blue sprinkles, and an Apple Pie Donut complete with apple pie filling and a lattice crust.

For a cool treat on the go, visit Milton's Ice Cream Truck near the entrance to The Boardwalk water park for the signature Apple Pie In a Cup. The delicious sundae blends creamy vanilla ice cream with classic apple pie filling and is finished with a swirl of whipped cream.

Specialty Fudge at The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen

Also nestled within Hershey’s Chocolatetown, The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen offers a curated collection of mouth-watering confections. This summer, our expert confectioners have added a patriotic flair to our famous house-made fudge with the new Americana variety—a velvety vanilla fudge adorned with festive red, white and blue sprinkles.

Souvenir Drink Cup

Sip in stars-and-stripes style with this year's souvenir drink cup! Available at multiple locations throughout the Park, the cup features a red, white and blue design featuring your favorite Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best. With our All-Day Drink Deal, this souvenir cup can be used for free refills on the day of your purchase and $1 refills on all subsequent visits.

Drips and Refreshers in The Hollow

Drips and Refreshers is an all-new beverage location in The Hollow region of the Park with over-the-top beverages featuring Pepsi products. Don't miss the Red, White and Blueberry Bash with blueberry boba and lychee stars, Mountain Dew Code Red and cold foam for a refreshingly-revolutionary beverage option.

Will you be sampling these patriotic treats during your next visit? Don't forget to share your photos with us using #HersheyparkEats on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

On its route from Lebanon to Enola, Pennsylvania, the steam locomotive passed directly by ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park and Hersheypark amusement park. 

As the locomotive neared the iconic smokestacks upon entering Hershey, it received a sweet greeting from the Dry Gulch Railroad—one of the few remaining amusement park railways in the United States that still operates on actual steam power—which sounded its whistle in welcome.

Dry Gulch Railroad, a beloved staple of Hersheypark, marks a remarkable 65 years of operation in 2026, having officially opened its rails for scenic rides on April 23, 1961, according to the Hershey Community Archives. This miniature reproduction of a 19th-century steam-powered train is operated by steam engine engineers, using real steam engines to traverse its scenic route through the Pioneer Frontier region of Hersheypark. The family-friendly attraction for guests of all Hershey’s height categories operates during all four seasons at Hersheypark, weather and maintenance permitting.

1. Ride chocolate-themed attractions all day long

On World Chocolate Day, Hersheypark stands out as the premier spot for both thrill-seekers and chocolate enthusiasts. Spanning 121 acres, Pennsylvania's largest amusement park boasts more than 70 attractions, featuring chocolate-inspired rides such as the Candymonium hypercoaster, Reese’s Cupfusion indoor gaming ride, Cocoa Cruiser kiddie coaster and the Hershey Triple Tower drop towers.

Guests who prefer to skip the roller coaster thrills can check out Hershey’s Chocolatetown, which is all decked out in red, white and blue to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. The aptly-named chocolate region features the 107-year-old Carrousel with a special America's 250th horse, a 10,000-foot flagship store, an ice cream parlor (with chocolate ice cream, of course), a confectionery kitchen and a full-service restaurant, among other experiences. 

2. Meet a Life-Size Hershey Character

Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world where guests can snap a selfie with a life-size chocolate bar! Throughout the day, guests can enjoy meet and greet opportunities with a rotating cast of Hershey Characters at various locations throughout the amusement park, as listed in the Hersheypark app. This summer, Hershey Bar, Reese, and Miss Kiss are sporting patriotic attire to add a festive touch to visits during the nation's semiquincentennial. 

3. Grab a Chocolate Treat at Hersheypark

You'll find plenty of treats throughout Hersheypark where chocolate is the star! Guests should plan to visit Simply Chocolate dessert shop in the Founder's Way region to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the King Sized Shake. This 28 oz. milkshake topped with baked goods comes in chocolate and peanut butter varieties this summer. Guests can also stop by Founder's Way Funnel Cake by Shorty's for chocolatey funnel cake creations, including a Reese's Peanut Butter Funnel Cake and S'mores Funnel Cake. 

4. Enjoy Chocolate-Infused Dining Around Town

The best way to celebrate something sweet like chocolate is by savoring it. And there is no shortage of great eats at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio and Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. At these places, you’ll find sweet dishes that capture the true essence of Hershey’s chocolate roots.

The Chocolatier menu features family favorites with a chocolate twist. Guests can enjoy Cocoa-Dusted Beef Short Ribs, the Chocolatetown Burger, Mac & Cheese with Hershey’s Chocolate Barbecue Sauce and Cacao Nib Gremolata, and more. And be sure to save room for our signature desserts like The Chocolatier Cake, Hershey's Chocolate Cheesecake, and an Over-The-Top Hershey's Chocolate Milkshake.

For a new way to experience the chocolate taste of town, Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar pairs local cuisine with handmade cocktails in a modern, welcoming setting. 

Chocolate-forward items include Hershey Social Wings tossed in Spiced Cocoa Dry Rub and Hershey's Chocolate Barbecue Sauce, Reese's Take5 Smash Burger, and the Social Braised Short Ribs. Pair your meal with a signature chocolate cocktail like a Chocolate S'mores Bourbon, Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme White Russian, or Hershey's Kisses Signature Chocolate Martini. And no meal is complete without dessert. Try from our selection of warm chocolate goodness, like Warm Chocolate Cobbler, Brookie Sundae, or the Whoppers Chocolate-Malted Affogato.

5. Relax With a Chocolate Spa Treatment

If you need a break from riding coasters all day long, you can always unwind at two luxury spas - The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey is famous for its signature chocolate treatments and services that pay homage to Cuba, where Milton S. Hershey owned sugar mills from 1916 to 1946. Everything Chocolate Treatments include Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap, Cocoa Massage and more. View our summer spa guide here.

MeltSpa by Hershey is a luxurious day spa in downtown Hershey where guests can melt into sweet relaxation with exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Treatments like the Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Sugar Scrub. This treatment includes a full-body exfoliation with a rich blend of organic cocoa butter, vitamin E oil and organic Sucanat sugar, followed by a relaxing application of cocoa-infused body lotion to reveal soft, silky smooth, deeply hydrated skin.

6. Sip on a Signature Chocolate Martini

For guests 21 and older, Hershey is known for its signature chocolate martinis served at various dining locations around town, including The Chocolatier, Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey, as well as restaurants at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge. Options include the Hershey’s Kisses Signature Chocolate Martini, Hershey’s Chocolate Caramel Martini and the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Martini. 

7. Indulge in Chocolate Around Every Corner at a Resort

There’s no need to visit Hershey for just one day. Guests should consider extending their stay at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark.

At The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites, guests start their visit with a full-size chocolate bar at check-in. How sweet is that? Chocolate is also infused throughout the stay, with chocolate bath amenities in the guest rooms. The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge also offer chocolate-inspired dining options at on-property restaurants and chocolate-themed resort activities, such as chocolate bingo.

In addition to the above reasons to visit Hershey, there are other chocolatey adventures around town. History buffs can learn about the history of Hershey’s chocolate (and the man who created it) and even taste chocolate from around the world at The Hershey Story Museum. Or, visitors can take a free chocolate tour ride at Hershey's Chocolate World to see how chocolate is made. 

As you can see, Hershey has something for every chocolate lover. We hope you have a sweet visit! 

Hersheypark Happy

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. 

New this year, guests can get to the water quicker with The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier. This zero-depth water play area features 45 interactive aquatic elements and an open concept design with shaded canopies.

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 Shoreline Sprayground and East Coast Waterworks, which offers more than 600 interactive water features alone. 

Stay Hydrated

The best way to keep your body cool is to drink water – and lots of it. Each visitor is allowed to bring an empty reusable water bottle or one sealed water bottle into Hersheypark. Free water and ice can be dispensed at all Pepsi Fast Fill locations without needing to scan a Hersheypark Souvenir Cup. There are also bottle fillers in multiple locations throughout the Park. Complimentary cups of water are available upon request at all Hersheypark-owned food and beverage locations (download the Hersheypark app for any participating All-Day Drink Deal location). 

We recommend taking advantage of the All-Day Drink Deal for $24.98 to save with free refills on fountain drinks all day long. 

Journey Through The American Songbook

Celebrate the anthems that shaped American history at Hersheypark with our all-new live stage show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, inside the air-conditioned Chevrolet Music Box Theatre daily. Be sure to stick around after the show for an encore featuring a surprise bonus song!

Explore Indoor Animal Exhibits

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park features two indoor buildings where guests can see animals like turtles, snakes and a dwarf caiman in an air-conditioned environment. Animal lovers should make it a point to stop by the Zoovenirs gift shop, featuring exclusive Zoo attire, stuffed animals and more. 

Access to ZooAmerica is included with your Hersheypark admission when you enter via the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours.

Grab a Bite to Eat Indoors

There are a variety of dining locations for guests seeking air conditioning or shade while eating lunch or dinner. 

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

Located in Hershey's Chocolatetown just outside the Hersheypark front gate, 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. Reservations are strongly recommended and accepted for indoor dining. 

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 Confectionery Kitchen

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. 

Overlook Food Court

Located in the Kissing Tower Hill region, guests can enjoy burgers, handcrafted salads, made-to-order wraps, grilled chicken sandwiches and much more! Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-friendly options are also available at Overlook Food Court.

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 East Coast Surf Co., the retail store designed to beat the heat. 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.

Be Prepared for the Fun

The safety of our team members and guests visiting any of the attractions across our sweet destination of Hershey, Pennsylvania, is always our top priority. Guests are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light clothing and sunscreen, and take breaks under shade or indoors whenever possible during the warm summer months.

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 that everyone spending time in the sun apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays), SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. Discuss any planned visit with your healthcare provider to ensure the best plan for your specific needs.

More Ways to Cool Off Around Town

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, including complimentary access to all of the resort 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, Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk and more. 

Hershey Inn & Suites

Hershey Inn & Suites is the newest addition to The Official Resorts Of Hersheypark and boasts an indoor pool located off the main lobby. This indoor pool is open all-year round.

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. 

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. 

Additional Attractions

The Hershey Story Museum

Visitors to The Hershey Story Museum can learn the story of our founder and chocolate pioneer, Milton S. Hershey, his wife Catherine, and the town of Hershey through exhibits, artifacts and interactive experiences. Guests can also make and decorate chocolate in the Chocolate Lab for an additional fee or sip chocolates from around the world during Chocolate Tastings. 

Open daily, The Hershey Story tickets are included with a stay at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites and are discounted with a stay at Hershey Camping Resort. Tickets may also be purchased at the Museum's main entrance.

HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE WORLD

Hershey’s Chocolate World is open daily this summer (view hours here). During a visit, families can experience HERSHEY'S Great Candy Expedition. This one-of-a-kind train-themed adventure will take passengers on a fantastical journey through colorful lands inspired by all the favorite Hershey candies. To sweeten the experience, guests get to help choose the train's path for a fun, interactive element! Visitors should not forget to make their candy dreams a reality at the Create Your Own Candy Bar experience or indulge in some of the delicious food and drink offerings Hershey's Chocolate World has to offer.

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

Head to Hersheypark Amusement Park, Open Daily This Summer

Hersheypark, a world-class 121-acre amusement park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is open daily for the summer season through Sept. 7. Summer tickets include three parks in one with more than 70 rides, an 11-acre water park and access to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park when entering from within Hersheypark.

The summer ride lineup features 15 mild-to-wild coasters (the most in the Northeast), various family-friendly attractions and more than 20 kiddie rides spread throughout the Park- 

Given the incredible value included with a Hersheypark ticket, guests often choose to spend multiple days at Hersheypark to ensure enough time to experience all of the summer fun. As a reminder, The Official Resorts of Hersheypark guests receive the best price on Hersheypark tickets.

New Splashes at Water Park

Hersheypark is home to The Boardwalk, an 11-acre water park with one million gallons of water among 16 water attractions. The water park is located inside the amusement park, making it easy to cool off between coaster rides. 

New for 2026, Guests can look forward to a brand-new interactive water play experience at The Boardwalk within Bayside Pier, featuring 45 fun-filled aquatic elements designated for all ages. 

• The Inlet at Bayside Pier introduces a shaded splash area complete with playful dolphin and fish water features, along with whimsical spray elements perfect for cooling off on warm summer days. 

• Nearby, The Island at Bayside Pier features towering 10-foot palm trees with tipping water buckets that deliver refreshing surprises. 

Both new spaces include comfortable rubberized decking and shaded canopy areas, creating inviting spots for guests to splash, relax and enjoy everything The Boardwalk at Hersheypark has to offer.

All-American Summer Celebration

Hersheypark celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with patriotic events and activations all summer long, including the following: 

• Multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S on July 3, July 4 and Aug. 8 at 10:15 p.m.
• ALL-NEW live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue through Sept. 7
• Select Americana-themed attractions, like Star-Spangled Laff Trakk
• Red, white and blue ride light packages and decor
• Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best
• Limited-time food and drink, including a Star-Spangled King Size Shake (only available in July)

Visit North American Animals at ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is an 11-acre, walk-through zoo that cares for more than 60 species from five regions of North America. Guests can see a black bear, wolves, Canada lynx, elk and other animals native to this continent.

ZooAmerica is open daily this summer from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Sept. 7. To enhance a summer visit, guests can enjoy daily activities, like special animal enrichments, animal encounters and keeper chats, included with admission. 

Regular admission to ZooAmerica is $16.50 plus taxes and fees. Juniors ages 3-8 and seniors ages 62+ are $14.50 plus taxes and fees. Children 2 and under are free. Hersheypark tickets include ZooAmerica only when accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. The Zoo is the perfect place for families visiting Hersheypark to take a quick break from the thrills.

Enjoy Live Entertainment

A sweet summer season of outdoor live entertainment is underway at Hersheypark Stadium with something for every music lover. Few places offer guests the opportunity to enjoy coasters all day and see shows outdoors at night under the Central Pennsylvania sky! 

• Chris Stapleton, June 24
• Santana & The Doobie Brothers, June 26
• Tim McGraw, July 11
• Thomas Rhett & Niall Horan, July 18
• Five Finger Death Punch, July 25
• Guns N’ Roses, August 1
• Tyler Childers, August 14
• Kesha, August 15
• Pitbull, August 22
• Iron Maiden, September 15 

Downtown, the Hershey Theatre has a robust lineup of shows throughout the summer.

