Read on to learn more about the story behind Reese's Depot Of Doom in our Behind The Haunt blog series below.

Overview of Reese's Depot Of Doom Storyline

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?

The idea of an abandoned freight depot had long been discussed as a potential theme for a Dark Nights haunted house or scare zone. The only question was how to tie this setting into the history of The Sweetest Place On Earth, as so many other Dark Nights haunts do. Guests who venture beyond the railroad tracks will see many nods to Hershey history, whether they realize it or not, as they navigate this scare zone that can only exist in a place like Hersheypark.

Inspiration Behind the Reese's Depot Of Doom Concept

The railroad has always played an important role not only in the history of Hersheypark, but also in the history of The Hershey Company by supplying raw materials for the Hershey and Reese's factories. From the earliest days of each factory, cocoa beans and peanuts were supplied by rail. This connection between the railyard concept and the Reese's brand itself was a pairing to rival chocolate and peanut butter. It finally allowed the long-awaited train concept to be integrated into Dark Nights during year two of the Reese's and KIT KAT® partnership for the seasonal event.

The creative team behind Dark Nights worked closely with the Reese's brand team to determine which “era” the Depot would've been abandoned in. The 1980s were chosen for their iconic Reese's moments, including the “No Wrong Way To Eat A Reese's” campaign. The boxcar featuring the Reese's Depot Of Doom logo at the entrance was inspired by a 1990s-era Hershey toy train and is packed full of easter eggs about the history of Hersheypark and Reese's.

Many of the numbers and acronyms on the boxcar are also rendered as authentic graffiti, which was hand-sprayed throughout the Depot's set pieces. Be on the lookout for the following shipping abbreviations and graffiti markings that pay homage to various eras of Hersheypark and Reese's:

• HERX: Original Railroad Mark assigned to Hershey Chocolate Company rolling stock, ca. 1930's
• C-PB: Chocolate and Peanut Butter
• TGTTTGT-70: Two Great Tastes That Taste Great Together, 1970
• TNWWTEAR-88: There's No Wrong Way To Eat a Reese's, 1988
• HDYEAR: How Do You Eat a Reese's?
• 05301906: Hersheypark Opening Date
• 11151928: Establishment of Reese's
• 5182010ILRD: May 18, 2010 - the first “I Love Reese's Day”

A Scare Zone With A Unique Location

Construction of Reese's Depot Of Doom in The Boardwalk region of Hersheypark started during the final weeks of the Hersheypark summer season. The space, which is adjacent to Shoreline Sprayground in the summer months, has been transformed into a seemingly abandoned freight yard, complete with a richly layered soundscape, well-timed fog effects and a railroad station platform. The boxcar sporting the official scare zone logo also makes for a frightfully fun photo op. 

What sets this scare zone apart is the physical layout. Though shorter than the others, Reese's Depot Of Doom offers the feel of a haunted house with four “rooms” in a linear sequence where the only way out is through. Situated between the scare-free Avenue of the Afterlife and the candy-centric Treatville trick-or-treat trail, the Depot is in the perfect spot for guests of all scare levels to experience a haunt with a sweet spin.

Venture Beyond The Tracks Yourself

Dark Nights is open for immersive haunts on Fridays through Sundays, including Halloween night, through Nov. 1, 2026. The five haunted houses featuring evolved storylines and five scare zones - more than ever - open nightly at 6 p.m.

Guests can save on tickets for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, which include all haunted houses and scare zones, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick Or Treat Trail for children 12 and under, the Avenue Of The Afterlife path, Hershey Character appearances and more.

We'll meet you beyond the railroad tracks and in the fog for all the season's thrills and chills.

Our thoughts remain with the guest's family and everyone affected by Monday's incident at Six Flags Over Georgia.

Before making this decision, we had Candymonium thoroughly inspected. Our ride inspection team, which includes state-certified ride inspectors, and an independent external ride safety inspector each confirmed that the ride is operating as intended and that Candymonium remains safe to operate. We have also been in contact with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, which oversees Amusement Park operations in the Commonwealth regarding our decision to operate the attraction.

We also consulted with the ride's manufacturer. Based on the information presently available, the manufacturer has not identified an engineering basis to recommend shutting down similarly designed coasters solely because of the incident in Georgia.

Candymonium was custom-built to its own specifications, with multiple redundant safety systems, including a seatbelt at every seat in addition to the lap restraint.

Safety is the foundation of everything we do, and we take that responsibility seriously.

Follow along for a breakdown of what you need to know if you're planning to visit the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania during Fall Weekend 2026.

Enjoy Extra Thrills on Select Rides and Coasters

More than 40 rides, including six coasters, are slated to be open on Nov. 7 and 8, weather and maintenance permitting. Guests can enjoy extra thrills on Candymonium, Wildcat's Revenge, Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, Reese's Cupfusion and more.

View the list of participating attractions during Fall Weekend 2026.

See the Animals

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 7-8. Entrance to the 11-acre Zoo is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark when guests enter via the bridge in the Kissing Tower Hill region during posted Park hours.

Guests can also attend the Our Friends from the Sea show, featuring California sea lions and Atlantic harbor seals, in the Aquatheatre inside Hersheypark. The show is offered both days of Fall Weekend at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., followed by the add-on Fish Feed and Photo programs.

For animal lovers interested in getting up close and personal with the mammals, the Touch & Feed program is offered at 3 p.m. for $125 per person. Participants have the opportunity to feed and give a back rub to one of the seals or sea lions, take a commemorative photo, tour off-exhibit areas and receive preferred seating for the show.

Grab a Bite to Eat

Guests can grab a bite to eat at select dining locations throughout the Park, including 1906 Grill, 8-Cut Crust, Chickie's & Pete's, Philly Cheesesteak Co. on the roll and more.

Those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth can enjoy King Size Shakes, funnel cakes and a wide variety of other treats from Simply Chocolate, Milton's Ice Cream Parlor and more.

View the list of participating dining locations during Fall Weekend 2026.

Enjoy a Meal at The Chocolatier

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is open daily, including both Fall Weekend days and provides a break from the hustle and bustle of Hersheypark with a Fun To Table meal. Enjoy classics like the Ferris Wheel Sampler and the Chocolatetown Burger, or try the fall flavors of the latest seasonal menu. Add in a signature dessert or a unique cocktail (for guests ages 21 and older) for the perfect lunch or dinner!

Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online.

Save on Tickets and Season Passes

There's still plenty of time to experience sweet thrills this year at Hersheypark! Guests can find the best deals on Hersheypark tickets directly on our website, with our 1-Day and 2-Day Any Day tickets valid on any operating date through Jan. 3, 2027 which include Fall Weekend.

Want unlimited Hersheypark Happy? With a 2027 Full, King or Giant Size Season Pass you can visit for the rest of 2026 absolutely free, including during Fall Weekend. Get your 2027 Season Pass now for the guaranteed Best Price when you purchase by November 1.

We can't wait to see you for a bonus weekend of Fall fun before the start of Hersheypark Christmas Candylane on Nov. 13!

Weather-Protected Rides

Hersheypark offers more than 50 rides during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, many of which can operate in light rain. But, when heavy precipitation hits, thrill-seekers can still enjoy full-throttle thrills on several fully enclosed or covered attractions:

• Laff Trakk: Experience America's first indoor spinning glow-coaster, operating in complete darkness during all Hersheypark Halloween event hours for an added thrill
• Reese's Cupfusion: An interactive indoor dark ride where guests become agents to protect the factory and ensure the world is never deprived of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
• Fender Bender: Classic bumper cars offering covered fun for friends and family
• Classic Carrousel: Take a nostalgic spin on the iconic 107-year-old Carrousel with all 66 original horses

Five Indoor Haunted Houses

Darkness descends upon Hersheypark (sometimes both literally and figuratively if storm clouds roll in) for Dark Nights each operating evening at 6 p.m. Guests seeking shelter from inclement weather can venture into the shadowy depths of five spine-chilling indoor haunted houses, all included with Hersheypark Halloween admission:

• Kill 'N Fill Garage (Located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): Navigate an abandoned, gore-soaked car wash and body shop where a ruthless group of killers strips victims for parts.
• Twisted Carnevil (Also located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): Enter a never-ending hall of illusions ruled by The Hypnotist, where greasepaint drips like blood.
• Estate of Evil (Located in Tidal Force Catering across from the former Tidal Force attraction and next to the entrance portal for the Fallout Zone scare zone): Explore a traditional haunted mansion filled with long-sealed, malevolent mementos and curated horrors. This haunted house does have an outdoor scene where guests venture into an open air garden before heading back inside.
• Auntie Mortem's Abattoir (Located next to Music Express and Laff Trakk in the Midway America region): Step into a sinister meat-processing shop where old family recipes blend with fresh stock.
• Haunted Coal Mine (Located in the Trailblazer catering space near Spring Creek Smokehouse in the Pioneer Frontier region): Descend into a flooded coal mine as murky waters drag you down further and dark creatures emerge.

Meet Monsters Rain or Shine

When bad weather strikes Central Pennsylvania, park-goers can retreat inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre for the all-new Monster Meet & Shriek! Offered nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., this fully covered meet-and-greet experience ensures Halloween excitement continues, rain or shine, as guests snap a sweet photo souvenir with a rotating lineup of Dark Nights monsters. It’s a spell-binding way to wait out a monstrous downpour!

High-Score Indoor Fun at the Arcade

Guests can play their way through an unexpected shower in the two climate-controlled arcades at Hersheypark, while winning prizes and enjoying competitive indoor fun. In the Pioneer Frontier region, Play Dome Arcade delivers hours of indoor entertainment with classic video games, claw crane machines and ticket redemption games. For even more undercover excitement, gamers can head over to Overlook Arcade in the Kissing Tower Hill region—the park's largest arcade, featuring fan favorites like Skeeball, alongside interactive games for all ages.