• Chicago, June 23
• A Beautiful Noise - The Neil Diamond Musical, June 30- July 5
• Vine Gill, July 10
• Alison Krauss & Union Station, July 14
• Bluey’s Big Play, July 25- July 26
• Tori Amos, July 27
• Derek Hough, July 31
• Dogstar, August 18
• The Wiggles, August 19
• Killers of Kill Tony, August 21
   

GIANT Center also welcomes three more must-see summer shows with James Taylor, Dude Perfect, and “Weird Al” Yankovic, followed by five shows in the remainder of 2026. 

Dine Al Fresco at Hershey Social Bar + Restaurant 

Summer means outdoor dining in Hershey is in full swing. Visitors to Hershey can head downtown and enjoy the views of the Hershey’s Kisses-shaped street lights from the patio of the new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. With a wide array of food and drink offerings, Hershey Social has something for everyone after a long day at Hersheypark, before a show, or just because. Plus, daily happy hour specials are available from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Eat on the Patio at The Chocolatier

With fun indoor booth seating themed around Comet and Tilt-A-Whirl to an outdoor patio offering one-of-a-kind views of Candymonium and our 107-year-old Carrousel, The Chocolatier is a visual experience like no other. An open kitchen serves up classic family fare with a fun Hershey twist. Diners can indulge in a Reese’s Take5 Chicken Sandwich, Heath Bar Crusted Salmon or Cocoa-Dusted Beef Short Ribs along with over-the-top Hershey's candy-inspired milkshakes, sundaes and desserts. One thing is for certain: a trip to The Chocolatier is sure to be as fun as it is delicious.

New for this summer, before Hersheypark Stadium shows, guests can enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat buffet on the patio starting three hours before concerts begin, featuring elevated summer barbecue favorites with themed cocktails to celebrate the artists performing that evening.  

Reservations are strongly encouraged for indoor table service, but not available for outdoor patio dining. Guests interested in re-entering Hersheypark after enjoying the patio will need to get their hands stamped. 

Relax at the Spa

Visitors can indulge in summer relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa with signature chocolate treatments and seasonal treatment collections. Summer packages at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey include the Vacation For A Day Package, Citrus Sensation Package and Sweet Summer Sampler. MeltSpa by Hershey is excited to bring back a guest favorite, the Summer Strawberry Collection, featuring a Summer Strawberry Body Scrub, Immersion, Manicure, Pedicure and more. These seasonal summer packages and treatments are available through Aug. 31.

Looking to have a spa day the Hershey way? Guests can revel in one-of-a-kind chocolate spa treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey with the Chocolate Fondue Wrap, Cocoa Massage and Whipped Cocoa Bath. Or they can head to MeltSpa for their exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Treatments, infused with Hershey’s dark chocolate, that will leave spa visitors feeling refreshed and smelling sweet

Where to Stay in Hershey

As you can see, there is so much to do during a visit to Hershey that many guests spend the night (or two or three or more). Really, what could be better than spending the night in The Sweetest Place On Earth? Booking a sweet getaway at one of the four Official Resorts of Hersheypark is the perfect way to kick off the summer! Guests can save on a stay with popular summer packages, including the guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat Free Package at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites or the Hersheypark Summer Camping Package at Hersheypark Camping Resort. 

The sweetest part about choosing to stay at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark is the FREE Resort Benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Sweet Start available through Sept. 7 and Preview Plan, and free front-gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark.

Hershey Inn and Suites

Located at 1300 West End Avenue in Hummelstown, the recently opened four-story, 130-room property marks the company's first brand-new hotel in nearly 60 years. Hershey Inn & Suites offers a first-of-its-kind family suite with bunk beds, a complimentary hot breakfast (a first for an Official Resort of Hersheypark), a lobby bar, a 24/7 arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round.

The Hotel Hershey

Opened by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey in 1933, The Hotel Hershey is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is a recipient of the AAA Four-Diamond Award. The Hotel is right across the street from Hersheypark and situated high atop the town of Hershey. Guests at the hotel can enjoy delicious dining, sweet relaxation at the Chocolate Spa, and experience a variety of recreational activities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a sports complex and miles of hiking trails.

Swing by The Hotel Hershey on select Fridays this summer from 7 - 10 PM for Jazz On The Veranda. Make a reservation at your favorite restaurant before the music starts to enjoy a delicious dinner, and then stay for the music! Reservations not accepted for the jazz. 

Dates: 

• Saturday July 4 (includes Fourth of July fireworks and a special menu)

• Wednesday, July 8

• Friday, July 10

• Friday, July 17

• Friday, August 7

• Friday, August 14

For more information about this beautiful and historic property, check out The Hotel Hershey summer guide.

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey

Those interested in the ultimate luxurious stay should consider The Villas at The Hotel Hershey. Twelve Villas feature 48 reimagined rooms with refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities, including an all-new exclusive concierge lounge with food, drinks and activities, daily Hersheypark tickets and One-Day Fast Track. Seven more Villas will open throughout the summer. This historic expansion will double the size of The Villas, offering even more luxury as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and the most premium Hersheypark experiences.

Take a look inside The Villas and explore the daily schedule of exclusive activities and offerings for guests.

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming, and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge provides convenience and comfort for families and guests of all ages with sweet hospitality and chocolate around every corner. A guest favorite, Hershey's Water Works indoor water complex features a Reese's Water Walk, Twizzlers Twists water slides and a zero-entry pool for unlimited family fun. Families will also enjoy recreational amenities and activities like miniature golf and chocolate bingo. 

To learn more about this kid-friendly property, check out our Hershey Lodge summer guide.

Hersheypark Camping Resort 

Hershey is also home to Hersheypark Camping Resort for guests looking to stay in a log or deluxe cabin, park an RV at a partial or full hook-up site or pitch a tent along the creek. The campground offers more than 300 open and shaded sites situated among 55 acres of emerald hills, including two tiny homes - perfect for campers looking for a modern and trendy experience. During the summer, campers can enjoy splashes at two pools and a kiddie pool, as well as fun-filled activities like outdoor movies, crafts and animal encounters hosted by ZooAmerica. 

To learn more about camping in Hershey, check out the Hersheypark Camping Resort summer guide. 

Explore Other Hershey Must-See Attractions

When you aren't riding coaster, relaxing at our resorts, or enjoying a show, there's even more sweet inspired fun to be had throughout Hershey. 

Hershey Gardens

Guests can embrace the summer season by visiting 23 acres of beautiful blooming plant life at Hershey Gardens. Open daily, Hershey Gardens is home to 11 themed gardens, seasonal displays, and an assortment of flowers, shrubs and trees for guests of all ages to enjoy. Kids can immerse themselves in the Children’s Garden and Butterfly Atrium or get up close and personal with crawling creatures inside the Conservatory’s Zoology Zone. 

Tickets to Hershey Gardens are included with a stay at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites and are discounted with a stay at Hersheypark Camping Resort. Visitors can also purchase general admission tickets.

The Hershey Story Museum 

Visitors to The Hershey Story Museum can learn the story of our founder and chocolate pioneer, Milton S. Hershey, his wife Catherine, and the town of Hershey through exhibits, artifacts and interactive experiences. Guests can also make and decorate chocolate in the Chocolate Lab for an additional fee or sip chocolates from around the world during Chocolate Tastings. 

Open daily, The Hershey Story tickets are included with a stay at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites and are discounted with a stay at Hershey Camping Resort. Tickets may also be purchased at the Museum's main entrance.

Hershey’s Chocolate World 

Hershey’s Chocolate World is open daily this summer (view hours here). During a visit, families can experience HERSHEY'S Great Candy Expedition. This one-of-a-kind train-themed adventure will take passengers on a fantastical journey through colorful lands inspired by all the favorite Hershey candies. To sweeten the experience, guests get to help choose the train's path for a fun, interactive element! Visitors should not forget to make their candy dreams a reality at the Create Your Own Candy Bar experience or indulge in some of the delicious food and drink offerings Hershey's Chocolate World has to offer. 

Join out team this summer

Visit our Careers site to explore current opportunities to join our team! 

If you have little ones and are considering a summer getaway to The Sweetest Place On Earth, we’ve got you covered with our complete guide to Hershey for kids. 

Plus, for a limited time this summer, families can save with our Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE resort package and sweet Hersheypark ticket offers. Keep reading for all of the details!

Where to Stay

The first step in planning a family vacation is figuring out where to stay with the kids. Lucky for visitors to Hershey, there are plenty of kid-friendly hotel accommodations in close proximity to all of the attractions. 

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

From the Hershey’s chocolate bar received upon check-in to meet-and-greets with Hershey Characters in the lobby*, families will love The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and their many sweet amenities. Guests can choose from accommodations at The Hotel Hershey luxury AAA Four Diamond property, the warm and welcoming Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort year-round campground or Hershey Inn & Suites, the newest hotel to join the portfolio that also includes FREE hot breakfast.

*Available at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites

Those interested in even more luxury should consider The Villas at The Hotel Hershey, an elevated luxury accommodation experience with exclusive amenities, including daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person. 

The Villas offer 4-and 6-bedroom options that are perfect for large families. Guests can book an entire Villa and gain access to a Great Room featuring vaulted ceilings, a wet bar and a private fireplace, perfect for evening wine for the adults while the toddlers play nearby.

Villas guests can start and end their day in the exclusive Villas Concierge Lounge with continental breakfast, grab & go snacks, fountain soda, s'mores roasts around the Villas Concierge Fire Pit, exclusive Hershey Character weekend meet and greets and a dedicated concierge team member to help make reservations and handle requests. 

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offer many kid-friendly experiences to sweeten any stay.

Kids’ Check-In: Offered seasonally and on select weekends at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, kids can start their getaway with their very own check-in at our Kids’ Check-In desk in the lobby. This sweet experience allows kids to sign the kids’ guest book, participate in a Hershey’s candy guessing game and receive a chocolate surprise.

Kid-Friendly Resort Activities: Throughout the summer, kid-friendly recreation and activities are available at all four resorts. At The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, guests can enjoy family fun, such as chocolate bingo, s’mores roasts, mini golf or glow putting, Hershey Character appearances and more. A new arcade in The Hotel Hershey plaza is now open, where guests can win prizes and play classic games like pinball, skeeball, video games and more from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, kids can play at the playgrounds and indoor game room and participate in activities ranging from educational animal programs to comedy magic shows. At Hershey Inn & Suites, kids can enjoy the 24/7 arcade.

Splashes At The Pool: Don’t forget to pack the swimsuits! Kids won’t want to miss out on the splashing good times to be had at the resort’s pool complexes. Weather permitting, the outdoor pools at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort are open for the summer season from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. 

• Perfect for families, the outdoor pool complex at The Hotel Hershey features a family pool with zero-grade entry, two large slides and a kiddie spray deck, as well as an infinity-edge adult pool and whirlpool.
• The Villas guests enjoy 30 minutes of early access to the outdoor pool complex at The Hotel Hershey.
• In addition to an outdoor pool, guests of Hershey Lodge can enjoy a sweet indoor pool complex year-round called Hershey’s Water Works, complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese’s Water Walk, a zero-entry pool, a sand castle spray zone, a lighthouse tipping bucket, basketball hoops and more.
• Campers at Hersheypark Camping Resort can cool off in two outdoor pools and a kiddie pool.
• Hershey Inn & Suites offers access to an indoor pool year-round. 

Packages and Benefits: Families can save on a getaway to The Official Resorts of Hersheypark with sweet overnight packages, including the guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package - back for a limited time. Available on select Hersheypark operating dates through Sept. 7 at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites, this package includes free accommodations, free Hersheypark tickets and free breakfast each day of stay for kids 17 and younger. 

Plus, all resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, free front gate shuttle service to and from the Park, extra hours at the Park, free or discounted admission to area attractions and more.

What to Do

There is plenty to see and do with kids in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Families can spend the day at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, learn about North American animals at an 11-acre zoo, attend a family-friendly show, create their own candy bar, see dozens of rare butterflies, explore the history of Hershey at a museum and so much more.

Ride all day at Hersheypark

For 120 years, Hersheypark has been known as a clean and green destination for family fun. The 121-acre amusement park is open daily through Sept. 7 (Labor Day) for coaster rides, King Size Shakes, Hershey Character selfies and water park splashes.

A sweet value, Hersheypark tickets include three parks in one—more than 70 attractions with the most coasters in the Northeast, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park.

All-American Summer Celebration: Hersheypark also offers patriotic activations and special summer events highlighting America’s 250th anniversary, including the following: 

• Multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S on July 3, July 4 and Aug. 8 at 10:15 p.m.
• ALL-NEW live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue from May 29 through Sept. 7
• Select Americana-themed attractions, like Star-Spangled Laff Trakk
• Red, white and blue ride light packages and decor
• Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best
• Limited-time food and drink, including a Star-Spangled King Size Shake (only available in July) and a Birthday King Size Shake available all summer long

Fun For All Ages: The extensive lineup of more than 70 rides offers something for everyone. Guests can explore rides on the Hersheypark app or website by Hershey’s candy height categories. Hersheypark has more than 20 kiddie rides, plus family favorites like the Carrousel with all 66 original horses and the Kissing Tower for an aerial view of the Park. Hersheypark is also home to the most coasters in the Northeast, from Cocoa Cruiser for the smallest thrill seekers to sooperdooperLooper as the first upside-down coaster for many young guests. For the older kids of 48 inches or taller, Wildcat’s Revenge hybrid coaster offers the ultimate thrills.

Families Can Ride Together: Hersheypark features a unique layout with 121 acres of outdoor attractions surrounded by shady trees, ample green spaces and fresh Pennsylvania air. Unlike other parks, Hersheypark was specifically designed with thrill rides in the same area as kiddie rides, so families don’t have to split up throughout the Park. One exception is Carrousel Circle, with many rides for the youngest guests. 

Kiddie Swap: Ideal for families, Hersheypark offers a Kiddie Swap program where one parent may ride while the other stays with the child and then, at the conclusion of the initial ride, the parents may "swap" places. Similarly, if one parent has two children who meet the height restriction but must be accompanied by a responsible rider, or who do not wish to ride alone, the parent may ride with one child while the other child waits in an appropriate ride area. At the conclusion of the initial ride, the parent may remain on the ride while the children "swap" places. 

Character Photo Opportunities: In addition to the rides, a beloved family tradition is taking a photo of children next to the Hershey Character-themed height categories in Hershey’s Chocolatetown as they grow each year. And, of course, Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world where guests can snap a selfie with a Hershey Character. In celebration of the nation's semiquincentennial, Hersh, Miss Kiss and Reese are dressed in their patriotic attire this summer!

Sweet Treats: It wouldn’t be a trip to Hershey without treats kids love, from award-winning King Size Shakes (celebrating 10 years) to funnel cakes with Hershey's candies. For the ultimate sweetness, guests should visit Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. Inspired by Mr. Hershey's early ventures in sweetness that came before his famous chocolate factory, expert Ice Creamologists craft custom creations from 100% local dairy house-made ice cream, Hershey's candy toppings, decadent sauces and more. Right next door to Milton's is The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen with chocolate-dipped treats, decadent desserts and signature hand-crafted fudge. 

The best part? Hersheypark offers various ticket options throughout the year, so families can choose the best option to fit their travel needs. 

Plus, general admission tickets include a free Preview Plan, allowing guests to enter Hersheypark for two hours on a night before their full-day visit by presenting their tickets at the main entrance to enjoy a fun-filled evening. Resort guests can enter three hours before closing.

Cool Off At The Water Park

After working up a sweat riding coasters this summer, park-goers can cool off at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, an 11-acre water park located inside Hersheypark that is included with admission from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The Boardwalk has one million gallons of water among 16 water attractions, including two new water play areas, water slides, a water coaster, a lazy river and more. 

New for Summer 2026: Hersheypark recently debuted an enhancement to its water park, which is located within the amusement park and accessible via a single admission. The existing Bayside Pier kiddie wave pool with a zero-depth entry ramp and rolling waves now features two new water play areas boasting 45 aquatic elements for summer 2026. 

• A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, features water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features.
• The Island at Bayside Pier debuts towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. 

Both new areas feature rubberized decking for additional guest comfort, allowing guests to sit and splash under shaded canopies. The new open design also allows families to seamlessly flow between other water attractions and cool off faster with access to the abundant water features. 

In addition to The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier, The Boardwalk has other kid-friendly water attractions. Shoreline Sprayground is an all-ages water fun playground with misters, bubblers, dancing fountains, spraying jets, water curtains and a drenching tipping bucket. The Boardwalk is also home to East Coast Waterworks, an attraction that boasts more than 600 interactive water features. The biggest splash comes from a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket for those looking to get drenched on a hot summer day.

See Dozens of North American Animals At The Zoo

ZooAmerica is an 11-acre walk-through zoo that cares for animals representing more than 60 species from five regions of North America. Guests can see gray wolves, a black bear, Canada lynx, a river otter, elk and other animals native to this continent.

Families with young animal lovers should consider elevating their zoo experience with a behind-the-scenes tour. ZooAmerica offers two special tours that guide participants through non-public areas, get them close to the animals and leave them with a deeper understanding of the animal world. Premium feeding experiences are also available, which includes admission to ZooAmerica.

ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only when accessing the Zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours. Regular admission to ZooAmerica is $16.50 plus taxes and fees. Juniors ages 3-8 and seniors ages 62+ are $14.50 plus taxes and fees. Children 2 and under are free.

Create Your Own Candy Bar

Conveniently located just across the plaza from Hersheypark, Hershey's Chocolate World is the official visitors center of The Hershey Company with many fun activities for families. 

Guests can learn how tropical cocoa beans become Hershey’s Chocolate on a free chocolate factory tour ride and participate in various paid experiences, including Create Your Own Candy Bar, Hershey’s Unwrapped: A Chocolate Tasting Journey, Reese’s Stuff Your Cup and Hershey Trolley Works. Plus, sip milkshakes and embrace the feeling of being a kid in a candy store as you browse their selection of Hershey’s exclusive chocolates and retail.

Pay a Visit to the Museum

The Hershey Story in downtown Hershey provides an interactive museum experience for children and adults alike, making it an excellent stop for the whole family. Guests can learn all about the life and legacy of our founder Milton S. Hershey, the town he created, and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where guests can try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating.  

Note: All guests of The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites receive free admission, and guests of Hersheypark Camping Resort receive discounted admission.

See Hundreds of Butterflies From Around The World

Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens, including thousands of roses in the summer and a Children’s Garden with interactive play areas, a performance space and a place for students to learn how to grow food. During a visit, guests can check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which includes a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring hundreds of colorful butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.

Note: All guests of The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites receive free admission, and guests of Hersheypark Camping Resort receive discounted admission.

Where to Eat

Hershey is home to more than a dozen deliciously unique and award-winning restaurants, including some sweet dining options for families with children. 

Eat Breakfast At Fire & Grain

Families should start the day with a family breakfast at Fire & Grain. Located inside Hershey Lodge, the restaurant offers breakfast daily either as a buffet or a la carte menu based on availability. Children’s menus and buffet pricing are available, and kids receive their beverage served in a Hershey’s kid’s cup. Dinner and happy hour are also available daily at Fire & Grain.

Grab Lunch at The Chocolatier

Families looking for a fun lunch or dinner spot should consider making a reservation at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio located in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. The full-service restaurant, bar and patio is open daily this summer and features nods to past and present elements from the Hersheypark ride collection, one-of-a-kind views of neighboring attractions and two bars. An open kitchen serves up classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. Families can sit in a Tilt-A-Whirl booth at The Chocolatier to enjoy a Ferris Wheel sampler, popular burgers and a signature dessert menu filled with Hershey's chocolate-inspired treats like over-the-top milkshakes. 

Eat Dinner at Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar

Hershey Social, downtown Hershey's newest restaurant and bar experience, is open daily lunch and dinner. The space serves bold flavors and signature cocktails to sip, savor and socialize, plus fun, interactive darts for the whole family.

Cheer On Your Team At The Bears' Den

For families, sports fans and guests of all ages, The Bears' Den offers a fun hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after the hometown team, the Hershey Bears. Located inside Hershey Lodge, guests can enjoy classic American fare for lunch or dinner daily while taking in a game on one of 39 HD televisions and an enormous 7' x 12' HD video wall tuned in to all the sports action. 

If your family visits us this summer, be sure to snap some photos to remember your #HersheyparkHappy memories and tag us on social media at @TheSweetestPlaceOnEarth on Instagram.

Continue reading for our detailed guide to all dietary and allergen-friendly dining options to enjoy during your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Gluten-Friendly 

Gluten-friendly means made without ingredients containing gluten but is not guaranteed gluten‑free due to possible cross‑contact. Located in the Kissing Tower Hill area, Overlook Food Court is the Park's main dietary and allergen-friendly food location. Featured gluten-friendly options include Chicken Tenders, Hamburgers and Cheeseburgers, Hot Dogs, Honey Mustard Chicken Wraps and more. 

Flying Fare located in the Pioneer Frontier area is also available during the Summer season. Flying Fare serves “allergy-friendly, flavorful food” that is all gluten-friendly and nut-friendly. Entrées include Chicken Tenders, Grilled Chicken Nuggets, BBQ Chicken Salad and more. 

Our complete list of gluten friendly options and locations can be found below:

• Chick-fil-A (Pioneer Frontier): Gluten-friendly items include Waffle Fries and Waffle Potato Chips.
• Dispatch in the Hollow: There are two Dispatch Pizzeria locations inside Hersheypark; Dispatch in the Hollow and Dispatch Express.  Both locations feature a gluten-friendly and vegan cheese pizza.
• East Coast Mini Donuts Truck (Pioneer Frontier): Enjoy gluten-friendly boba beverages at the East Coast Mini Donuts Truck located outside the entrance to The Boardwalk.
• Kissing Tower Snacks (Kissing Tower Hill): Come enjoy a walking taco at Kissing Tower Snacks - all of which are gluten-friendly.
• Lemon Drop Shop (Founder's Way): Visit the Lemon Drop Shop for gluten-friendly lemonade, popcorn and sno cones.
• Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor (Hershey's Chocolatetown): Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor located in Chocolatetown has a rotating variety of gluten-friendly ice cream and sorbets - check with stand attendant for availability.
• Milton's Ice Cream Truck (The Boardwalk): This location features a variety of Milton's ice cream and sorbets - check with stand attendant for availability.
• Oola Bowls: With locations at The Boardwalk, Founder's Way and Kissing Tower Hill, Oola Bowls is a great healthy option for everyone. Their gluten-friendly menu items include the Oola Bowl, Boardwalk Bowl, Great Bear Bowl, Pro Bowl, Create Your Own Bowl, and the Oola Bites.
• Overlook Food Court (Kissing Tower Hill): Gluten-friendly options include the House Salad, Side Salad, Fruit Cup, Veggie Cup, Chicken Tenders, Hamburgers and Cheeseburgers, Hot Dogs, Honey Mustard Chicken Wraps, Falafel Bites, Quesadillias and more.
• Philly Cheesesteak Co. on the roll: Visit this Pioneer Frontier dining location for gluten-friendly fries and cheesesteak fries.
• Rita's Italian Ice (Pioneer Frontier and Founder’s Way): Along with their custard, select Rita's flavors are gluten-friendly - please speak with a stand attendant to verify.
• Shoreline Grill: Located at The Boardwalk, Shoreline Grill is a convenient restaurant just steps away from all of your favorite water attractions! Here, gluten-free diners can order a House Salad and add Grilled Chicken on top. Side Salads are also available.
• Spring Creek Smokehouse (Pioneer Frontier): A fan-favorite home for savory, slow-cooked favorites, Spring Creek Smokehouse has plenty of options for everyone to enjoy! Gluten-friendly options include  the Half-Chicken, Ribs, Pulled Pork (without a roll), Sausage (without a roll) and Brisket (without a roll). Cole Slaw, Green Beans, Baked Beans and Mashed Potatoes are available as gluten-friendly sides.
• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio: Located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, The Chocolatier has a variety of foods, drinks, and desserts that are sure to delight. Cocoa-Dusted Beef Short Ribs and Heath Bar Crusted Salmon are two of the gluten-friendly options. Gluten-friendly items, as well as other dietary-friendly items, are marked here on our menu.
• The Nut Hut (Founder's Way): Go nuts at Nut Hut with gluten-friendly cinnamon frosted nuts, fudge-dipped bananas, salted almonds and salted nuts.
• The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen: The Sweeterie is located inside Hersheypark Supply Co. in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. S’mores Cupcakes are a gluten-friendly option to enjoy a fresh-baked sweet treat.
• The Walking Taco Food Truck: This food truck is available within The Boardwalk during the Summer season and all walking taco items are gluten-friendly.
• Top Tier Treats: Fresh, made-to-order smoothies, lemonade and frozen drinks are some gluten-friendly options at this Pioneer Frontier location.
• Tower Fries (Kissing Tower Hill): Steps away from Great Bear, fresh Hand Cut Fries without toppings are a great gluten-friendly snack.
• 1906 Grill (Founder's Way): Feel like having some cookout-style food? 1906 Grill has gluten-friendly hamburgers and cheeseburgers available on gluten-free buns.
• 8-Cut Crust: Enjoy a gluten-friendly vegan cheese pizza and side salad at 8-Cut Crust, located right next to The Boardwalk.

Nut-Friendly

Nut-friendly items do not contain peanuts or tree nuts, but other items in the location may contain nuts.

• Flying Fare: All items at Flying Fare are nut-friendly!
• Philly Cheesesteak Co. on the roll: This delicious location offers cheesesteaks and loaded fries in a nut-friendly location.
• Guests looking to avoid dining locations that have many items containing nuts should not visit stands like Simply Chocolate, Funnel Cake, Milton’s, Nut Hut, Oola Bowls, The Chocolatier and The Sweeterie. 

Vegan and Dairy-Friendly

Vegan-friendly menu items do not contain animal products such as meat, dairy, eggs, or animal-derived ingredients like honey or gelatin. Overlook has multiple options for vegan foods as the Park's main allergen-friendly location. Keep reading to see all vegan and dairy-friendly options. 

• Chick-fil-A: Vegan items include Waffle Fries and Waffle Potato Chips.
• Chocolatetown Treats: Fresh-squeezed lemonade is a vegan-friendly option available at Chocolatetown Treats.
• Dippin’ Dots: With many locations around the Park, Dippin’ Dots are a great sweet option for guests who are lactose-intolerant. Select flavors, including Rainbow Ice, do not contain milk - please check with stand attendant to verify.
• Dispatch in the Hollow: Guests can order a gluten-friendly vegan cheese pizza or side salad at this location.
• East Coast Mini Donuts Truck: All boba beverages at the East Coast Mini Donuts Truck are vegan-friendly.
• Flying Fare: The carrot sticks and chips are vegan-friendly items available at Flying Fare.
• Keepin' It Kosher: Guests can enjoy a Knish, Soft Pretzels, Israeli Salad, Chickpea and Edamame Salad, Garden Vegetable Soup and the Garden Burger.
• Lemon Drop Shop: Classic lemonade is a vegan option at the Lemon Drop Shop.
• Milton’s: Milton’s has vegan ice cream and sorbet available on a rotating-basis throughout the season.
• Nut Hut: Salted almonds and salted nuts are a sweet, savory and vegan snack.
• Oola Bowls: The Pro Bowl is vegan-friendly.
• Overlook Food Court: Overlook has multiple options for vegan foods, like gluten-friendly vegan cheese pizza, Greek wrap, Black Bean Burgers and Black Bean Quesadillas, Beyond Chicken Tenders, vegan chocolate chip cookies and the house salad.
• Nathan's Food Truck (Pioneer Frontier): Open during the Summer season in Pioneer Frontier, enjoy classic, vegan-friendly crinkle-cut fries.
• Rita's Italian Ice: Select Rita’s Italian Ice flavors are vegan. Please speak with a stand attendant to verify available selections
• Shoreline Grill:  Shoreline Grill features a vegan-friendly house salad or side salad.
• Spirello Cottage: Cool down with a refreshing Orange Boba Tea and Strawberry Boba Lemonade at Spirello Cottage - both are vegan-friendly!
• Spring Creek Smokehouse: Enjoy a vegan side of coleslaw at this fan-favorite location.
• The Chocolatier: Beyond Burgers can be made vegan upon request. All vegan items, as well as other dietary-friendly items, are marked here on our menu.
• The Sweeterie: Vegan Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes are vegan-friendly.
• Tower Fries: Fresh Hand Cut Fries are vegan-friendly.
• Walking Taco: This location offers Vegan Chorizo.
• 8-Cut Crust: Guests can enjoy gluten-friendly vegan cheese pizza as well as side salads at this location.
• 1906 Grill: 1906 Grill features vegan-friendly entrée and side salads.

Vegetarian-Friendly

In addition to Overlook Food Court, many vegetarian-friendly options can be found throughout Hersheypark.