Delicious Dining Places to Recharge and Stay Dry

A brief rain shower provides the ideal opportunity to relax and recharge while visiting the amusement park. Hersheypark features a range of indoor and covered dining spots—including Overlook Food Court and Chick-fil-A (closed Sundays)—that allow guests to stay dry while fueling up. For an elevated, full-service dining experience, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio offers an ideal setting for lunch or dinner, complete with seasonal autumn options such as Butternut Squash Pasta and Sausage & Apple Flatbread. The restaurant is open daily, and reservations are strongly encouraged.

Spooky Souvenir Shopping

There are more than 15 shops open during Hersheypark Halloween, many of which are perfect for taking shelter when spooky storms brew or purchasing a poncho to brave the rain. Guests can visit Hersheypark Supply Co. at the front of the park to browse an eerie-sistible collection of apparel, gifts, toys and exclusive souvenirs. Those looking for seasonal fits with a haunting twist should pop into Dark Nights Emporium at the entrance of the Midway Of Misery scare zone.

Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica

Guests can grab their flashlight (and poncho, if needed) for the popular Creatures Of The Night event at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park starting Oct. 16, 2026. Running from 6–9 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 1, this Halloween-themed, after-hours experience offers plenty of covered ways to catch some "fangs" out of the storm. Admission includes a creepy-crawler room, animal encounters under a tent, and two darkened indoor habitats where guests can observe the nocturnal habits of North American animals.

Rainy Day Policy & Insider Tips

Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits at Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights! Grab a poncho, embrace the spooky atmosphere and brew up an unforgettable adventure in Hershey this season—rain or shine!

• Rainy Day Promise: If inclement weather conditions cause the majority of major rides and attractions to close for a continuous 60 minutes, a Return Visit Voucher may be issued for a return visit. Guests can present their ticket stub or receipt of purchase to any Guest Services location to receive a Return Visit Voucher with our Rainy Day Promise.
• Hersheypark App: Guests are encouraged to download the free Hersheypark app to track real-time ride availability, wait times and entertainment scheduled right from their phone.
• Rain Gear: Umbrellas are allowed to be brought into Hersheypark, but they are not permitted on rides for guest safety. Ponchos are available for purchase at Hersheypark Supply Co. and other stores throughout Hersheypark.

ZooAmerica will offer a special nighttime flashlight tour, animal enrichments and themed educational activities included with admission. Creatures Of The Night is the only time of year the 11-acre zoo in Hershey is open after dark, giving visitors a unique opportunity to bring a flashlight and explore the nighttime habits of nocturnal North American animals.

Check out this guide of activities and educational displays for the whole family during Creatures Of The Night, weather permitting.

Flashlight Tour of the Zoo

There is no better way to see the wild and fascinating animal activity that only happens after the sun sets than by flashlight! During Creatures Of The Night, guests of all ages can explore the zoo by flashlight under the cover of night. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flashlights or use their mobile devices for optimal viewing of the outdoor habitats, including the black bear, Canada lynx, gray wolves, American elk and river otter. Flashlights are also available for purchase at the Admissions desk for added convenience.

A special bonus: guests can see the nocturnal animals in the Great Southwest building in “daylight,” a change from regular operating hours.

Scavenger Hunt

Guests of all ages can participate in fun, family-friendly quests such as finding hidden magic potion ingredients or uncovering history-themed clues scattered throughout animal habitats and buildings.

Animal Enrichment Activities

Guests can watch select animals, such as bobcats, gray wolves and desert species, enjoy special pumpkin-themed treats and enrichment items at 6:30 p.m. on each evening Creatures Of The Night is open.

• Friday night: Bobcats
• Saturday night: Gray wolves
• Sunday night: Great Southwest

Decorate a Luminary

Guests should bring their curiosity and creativity to ZooAmerica after dark! Children and families can help light up the night by decorating their own luminary bags in Big Sky Country, which are then placed on display inside the animal habitats. Supplies will be provided.

Furry Tales

Visitors can stop by a "spooky" tent on the bear patio to see furry friends, like ferrets or a skunk (animals will change nightly). They can also see and feel some of the food combinations given to the animals at ZooAmerica. Those who like arts and crafts can even color, with supplies provided.

Interactive Displays

Themed displays will be set up throughout ZooAmerica for guests to get an up-close look at some animals and learn about their survival.

• Creepy Crawler Display (Inside the Woodlands Classroom): Creepy crawler invertebrates will be displayed. Guests can see tarantulas, cockroaches, walking sticks, scorpions, mealworms and superworms.
• X-ray Station (Inside the Great Southwest Building): Back by popular demand from last year, guests can see an animal X-ray display. Team members will be on-site to discuss the various X-rays and answer questions.
• Wolf Artifact Station (Wolf Habitat): Visitors can see and feel various animal fur and paw prints. Team members will be on-site to talk to guests and answer questions about the gray wolves.
• Recycled Treasure Display (Across from Prairie Dog Habitat): Visitors can view a display of recycled treasures decorated by the ZooAmerica team.

Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark. Separate admission, starting at $14.50 plus taxes and fees, is also available online for guests who plan to attend just Creatures Of The Night.

If you can’t make it to Creatures Of The Night, there are plenty of opportunities to visit ZooAmerica with daily operations this fall (closed Thanksgiving Day).

Front Gate, Chocolatetown

Your first photo stop comes as soon as you make your way to the main entrance of Hersheypark! The entrance plaza in Hershey's Chocolatetown has been lined with decorative pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns for the perfect fall vibe. Looking for a slightly more eerie aesthetic? Wait until dark and come back to see the overhead sign glow orange and white.

Hershey's Hangout, Chocolatetown

This iconic Chocolatetown location is normally home to Sweet Greets* with your larger-than-life Hershey's friends, but it's also a great location for pictures with your friends and family! By daylight, you can pose with characters like Hershey Bar and Miss Kiss directly on the patio of Hersh's Hangout. By night, the patio transforms with glowing lights to make a sparkling photo location - perfect for selfies.

*Check the Hersheypark App or our website for showtimes on the day of your visit. Character appearances and times are subject to change.

Reese's Cup House, Founder's Way

Another staple location for Sweet Greets*, you'll find Reese and JR sporting their Halloween best all fall long at Reese's Cup House. Pose among the hay bales and spider webs both day and night for another sweet photo spot.

*Check the Hersheypark App or our website for showtimes on the day of your visit. Character appearances and times are subject to change.

Monster Meet & Shriek, Music Box Theatre

Visit the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre nightly and come face to face with the monsters of Dark Nights during the all-new Monster Meet & Shriek experience. Guests can meet featured creatures from our haunted houses and scare zones, with a rotating lineup of characters available each night for a photo op.

Strike a pose for a creepy keepsake! This event is a Photo Pass Photographer location with professional photos available for purchase. It is also included with the Family Photo Pass. Guests are welcome to take their own photos.

Reese's Box Car, 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?

Before you cross the train tracks, snap a selfie in front of the Reese's-branded box car. The numbers and acronyms are filled with easter eggs to the iconic candy brand and Hersheypark itself. Combine them with the signature orange and yellow for a sweet photo op.

The Cauldron, 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. In this scare zone, you'll find the centerpiece cauldron is a perfect photo spot where each of the witches can cast a unique spell upon. You'll find them along with the cauldron behind the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre.

Fallout Zone Entrance and Reactor, Fallout Zone

Just beyond the entrance to Fahrenheit is a portal to the Fallout Zone. At night, the sign glows a radioactive green and emits a thick layer of fog. Capture your photo from an angle, and at just the right time, you may even get Fahrenheit running in the background of your shot!

Venture beyond the fog bubbles, and you'll find a glowing reactor that you can step inside for a unique photo. Just make sure the ghouls aren't waiting for you inside when you least expect it!

Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail, Treatville

Located in The Boardwalk region of the Park, Treatville provides some sweet photo spots along a path of 10 candy stops. Day or night, there are plenty of photogenic places to pose, including within the hay maze and the pumpkin stacks. These backdrops are just another reason that makes Hersheypark the sweetest place to trick-or-treat!

Treatville is available each Hersheypark Halloween operating day from 6-8:30 p.m. on Fridays and at 2-8:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Avenue of the Afterlife, The Boardwalk

Also located in the water park, the Avenue of the Afterlife is home to scary-good eats, wicked-fun entertainment and plenty of photo landmarks! Grab a picture near the decorated entrance portal, get unique views of Lightning Racer and take in the high-energy street performances, including a DJ Dance Party featuring your favorite Hershey Characters, stilt walkers and more.

Drainage Pipe, Avenue of the Afterlife

The next photo-op is just beyond the entrance to Lightning Racer within the Avenue of the Afterlife. A former Dark Nights haunted house, The Descent: Catacombs of Decay, lives on as an interactive photo spot featuring a drainage pipe set piece that guests can actually step inside. Enhance your shot by waiting for Lightning Racer to pass behind!

Midway Of Misery Arch, Midway America

The Midway America region of the Park transforms into the Midway Of Misery scare zone for the fall. The red-glowing archway is a favorite photo spot among Hersheypark guests, with many posing with their favorite midway ghouls in front of the arches. Watch out - you never know when The Decayed Brigade may slide into your shot…

Slider Showcase, Midway Of Misery

The next stop in the Midway Of Misery leads guests directly to the viral Decayed Brigade sliders. Each night following their Slider Showcase - a high-energy show featuring thrilling displays of skill - parkgoers can grab photos with the sliders in the Midway. Guests are welcome to take their own photos, with professional photos available for purchase.

The Slider Showcase occurs in the Midway Of Misery under the fire arch at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 8:45 p.m. on Sundays, weather permitting.

Ferris Wheel, Midway Of Misery

One of the most iconic Hersheypark landmarks is the Ferris Wheel - and it's even sweeter during Halloween with a new light package! Grab your photo from within the Midway Of Misery and stand back far enough to frame the Ferris Wheel within the space between the arches.