• Chocolatetown Treats: All menu items are vegetarian at Chocolatetown Treats.
• Chick-fil-A: Waffle fries and waffle chips are vegetarian-friendly.
• Chickie's & Pete's - Pioneer Frontier: Fan-favorite crab fries with cheese are a vegetarian option at this Pioneer Frontier location only.
• Dispatch - The Hollow: Vegetarian options include the cheese and margherita flatbreads, garlic knots, and side salad.
• East Coast Mini Donuts Truck: All items at this food truck located outside the main entrance to The Boardwalk are vegetarian.
• Flying Fare: Carrot sticks and chips are vegetarian-friendly items available at Flying Fare.
• Keepin' It Kosher: Guests can enjoy a Knish, Soft Pretzels, Israeli Salad, Chickpea and Edamame Salad, Garden Vegetable Soup and the Garden Burger.
• Kettle Corn - Founder's Way and The Boardwalk: Kettle corn is a great vegetarian treat to take home after a day at The Park.
• Kissing Tower Snacks: Walking tacos (without meat) are great vegetarian-friendly options at this location. Vegan chorizo can be added as a protein to any walking taco.
• Lemon Drop Shop: All menu items are vegetarian at the Lemon Drop Shop.
• Milton’s: All Milton’s ice cream offerings are vegetarian!
• Nathan's Food Truck: Vegetarian-friendly options include crinkle-cut fries with or without cheese and onion rings.
• Oola Bowls: All menu items are vegetarian-friendly at Oola Bowl including the Boardwalk Bowl, Great Bear Bowl, Pro Bowl and Create your Own Bowl.
• Overlook Food Court: With multiple concessions to choose from, Overlook is a great dining option to address your dietary needs. Vegetarian-eats include the House Salad, Beyond Chicken Tenders, Black Bean Burgers and Black Bean Quesadillas, Mac & Cheese, Side Salad, Hummus & Pretzel Cups, Fruit Cup, Veggie Cup,  Falafel Bites, Vegan Cookies and GF Vegan Pizza.
• Philly Cheesesteak Co. on the roll: Enjoy fresh, vegetarian french fries.
• Rita's Italian Ice: All menu items at Rita's are vegetarian.
• Shoreline Grill: Shoreline Grill features a vegetarian house salad or a side salad.
• Spirello Cottage: The original and garlic parmesan Spirellos, as well as the Orange Boba Tea and Strawberry Boba Lemonade, are vegetarian-friendly.
• Spring Creek Smokehouse: Many sides at Spring Creek Smokehouse are vegetarian, including the coleslaw, mashed potatoes, macaroni & cheese, and seasonal vegetable.
• The Chocolatier: Beyond burgers and other vegetarian items are marked here on our menu.
• The Nut Hut: The Nut Hut features an all-vegetarian menu of sweet and savory snacks.
• Top Tier Treats: All menu items at this Pioneer Frontier location are vegetarian.
• Tower Fries: Across from Great Bear, vegetarian-friendly guests can enjoy hand-cut fries and street corn-topped fries.
• Walking Taco: The walking taco without meat is vegetarian, and vegan chorizo is available.
• 8-Cut Crust: Guests can enjoy vegetarian cheese pizza, gluten-friendly vegan cheese pizza, garlic knots and side salads at this location.
• 1906 Grill: 1906 Grill features a vegetarian-friendly side salad.

Keto-Friendly 

There are select items in the park that can be customized when the guest is placing their order to make it keto-friendly. Check out some tips to help you be keto-friendly while at Hersheypark.

• Several locations that offer burgers, cheesesteaks, hot dogs, etc., can be ordered without a bun.
• There are several salad options available at Overlook Food Court.
• Smokehouse - any meats without BBQ sauce are keto, and the keto side would be green beans.
• Some Starbucks drinks can be modified to be keto-friendly by asking to substitute heavy cream instead of milk and skipping any flavored sugar syrups. Plain coffee and tea or any ice tea unsweetened or sweetened with artificial sweeteners are keto-friendly.
• Many Subway sandwiches can be customized to be keto-friendly by skipping the roll/wrap and choosing specific keto ingredients and sauces.
• For alcoholic beverage options, Truly Hard Seltzer is keto-friendly.
• Diet soda and water are keto-friendly non-alcoholic beverage options.

Kosher 

Keepin It Kosher: Located behind Great Bear Catering in the Kissing Tower Hill region, this new location is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day on Sunday-Thursday. Please note it will be closed on Friday-Saturday. 

Here are some other kosher food options at Hersheypark:

• Burgers
• Hot Dogs
• Chicken Strips
• BBQ Wings
• Fries
• Knish
• Soft Pretzels
• Veggie & Hummus Platter

Seafood

Guests that have specific allergies to different seafood should avoid items at Shoreline Grill. While this is the primary seafood location at Hersheypark, please note that tuna is also sold at Subway and Keepin' It Kosher. The Chocolatier also serves seafood and fish.

While we typically do not allow outside food and drinks into Hersheypark, we do allow accommodations for guests who have allergies or dietary restrictions/needs to bring small amounts of food with them.  We hope you enjoy the foods available to you while visiting the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania this summer!

Hersheypark Allergen Friendly menu offerings consist of items prepared without certain allergen-containing ingredients. Because we have multiple sources of food allergens in our kitchens there is risk that cross-contact may occur during the preparation and cooking of these items. Due to these circumstances, we are unable to guarantee that any menu item can be completely free of any allergen ingredient. Before placing your order please inform us of your food allergy and/or sensitivity so we can do everything possible to safely accommodate your dietary needs.    

From world-class resorts to a thrilling amusement park and concerts, there are endless opportunities to explore and have fun while visiting The Sweetest Place On Earth. In fact, there's so much to do that you'll need at least two days to enjoy it all. Explore this 2-day itinerary to help you prepare for your trip and experience all our destination has to offer.

Here are a few quick tips before diving into the day-by-day suggestions of things to do:

1. Save on your 2-day Hersheypark tickets by purchasing in advance online.
   • Discount offers are only available online. Tickets are full price in person.
2. Stay at one of  the four Official Resorts of Hersheypark to enjoy a variety of FREE Resort Benefits like the best price on Hersheypark tickets, free shuttle service to and from Hersheypark, and extra hours at Hersheypark.
   • Save with sweet packages, including our guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package.   
   • Also, make sure to save some time to enjoy recreation on property, including swimming pools, family-friendly resort activities and more.
3. Book a treatment in advance at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey or MeltSpa by Hershey for the ultimate relaxation as summer availability is limited.
4. Purchase tickets for The Hershey Story or Hershey Gardens.
   • Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free or discounted admission at check-in.
5. If you’re interested in any of the Hershey’s Chocolate World indoor attractions, purchase a ticket online ahead of time.
6. Check the Hershey Entertainment schedule for any events, shows or concerts at Hersheypark Stadium, Hershey Theatre or GIANT Center.

Spend Two Days at Hersheypark

When you purchase a ticket to the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, you get access to three experiences in one including 15 iconic coasters, an expansive water park, and our 11-acre zoo! With more than 70 summer attractions, make the most of your trip with a 2-Day Any Day Ticket, starting at just $45 a day.

If you're looking to explore more of this one-of-a-kind destination, then this is the itinerary for you!

Day One

Morning

You can’t begin your day without a good breakfast! 

• If you stay at The Hotel Hershey, The Circular offers breakfast daily from 7-10:30 a.m. The Belgian Kiss Waffles are a staple while visiting Hershey, as they have a Hershey’s Kisses shape in the center.
• If you stay at Hershey Lodge, head to Fire & Grain for breakfast, offered daily from 7-11 a.m. either as a buffet or a la carte menu based on availability. A la carte dishes range from fabulous French Toast with Hershey’s Chocolate Chips to a Smoked Salmon Benedict or even Steak & Eggs. Or, enjoy a breakfast and lunch menu at STACKS, an eatery serving dishes stacked high with flavor, such as stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles with sweet toppings or savory options like the Crispy Chicken Biscuit Benedict or Meat Lovers Breakfast Bowl. Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.
• Our newest resort property, Hershey Inn & Suites, offers free hot breakfast each morning.

After finishing your breakfast, head to your appointment at MeltSpa by Hershey day spa for some relaxation right in the heart of downtown Hershey. The exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate treatments are some of our guests’ favorites. Plus, check out the seasonal Summer Strawberry Collection, featuring an immersion, manicure, pedicure and more.

Afternoon

Following your morning spa getaway, visit Hershey’s Chocolate World to take the famous Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, Create Your Own Candy Bar or take on Hershey's Great Candy Expedition, a train-themed adventure that whisks you away to candy-filled worlds. Be sure to stock up on your favorite Hershey’s candies! 

If you find yourself having more time in your afternoon to explore The Sweetest Place On Earth:

• Head over to The Hershey Story to learn more about Milton S. Hershey and the town's history. There is also a Chocolate Lab where you can build your own chocolate creation and learn how chocolate is made.
• For lunch, visit the all-new restaurant, Hershey Social, down the street from MeltSpa. Pro Tip: Hershey Social offers daily happy hour specials from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Evening

To wrap up your day, visit Hersheypark for the last two hours (or three hours if you’re staying at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark) to enjoy a free park preview included with your ticket. Squeeze in a few coaster rides before your full-day visit the next day. Remember to bring your ticket as you will still need to be scanned for entry. 

Need a dinner option that is convenient to the Park?

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region of Hersheypark outside of the front entrance. You do not need a Hersheypark ticket to dine there.
  • The Chocolatier serves up family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate from an open kitchen. The menu features all things from shareables to salads, big plates like Cocoa-Dusted Beef Short Ribs and Heath Bar Crusted Salmon, sweet desserts such as the Chocolate Fun-Due and the S'mores Milkshake and signature cocktails like the Reese's Cupfusion Old Fashioned and Mini Martini Flight. 

Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made in advance on The Chocolatier's website. 

Day Two

Morning

Rise and shine, it’s time for a day at Hersheypark!

• For a quick but tasty breakfast option on your way, stop by the Cocoa Beanery at Hershey Lodge or enjoy the complimentary hot breakfast buffet as a guest at Hershey Inn & Suites for some rich coffee and other yummy eats.
• For our guests at The Hotel Hershey, Chef’s Market is a similar grab-and-go option.

Afternoon

Resort guests and Full and King Size Season Pass Holders have access to Sweet Start (available through Labor Day), which allows them to enter the Park an hour before it opens to enjoy a selection of rides with shorter wait times. 

To all the coaster fanatics out there, we recommend heading straight to one of our 15 mild to wild coasters right when you enter the Park. But, don’t forget that Hersheypark tickets include three parks in one with the rides, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park and The Boardwalk. From the 200 animals in our zoo to the 11 acres of water rides at our water park, there are endless things to experience during your visit to Hersheypark! 

• Please note that ZooAmerica is only included with a Hersheypark ticket by accessing the zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours. In advance of your visit, we suggest downloading the Hersheypark app and checking the hours for the zoo and the water park, as they may differ from the Park. 

Evening

If you get hungry heading into the late afternoon, there are plenty of in-Park dining options to choose from. 

• For a refreshing and healthy food option, Oola Bowls can be found at Kissing Tower Hill and at The Boardwalk! The Great Bear Bowl is a must-try that is inspired by our coaster.
• For all things barbecue, Spring Creek Smokehouse has everything from brisket and pulled pork to mac and cheese and mashed potatoes. 

Before you leave the Park, make sure you stop by HP Collections or Hersheypark Supply Co. to pick up some exclusive merchandise to commemorate your trip to The Sweetest Place On Earth.

We hope this itinerary helps you experience all the unique attractions that make Hershey, Pa., The Sweetest Place On Earth. Maximize your fun with our 2-Day Any Day Ticket and start planning your getaway!

The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania will offer a selection of hot dogs from Berks, the official hot dog of Hersheypark, piled high with toppings and loaded with unique flavors. And if that's not enough, guests will even find hot dog-inspired burgers and pizzas that take this favorite food beyond the average ballpark dog. As an added bonus, all specialty hot dogs will also be available as an entrée option through our dining plan add-ons.

There's a hot dog for everyone from the traditional to the unusual - keep on reading to learn more about these limited-time items!

Overlook Food Court

• America 250 Dog - $13.29
  • Foot-long hot dog topped with smoked BBQ pork, Alabama white BBQ sauce and pickled blueberry relish

The Porch

• Hot Dog Bloody Mary - $16.99
  • Classic Bloody Mary topped with a pickle, celery stick, and Nathan’s famous mini hot dog

Berks

• Caprese Dog - $13.29
  • Foot-long hot dog topped with basil aioli, mozzarella tomato salad and crispy pepperoni 

East Coast Burger Works

•  Mac & Dog Burger - $18.99
  • Half-pound burger topped with smoked hot dog burnt ends, house-made fried gouda mac and cheese and pickles

Milton's Ice Cream Parlor

• Parlor Dog - $13.29
  • Bacon wrapped foot-long hot dog topped with Cholula ranch, roasted corn relish and Fritos
    • Please note that this item is NOT eligible to be redeemed through our dining programs.

Nathan's Famous - Founder's Way

• Steakhouse Dog - $8.29
  • Nathan’s all beef hot dog topped with bacon aioli, A1 caramelized onions, crumbled blue cheese and crispy fried onions

Nathan's Famous - The Boardwalk

• Cheesesteak Dog - $8.29
  • Nathan’s all beef hot dog topped with beef cheesesteak, grilled onions and American cheese

Shoreline Grill

• Hawaiian Dog - $13.29
  • Foot-long hot dog topped with kalua pork, huli huli mayo, and roasted pineapple salsa

Dispatch - The Hollow

• Hot Honey Sausage & Peppers Flatbread - $13.99
  • Mozzarella cheese, hot honey sausage, pepper relish, finished with hot honey

This special celebration is just a small sample of the new food and beverage offerings coming to Hersheypark this season and one of many reasons that make Hersheypark a must-visit destination this summer. Visit our website to save on tickets and celebrate Hot Dog Week in The Sweetest Place On Earth!

Meet The Official Resorts of Hersheypark:

The Hotel Hershey

Recently named #1 Best Theme Park Hotel by USA TODAY 10BEST readers, The Hotel Hershey is a Historic Hotel of America opened by Milton S. Hershey in 1933. This luxury hotel is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is the home of the Forbes Four-Star awarded Chocolate Spa. For the most luxurious accommodations, guests are encouraged to book the four or six-bedroom Villas. Nestled in a secluded setting with views of Blue Mountain, Villas guests have access to the exclusive Villas Concierge Lounge with complimentary food and exclusive activities, and perks including daily Hersheypark tickets on Park operating days and a One-Day Fast Track pass.

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge is the perfect resort for families and guests of all ages. Overnight guests also receive exclusive access to Hershey's Water Works, the resort's 30,000 sq. ft. Hershey-themed indoor pool complex complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese's Water Walk, zero entry pool and sand castle spray zone.

Hershey Inn & Suites

Located at 1300 West End Avenue in Hummelstown, the recently opened four-story, 130-room property marks the company's first brand-new hotel in nearly 60 years. Hershey Inn & Suites offers a first-of-its-kind family suite with bunk beds, a complimentary hot breakfast (a first for an Official Resort of Hersheypark), a lobby bar, a 24/7 arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Hersheypark Camping Resort is a year-round camping facility in Hershey, Pa., that has been welcoming guests since 1963. The campground offers something for everyone with more than 300 open and shaded sites, including 50 cabins and two Tiny Homes with heat, air conditioning and additional amenities; full hook-up sites with electric, water, sewer and cable; partial sites with electric, water and cable; and no hook-up tent sites. The campground is complete with onsite amenities and recreation such as an outdoor pool, evening s’mores and multiple playgrounds.

FREE Resort Benefits With Every Stay

The Official Resort of Hersheypark offer guests unmatched free resort benefits, including:

• Best price on Hersheypark tickets
• Complimentary roundtrip front gate shuttle service
• Early admission via Hersheypark’s Sweet Start program
• Free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum Experience
• And of course, chocolate at check-in for the whole party

Summer packages are available now including the popular Kids, Stay, Play & Eat Free for select dates now through Sept. 7. Kids 17 and under stay for free, receive free Hersheypark tickets and eat breakfast for free.

The Latest Shakes of the Summer

Served in an embossed plastic mug featuring the official logo, each 28-ounce King Size Shake is an ideal treat for sharing and a memorable souvenir for guests to take home. These indulgent milkshakes are extravagantly garnished with various baked goods—such as a piece of pie, a cupcake, or a slice of cake—and topped off with other treats like decorated pretzel rods for a truly unique experience with every bite and sip.

Every Hersheypark season features a selection of "core" milkshake options. While guests can typically expect to find elaborate variations of Peanut Butter and Chocolate, a third rotating flavor is introduced to align with a specific seasonal theme. To celebrate a decade of these oversized desserts, the featured third flavor for the current year is Birthday Cake. 

The primary King Size Shake offerings for summer 2026 are listed below:

• Chocolate Overload King Size Milkshake - $17.99
  • Chocolate shake with chocolate sprinkle rim, chocolate chip and chocolate sprinkle pretzels, whipped cream, topped with a chocolate cheesecake cupcake
• Chocolate Peanut Butter King Size Milkshake - $17.99
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter shake, peanut butter chip rim, chocolate chip and peanut butter chip pretzels, whipped cream topped with a peanut butter pie
• Birthday Cake King Size Milkshake - $17.99
  • Birthday Cake shake, rainbow sprinkle rim, rainbow sprinkle pretzels, whipped cream, topped with a birthday candle cookie and a tie-dye birthday cake slice

A limited-time Star-Spangled King Size Shake will also be available only in July as part of a larger celebration of America's 250th anniversary at Hersheypark.

Over the years, there has been a truly unique lineup of King Size Shakes. Many of the iconic Hersheypark attractions like Reese's Cupfusion, Wildcat's Revenge and Twizzlers Twisted Gravity have inspired their own dedicated milkshake creations. Although these desserts are a staple of any summertime visit to The Sweetest Place on Earth, they remain available throughout the year with seasonal variations for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. 

Enjoy a King Size Shake During Your Next Visit

Parkgoers can make snack time sweet with a King Size Shake during their next Hersheypark adventure! As an added surprise, all Bite Size, Full Size, King Size and Giant Size Season Pass Holders have a special opportunity to buy one King Size Shake for just $13.99—the original price from 2016—from June 8 through June 14 by scanning their Season Pass at Simply Chocolate during checkout.

In addition to enjoying this iconic dessert, visitors can explore more than 70 rides and attractions including the largest coaster collection in the Northeast, The Boardwalk water park featuring one million gallons of water and 11 acres of North American wildlife at ZooAmerica.

We look forward to seeing you at Hersheypark very soon to create lasting Hersheypark Happy memories and indulge in our signature treats.

Hersheypark All-American Summer Celebration

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The centerpiece of the holiday celebration is Hersheypark, which commemorates its 120th operating year alongside the nation's semiquincentennial. Tickets include three parks in one with more than 70 rides, a water park and a zoo (open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.).

Visitors to the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania can experience a patriotic transformation across the 121 acres for America's 250th anniversary, featuring decor, Americana-themed ride overlays on attractions like Laff Trakk and Twin Turnpike, and red, white, and blue light packages on coasters. The in-Park entertainment lineup includes Sweet Greets with Hershey Characters dressed in festive patriotic attire and Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook in the air-conditioned Music Box Theatre.

The celebration extends to exclusive culinary offerings available only this summer. Highlights include the Star-Spangled King Size Shake at Simply Chocolate, patriotic-themed donuts at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor and the Stars & Stripes Martini Flight at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio.

Fireworks Presented by HERSHEY’S

Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, at 10:15 p.m.

The highlight of the holiday weekend is the Fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S. Epic displays will light up the iconic Hershey skyline at 10:15 p.m. on both Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4.

Hersheypark offers Fireworks From The Shore, a special add-on to elevate the fireworks viewing experience. It features an unlimited buffet of sweet treats, including ice cream novelties, popcorn, fountain beverages, and a cash bar, while watching the fireworks from The Shore in the water park. Tickets are $24.99 per person.

Star-Spangled Picnic at Hersheypark

Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Parkgoers can upgrade their July 4th holiday experience at Hersheypark with a star-spangled, all-you-care-to-eat picnic buffet. This festive spread features classic holiday favorites, such as hamburgers and hot dogs with rolls, baked fried chicken, and savory sides like brown-sugar baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and house-made chips. Fresh watermelon and ice cream novelties are also included, along with fountain Pepsi products and assorted condiments. 

Tickets for the buffet are priced at $21.20 for adults (ages 13+) and $14.84 for children ages 12 and under.

A Beautiful Noise - The Neil Diamond Musical at Hershey Theatre

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, at various times

Hershey Theatre will host five holiday weekend performances of “A Beautiful Noise - The Neil Diamond Musical,” an inspiring musical memoir created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself.

• Friday, July 3: 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Saturday, July 4: 1 p.m.
• Sunday, July 5: 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

“A Beautiful Noise” is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalog of classics like "America," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and "Sweet Caroline," an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond's story was made to shine on Broadway-and head out on the road across America.

Like “Jersey Boys” and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” before it, “A Beautiful Noise” is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir that tells the untold true story of how America's greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.

Jazz on the Veranda at The Hotel Hershey

Saturday, July 4, from 7-10 p.m.

The Hotel Hershey invites both resort guests and the public to celebrate Independence Day on July 4 with Jazz On The Veranda. This sweet evening celebration features live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. Attendees can enjoy a patriotic atmosphere high above the town, making the veranda a premier location to see the fireworks display presented by HERSHEY'S, scheduled to begin at 10:15 p.m.

Patriotic Pampering in Hershey

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, at various times

Both locals and travelers alike can add a touch of sweet, patriotic luxury to their holiday weekend with a relaxing retreat to the award-winning Hershey spas. From vibrant red, white and blue nail art to rejuvenating seasonal body treatments, The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey have availability remaining to feel refreshed over Independence Day weekend.

To book an appointment at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey, call 844-330-1797. For MeltSpa by Hershey, call 855-500-2366 or visit their website. 

Make Yankee Doodle Chocolate Bars at The Hershey Story

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with special Yankee Doodle Chocolate Bar-themed Chocolate Lab classes over the Fourth of July weekend. During this 45-minute class, guests can try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating as they mold a milk chocolate bar and top it off with red, white and blue candy sprinkles to create their own edible American flag. Guests will discover where and how cocoa beans are grown and processed into their favorite chocolate confections. 

Chocolate Lab tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be purchased at The Hershey Story admissions desk upon arrival. Children must be at least five years old to enter the Lab. 

America’s 250th Celebration at Hershey Gardens

Sunday, July 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hershey Gardens is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors on the Fourth of July can enjoy an America’s 250th Celebration featuring family activities and unique collection highlights. Stationed tour guides throughout the gardens will highlight the Lincoln cultivar rose, the Franklinia alatamata, the American Heritage Chestnut and more! Educational activities in The Children's Garden will focus on community design, animal and plant habitats, and more.

Stay in the Heart of the July 4th Action

Visitors to Hershey can make their holiday weekend even more memorable by staying at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark. Whether guests prefer the historic elegance of The Hotel Hershey, the family-friendly atmosphere of Hershey Lodge, the modern convenience of the newly opened Hershey Inn & Suites, or the scenic setting of Hersheypark Camping Resort, they will be steps away from all the festivities. 

Staying on-site provides exclusive free resort benefits, including free front-gate shuttle service to and from Hersheypark and extended ride hours, ensuring guests make the most of every moment during the patriotic celebration.

1. Spend The Day at Hersheypark

Open Daily; Hours Vary

Hersheypark amusement park is now open daily for its 120th summer season, with special events and activations in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. 

The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania features three parks in one this summer – all accessible via a single admission. Guests can enjoy more than 70 rides, including the most coasters in the Northeast, a full water park and an 11-acre zoo. 

2. Cool Off at The Boardwalk 

Open Daily, Weather Permitting; Hours Vary

Make a splash this summer at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park! Enjoy thrill rides like the Whitecap Racer and Breaker’s Edge Water Coaster, or relax on the 1,360-foot Intercoastal Waterway lazy river. Plus, experience our two new water play areas, The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier, or get drenched by the massive East Coast Waterworks and its 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. Access to The Boardwalk is included with general Hersheypark admission.

3. Visit ZooAmerica

Open Daily; Hours Vary

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open every day in June for guests to explore a variety of habitats filled with North American animals such as river otters, Canada lynx and a black bear. The zoo offers daily summer activities, such as special animal enrichment and training sessions for guests to watch, weather permitting. 

Hersheypark tickets include entry to ZooAmerica only by accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Those interested in visiting ZooAmerica in the morning before Hersheypark opens must purchase separate Zoo admission tickets online or at the Zoo Admissions Building.

4. Jazz On The Veranda at The Hotel Hershey

June 5 & 12; 7 to 10 p.m.

Unwind on the veranda at The Hotel Hershey on select Fridays this summer for live music, sweet views, cocktails and light shareables available for walk-up service. Seating is first-come, first-served. 

5. See A Live Show

Dates and Times Vary

June marks the start of outdoor concert season with the return of shows at Hersheypark Stadium presented by Penn State Health, along with an exciting lineup of acts at GIANT Center and Hershey Theatre. 

• June 6: Shinedown at GIANT Center

• June 7: Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening at Hershey Theatre

• June 10: Josh Groban with special guest Jennifer Hudson at GIANT Center

• June 13: Josh Gates at Hershey Theatre

• June 13: FREE America250PA Commonwealth Concert Series at Hersheypark Stadium featuring The Avett Brothers and Joan Jett

• June 14: Indigo Girls at Hershey Theatre

• June 15 (rescheduled from June 14): Forrest Frank at Hersheypark Stadium

• June 16: Daniel Tosh at Hershey Theatre

• June 20: Mumford & Sons at Hersheypark Stadium

• June 23: Chicago at Hershey Theatre

• June 24: Chris Stapleton at Hersheypark Stadium

• June 25: James Taylor at GIANT Center

• June 26: Santana & The Doobie Brothers at Hersheypark Stadium

• June 28: Dude Perfect at GIANT Center

• June 30: A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical at Hershey Theatre

6. Learn About Milton Hershey at the 1893 World’s Fair at The Hershey Story Museum

June 13 & 14; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Step into the excitement and innovation of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair at The Hershey Story Museum! Discover how the historic event shaped Milton Hershey’s future and the future of chocolate during a two-day, immersive event. The family-friendly indoor-outdoor experience features hands-on activities and interactive “innovation stations” inspired by the groundbreaking inventions and technologies showcased at the original 1893 fair.

7. Father's Day Celebrations at Hershey Gardens

June 21; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Treat Dad to a stunning display of classic Rolls-Royces and Bentleys at Hershey Gardens while learning the history of these luxury vehicles from the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club. Afterward, stroll through the grounds to enjoy 3,000 vibrant roses in full bloom just in time for the first day of summer. As a special gift, all dads receive free admission to the Gardens on Father's Day, and the car display is included with general admission.

8. Youth Takeover Day at The Hershey Story Museum

June 27; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Experience Hershey history through the eyes of the community's youth on Youth Takeover day at The Hershey Story Museum. As part of this annual national event, local students will take center stage to highlight young voices, ideas and leadership within the museum. Guests are invited to engage in hands-on activities, explore the Museum Experience and gain fresh perspectives on our region’s past through the unique insights of our local participants. This special programming is included with general Museum Experience admission.

9. Enjoy Outdoor Dining

Daily; Reservations Available at Selection Locations

As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, join us for sweet outdoor dining (weather permitting) at the locations below across the destination:

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio in Hershey's Chocolatetown
• Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar in downtown Hershey
• Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey
• Trevi 5 Italian Restaurant at The Hotel Hershey
• 1933 Restaurant & Tavern at The Hotel Hershey
• Revelry Chophouse, Bar & Patio at Hershey Lodge
• STACKS all-day breakfast and lunch restaurant at Hershey Lodge

10. Relax With A Summer Spa Treatment

Daily; Appointments Highly Encouraged

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey mark the return of their summer seasonal treatments this month! Treat yourself to a day of pampering at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey with summer spa packages like the Vacation For A Day Package or indulge in the Summer Strawberry Collection at MeltSpa by Hershey with treatments including the Summer Strawberry Immersion, Scrub, Manicure and Pedicure. 

11. National Rose Month at Hershey Gardens

June is National Rose Month, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Hershey Gardens, home to 3,000 blooming roses in 115 stunning varieties. To mark the occasion, any guest named "Rose" (or a variation thereof) will receive free admission all month long.

Plus, in honor of National Red Rose Day, Hershey Gardens is hosting special 30-minute guided tours of the Historic Hershey Rose Garden on Saturday, June 13, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tours are included with general admission.

12. Book A Getaway at an Official Resort of Hersheypark

Extend your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth with an overnight getaway to one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! Save with popular summer packages, including the guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package - back for a limited time at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites. Or, celebrate National Camping Month with the Hersheypark Summer Camping Package, including Park tickets and accommodations at Hersheypark Camping Resort. 