Creature Cages, Darkstone's Hollow

The cages that once held the creatures of Professor Darkstone's mythical menagerie are open for photos in The Hollow region along Spring Creek near the Aquatheatre. Strike a pose from behind the bars, but be careful that you aren't added to the Professor's sinister sideshow!

Fire Moments, Various Locations

Dark Nights features TWO pyrotechnic set pieces within our scare zones. The first is in the Fallout Zone, where, after the alarm sounds, flames shoot high into the night atop the former Tidal Force bridge.

Next door, just past Laff Trakk in the Midway Of Misery, sits the flaming archway, a fire-shooting portal that blasts pyrotechnics synced to the music of the midway. These photo ops are for our most astute photographers, as you'll need perfect timing to capture the flames.

Where's Your Favorite Photo Moment?

We want to see your pictures from all of the photo locations! Tag us @Hersheypark on social media and use the hashtags #HersheyparkHalloween and #DarkNights in your posts. You can also tag your Instagram stories with @Hersheypark for a chance to be featured on our page!

Family-Friendly Attractions and Spooky Thrills

1. Hersheypark Halloween

Fridays through Sundays; Hours vary

Hersheypark Halloween is back at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania. The USA TODAY 10Best-nominated seasonal event offers thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating for children 12 and under and the Avenue Of The Afterlife scare-free zone with a DJ dance party featuring some Hershey Characters.

New for 2026, guests can come face-to-face with the faces of Dark Nights during the Monster Meet & Shriek inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. Offered every Hersheypark Halloween operating day from 5 to 9 p.m., this family-friendly entertainment experience lets guests of all ages meet and pose for photos with featured monsters from the haunted houses and scare zones.

Prepare for all the spooky fun with our official Hersheypark Halloween family guide.

2. Dark Nights Presented by Reese's and Kit Kat®

Fridays through Sundays starting at 6 p.m.

If you love hair-raising thrills and blood-curdling frights during Halloween, then the fifth-annual Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® has to be at the top of your to-do list this fall. The fan-favorite event features five haunted houses and five scare zones, including the brand-new Reese’s Depot Of Doom scare zone. End your night with the Decayed Brigade in their iconic, high-octane style during a Slider Showcase outside of Laff Trakk at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8:45 p.m. on Sundays. Access to Dark Nights is included in every Hersheypark admission ticket.

Prepare for your haunting visit with our official Dark Nights 2026 guide.

3. Taste Scary Good Eats With The Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass

Fridays through Sundays during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Back by popular demand, the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass returns for another year to give guests a taste of the ghoulish offerings available during Hersheypark Halloween operating hours only. Parkgoers can choose five frightfully tasty snacks, desserts and drinks from more than 30 specialty options available at 11 different locations throughout Hersheypark.

4. Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Open at 4:30 p.m. on all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio will continue offering Spirit’s Rooftop Bar all month long. Guests who dare to venture to the transformed rooftop will find spirits both real and imagined with new cocktail and mocktail creations, spooky shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts. Seating is first-come, first-served, and reservations are not accepted. The kitchen closes at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays. The patio bar stays open an hour later.

5. Creatures of The Night at ZooAmerica

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays starting Oct. 16 from 6-9 p.m.

The popular Creatures Of The Night event returns to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park with new themed activities. Guests of all ages can explore the 11-acre zoo in the heart of Hershey by flashlight under the cover of night. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flashlights for optimal viewing of the outdoor habitats, including a black bear, Canada lynx, gray wolves and a river otter. There is no better way to see the wild and fascinating animal activity that only happens after the sun sets!

Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark. Guests can purchase tickets on the official ZooAmerica website.

Hockey, Comedy and Theatre Events

6. Derrick Stroup at Hershey Theatre

Sunday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m.

Alabama native Derrick Stroup delivers high-energy comedy packed with sharp observations of everyday life. He made his late-night debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in 2023 and returned for a second appearance last year. His first Netflix special, “Nostalgic,” premieres globally March 10 and dives into Stoup’s life as a ’90s kid growing up in rural Alabama.

7. Cinderella by The United European Ballet Company at Hershey Theatre

Sunday, Oct. 18, at 4 p.m.

Cinderella is presented in a dynamic, Broadway-style format that blends classical ballet technique with theatrical storytelling, making it engaging for audiences of all ages. Set to the enchanting music of Sergei Prokofiev, the production brings the beloved fairytale to life through expressive choreography, vibrant storytelling and a refined European artistic style.

8. Clue at Hershey Theatre

Friday, Oct. 30, through Sunday, Nov. 1; Hours vary

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

9. Hershey Bears Home Opener vs Charlotte Checkers

Saturday, Oct. 3, at 6 p.m.

The Hershey Bears are gearing up for their home opener against the Charlotte Checkers this month! All fans will receive a magnet schedule, courtesy of PNC Bank, to celebrate the start of the 89th season.

Additional promotional games happening this October include:

• Oct. 4 - Dark Nights Takeover: Select characters from Dark Nights at Hersheypark Halloween will leave the shadows of Hersheypark and prowl the concourse.
• Oct. 10 - B-E-A-R-Sapalooza Country Night: Get ready to have a yee-hockey good time at Country Night! The first 6,000 fans will receive a straw cowboy hat, courtesy of Pepsi.
• Oct. 17 - Penn State Health Pink the Rink Night: All fans are encouraged to light up their phones and join us in the fight against breast cancer, using a Pink the Rink Gel Phone Light Cover, courtesy of Penn State Health.
• Oct. 18 - Reese’s Trick-or-Treat Night: All fans 15 & under will receive a bag upon entry and have the opportunity to trick-or-treat around the concourse during pre-game and the first intermission.
• Oct. 24 - Christmas Candylane Pass Night: All fans will receive a 2026 Hersheypark Christmas Candylane ticket, valid for one-day admission through January 3, 2027.

Activities Around Town

10. Fall In Love With Pumpkin Spice Spa Treatments

Available Daily; Appointments Highly Encouraged

Enjoy a day of fall relaxation with Pumpkin Spice spa treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey! The Hershey spas are excited to bring back these guest favorite fall-inspired treatments and packages for a limited time. Treatments include a Pumpkin Spice Massage, Body Wrap, Mani/Pedi and more.

To schedule an appointment at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, visit ChocolateSpa.com or call 844-330-1797. For appointments at MeltSpa, visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366.

11. Pumpkin Palooza at Hershey Gardens

Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hand-painted pumpkins, creepy creatures, gorgeous mums and unique fall displays return to Hershey Gardens this October for Pumpkin Palooza. Pumpkin Palooza will feature more than 200 hand-painted pumpkins and kids' trick or treat at four Hershey’s candy stations. Guests can also enjoy food trucks and hundreds of mums on display, including a colorful 9-foot mum tree.

12. Trick-Or-Treat Trail at Hershey's Chocolate World

October Weekends; Times Vary

Collect candy at four sweet stops inside Hershey's Chocolate World and stock up on your favorite Halloween treats, with an additional 10 stops at Treatville in Hersheypark! Candy is free for ages 12 and under.

13. Halloween-themed Chocolate Lab Classes at Hershey Story Museum

Daily in October; Hours vary

Create a delicious Halloween-inspired chocolate treat in the Chocolate Lab! Located inside The Hershey Story Museum, the Chocolate Lab explores the distinctive qualities of chocolate through fun, hands-on experiences and interactive educational demonstrations. This month, participants can choose from Batty Bar, Cobweb Creations and Spooky Bark (weekends only). Please visit HersheyStory.org for detailed class descriptions and a complete class schedule. Ticket purchase required; individuals must be at least 5 years old to enter the lab.

14. Explore Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

Open Monday - Saturday; 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. It is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, PA 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Lane and East Governor Road (Rte. 322).

Overnight Getaways

15. Book A Fall Getaway

If you want to experience all the fun in The Sweetest Place On Earth this month, book a stay at one of our Official Resorts of Hersheypark. The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, Hershey Inn & Suites and Hersheypark Camping Resort are offering sweet resort packages perfect for a fall getaway.

All resort guests receive FREE resort benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan, free front-gate shuttle service to from, the Park and the best price on Park tickets and much more! Plus, enjoy family-friendly resort activities every weekend including Kids' Check-In, s'mores roasts and more.

Twenty nominees across the country were carefully curated by a panel of subject matter experts and USA TODAY 10BEST editors before being voted on by the public.

Thank you to everyone who voted for us!

All-in-One Ticket for Family Fun and Frights

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® are underway, with five weekends remaining to get in the Halloween spirit in Hershey, Pa. The one-price admission includes access to both family-friendly daytime Halloween attractions and nighttime haunted houses and scare zones in celebration of five years of frights:

• Five haunted houses with evolved storylines (starting nightly at 6 p.m.)
• Five scare zones, including the new Reese's Depot Of Doom (starting nightly at 6 p.m.)
• Thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting)
• Lights-out coaster rides on Wildcat's Revenge, Candymonium, Lightning Racer and Comet during the final hour of Hersheypark Halloween, plus dark rides on Laff Trakk all day long
• Trick-or-treating for children ages 12 and under on the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail
• Photos with Hershey Characters in Halloween costumes
• Live entertainment in the Avenue of the Afterlife in The Boardwalk and the new Monster Meet & Shriek at Chevrolet Music Box Theatre
• Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica starting Oct. 16 (included with Hersheypark admission via the bridge)

Feed Your Fears

Visitors can enjoy seasonal flavors throughout Hersheypark with more than 60 limited-time treats, savory eats, and cocktails available for purchase. Guests looking to sample these options can buy the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, which includes five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts or beverages chosen from more than 30 specialty items across 11 park locations.

Additionally, Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier is open, showcasing a record 19 new cocktail creations served in multi-weekend phases! On the patio overlooking Chocolatetown, guests can also feed their fears with sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts.