Resort guests can make a splash at the outdoor pool complexes, open daily through Labor Day. Plus, enjoy daily resort activities, including Hershey Character appearances, s’mores roasts, chocolate bingo and more.

Amusement Park Roots

“Hershey Park” formally opened to the public on Memorial Day, May 30, 1906, along the banks of Spring Creek. 

From the moment Milton S. Hershey established his community, he planned to build a park to create a more pleasant environment for employees of Hershey's Chocolate Factory and residents of the factory town. An ideal spot for picnicking, boating and canoeing, the Park was landscaped with graceful trees and wooded groves that provided a shady retreat for thousands of people. The first ride was a merry-go-round in 1908, followed by the first coaster - The Wild Cat - in 1923. 

In 1971, the first phase of a five-year redevelopment campaign began the conversion from Hershey Park as a regional amusement park to Hersheypark, one of America's most popular theme parks. The pay-as-you-ride policy was replaced with a one-price admission plan that now includes more than 70 rides, a water park and a zoo.

Explore the new offerings by decade in our Hersheypark history review. 

Recent Growth of the World-Class Amusement Park

Over the past 120 years, Hersheypark has become one of the most respected parks in the amusement industry. Within the last decade alone, the amusement park has experienced significant growth with six new major coasters, a water park, culinary additions and Hershey’s Chocolatetown, a $150 million transformative investment that created the place Where Fun Meets Chocolate in 2020.

The 23-acre Hershey's Chocolatetown region celebrates Milton S. Hershey's life and legacy by bringing people together for happiness, fun and, of course, chocolate. The region features the Candymonium hypercoaster, an entirely reimagined arrival experience, the iconic Kisses Fountain, two shopping locations, the first-ever Starbucks inside the Park and more. In 2021, three culinary experiences, including The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, opened inside Hershey’s Chocolatetown.

Hersheypark has no shortage of thrills with 15 coasters that represent one of the largest and most iconic coaster collections in the United States. 

All-American Celebration

Hersheypark celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with patriotic events and activations all summer long, including the following: 

• Multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S on July 3, July 4 and Aug. 8 at 10:15 p.m.
• ALL-NEW live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue from May 29 through Sept. 7
• Select Americana-themed rides and red, white and blue light packages and decor
• Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best
• Limited-time food and drink, including a Star-Spangled King Size Shake (only available in July) and a Birthday King Size Shake available all summer long

While the menu has evolved over the years, the mission to celebrate the life and legacy of our founder, Milton S. Hershey, remains unchanged. Read on to learn more about the sweet legacy, iconic menu and immersive atmosphere that continue to define The Chocolatier experience of bringing people together for happiness, fun and, of course, chocolate. 

Only-in-Hershey Design

The decor featured within The Chocolatier is truly a concept that can only exist in Hershey. Throughout the main restaurant and the outdoor patio, guests are immersed in an atmosphere unlike any other, showcasing both past and present pieces from the iconic Hersheypark ride collection. 

One of the most unique aspects of the dining experience is the ability to enjoy a meal from booths inspired by the Tilt-A-Whirl and Comet, the longest continuously operating coaster at Hersheypark. The Comet booths even have seat belts! To enhance the room's energy, fiber-optic lights outlining the distinct silhouettes of the Candymonium, Fahrenheit and Wildcat (1996-2022) roller coasters are suspended from the ceiling above the tables.

Of course, one of the most breathtaking Hersheypark tributes is the Carrousel Bar, which serves as the centerpiece of The Chocolatier. It includes two replica horses from the historic, 107-year-old Carrousel at its center.

The immersive environment extends to the patio, where diners can take in refurbished bumper cars, an antique car, a tub from the former Giant Wheel and even a “C” from the logo of the past favorite ride, the Flying Falcon - turning a standard meal into a curated museum experience of amusement park history.

Fun-To-Table Family Fare

The Chocolatier menu features family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. Items that contain hints of chocolate are denoted by a “C” on the menu.

Guests will find a wide selection of shareables, including Hershey’s Chocolate BBQ Wings and the iconic Ferris Wheel Sampler, signature handhelds like the Chocolatetown Burger, and over-the-top desserts, including decadently topped milkshakes. Guests 21 and older can sip on signature cocktails like the fan-favorite Reese’s Cupfusion Old Fashioned and the fun-to-glass Cotton Candy Martini - both Chocolatier exclusives!

To commemorate the restaurant's 5-year milestone and the nation’s semiquincentennial this summer, The Chocolatier features patriotic options, such as an Apple Pie Milkshake and the Sweetest 250 Flight, which is a red, white, and blue martini flight. 

A Sweet Legacy Honored

At its core, The Chocolatier is a space that pays tribute to our founder, Milton S. Hershey, both through its menu and decorative touches. 

Inside the restaurant, guests can discover an overview mural that details Mr. Hershey’s community contributions, serving as a visual history of the town’s sweet heritage. Nostalgic nods to the surrounding community are also present throughout the restaurant. For example, guests can sit in original seats from the historic Hersheypark Arena in the waiting area and view early archival photos of Hersheypark Stadium, displayed on the wall overlooking the actual venue. Both structures were landmark pieces of Mr. Hershey’s Great Building Campaign during the 1930s, designed to provide meaningful employment and community infrastructure during the Great Depression.

The restaurant also features various tributes to Milton Hershey School (MHS), created by Milton and Catherine Hershey to provide a cost-free education for children in need. This connection is woven into the very fabric of the dining experience; many dishes over the restaurant's history have been developed in direct partnership with MHS culinary students. Other signature elements, such as the Founder’s Table and the decorative ride vehicles found on the patio, were also constructed and refurbished with help from the students. Learn more about the school at mhskids.org.

A Meal With a View

Guests are guaranteed to enjoy a meal with a view at The Chocolatier. The architectural design of the space also ensures that every seat offers a unique perspective of the surrounding area. 

One side of the restaurant features expansive windows and an inviting outdoor patio that overlooks the historic Carrousel and the soaring heights of Candymonium in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. The other side of the restaurant offers an equally impressive vantage point, with windows that overlook Hersheypark Stadium, a 30,000-seat outdoor concert venue that has hosted countless historic performances. This dual-sided view allows guests to immerse themselves in the energy of the Hersheypark Entertainment Complex while enjoying their dining experience. 

The restaurant is strategically located on the second floor above Hersheypark Supply Co., with an open view of the largest retail store at Hersheypark. Furthermore, an open-kitchen concept allows diners to watch the culinary team in action as they bring the restaurant's unique chocolate-infused menu to life.

We hope to welcome you to The Chocolatier during its 5th anniversary for iconic eats in an even more iconic setting! The Chocolatier is open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations are strongly encouraged but not accepted for the Carrousel Bar, as seating is available there on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t forget to tag us using @thechocolatierrestaurant on Instagram and share pictures of your meal.

This comprehensive water park guide provides an overview of the attractions and essential tips to help visitors make the most of their time at The Boardwalk this summer. 

Overview of 17 Water Attractions

The Boardwalk is home to 17 water attractions with something for every member of the family - from heart-pounding water slides and a thrilling water coaster for the Boardwalk Speedsters to a lazy river for relaxation seekers and zero-depth entry splash areas for the youngest water lovers. 

Please note that ride availability is subject to change based on weather and maintenance. Select rides and attractions may not open based on temperature. For more information, view our weather policy.

Two New Water Play Areas

Now open for a new way to splash, Hersheypark introduces two all-new water play areas, boasting 45 aquatic elements within the existing Bayside Pier.

A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, features water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features. Also new, The Island at Bayside Pier debuts towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. 

Both new areas feature rubberized decking for additional guest comfort, allowing guests to sit and splash under shaded canopies. The new open design will also allow families to seamlessly flow between other water attractions and cool off faster with access to the abundant water features. 

Make A Splash at Kiddie Attractions

Bayside Pier remains an ideal water attraction for younger children with a zero-depth entry ramp, rolling waves, fountains, tipping cones and more. 

Families with young children can also splash and play all day at Shoreline Sprayground. The all-ages water fun playground features misters, bubblers, dancing fountains, spraying jets, water curtains and a drenching tipping bucket. The area is surrounded by comfortable, shaded seating.

Level Up at East Coast Waterworks

The Boardwalk is home to East Coast Waterworks, a popular water attraction modeled after iconic boardwalks along the East Coast. It offers seven slides, two crawl tunnels, nearly 600 interactive water features and more than 54,000 gallons of splashing fun for all ages. But the biggest splash comes from a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket for those looking to cool off on a hot summer day.

Relax in the River

Guests of all ages can experience 1,360 feet of sweet, tubular relaxation on the Intercoastal Waterway! This relaxing lazy river ride reaches depths of two feet as it winds through the heart of The Boardwalk. The lazy river is accessed via a zero-depth entry ramp and features bridges for guests to walk over it. 

Win a Race on a Mat Racing Slide

Guests with a competitive edge will love Whitecap Racer, a mat-racing slide featuring colorful double-looping tunnels. The water attraction features six lanes, so guests can compete against family or friends. At the end of the attraction, race times are featured on an arena-sized leaderboard - an opportunity to earn bragging rights for the rest of the summer.

Conquer a Water Coaster

Coaster conquerors looking for a little more thrill can experience Breakers Edge, the HydroMAGNETIC water coaster inside The Boardwalk. Riders accelerate on rafts through a dynamic course of thrilling, splash-filled hills and drops, intense open-air FlyingSAUCER turns and high-speed tunnels that redefine water thrill rides.

Take the Plunge on a Water Slide

A water park is certainly not complete without some water slides, and The Boardwalk offers six of them with Coastline Plunge! Guests can take the plunge on Hydro, Pipeline, Riptide, Surge, Vortex and Whirlwind. The water slides feature one or two-person tubes that go through dark tunnels, serpentine curves and corkscrew revolutions - all dropping riders into a splash pool. 

Catch a Wave in the Wave Pool

The Boardwalk features one million gallons of water, including a 378,000-gallon wave pool known as The Shore. Even Hershey's Miniatures can splash around in the wave pool as it gradually deepens from 0 to 6 feet. 

Dining Options in the Water Park

Boardwalk guests are sure to work up an appetite from racing down water slides and splashing around at the various water attractions. They can fuel up with more than 10 food and beverage locations right inside the water park, including the following:

• Conveniently located by the wave pool, Shoreline Grill is the go-to place for a quick bite.
• Nathan's at The Boardwalk offers signature hot dogs and French fries for guests seeking the classic Boardwalk fare.
• Oola Bowls provides a refreshing meal for anyone looking to cool off with an acai bowl, and Rita's offers ice and custard as another sweet treat.
• For savory options like delectable burgers, chicken strips, fries and more, guests will want to stop by East Coast Burger Works.

Splash In Style

There are two retail locations located within The Boardwalk water park. East Coast Surf Co. offers a limited selection of swimsuits and elevated retail from brands like Costa, O'Neill, Sanük and more. Both shops offer various summer essentials like sunglasses and sunglass straps, towels, hats and sunscreen.

Essential Water Park Tips

To make your visit as enjoyable as possible, we've compiled a few essential tips for navigating a day at the water park. From what to wear to what to bring, a little preparation goes a long way.

• Arrive Early: The Boardwalk is often less crowded first thing in the morning. Head there first when Hersheypark opens to get a few popular slides in before the lines build.
• Wear Appropriate Attire: Only appropriate swimwear is permitted on the water attractions. Revealing bathing suits, shorts with rivets, snaps, zippers, metal ornamentation, cutoffs and jeans are not permitted. All eyeglasses must be secured with safety straps. Parents accompanying toddlers in the children's play area must also wear bathing suits. Only waterproof diapers are allowed in The Boardwalk attractions.
• Footwear Matters: Wear comfortable sandals or water shoes that you can easily take on and off, as aqua shoes are not permitted on the body slides. Water shoes are excellent for navigating the concrete and keeping your feet cool.
• Bring a Towel: Hersheypark does not provide complimentary towels in The Boardwalk, so guests are encouraged to bring their own.
• Secure Your Belongings: Guests who need a place to store their belongings can rent lockers in The Boardwalk. We strongly advise using them for wallets, phones, and any items you don't want to carry or risk losing on a ride. Lockers are rented by the day. A large locker costs $25, and a regular locker costs $18.
• Grab a Life Jacket: Life jackets of various sizes are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may also bring their own Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Outside wave boards, inner tubes, inflatable toys or other inflatables, including water wings or swimmies, are not permitted.
• Hydration is Key: Especially on hot summer days, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your visit. Guests can bring refillable bottles to Hersheypark, with water and ice available at all Pepsi Fast Fill locations, without needing to scan a Season Pass or bottle. Complimentary water cups are available at any Hersheypark-owned dining location.
• Sun Protection is a Must: Apply (and re-apply!) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a high SPF liberally before and during your day. Guests should consider wearing a hat when out of the water.

Guests who forgot their swimsuit or sunscreen can stop by Beachology to purchase an assortment of essentials for a day at the beach (or water park), including sunblock, waterproof cases and the latest swim styles from O'Neil and Billabong.

Save On Tickets Now, Splash Later

Guests can save on summer splashes by finding great ticket deals on our website. Each Hersheypark ticket can be used to experience all the water fun of The Boardwalk during the summer season. 

We hope to welcome you soon to enjoy the summer sun at Hersheypark!

Thrills In All Sizes at Hersheypark: Open Daily Starting May 21

Kick off your summer at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania! Hersheypark is open for daily operations beginning May 21 and offers summer fun for guests of all ages and thrill levels. As part of a lineup of over 70 rides and attractions, guests can enjoy the largest coaster collection in the Northeast with 15 mild-to-wild roller coasters, more than 20 kid-friendly rides and a larger-than-life water park. 

Hersheypark tickets include three parks in one: a 121-acre amusement park with iconic thrills, an 11-acre water park with one million gallons of water and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park featuring animals native to our continent. Hersheypark guests can only access the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. 

Great ticket deals are available online now, including the return of the Summer Fun Card, which features unlimited visits from the date of purchase through Sept. 7, for just $99 plus taxes and fees.

Cool Down With Two New Water Play Areas at The Boardwalk: Opens May 24

Memorial Day Weekend means it's time to make a splash. The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park is open daily starting on May 24!

Guests can enjoy two all-new water play areas, boasting 45 aquatic elements within the existing Bayside Pier. A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, will feature water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features. Also new, The Island at Bayside Pier will debut towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. Both new areas will feature rubberized decking for additional guest comfort, allowing guests to sit and splash under shaded canopies. The new open design will also allow families to seamlessly flow between other water attractions and cool off faster with access to the abundant water features. 

The Boardwalk features water thrills for everyone - with thrill-seekers able to enjoy racing slides on Whitecap Racer and swishing through the high-speed tunnels of Breaker’s Edge Water Coaster, while others can soak up 1,360 feet of sweet, tubular relaxation on the Intercoastal Waterway lazy river. The East Coast Waterworks attraction provides splashing fun for all ages, complete with nearly 600 interactive water toys, seven slides, two crawl tunnels and a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket!

The Boardwalk At Hersheypark is open daily from May 24 through Sept. 7, weather permitting.

See a Fantastic Fireworks Display

Guests visiting Hersheypark on Saturday, May 23, can enjoy a special fireworks display presented by HERSHEY'S. Fireworks are free to view from the area, but guests looking to upgrade their viewing experience can visit Fireworks From The Shore. This watch party includes an unlimited buffet of sweet treats, including ice cream novelties, fountain beverages and a cash bar while watching the fireworks from an exclusive area at The Shore located inside The Boardwalk At Hersheypark. Tickets are $24.99 per person. Discounts do not apply.

Find a New Favorite Flavor

There are so many different menus to explore with 15 unique dining locations throughout Hershey, Pa. 

Conveniently located in Hershey's Chocolatetown, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar and Patio is the perfect dining spot for families and guests visiting Hersheypark over the long weekend. Guests can sink their teeth into two Ferris Wheel Sampler variations featuring appetizers and desserts, refreshed shareables, new handhelds and more on the all-new seasonal menu.

Don't forget to try the all-new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar located near the intersection of Cocoa and Chocolate Avenue. This full-service restaurant offers iconic smash burgers, wings with signature Hershey's sauces and more, along with 19 TVs throughout and a state-of-the-art darts experience.

Our Resort properties also offer one-of-a-kind dining experiences, from delicious breakfast options at Stacks at Hershey Lodge or an elevated pub menu at 1933 Restaurant & Tavern inside The Hotel Hershey. No matter where you choose to dine throughout The Sweetest Place On Earth, restaurant reservations are highly recommended and can be made online.

Stay at a Hershey Resort: Outdoor Pools Are Open

A great way to feel refreshed at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, outdoor pools at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort are officially open for the season (weather permitting) Memorial Day Weekend. 

Guests of The Hotel Hershey can enjoy a family pool with zero-grade entry, two large slides and a kiddie spray deck, as well as an infinity-edge adult pool and whirlpool. Campers at Hersheypark Camping Resort can cool off in two swimming pools and a kiddie pool. Hershey Lodge guests can make a splash at a zero-entry outdoor pool or a sweet indoor pool complex, Hershey’s Water Works, complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese’s Water Walk, sand castle spray zone, lighthouse tipping bucket and more. 

The latest addition to The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, Hershey Inn & Suites, also features an indoor pool available year-round as part of its thoughtful amenities that combine modern convenience with iconic Hershey hospitality.

Do you still need to book your stay? Save now with sweet packages, like the Kids Stay, Play and Eat Free and Summer Fun Packages at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites or the Hersheypark Summer Camping Package at Hersheypark Camping Resort. Resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits included with their stay, like front gate shuttle service to an exclusive resort drop-off location just steps away from Hersheypark and bonus Park hours with Preview Plan.

See A Live Show at GIANT Center

Multi-platinum global superstar Khalid has announced his highly anticipated return to the stage with the “It’s Always Summer Somewhere Tour,” including a show at GIANT Center on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. with special guest Lauv. Since breaking through with his 2017 debut album “American Teen,” featuring the global hits “Location” and “Young Dumb & Broke,” Khalid has become one of contemporary music’s most authentic artists.

Activities Around Town

Visitors of Hershey, Pa., can unwrap their chocolate adventure with a stop at Hershey's Chocolate World, open daily this summer. Fun for the whole family, guests can take a free chocolate tour ride to see how cocoa beans become world-famous Hershey's Chocolate, or take home a sweet souvenir by shopping for endless varieties of chocolate and limited-edition treats. Additional paid attraction experiences—including the opportunity to make your own candy bar, theatrical experiences and a trolley tour of downtown Hershey—are also offered.

Every Saturday in May, guests of Hershey Gardens can take an hour-long guided tour with Dr. Ray Barbehenn, a biologist with expertise in plant ecology. Visitors can experience the beauty of the displays at the tropical Butterfly Atrium, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Don’t forget to head downtown to The Hershey Story Museum for Hershey’s sweetest hands-on activity, the Chocolate Lab, inviting guests to try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating. A special Yankee Doodle Chocolate Bar class will be offered over Memorial Day Weekend, where you can mold a milk chocolate bar and top it off with red, white and blue candy sprinkles to create an edible American flag. Lab tickets are limited and cannot be purchased online. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and must be purchased at the museum’s admissions desk for the current day only. Please note that children must be five or older to enter the Chocolate Lab. 

Will you be joining us for the Memorial Day Weekend festivities? While you’re enjoying the unofficial start of summer, don’t forget to tag us in your photos on social media using #HersheyPA!

Here are six ways to stay Hersheypark Happy even when the forecast is calling for rain in Central Pennsylvania.

Ride Under Cover

Hersheypark is home to more than 70 rides with thrills for everyone. Although the weather may force a small handful of rides to temporarily close during scheduled operating hours, many of our rides can safely operate in light rain. Plus, there are a few that always remain open, maintenance permitting, for guest enjoyment under cover. During heavy precipitation, guests can take a spin on Laff Trakk, the first indoor, spinning, glow-coaster in the United States; become an agent and protect the factory on Reese's Cupfusion; bump family and friends out of the way on Fender Bender; and take a ride back in time on the Carrousel or Kissing Tower.

Tip: Parkgoers can stay up to date on ride availability and wait times with the Hersheypark app! The team will reopen rides as soon as safe to do so.

See A Show (starting May 29)

Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook debuts May 29 inside Chevrolet Music Box Theatre.

Every great story has a soundtrack. Join us for an unforgettable live music show as we journey through the Rock, Pop, Country, and Soul anthems that shaped our history. These aren't just songs; they're the heartbeat of a nation. Rediscover some of the music you love and sing-along with the performers! Plus, stay for the encore; you never know which songs you will hear next!

Tip: Guests should check the Hersheypark app on the day of their visit for exact showtimes and further details. Character appearances are subject to change based on availability.

Play Arcade Games

Guests can play their way through an unexpected shower in the two arcades at Hersheypark. Play Dome Arcade, which is located in the Pioneer Frontier region, features video games, crane machines and redemption games. Across the Park is Overlook Arcade, the largest arcade located in the Kissing Tower Hill region. This arcade offers Skeeball in addition to the games found at Play Dome Arcade.

Tip: Guests will need to purchase a separate Games Card or Time Play pass, which they can load via cashless payment at an in-Park Gaming Card kiosk. All Season Pass Holders can get a bonus with purchase of certain denominations in a Game Card - activate your Game Card at Overlook Arcade or Play Dome Arcade to get your 15 percent off games all year.

Grab a Bite to Eat

What better time to rest and refuel at an amusement park than during a brief summer storm? Hersheypark offers a variety of covered and indoor eateries for guests to grab a snack and remain dry at the same time. We recommend stopping by The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio and Milton's Ice Cream Parlor, located at the front of the Park in Hershey's Chocolatetown. Guests can wait out the rain with some ice cream in hand. A win-win!

A fan favorite, Chick-fil-A serves up handcrafted lunch and dinner items Monday through Saturday in the Pioneer Frontier region. Guests in the Kissing Tower Hill region can swing on over to Overlook Food Court, which offers different concession locations featuring grilled burgers, made-to-order wraps, handcrafted salads, pizza and much more. Vegan vegetarian, and gluten-free options are also available.  View a full list of the more than 60 drink and dining locations throughout Hersheypark.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

There are more than 20 shops inside Hersheypark, many of which provide cover from the rain. Guests can visit Hersheypark Supply Co. to browse the largest collection of apparel, gifts, toys and more exclusive to Hersheypark. Another option is to head to HP Collections in Chocolatetown for premier brand apparel and collectibles, with the all-new HP Toys & Collectables right next door. New for 2026 is Coaster Collections for the ultimate thrill souvenir. 

Tip: All major credit cards, Hersheypark gift cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay are accepted. Guests who arrive at the Park with cash only can convert cash to prepaid debit cards at six Cash-To-Card kiosks throughout the Park at no fee. Prepaid cards can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.

Visit the Zoo

Entrance to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo, is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark when accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during public operating hours. The best part? Some of the animals are located inside, providing an option for visitors to stay dry. In the Desert and Southwest Swamps buildings, visitors can see spoonbills, various species of rattlesnakes, an ocelot and more.

Tip: The Zoovenirs gift shop is another convenient location to avoid the rain at ZooAmerica.

Great ticket offers are available on Hersheypark.com, with three experiences in one ticket! 

Sink Your Teeth Into America's 250th Birthday

As one of the country’s most iconic destinations, Hersheypark is a must-visit stop for your celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Hersheypark celebration without treats decked out in red, white and blue. Patriotic offerings include:

• Star-Spangled King Size Shake at Simply Chocolate dessert shop in celebration of the 10th birthday of the award-winning, iconic treat (only available during July)
• Apple pie and red, white and blue donuts at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor
• Red, white and blue specialty fudge at The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen
• Stars & Stripes Martini Flight and Firecracker Mocktail at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar &+ Patio

Exclusively during the July 4 weekend, guests can also enjoy the Star-Spangled Picnic, an all-you-care-to-eat buffet picnic located in the Fahrenheit catering area. Picnics are available Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4. 

East Coast Burger Works

East Coast Burger Works is your headquarters in The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park for half-pound burgers piled high with toppings. A rotating selection of burgers will be available throughout the summer.

• Guac-Star Burger - $18.19
  • Half-pound Schweid & Sons burger topped with melted pepper jack cheese, avocado, pico de gallo, fried jalapenos and chipotle mayo. Served with a side of house-made chips.
• French Onion Burger - Available June - $18.19
  • Half-pound Schweid & Sons burger topped with melted Swiss and provolone cheeses, caramelized French onions, crispy onions and smoked onion ranch. Served with a side of house-made chips.
• Egg-Cellent Burger - Available July - $18.19
  • Half-pound Schweid & Sons burger topped with melted provolone cheese, bacon, pickled egg relish, lettuce and deviled egg mayo. Served with a side of house-made chips.
• Berry Good Burger - Available August - $18.19
  • Half-pound Schweid & Sons burger topped with herbed cheese spread, black pepper bacon, arugula and blackberry gastrique. Served with a side of house-made chips. 

8-Cut Crust

Also located in The Boardwalk, three new, freshly topped pizza varieties are coming to 8-Cut Crust on a monthly, rotating basis.

• Spinach White Pizza, $8.09/slice or $31.09/whole pie - Available June
  • Garlic parmesan sauce, spinach dip, mozzarella and provolone cheese
• Hawaiian Pizza, $8.09/slice or $31.09/whole pie - Available July
  • White sauce, mozzarella cheese, bacon, diced ham, sweet chili pineapple topping and barbecue sauce
• Buffalo Chicken Pizza - $8.09/slice or $31.09/whole pie - Available August
  • Buffalo chicken dip, mozzarella cheese, buffalo aioli and banana pepper mix

NEW Drips and Refreshers

Drips and Refreshers, an all-new beverage location, is coming to The Hollow region of the Park for refreshing, over-the-top beverages featuring Pepsi products.

Drips:

• Cherry Pepsi Fluffy Soda - $6.99
  • Pepsi or Pepsi Zero Sugar with marshmallow fluff over cherry boba finished with cold foam
• Lavender Berry Lemonade - $6.99
  • Tropicana lemonade with lavender over blueberry boba finished with cold foam
• Starry Berry Basil - $6.99
  • Starry, strawberry and basil finished with diced strawberries and basil seeds

Refreshers: - $6.99

• Strawberry Creamsicle Lemonade
  • Strawberry syrup mixed with lemonade and topped with cold foam
• Sparking Berry Lemonade
  • Tropicana lemonade topped off with Starry and mixed with frozen strawberries, blueberries and raspberries
• Lychee Rose Tea
  • Freshly brewed rose tea with lychee star jelly and dehydrated strawberries

The Porch Bar presented by Jack Daniels

The Founder’s Way region is the new home to a full-service bar with unique cocktail creations debuting this summer at Hersheypark. Known as The Porch presented by Jack Daniels, this new location is slated to open for Memorial Day Weekend across from the 1906 Grill.

Capriotti's

In addition to a new bar, the Founder’s Way area will see further expansion of its food and beverage landscape this season with Capriotti’s. This new sandwich location will serve award-winning subs, cheesesteaks and sandwiches starting Memorial Day Weekend. Please note that this location is not included in the Hersheypark Dining Plans.  

Ghost Truck

Catch a meal on wheels! This new pop-up location will be roaming Hersheypark every Saturday from July 4 through Aug. 8 with a different menu and location each week. Items could include curry chicken tacos, chicken parm sandwiches, limoncello ice cream sandwiches and more, but you’ll have to visit each week to see what’s cooking. Items will be available while supplies last, so be sure to find the Ghost Truck before it disappears along with its exclusive eats.

Flying Fare

Available from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Flying Fare offers allergy-friendly options, including gluten- and nut-friendly meals and flavorful snacks! 

Please note that Overlook Food Court remains the main dietary- and allergen-friendly location at Hersheypark. During your visit, the Food and Beverage staff will be more than happy to answer any questions, as ingredient files are kept at each location.

Celebrations From Sweet to Savory

This summer will feature an array of tasty celebrations featuring all the essential flavors of the season. During these select weeks, Hersheypark will feature themed treats highlighting summer favorites, including: 

• June 8-14 - King Size Shake Week: It's the tenth birthday of the award-winning King Size Shake! Visit Simply Chocolate for three varieties of decadently topped milkshakes, including the all-new Birthday Cake flavor.
• June 15-28 - Hot Dog Week: Hot Dog Week is extended in 2026 with a double helping of fun. The two-week celebration includes an assortment of exclusive hot dogs throughout the park and features the final qualifying event for the legendary Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog-eating contest. Guests can watch the classic American tradition at 2 p.m. in The Boardwalk.
• Aug. 10-16 - S'mores Week: This celebration week takes the iconic summertime snack beyond the campfire with unique chocolate, marshmallow and graham cracker creations.     

You won't want to miss this unique food lineup during your visit to Hersheypark this summer, which runs through Sept. 7. Hersheypark admission includes access to the largest coaster collection in the Northeast, The Boardwalk Water Park (open May 23 through Sept. 7), and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park when entering from inside the Park.