Event Hours and Tickets

Event hours are as follows:

• Fridays: Hersheypark Halloween 5–10 p.m.; Dark Nights 6–11 p.m.
• Saturdays: Hersheypark Halloween noon–10 p.m.; Dark Nights 6–11 p.m.
• Sundays: Hersheypark Halloween noon–9 p.m.; Dark Nights 6–10 p.m.

Great ticket offers are available on Hersheypark.com, including a Family 4-Pack Bundle for $55 per person plus taxes and fees. We hope to see you there!

The Butcher Shop

Located in the Avenue Of The Afterlife (in front of The Inlet & The Island at Bayside Pier)
Open until Hersheypark Halloween closing

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)
Open until Hersheypark Halloween closing

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)
Open until Hersheypark Halloween closing

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)
Open until Hersheypark Halloween closing

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 - Hollow Pizza

Located in The Hollow
Open until Hersheypark Halloween closing

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)
Open until Hersheypark Halloween closing

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
Open until Hersheypark Halloween closing

The Walking Taco Food Truck is made up of interesting ingredients and cooking methods for flavor-forward tacos.

• 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

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 added convenience. Purchasers will receive an email with a barcode that allows up to five digital scans. Additionally, every item featured on the Tasting Pass can be bought individually at its respective location.

Operating hours, locations and menu items remain subject to change and availability.

Save on Hersheypark Halloween Tickets

Guests can save on thrills and chills by purchasing Hersheypark Halloween tickets online. All Hersheypark admission types include access to five haunted houses and five scare zones, including the all-new Reese's Depot Of Doom, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail, special entertainment and more.

We'll see you soon for more devilishly delicious adventures during Hersheypark Halloween!

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through Nov. 1 | Hours vary

Guests can experience another thrilling season of Hersheypark Halloween and the fifth-annual Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® as they play by day and fright by night at Pennsylvania's largest amusement park.

The USA TODAY 10Best-Nominated Theme Park Halloween Event includes family-friendly offerings with thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating for children 12 and under, the Avenue of the Afterlife with street performers and a Hershey Character dance party, and more.

At 6 p.m., the nightmare continues for Dark Nights with five haunted houses and five scare zones - more than ever - including the all-new Reese’s Depot Of Doom scare zone.

The seasonal event also features an elevated food and beverage scene with more than 60 scary-good eats and spell-binding drinks, such as Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets and the Pumpkin Roll King Size Shake, to satisfy any craving. Back by popular demand, the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass allows guests to taste five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts and drinks from more than 30 specialty options available exclusively during Dark Nights.

Spirit’s Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through Nov. 1 | Hours vary

Located in Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio has dusted off the cobwebs for Spirit’s Rooftop Bar. Guests who dare to explore the haunted rooftop bar will find a dozen limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred.

Spirit's Rooftop Bar is open starting at 4:30 p.m. on all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days, weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served, and reservations are not accepted. A Hersheypark ticket is not required to enjoy Spirit's Rooftop Bar.

Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from Oct. 16 - Nov. 1 | 6-9 p.m.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park will open after dark for its popular Creatures Of The Night seasonal event this fall to explore the nighttime habits of North American nocturnal animals. Guests are encouraged to bring a flashlight to explore the outdoor habitats under the cover of night. Included with admission, visitors can experience special Halloween-themed activities, animal enrichments and unique displays.

Tickets are available for purchase online. ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only by accessing the Zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours.

Live Concerts and Shows

Dates and hours vary

Hershey Theatre and GIANT Center have a sweet lineup of shows coming this fall. Check out the full list down below!

• Sept. 25: Justin Willman at Hershey Theatre
• Sept. 27: Lenny Pearce: Toddler Rave World Tour at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 11: Derrick Stroup at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 18: Cinderella by The United European Ballet Company at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 24: Hershey Symphony Presents: Fire and Fantasy at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 25: The Phil Collins Story at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 29: Whose Live Anyway? at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 30 - Nov. 1: Clue Live on Stage at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 4: Alice Cooper at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 6: Jim Gaffigan at GIANT Center
• Nov. 10 - 15: Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 12: Chris Tomlin, TobyMac, Third Day at GIANT Center
• Nov. 14: John Crist, Henry Cho, Dusty Slay, Dustin Nickerson at GIANT Center
• Nov. 18: Jeff Dunham at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 21: for KING + COUNTRY at GIANT Center
• Nov. 22: Arabesque Charity Ballet Event: Fighting Childhood Cancer at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 24: Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 28: Christmas Together with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and CeCe Winans at GIANT Center

Hershey Bears Hockey Games

Dates and hours vary

Fall means Hershey Bears hockey is back! The oldest franchise in the American Hockey League will take the ice for its 89th season in a home opener at GIANT Center on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. against the Charlotte Checkers.

Promotional games happening this fall include a Dark Nights Takeover on Oct. 3 and a Reese’s Trick-or-Treat Night on Oct. 18, where fans 14 and under will receive a treat bag upon entry and have the opportunity to trick-or-treat around the concourse during pre-game and intermissions.

Relaxation at the Hershey Spas

Dates and hours vary

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa are excited to bring back pumpkin-inspired spa treatments available now through Nov. 30.

This season, experience fall seasonal treatments like the Pumpkin Soufflé Hydrating Body Wrap and Great Pumpkin Facial at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. All appointments include complimentary access to steam rooms, saunas, relaxation lounges, an indoor pool and jacuzzi, a fitness center and more. To make an appointment, call 844-330-1797.

If you’re looking for a quick relaxation session, head to MeltSpa by Hershey day spa and experience the scents of the season with a treatment from the Pumpkin Spice Collection, or book a full day of pampering with the Ultimate Pumpkin Relaxation Package. For appointments, visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366.

New Fall Menu Offerings

Dates and hours vary

The culinary teams across Hershey never fail to impress with delicious seasonal menus incorporating the warm, rich flavors of autumn. This season, visitors to our sweet destination can taste the many flavors of fall (including pumpkin, apple, maple and more) at one of more than a dozen unique and award-winning restaurants at our resort properties and around town. From fun family fare to fine dining and everything in between, visitors will find an ambiance and menu perfect for whatever experience they crave.

Hershey’s Chocolate World Seasonal Events

Dates and hours vary

Did you know the world's largest Hershey’s store is right next to Hersheypark? Hershey’s Chocolate World is filled with your favorite Hershey’s candy and fun attractions for the whole family. On weekends this fall, Chocolate World will host sweet seasonal events like the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail, where guests can dress up in costumes and collect candy at four stops, or a Trick-Or-Treat Trolley ride, a seasonal variation of the original trolley show. Other popular activities include an opportunity to Create Your Own Candy Bar, a FREE Hershey’s Chocolate Tour and more.

Hershey Gardens Seasonal Events

Dates and hours vary

Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden, boasting a variety of autumn flora and foliage this season. During your visit, be sure to check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which includes a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring 600 butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S. Special for the fall is the annual Pumpkin Palooza on Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., where guests can enjoy over 200 painted pumpkins, a unique 14-foot “pumpkin tree,” kids trick-or-treating and more.

The Hershey Story Museum Fall Offerings

Dates and hours vary

Visit The Hershey Story Museum to 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 you can try your hand at chocolate pouring and decorating, or Chocolate Tastings, where you can try different chocolates from around the world.

Fall Getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

Fall is a beautiful time of year for an overnight stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Resort options include a cozy cabin, RV or Tiny Home at Hersheypark Camping Resort or deluxe accommodations at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge or the new Hershey Inn & Suites. Overnight guests can take in the beauty of Hershey's fall foliage and enjoy family fun like s'mores roasts, chocolate bingo and Halloween-themed resort activities.

On weekends through Nov. 2, you can save on your getaway with Halloween resort packages, including the Dark Nights 2-Night Package, available at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge. This package includes two nights of deluxe accommodations, 2-day Hersheypark tickets, breakfast each day, a Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass and a Dark Nights Houses Fast Track for each guest. For a limited time, receive a $50 resort credit per night and get free breakfast for the kids when you book any of our Halloween resort packages!

All Official Resorts of Hersheypark guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan, free front-gate shuttle service to and from the Park, the best price on Park tickets, free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story, and more!

Check out our fall guides to The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, Hershey Inn & Suites and Hersheypark Camping Resort to help plan for a sweet stay.

Make sure to share all your fun fall photos during your visit by using #HersheyPA!

Spirit's Rooftop Bar is available starting at 4:30 p.m. during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days through Nov. 1, 2026, weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted. The kitchen closes at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays. The patio bar stays open an hour later.

Dare to check out the Foodie Guide to Spirit's Rooftop Bar, featuring limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred.

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Cocktails

Guests who venture upstairs will find spirits both real and imagined. This year, Spirit's Rooftop Bar features a record nineteen new cocktail creations, which will be available in multi-weekend, film-themed phases!

Phase One: Opening Credits, Sept. 12 through Sept. 27

• Camper's Crush: Vodka, Freshly Pulverized Blood Orange, Starry Soda
• Out In The Shed: Peated Islay Scotch, Apple Eau-De-Vie, Crème De Menthe, Simple Syrup
• Static Noise: Cristalino Tequila, White Grapefruit, Lime, Agave
• Unplugged: Brown-Butter-Washed Bourbon, Salted Caramel Syrup, Black Walnut Bitters
• Don't Pick Up The Phone: Spicy Ghost Tequila, Lime, Pineapple Tepache
• Blood Test (Non-Alcoholic): A House-Made Lemon-Ginger Tonic, Fresh-Pressed Pomegranate Verjus

Phase Two: Plot Twist, Oct. 2 through Oct. 11

• Found Footage: Sauvignon Blanc, Melon And Apple Liqueurs, White Grape, Lime, Starry Soda - serves two
• Sanitarium Escape: Blanco Tequila, Crème De Mûre, Cointreau, Orange Bitters, Lime, Cinnamon Syrup
• Final Girl: McQueen and the Violet Fog Hibiscus Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Sparkling Rosé
• They're Here: Chica~Chida Peanut Butter Agave Spirit, Rumchata, Spiced Brown Sugar Syrup, Cold Brew
• After School Special: Vanilla Vodka, Crème de Banana, Crème de Cacao, Soft Serve, Raspberry Coulis
• Lore & Legend (Non-Alcoholic): Tart Cherry Juice, Rosemary Simple Syrup, Lime, Ginger Beer

Phase Three: Curtain Call, Oct. 16 through Nov. 1

• Never Sleep Again: Smoke Wagon Bourbon, Coffee Liqueur, Dark Chocolate Liqueur, Frangelico
• Infestation: Cachaça, Velvet Falernum, Pineapple, Lime, Coconut Water, Blackstrap Rum, Blackberry Liqueur
• Cellar Light: Vanilla Vodka, St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur, Blanc Vermouth
• Cabin 13 Cooler: Dragonberry Rum, Dragonfruit Lemonade, Guava Nectar, Lime, Starry Soda - serves three
• Yes Or No?: Vodka, Yuzu Liqueur, Pomegranate, Lemon, Popping Pomegranate Boba
• Otherworldly Realms: Mezcal, Twizzlers-Infused Hot Honey, Lime, Agave, Grapefruit Bitters
• Shattered Mirror (Non-Alcoholic): Grapefruit Juice, Non Alcoholic Elderflower, Club Soda, Edible Sugar Glass

New this season, Spirit's Rooftop Bar will feature a lineup of non-alcoholic, themed coffees.

• The Secret You Kept: Dark Chocolate Mocha Espresso, Ube Cold Foam
• Playtime's Over: Vanilla Bean Cold Brew, Strawberry Sweet Cream
• Bee Immortal: Salted Caramel & Honey Espresso, Whipped Cream, Bee Pollen
• Happy Campers Only: Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew, Chocolate Swirl, Marshmallow Cold Foam

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Shareables

Along with these new cocktails, the following selection of shareables is available to feed guests' fears all Hersheypark Halloween long.

• Junkyard Nachos: Nacho Cheese Chips, Bow Creek Farm Beef Chili, Smoked Cheddar Queso, Chopped Bacon, Sliced Jalapeños, Chipotle Chili Crema, Scallion
• Garden Estate Burrata: Tomato & Cucumber Salad, Everything Bagel Toasted Brioche, Garlic Jam, Leek Ash Oil, Pesto Drizzle
• Loco-Coco Tacos: Cocoa-Birria Shredded Short Rib, Pickled Red Onion, Queso Fresco, Cilantro, Corn Tortilla
• Marksman's Empanada: Duck Confit, Tomatillo Salsa Verde, Cherry Ancho Sauce
• Nuclear Fallout: Stuffed Bison Meatball, Marinara Sauce, Smoked Cheddar Polenta Grits
• Auntie Mortem's Butcher Block: Wagyu Brisket Pastrami, Duck Breast Prosciutto, Smoked Chicken Liver Pâté, Spicy Soppressata, Sweet Pepper Jam, Whole Grain Mustard, Crostini
• Diesel Smoked Wings: Black Garlic Soy Sauce, Kewpie Ranch, Sesame Seed, Daikon Radish
• Burnt Rubber Elote Dip: Chipotle Chili Butter, Queso Fresco, Lime Ash, Scallion, Tri-Color Tortilla Chips
• Witching Hour Flatbread: Ube Ricotta, Caramelized Pear, Candied Walnuts, Hot Honey
• Carnevil Wheel: Mozzarella Moons, Diesel Smoked Wings, Marksman’s Empanadas, Chicken Tenders, Burnt Rubber Elote Dip, Tri-Color Tortilla Chips

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Desserts

Guests should save room for two all-new, dreadfully delicious desserts to satisfy their sweet tooth.

• Dessert Tacos: Chocolate Strawberry, Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Cookies n Cream
• Caramel Popcorn: Buttery Popcorn, Crisp Caramel Coating

Starting in October and adding to the spooky ambiance, horror movies are screened without sound on the patio.

To keep up with all the sweet and spooky food news, follow @thechocolatierrestaurant on Instagram and @TheChocolatierHersheypark on Facebook. During your visit, be sure to tag us on social media using #TheChocolatier, and let us know your favorite items this season.

Don't forget to check out the 2026 Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Foodie Guide for more than 50 other eats and treats available throughout the eight-weekend seasonal event.

Born September 13, 1857, Mr. Hershey went on to become one of America’s most successful entrepeneurs and greatest humanitarians. He chose to build a model community where his chocolate factory employees could comfortably and happily live, work and play. Most importantly, he and his wife, Catherine, left their entire fortune to establish Milton Hershey School (MHS).

Mr. Hershey's legacy remains woven into every corner of The Sweetest Place On Earth, even 169 years after his birth. Explore these key landmarks throughout Hershey to learn more about his history and impact:

1826 - The Homestead

The Homestead is the birthplace of Milton S. Hershey, and where he would perfect his famous milk chocolate formula. In 1910, The Homestead also served as the first school building and residence for the boys of the Hershey Industrial School, known as Milton Hershey School.

1905 - Original Hershey Chocolate Factory

Milton S. Hershey made his first fortune with caramels, but he made lasting history with the decision to build a chocolate factory and town in what is known today as Hershey, Pennsylvania. It was here that Mr. Hershey transformed America's confectionery market by making chocolate affordable for everyone. For more than a century, the factory was the heart of the community and an iconic symbol of the company. In 2015, the historic building became home to The Hershey Company corporate offices.

1906 - Hersheypark

Milton S. Hershey strongly believed that opportunities for recreation would be critical to the success of his model town. He set aside 150 acres of land for a park that would serve as leisure grounds for the community and his employees. From these hubmle beginnings, Hersheypark has grown into a premier amusement park that welcomes guests from around the world to experience Hersheypark Happy.

1908 - High Point

The home of Milton and Catherine Hershey was named to reflect its location on a hill above the chocolate factory. During their lifetime, the Hersheys often invited the community to enjoy High Point's remarkable gardens. The historic building has also served as home to the Hershey Country Club, as well as corporate offices for Hershey Foods Corporation, now The Hershey Company, and Hershey Trust Company.

1909 - Milton Hershey School

Unable to have a family of their own, Milton and Catherine's dream was to provide a quality education and nurturing home environment for children as part of their legacy. Using the profits from the chocolate company, Milton and Catherine Hershey founded Milton Hershey School (MHS) in 1909. Since then, the lives of thousands of children have been transformed through a cost-free education and structured home life. The School currently serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, who come from income-eligible families, and has nearly 2,200 students enrolled and boasts more than 12,000+ alumni. Learn more at mhskids.org.

1930 - Hershey Country Club

The first floor of Milton S. Hershey's High Point home served as the original clubhouse, and the golf courses were designed by world-renowned architects. Noted PGA legends, Henry Picard and Ben Hogan served as head golf professionals. Hershey Country Club hosted the 1940 PGA Championship where Byron Nelson defeated Sam Snead 1 up in the 36-hole final. Because of its rich history, Hershey was considered by some to be the “Golf Capital of America.”

1930 - Parkview Manor

Originally constructed as the Hershey Park Golf Course Clubhouse, this historic building has long served the Hershey community. In 1970, Hershey Estates, now Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company, coined the name Parkview Manor and renovated the space to serve as one of its corporate offices.

1933 - The Hotel Hershey

To stimulate the local economy during the Great Depression, Milton S. Hershey commissioned a magnificent hotel inspired by his Mediterranean travels. The project employed more than 800 workers. The Hotel Hershey is known as one of the finest Historic Hotels of America and is a AAA Four-Diamond Recipient.

1934 - Catherine Hall

Named in honor of Catherine Hershey, the school above Hersheypark was originally constructed as a junior-senior high school. It underwent several renovations to meet the growing needs of Milton Hershey School. In 2007, Catherine Hall became the middle school division and welcomed students in grades 5-8 for the first time.

1937 - Hershey Gardens

Set on a hill overlooking Hershey, Hershey Gardens was created at Milton S. Hershey's request to create a "nice garden of roses." Now a dazzling 23 acres, it features colorful theme gardens and a stately collection of specimen trees. The Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which opened in 2016, features the tropical Butterfly Atrium, which is one of only 25 butterfly atriums in the country with dozens of butterflies on display.

1939 - Hersheypark Stadium

Hersheypark Stadium was one of Hershey's major tourist attractions, known for hosting thrilling automobile races, concerts and high-profile events. The Stadium continues to host world-class talent under the stars.

1967 - Hershey Lodge

Hershey Lodge originally opened as Hershey Motor Lodge. The demand for overnight accommodations rapidly increased and in response, the family resort expanded to add rooms, restaurants, recreation, and convention space. The deluxe accommodations offered at Hershey Lodge helped the town transition to a major entertainment and leisure destination, and today boasts 665 guest rooms and 16 suites.

1970 - Founders Hall

Founders Hall is a tribute to Milton and Catherine Hershey and the many individuals who helped lay the foundation for Milton Hershey School. Visitors to Founders Hall are left with a lasting impression of how the Hersheys' generosity continues to provide for children from qualifying families. The illuminated glass rotunda is one of the most iconic elements of the Hershey skyline.

1973 - Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction

Opened to provide visitors with Hershey's-themed confectionery experiences, Hershey's Chocolate World attraction features a free tour ride that offers a "behind-the-scenes look" at how Hershey's famous milk chocolate is made. Guests can celebrate their love of Hershey's all year long with a collection of chocolate and candy-centric attractions.

2009 - The Hershey Story The Museum on Chocolate Avenue

Located in downtown Hershey under the iconic Hershey's Kisses street lights, The Hershey Story takes visitors on an inspirational journey through Milton S. Hershey's lifetime and beyond, a tale spanning more than 150 years of trials and triumphs. Inspired by Mr. Hershey's own candy-making apprenticeship, guests can taste and create all things Hershey.

Throughout Hershey, Pennsylvania, his legacy continues to inspire the town built on chocolate. Learn more at www.hersheylegacy.com.

For nearly 25 days, including Halloween night, guests can experience five haunted houses and five scare zones, featuring the new Reese's Depot Of Doom, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail and more. All of these family thrills by day and fright experiences at night are included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket - a great value for getting into the Halloween spirit!

The eight-weekend event will also feature exclusive culinary creations, including the return of the popular Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, plus the Avenue Of The Afterlife path where guests will find a DJ Dance Party featuring the Hershey Characters, street performers and exclusive food and drink offerings.

When is Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Open?

Hersheypark Halloween is open for eight weekends from Sept. 12 through Nov. 1, 2026. Event hours are as follows:

• 5-10 p.m. on Fridays
• 12-10 p.m. on Saturdays
• 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.

What to Expect at Dark Nights?

The fifth chapter of Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® at Hersheypark Halloween begins nightly at 6 p.m. In celebration of its fifth year of terror, Dark Nights features a new fifth scare zone, Reese's Depot Of Doom. The remaining haunted houses and scare zones feature evolved stories containing more creatures, chaos and intensity.

• Kill 'N Fill Garage (in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): 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 (in Tidal Force Catering): 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 (The Whip): 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 (In the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): 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 (Trailblazer Catering): 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 each evening, more than ever in celebration of the fifth year of the iconic haunt experience.

• NEW Reese’s Depot Of Doom (In The Boardwalk Water Park): 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 (Behind the Cheverolet Music Box Theatre): 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 (Near Tidal Force): 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 (In Midway America):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.
  • Slider Showcase: Guests can see the viral Decayed Brigade, including Fryboy and Gas Can, slide through the night during their showcase of skills located in Midway Of Misery at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8:45 p.m. on Sundays.
• Darkstone’s Hollow (In The Hollow across the bridge): 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.

What's Included with Hersheypark Halloween?

Families can experience Hersheypark Halloween like never before as they play by day and fright by night! Each ticket includes thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating, the Avenue Of The Afterlife scare-free zone featuring a DJ Dance Party with the Hershey Characters and the original Creatures Of The Night flashlight tour at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park (starting Oct. 16).

Coasters and Rides
Weather and maintenance permitting, 50 rides are open during Hersheypark Halloween, with options for all Hershey height categories—from kiddie rides for the youngest guests to light-out coaster rides for thrill seekers. During the last hour of Park operation, the lights will go out for dark rides on some favorites, including Wildcat’s Revenge, Candymonium, Comet and Lightning Racer coasters. As an extra treat, Laff Trakk will offer lights-out rides in total darkness during the entirety of each Hersheypark Halloween operating date.

Please note that select kiddie and family rides may close by 5 p.m. before the start of Dark Nights. These attractions include Granny Bugs, Monorail, Music Express, Pony Parade, Red Baron, Sweet Swing, Tea Cups and Trailblazer. Guests can download the Hersheypark app for a map and real-time ride availability.

Trick-or-Treating Experience
There’s no sweeter place to trick-or-treat than Hersheypark! Children 12 and younger are invited to collect their favorite candy at 14 sweet stops on the Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail. The Trail winds from Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction with four locations to Treatville in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region with 10 stops. Guests can enter Treatville across from Fahrenheit and experience fun photo backdrops, a hay maze and light displays at night.

Treatville is available beginning on Fridays at 6 PM and on Saturday and Sunday at 2 PM, concluding on each operating evening at 8:30 PM.

Avenue Of The Afterlife
For guests who want to avoid any scares, there is the Avenue Of The Afterlife path in the water park to skip the Dark Nights chills while enjoying the season's thrills. New in 2026, the scare-free zone features a DJ dance party with the Hershey Characters along with the return of wicked-fun street performers like the Acro Duo jugglers and stilt walkers. Avenue of The Afterlife is also home to exclusive food and beverage offerings.

Hershey Character Photo Opportunities
Hersheypark is the only place where guests can snap selfies with Hershey Characters dressed in Halloween costumes. In addition to the DJ dance party at night in the Avenue of The Afterlife, photo opportunities are available during the day at Hersh’s Hangout and Reese's Cup House. Characters and show times are listed in the Hersheypark app.

Please note that character availability, location and appearance times are subject to change.

Our Friends From The Sea Show
Guests can see California sea lions, Atlantic harbor seals and a grey seal during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please note there are no shows on Fridays.

Creatures Of The Night begins Oct. 16
Creatures of the Night returns to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park! The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this fall, with the Creatures Of The Night attraction running Friday through Sunday from Oct. 16 through Nov. 1 from 6-9 p.m. The Halloween-themed experience is the only time of year that ZooAmerica is open after dark for visitors to explore the Zoo by flashlight to see their favorite nocturnal animals under the cover of nightfall and enjoy educational activities.

ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Guests interested in visiting ZooAmerica before Hersheypark opens will have to purchase separate Zoo admission here.

What Food and Beverage Options are Available during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights?

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights will feature an elevated food and beverage lineup with more than 50 scary good eats and spell-binding drinks.

Back by popular demand, the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass allows guests to taste items from more than 30 specialty options available at multiple locations throughout Hersheypark.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio hosts Spirit’s Rooftop Bar, a rooftop rendezvous available during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days starting at 4:30 p.m. Located on the patio, guests can experience the haunted rooftop high above Hershey's Chocolatetown as they brave their way to the Dark Nights haunted houses or calm their nerves on the way out of Hersheypark with a nocturnal nightcap. The exclusive menu features 19 all-new limited-time spell-binding cocktails on a rotating schedule throughout Hersheypark Halloween, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred.

Guests can also take home a piece of Dark Nights with event-exclusive branded merchandise at Dark Nights Emporium, Boo-tique store and Hersheypark Supply Co. The No-Boo Necklaces featuring a Reese’s bat make a great light-up souvenir for kids with a Hershey twist!

Where can I get Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Tickets?

Hersheypark Halloween admission includes access to all five of the Dark Nights haunted houses and five scare zones. Tickets are available for purchase online in advance. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders and 2027 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Guests can get to the fear faster with the Dark Nights Fast Track Unlimited program for the five haunted houses on the date of their visit.

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

During the Halloween season, guests can extend their stay in Hershey, Pa., at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation including the The Villas at The Hotel Hershey experience, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites.

The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites offers several Halloween packages, including a Dark Nights package featuring two nights of deluxe accommodations, a two-day Hersheypark ticket, breakfast each day, a Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass and Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Passes for each guest.

All guests receive Free Resort Benefits like free front gate shuttle service and preview hours.

If you are a current 2026 Season Pass Holder or considering becoming a new 2027 Season Pass Holder, now is the time to buy and save the most on more summer days.

Learn more about the 2027 Season Pass options below and renew or purchase yours today for a year of Hersheypark Happy at the guaranteed best price!

An Overview of Season Pass Tiers

All 2027 Season Passes include unlimited visits throughout the 2027 operating year for all four seasons at Hersheypark, including Spring Weekends, Summer, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Depending on the Pass type, Season Pass Holders can also enjoy free parking, a free Pre-K Pass, other sweet perks, exclusive Season Pass Holder events and great discounts around town. For the first time, new 2027 Full, King or Giant Season Pass holders will also receive unlimited visits and free parking to 2026 Hersheypark Halloween and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

Below is an overview of each Season Pass tier to help you decide which one is right for you.

Please note that Hersheypark does not offer family, military, junior or senior Season Passes, as they are already a discounted product. Military ticket offers may be available seasonally on ID.me. Each guest, age three and older, must have their own ticket or Season Pass to enter Hersheypark.

Giant Size Season Pass
A Giant Size Season Pass is the biggest, most perk-packed Hersheypark Season Pass tier and includes the following benefits:

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Single-Use, Single-Ride Fast Track each visit to skip the line on one participating Fast Track attraction, excluding Boardwalk attractions and Dark Nights haunted houses
• Two free Pre-K Passes valid for children born on or after January 1, 2022
• Three free 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets valid for the 2027 public operating year
• The All-Year Drink Plan with one Season Pass Holder Souvenir Cup
• Three free Single-Use Snack Vouchers
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 27 through Sept. 6
• Access to the Exclusive Giant Size Pass Holder Lounge
• 45% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2027 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• Up to 50% off Unlimited All-Day Fast Track the day of the visit, excluding Boardwalk attractions and Dark Nights haunted houses
• $150 off All-Season Fast Track
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• 2027 Giant Size Season Pass Holder Bag
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2027
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2027

King Size Season Pass
Hersheypark wrapped up everything Pass Holders love about Full Size Season Passes and added some King Size perks, including the following benefits:

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Pre-K Pass valid for children born on or after January 1, 2022
• Two free 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets valid for the 2027 public operating year
• The All-Year Drink Plan with one Season Pass Holder Souvenir Cup
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 27 through Sept. 6
• 35% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2027 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• 2027 King Size Season Pass Holder Bag
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2027
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2027

Full Size Season Pass
The Full Size Season Pass is packed full of perks, sweet discounts, a monthly rewards calendar and more, as noted below.

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Pre-K Pass valid for children born on or after January 1, 2022
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 27 through Sept. 6
• 25% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2027 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2027
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2027

Bite Size Season Pass
Bite Size Season Passes offer an introduction to the Hersheypark Season Pass program with unlimited admission. Please note that Bite Size Season Pass Holders DO NOT receive 1-hour early access with Hersheypark Sweet Start or access to Season Pass Holder events, even when accompanied by a Full Size, King Size or Giant Size Pass Holder. No exceptions.

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• 50% off general parking when purchased in advance online through the Season Pass Portal
• 5% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark

Pre-K Pass Perk
Full Size and King Size Season Pass Holders receive one free Pre-K Pass, and Giant Size Season Pass Holders receive two free Pre-K Passes as part of their perks. The free Pre-K Pass is available for a child who is under five years old and born on or after January 1, 2022. The qualifying child will receive unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season, plus 1-hour early Sweet Start access during the summer season.

The Pre-K Pass activation vouchers will be loaded into the Season Pass Portal in early 2027. Pre-K Passes must be redeemed by August 31, 2027. Children 2 and under are eligible to redeem a Pre-K Pass but are not required to have an admission ticket for entry. Any guest wanting to use the Pre-K Pass to enter ZooAmerica prior to Pass redemption must show their confirmation email.

Unlimited Visits In 2026 Too!
New this year, guests who do not already have a 2026 Season Pass but want to enjoy the rest of 2026 and all of 2027 can purchase a 2027 Full, King or Giant Season Pass, which includes unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween, Dark Nights and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane in 2026 AND all public operating days in 2027. It's also a great option for 2026 Summer Fun Card Holders!

For the remainder of 2026, new 2027 Full, King and Giant Season Pass Holders can enjoy all the perks of a Full Size Pass, like free parking, discounts and access to exclusive Season Pass Holder events. Please note that any other perks based on the Season Pass tier selected, such as Hersheypark tickets, welcome bags and Drink Plans and cups, and a free Pre-K Pass, are not available until next year.

New 2027 Season Pass Purchases

2027 Season Passes are available for purchase now, starting at 10 monthly payments of just $10 after initial $49 down payment

Season Pass Payment Plan
Buying a Season Pass is even more affordable with a monthly payment plan. Guests must simply select their Payment Plan at checkout, and after an initial down payment, the monthly payment will be automatically deducted each month.

2027 Season Pass Renewals

2026 Hersheypark Season Passes are valid through Jan. 3, 2027. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can renew now at their same Pass tier for the lowest price on 2027 Season Passes.

2027 Season Pass Add-Ons

Select Dining, Drink and Fast Track plans are now available to add to a Season Pass, depending on the tier, when purchased simultaneously.

Please note that Season Pass Add-on(s) will only auto-renew if they were purchased together with a 2026 Season Pass. Any Dining Plan or Drink Plan purchased separately from the original 2026 contract will not be auto-renewed for 2027. Season Pass Holders can purchase them as separate add-ons in early 2027.

Season Pass Dining Plans
Hersheypark will offer two 2027 Summer Dining Plans: the Season Pass All-Summer Twice-A-Day Dining Plan and the Season Pass All-Summer Once-A-Day Dining Plan. Full Size, King Size and Giant Size Season Pass Holders can add them to their Season Pass purchase or renewal now.

The Season Pass Twice-A-Day Dining Plan is valid for two meals per day, three hours apart, at 21 dining locations. These locations include Dispatch Pizzeria Express, Nathan’s Famous in Founder’s Way, 1906 Grill, Dispatch in The Hollow, Flying Fare, Overlook Food Court, Kissing Tower Snacks, Chickie’s and Pete’s in Pioneer Frontier, Subway in Pioneer Frontier, Berks, Nathan's Famous Truck, 8-Cut Crust, Keepin' It Kosher, Nathan’s Famous in The Boardwalk, Shoreline Grill, Walking Taco Food Truck, Spring Creek Smokehouse, East Coast Burger Works, Philly Cheesesteak Co., Subway in Midway America and Chickie's and Pete's in Midway America. Locations are subject to change without notice and by season.

The Season Pass All-Summer Once-A-Day Dining Plan allows guests to purchase a lower-priced Summer Dining Plan valid for one meal per day at 14 locations throughout Hersheypark. These locations include Dispatch Pizzeria Express, Nathan’s Famous in Founder’s Way, 1906 Grill, Dispatch in The Hollow, Flying Fare, Overlook Food Court, Kissing Tower Snacks, Berks, 8-Cut Crust, Keepin' It Kosher, Nathan’s Famous in The Boardwalk, Shoreline Grill and Walking Taco Food Truck. Locations are subject to change without notice and by season.

Season Pass Drink Plans
Hersheypark will offer a Season Pass All-Year Drink Plan to enjoy free refills in an exclusive 2027 souvenir cup on fountain drinks and Slush. The 2027 All-Year Drink Plan is included as a perk for King Size and Giant Size Season Pass Holders. This add-on will be available for Full Size and Bite Size Season Pass Holders to purchase separately closer to the start of the 2027 season.

Season Pass All-Season Fast Track and Photo Pass
The Season Pass All-Season Fast Track and All-Year Photo Pass will go on sale in early 2027. Program details, including pricing, will be available at that time.

As a perk, 2027 Giant Size Season Pass Holders may purchase the 2027 All-Season Fast Track for $150 off the regular rate at Ticketing Services on-property only starting in 2027.

Season Pass Next Steps

Hersheypark Season Pass Holders are encouraged to create a Season Pass Portal Account to access important information, purchase add-ons, link their family's passes, manage their payment method and more.

Please note that as of 2027, all Season Passes are digital, including Pre-K Passes, as printed cards will no longer be offered. Season Pass Holders have the option of printing a screenshot of the QR code from their digital Pass as a physical option.

New 2027 Season Pass Holders can upload their account profile picture using the link delivered via email shortly after completing your purchase. Be sure to take your profile picture in a well-lit area and that the photo is of yourself without anyone else in frame, centered on your head and shoulders. Please note that you must remove any hats or sunglasses and that photos of other photos are not acceptable. Once you've successfully uploaded a photo, your digital card can be added to your HPGO account in the Hersheypark App. Pre-K Passes are the only Season Pass type which will require in-person activation.

2026 Season Pass Holders who renew for 2027 into the same tier do not need to get a new Season Pass ID and can continue to use their physical Season Pass card from 2026.

We look forward to a sweet 2027 with our Season Pass Holder family!

Check out this guide to all of the sinister thrills lurking in the shadows this season at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania.

Scream your way through five haunted houses

Dark Nights features five haunted houses with evolved stories containing more creatures, chaos and intensity.

Kill ‘N Fill Garage

Located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse

The lights are back on at the Kill ‘N Fill Garage following its grand opening in 2025, 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

Located in Tidal Force Catering across from Tidal Force and next to the entrance portal for the Fallout Zone scare zone

Estate of Evil debuted at Dark Nights in 2024 as the first proper exploration of a traditional haunted “house” trope at Hersheypark. 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

Located next to Music Express and Laff Trakk in the Midway America region

Auntie Mortem has a new partner at Auntie Mortem's Abattoir 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.

Haunted Coal Mine

Located in the Trailblazer catering space near Spring Creek Smokehouse

Drip… drip… drip. Something dark is flooding the Haunted Coal 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.

Twisted Carnevil

Located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse

Step right up to 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.

Brave Five Scare Zones

As part of Dark Nights, the Hersheypark midways also transform into five scare zones - more than ever before - each evening. Guests can venture through them to come face-to-face with the creatures that haunt their nightmares.

Reese's Depot Of Doom (New for 2026)

Located in The Boardwalk Water Park

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

Located behind Chevrolet Music Box Theatre

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.

Midway Of Misery

Located outside Laff Trakk

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.

Guests can see the Decayed Brigade slide in their iconic, high-octane style during a Slider Showcase outside of Laff Trakk at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8:45 p.m. on Sundays. Built for chaos, this stunt crew is sure to put on quite the spectacle. The Brigade doesn't just perform...they take over.

Fallout Zone

Located near Tidal Force

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.

Darkstone’s Hollow

Located in The Hollow across the bridge

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.

Feel the rush on more than a dozen high-thrill rides

For those guests who crave more than the screams of the haunted houses and scare zones, more than 50 rides from mild-to-wild are available during the Halloween season, weather and maintenance permitting. Sixteen of those Hersheypark Halloween rides are given a high-thrill or aggressive-thrill rating, making for plenty of screams aboard your favorite attractions.

Those looking for the ultimate intensity will find no shortage of high-energy thrills from the World's Largest Screamin' Swing, Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, to the award-winning wood and steel hybrid coaster, Wildcat's Revenge. The Hersheypark Halloween season is also the last chance to enjoy rides on Skyrush, Fahrenheit, Great Bear, Storm Runner and the family-friendly Comet and Trailblazer (closes at 5 p.m.) before they close for the holiday season.

Please note that all roller coasters and rides close at the conclusion of Hersheypark Halloween operating hours.

Take a coaster ride in complete darkness

A uniquely Hersheypark experience, the Halloween season is the ONLY time of year when coaster fans can ride some of their favorite roller coasters in total darkness. During the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation each evening, the lights go out on Wildcat's Revenge, Candymonium, Comet and Lightning Racer. As an extra special treat, Laff Trakk will provide lights-out ride all day long each Hersheypark Halloween operating date. Nothing matches the intensity of a dark ride on some of the most iconic Hersheypark coasters.

Scare your taste buds with dreadfully delicious eats and treats

No Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights visit would be complete without indulging in the season's exclusive food and beverage offerings including seasonal King Size Shake varieties at Simply Chocolate dessert shop and the return of smoked Turkey Legs at the fan-favorite Spring Creek Smokehouse. Guests can sample the most terrifyingly tasty treats with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, which includes a choice of up to five specialty menu items from more than 30 options throughout the Park. Options include the all-new Brisket Cuban Sandwich, the returning Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets, a refreshing Pumpkin Horchata, fan-favorite Spirellos and more.

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.

Sip at Spirits Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Parkgoers can shift gears for a ghastly good time with spirits both real and imagined at Spirit’s Rooftop Bar on The Chocolatier patio, weather permitting. Guests ages 21 and older can enjoy limited-time-only, theatrically cocktail presentations, such as drinks served through a vintage TV screen, in beakers and syringes and more along with wicked-good eats like the Auntie Mortem's Butcher Block with wagyu brisket pastrami, duck breast prosciutto, smoked chive liver pâté, spicy soppressata, crostini and dips.

The haunted rooftop bar is available during all Hersheypark Halloween operating days starting at 4:30 p.m., weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted.

Stroll through the Avenue Of The Afterlife

For those guests who want to experience Dark Nights thrills without any chills, there's no need to fear! Families can take a walk down the Avenue Of The Afterlife, conveniently located in The Boardwalk. This scare-free zone is the place to dance and dine amongst the soulless who wander through the fog. Guests can purchase exclusive food, join a DJ dance party with the Hershey Characters and watch wicked-fun street performances including the Acro Duo jugglers and stilt walkers - all while skipping the scares!

Save on tickets

Great ticket deals are available on Hersheypark.com, with Hersheypark Halloween pre-sale tickets available now, starting at $36.99 when you pick your day. 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.

Hersheypark Halloween tickets include 50 rides (weather and maintenance permitting), five Dark Nights haunted houses, five scare zones, thrilling dark ride opportunities and Halloween entertainment.

Get to the thrills faster

Guests wishing to get to the thrills and fear faster and skip the lines during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights can add a Fast Track program to their admission ticket. Limited quantities are available, so guests are encouraged to buy online today. Please note that Hersheypark admission tickets are sold separately and are required for entry to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

• Hersheypark Fast Track + Dark Nights Haunted Houses Unlimited - Skip the regular line all day long on participating coasters and rides, plus all night long at the five haunted houses after 6 p.m.
• Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Unlimited - Skip the regular line all night long at the five haunted houses after 6 p.m.
• Hersheypark Fast Track Unlimited - Skip the regular line for each of the participating attractions all day long.
• Hersheypark Fast Track - Skip the regular line once per day on participating coasters and rides.

Dare to join?

Hersheypark Halloween—recognized as one of the top Halloween events in the country by USA TODAY 10Best—delivers plenty of daytime fun for families before the immersive haunt experiences start at 6 p.m. Visitors can enjoy kid-friendly rides, sweet trick-or-treat stops, festive Hershey Character meet-and-greets, and much more. Families visiting with little ghouls and goblins can rely on this guide of family-friendly things to do at Hersheypark Halloween to help plan their perfect spooky season visit.

1. Rides for Every Age Group

Hersheypark Halloween tickets include access to 50 rides, weather and maintenance permitting. The park caters to every Hershey height group, offering more than 40 family and kiddie attractions along with more than a dozen thrilling coasters.

Thrill seekers in the family are in for a real treat, as the lights go out for dark rides on Candymonium, Comet, Lightning Racer and Wildcat's Revenge during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation. For even more Halloween fun, Laff Trakk will feature lights-out rides during the entire operating day.

This event also serves as the final opportunity to experience select high-thrill coasters before they undergo winter maintenance in preparation for the 2027 season.

Please note that select family and kiddie attractions—including Granny Bugs, Monorail, Music Express, Pony Parade, Red Baron, Sweet Swing, Tea Cups and Trailblazer—may close at 5 p.m. prior to Dark Nights. Visitors are encouraged to download the Hersheypark mobile app to check real-time attraction availability and view the park map.

2. Trick-or-Treating for Kids (12 and Under)

There’s no sweeter place to trick-or-treat than Hersheypark! Children ages 12 and under can put on their favorite Halloween costumes* and explore 14 fun-filled candy stops along the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail. The trail starts with four stops at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction and continues into The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region, where 10 additional stops await in Treatville.

Treatville opens at 6 p.m. on Fridays and at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays and closes each operating evening at 8:30 p.m., including Halloween night on Saturday, Oct. 31. The path begins at The Boardwalk main entrance across from Fallout Zone and Estate of Evil and winds throughout the water park with fun photo spots and a festive hay maze.

*Costume Policy

• All guests: Costumes that may cause confusion between the Dark Nights actors and guests are not permitted. Additionally, except as otherwise noted below, costumes are permitted on attractions provided they do not interfere with the restraint system, proper riding position, or cause a hazard to guests, employees, and/or the attraction. The loose articles policy for each attraction can be found under the “Additional Restrictions/Accessibility” link located on the information pages for each attraction on Hersheypark’s website, in the Rider Safety & Accessibility Guide, and on the Height Signs located at each attraction. Failure to adhere to the Hersheypark Costume Policy may result in the costume not being permitted or guest removal from the Park.
• Guests age 12 and under: Costumes and costume masks that provide unobstructed peripheral vision at all times with openings that allow the eyes to be fully seen may be worn. Costume masks are not allowed to be worn on any attractions. Having a fully painted face is permitted. This applies to guests who come to Hersheypark in makeup and also to guests who have their faces painted by the Park’s face painters.
• Guests age 13 and older: Costumes may be worn but must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, revealing, objectionable, violent, or otherwise disrupt the general safety of guests or employees. Costumes may not contain any props or accessories that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon. Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another guest. Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening. Costumes may not drag on the ground as they could be a trip hazard. Costume masks are not permitted, but guests may have up to half of their face painted provided that it does not alter their identity.

3. All-New Monster Meet & Shriek

New this year, guests can come face-to-face with the monsters of Dark Nights during the Monster Meet & Shriek inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. Offered every Hersheypark Halloween operating day from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., this family-friendly entertainment experience lets guests of all ages meet and pose for photos with featured monsters from the haunted houses and scare zones. Guests are welcome to take their own photos, but a dedicated Photo Pass photographer is also available on-site to capture spooky memories.

Daily character appearances are noted in the Hersheypark app but are subject to change based on availability.

4. Sweet Greets with Hershey Characters

Hersheypark is the only amusement park where guests can snap selfies with Hershey Characters dressed in Halloween costumes. Sweet Greet opportunities are offered at Hershey’s Hangout with Hershey Bar and Miss Kiss, and at Reese's Cuphouse with Reese and JR. Check the Hersheypark app for full schedule details, and remember to share your pictures on social media using #HersheyparkHalloween!

5. Scare-Free Avenue of the Afterlife

For guests who want to experience the Dark Nights thrills without any chills, there's no need to fear! Families can take a walk down the Avenue of the Afterlife, conveniently located in The Boardwalk. This scare-free zone is the place to dance, dine and celebrate the season with a crew of family-friendly creatures. Guests can purchase exclusive food, watch the Acro Duo jugglers and stilt walkers, and join a DJ Dance Party, now featuring select Hershey Characters - all while skipping the scares!

6. Our Friends From The Sea Show

Parkgoers can see California sea lions and Atlantic harbor seals during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 2 and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please note there are no shows on Fridays.

7. 60+ Seasonal Food and Drink Options

Visitors often come for the rides, but they stay for the sweet treats at Hersheypark, and Halloween is no exception. Hersheypark offers a taste of fall with more than 60 limited-time snacks, savory eats and specialty drinks during Hersheypark Halloween. Instagram-worthy items include Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets, a Brisket Cuban Sandwich and three Halloween-themed King Size Shakes—signature milkshakes topped with baked goods celebrating a decade of popularity in 2026!

Additionally, guests sample a variety of scary-good culinary offerings available during Dark Nights with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass. The pass lets visitors eat their way through Hersheypark by choosing up to five specialty items from more than 30 food and drink options. Priced at $39.99 plus tax, it can be purchased online prior to a trip or at Guest Services locations in the Park.

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.

Explore our 2026 Foodie Guide to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights to plan your culinary adventure through Hersheypark.

8. Haunted Houses and Scare Zones

If your family wants to give the scares a try, Dark Nights returns for its fifth year with an expanded lineup of frightful fun starting at 6 p.m. Admission to Dark Nights is included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket or 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass, granting access to five haunted houses with varying levels of intensity and five spine-tingling scare zones.

New in 2026, brave visitors can follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom scare zone. But they must 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?

Note: Some aspects of the experience may be too intense for children younger than 13. Parental discretion and guidance are advised.

9. Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica (Starting Oct. 16)

Guests should bring their flashlight and curiosity, because ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is getting in on the Halloween action with Creatures Of The Night! The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this fall, with the Creatures Of The Night event running Fridays through Sundays from Oct. 16 to Nov. 1. The Halloween-themed experience from 6-9 p.m. is the only time of year that ZooAmerica is open after dark for visitors to explore the 11-acre Zoo by flashlight, see their favorite nocturnal animals under the cover of nightfall and enjoy educational activities.

ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween when accessed from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Guests interested in visiting ZooAmerica before Hersheypark opens will have to purchase a separate Zoo admission.

10. Overnight Fall Getaway

Visitors looking to treat the family to a Halloween weekend in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book the perfect fall getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, with rates available online.

The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites offer several Halloween packages, including a Dark Nights package featuring two nights of deluxe accommodations, a two-day Hersheypark ticket, breakfast each day, Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Passes and Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Passes for each guest.

All resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at the Park with Preview Plan and free front-gate shuttle service to our exclusive resort drop-off location.

Save On Halloween Visits

Hersheypark Halloween admission includes access to the Dark Nights haunted houses and scare zones, more than 50 rides and attractions, Hersheypark Halloween entertainment and much more fun for the whole family. Hersheypark Halloween pre-sale tickets are available now, starting at $36.99 when you pick your day on www.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.

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

Allergen-Friendly Options

Guests with dietary restrictions can enjoy select Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass items: 

Gluten-Friendly: Chocolate Potato Chip Crispy, Fall Out Fries, Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cool Ranch Doritos, Cheeseburger Dip with Tostitos, all Spirellos, all drinks
Vegetarian: Avocado Egg Rolls, Ranch Cheese Curds, Pickle Dip Spirello, All desserts (except the Maple Pecan Blondie), all drinks
Vegan: All drinks except the Taro Cold Brew.

Hersheypark Halloween food items for guests with dietary restrictions are as follows: 

Gluten-Friendly: BBQ Wings, Turkey Leg, Brisket, Chicken Enchilada Soup
Vegetarian: Brussels Sprouts & Sweet Potato Hash
Vegan: Vegan Chai Cupcake
 

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 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 Lounge with continental breakfast, grab & go snacks, fountain soda, s'mores roasts around the Villas Fire Pit, exclusive Hershey Character weekend meet and more. 

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.