Will you be trying these or other eats and treats during your next visit? Share your photos with us using #HersheyparkEats. We'll see you soon at The Sweetest Place On Earth! 

The festivities officially begin with an Armed Forces Celebration on May 22, highlighted by a plane drop showcase by the U.S. Navy Leap Frogs Parachute Team (weather permitting) - a first for Hersheypark. Visitors can also watch an evening flag-lowering ceremony involving the USS Constitution Color Guard and U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Drill Team in Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, followed by mingling with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels at Hershey’s Chocolate World attraction. 

On May 23, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park will open for the season, with the debut of two new water play areas, The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier. These enhancements to the existing Bayside Pier area feature 45 aquatic elements and are designed to offer even more ways to reach the thrills faster and cool off.

The holiday weekend's excitement will culminate with the first fireworks display of the summer, presented by HERSHEY’S, lighting up the iconic skyline at 9:15 p.m. on May 23.

Throughout the summer season, Hersheypark visitors can enjoy patriotic decor, select Americana-themed rides and light packages, Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best and limited-time red, white and blue food and drink offerings. An all-new live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, will also debut in Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue on May 29. 

Special Military Ticket Offer

For those who serve, Hersheypark is honored to offer special military pricing with tickets starting at just $29.99 when verified by ID.me through May 31. The tickets are valid through Sept. 7 and can be purchased online.

New Ways to Save on Summer Tickets 

Hersheypark is celebrating 120 years of Hersheypark Happy this summer by offering new ways to save more than 60 percent on admission with tickets as low as $34.99 when guests select their visit date. A variety of offers are only available for purchase online through May 31.

For endless summer fun, guests should consider the Hersheypark Summer Fun Card, which includes unlimited visits from the date of purchase through Labor Day for just $99 when purchased online.

Every Hersheypark admission ticket includes three parks in one, featuring more than 70 rides and attractions with the most coasters in the Northeast, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park (open from May 23 through Sept. 7) and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo accessed through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours.

Unsure of the best outdoor dining spots in Hershey, Pennsylvania? Keep reading to explore the best outdoor dining options for this 2026 season.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region at Hersheypark for guests with or without a Park ticket. Head to their second-story patio to experience the all-new Blossom Bar, serving a selection of exclusive cocktails available during all Hersheypark Spring Weekends. Seating is first-come, first-served. 

Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor

Also located in Hershey's Chocolatetown is Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor. Milton's features 100% local dairy house-made ice cream and Hershey's candy toppings and decadent sauces. Plus, their selection of hot items like the Italian, Cheeseburger or Chicken Bacon Ranch Boli makes it a solid lunch option. While it has an old-fashioned feel inside, the restaurant has a large section of outdoor seating.

Trevi 5

Featuring a contemporary twist on traditional Italian cuisine, Trevi 5 is a casual dining experience located at The Hotel Hershey. Whether you’re grabbing a casual lunch or lingering over cocktails on the terrace, it’s the ultimate spot for patio season.

1933 Restaurant & Tavern

1933 Restaurant & Tavern offers an approachable steakhouse menu and elevated pub fare. Guests can relish in the warm weather at several outdoor tables overlooking the putting green at The Hotel Hershey. Or, kick back by the firepit outside while enjoying a cocktail inspired by the Prohibition era. 

STACKS 

STACKS at Hershey Lodge serves all-day breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Sit under the covered patio and enjoy a variety of specialty cocktails and mocktails, hot chocolates, espresso drinks and brunch dishes stacked high with flavor. 

Revelry Chophouse, Bar + Patio

Revelry Chophouse, Bar + Patio is one of Hershey's premier restaurants, serving classic and contemporary chophouse fare and the largest in-house wine and spirits list at Hershey Lodge. Indulge in a nice dinner on the outdoor patio with twinkling lights overlooking the main entrance of the resort. 

Lobby Bar Patio 

Guests of Hershey Lodge can step out onto the Lobby Bar patio to relax in the sun during the day with a coffee from Cocoa Beanery, or cozy up around a fire at night while sipping a Hershey's Signature Martini from the Lobby Bar.

Devon Seafood + Steak

Devon Seafood + Steak is a downtown Hershey staple, serving seafood and steak all cooked over an open wood fire. Sit on the outdoor patio and enjoy the finest cuts and catches of the day for dinner and take in the gorgeous views of the Hershey smokestacks, all while hearing the roar of Hersheypark.

Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar

Hershey Social Restaurant & Bar is the newest restaurant on Chocolate Avenue to sip, savor and socialize. Unwind on the outdoor patio with shareable appetizers, Long Island Iced Tea pitchers and over-the-top desserts for lunch and dinner daily.

Counter-Service Options

Along with the various outdoor sit-down dining options listed above, check out these “bonus” counter-service options inside Hersheypark. 

Note: A Hersheypark admission ticket is needed to dine at 1906 Grill and Overlook Food Court.

1906 Grill

1906 Grill is located inside Hersheypark and features char-grilled burgers, fries, chicken fingers, cheese curds and more. 1906 Grill is a guest-favorite location inside the Park to take a break from the thrills and grab a quick bite.

Overlook Food Court

Overlook Food Court, located in the Kissing Tower Hill area of Hersheypark, offers nine concession options. From grilled burgers to hand-crafted salads and allergen-friendly fare, Overlook is an easy dining experience in the Park with outdoor seating and front-row views of Twizzlers Twisted Gravity.

Pioneer Frontier Area

Park-goers can find a variety of outdoor dining options in the Pioneer Frontier area of Hersheypark. Grab a picnic table and munch on food from places like Chickie's & Pete's, Philly Cheesesteak Co., Flying Fare (open during the summer season) or Subway.

Gather your friends, grab some drinks and find a spot outside. Remember to tag us on social media with #HersheyPA! Please note that all patio locations are weather permitting

Just a quick, 90-minute drive from Philadelphia on Interstate 76, Hershey offers a summer escape packed with epic thrills, unique chocolate experiences and the perfect dose of family fun—all while keeping the patriotic spirit alive during a historic summer ahead.

Road Trip from Philly to Hersheypark in 90 Minutes

Forget the hassle of lengthy travel. Hershey is conveniently located right off major highways, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from Philadelphia and other major metropolitan areas such as Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C. and New York City. After cheering on your favorite team or soaking in the history of Independence Hall, you can trade the city hustle for coaster thrills and chocolate relaxation in no time.

Hershey is a small town rooted in the world's love of chocolate and the philanthropy of our founder, Milton S. Hershey. Our world-class destination offers a sweet blend of historical roots and modern-day appeal while giving back to children in need, making it a must-visit place to experience and celebrate the nation's 250th birthday.

At the heart of the celebration is Hersheypark, the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, marking its 120th operating year. Hersheypark offers three parks included in the one-price admission for added value:

• The amusement park with more than 70 rides and attractions, including 15 thrilling coasters - the most in the Northeast
• The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park (open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day) inside Hersheypark, with one million gallons of water among 17 water attractions
• ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo included with admission only by entering through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours

New Splashes at Water Park

New for 2026, Hersheypark will debut a new water park enhancement during this landmark year, providing guests with even more ways to get to the thrills faster and cool off. Two all-new water play areas, boasting 45 aquatic elements, open in the existing Bayside Pier on May 23 as part of a larger summer celebration at Hersheypark over Memorial Day Weekend. 

• A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, will feature water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features.
• Also new, The Island at Bayside Pier will debut towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. 

In addition to these unique offerings, Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world focused on fun and chocolate, as evidenced by the life-size, chocolate-inspired characters throughout the Park, rides inspired by iconic Hershey Company brands, incredible chocolate treats and even ride height categories as candy brands.

All-American Fun in Hershey

Hersheypark is gearing up to host patriotic events and activations all summer long in celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial. Visitors can look forward to multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S, an all-new star-spangled show, limited-time food and drink, select Americana-themed rides and Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best with more summer surprises to come during the Park’s 120th operating year.

Hersheypark Overlaid with Patriotic Spirit

Guests entering the 121-acre amusement park this summer will immediately notice patriotic decor, photo opportunities with life-size candy brands in special costumes and new red, white and blue ride and light packages as they enjoy the 70 rides and attractions at Hersheypark. 

Fireworks Displays to Kick Off Memorial Day Weekend

Daily summer operations at Hersheypark begin on May 21, with the first of several fireworks displays presented by HERSHEY’S on May 23. Guests visiting on May 23, July 3, July 4 and Aug. 8 can end their evening with fireworks.

New In-Park Theatre Show

Hersheypark will debut an unforgettable live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the air-conditioned Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue from May 29 through Labor Day. The only-in-Hershey show will take guests on a journey through the Rock, Pop, Country and Soul anthems that shaped this country’s history. 

Limited-Time Food and Beverage

Guest-favorite Hersheypark treats are decked out in red, white and blue this summer, including a Star-Spangled King Size Shake at Simply Chocolate dessert shop, available only in July in celebration of the 10th birthday of the award-winning, iconic treat. Other exclusive food and beverage offerings include apple pie and red, white and blue donuts at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor, red, white and blue specialty fudge at The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen, and a Stars & Stripes Martini Flight and Firecracker Mocktail at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest Qualifier

The world’s top hot dog eaters and rising challengers will return to Hersheypark on June 19 to compete in the final qualifying event for the legendary Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July contest. Guests can watch the classic American tradition at 2 p.m. in the water park. 

Live Entertainment in Hershey

Located on the same complex as the amusement park, Hersheypark Stadium will again host the Summer Concert Series with acts from Guns N' Roses and Chris Stapleton to Forrest Frank and Pitbull. The historic Stadium is also one of five stops on the Commonwealth Concert Series, featuring a free ticketed concert by The Avett Brothers and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts in Hershey on June 13. 

New for summer 2026, an additional Premium Deck will allow guests premium seating, access to exclusive food and beverage options, a dedicated restroom and designated parking and entrance. 

Beyond the Park: Chocolate Relaxation and Hospitality

Hershey’s sweet appeal extends far beyond the amusement park gates, making it an overnight destination. The Official Resorts of Hersheypark include The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, Hersheypark Camping Resort and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. Guests at these properties enjoy free resort benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at Hersheypark, complimentary front gate shuttle service and other perks. 

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offer accommodations for any type of traveler:

All-New Hershey Inn & Suites

Located at 1300 West End Avenue in Hummelstown, this recently opened four-story, 130-room property marks the company's first brand-new hotel in nearly 60 years. The hotel offers a first-of-its-kind family suite with bunk beds, a complimentary hot breakfast (a first for an Official Resort of Hersheypark), a lobby bar, a 24/7 arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round.

The Hotel Hershey

Voted #1 Best Theme Park Hotel by USA TODAY 10Best readers in 2026, The Hotel Hershey is a Historic Hotel of America opened by Milton S. Hershey in 1933. This luxury hotel is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is home to the Forbes Four-Star awarded Chocolate Spa. For the most luxurious accommodations, guests are encouraged to book the secluded Villas. A stay at the Villas comes with exclusive access to the Villas Concierge Lounge, Hersheypark tickets for the duration of a stay and a one-day Fast Track per person. 

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge is the perfect resort for families and guests of all ages. Overnight guests also receive exclusive access to Hershey's Water Works, the resort's 30,000 sq. ft. Hershey-themed indoor pool complex complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese's Water Walk, zero entry pool and sand castle spray zone.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Offers over 55 acres of scenic grounds with options for RV sites, tent camping, tiny homes, and cozy log cabins, complete with evening s’mores and multiple playgrounds.

Summer packages are available now including the popular Kids, Stay, Play & Eat Free for select dates now through Sept. 7. Book a stay select nights from May 21 through Sept. 7 under the Summer Fun Card or Ultimate Summer Fun Card Package and enjoy perks such as the $99 Summer Fun Card and deluxe accommodations. 

Core Purpose: Every Visit Gives Back

A visit to Hershey isn’t just a chance to make family memories—it’s a way to make a difference in the lives of thousands of students. Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) is proud to help fulfill the dream of our founder by providing value to Milton Hershey School (MHS) in its mission of helping students lead fulfilling and productive lives - just as Mr. Hershey intended. Learn more at mhskids.org. 

This summer, when you’re already in Philadelphia for the biggest events of the year, put Hershey on your destination map. It's the easy, sweet detour that guarantees unforgettable memories with the kind of Happy you can only find here.

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.

Hersheypark

1. Visit Hersheypark

Open Weekends with Daily Operations Starting May 21; Hours Vary
 

Hersheypark amusement park is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays this month for Spring Weekends. Daily summer operations begin May 21 with hours varying by day. 

Spring Weekends feature more than 50 rides, including the most coasters in the Northeast, weather and maintenance permitting. Guests can also attend a meet and greet with Hersh and Reese at Hersh’s Hangout in Chocolatetown and enjoy Our Friends From The Sea shows inside the Aquatheatre. Don’t forget to indulge in some of the signature eats found throughout the Park, including the King Size Shake, which celebrates its 10th birthday this year.

Looking ahead to the summer season, Hersheypark will celebrate America’s 250th with events and activations starting Memorial Day Weekend. Visitors can enjoy fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S on May 23, an all-new star-spangled show in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre starting May 29, limited-time food and drink, select Americana-themed rides and Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best.

Plus, the Hersheypark Summer Fun Card is back for just $99! Now with more flexibility than ever, you can visit whenever you want, as much as you want, all summer long through Labor Day! 

2. Make A Splash At The Boardwalk

Open Daily Starting May 23; Hours Vary

The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park opens daily for the summer season later this month, with the debut of two new water play areas boasting 45 aquatic elements in the existing Bayside Pier area. 

• A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, will feature water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features.
• The Island at Bayside Pier will debut towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water.

Both new areas will feature rubberized decking for additional guest comfort, allowing guests to sit and splash under shaded canopies. The new open design will also allow families to seamlessly flow between other water attractions and cool off faster with access to the abundant water features. 

The 11-acre water park with 17 unique attractions is included with the one-price Hersheypark admission through Labor Day. 

Live Events

3. See A Show at Hershey Theatre

Dates and Times Vary

It’s another busy month at the recently renovated Hershey Theatre. From a symphony and an awards ceremony to concerts of various genres, there is something for everyone at the historic venue in downtown Hershey. 

• May 2: Hershey Symphony Presents: Czech, Please!
• May 8: Melissa Etheridge
• May 9: America
• May 17: 2026 Hershey Theatre Apollo Awards
• May 27: Jason Mraz

4. Live Events at GIANT Center

Dates and Times Vary

Spring programming at GIANT Center kicks off in May with four can’t-miss events: