Why The New York Times Says Hersheypark Is The Place To Be

When you think of Hersheypark, what two things come to mind? Chocolate and roller coasters. With more than 70 rides and attractions, Hersheypark offers something for everyone, from first-time riders to high-speed thrill seekers. While we offer 13 coasters at every speed, many people prefer not to ride coasters at all, which pegs the question "why go to an amusement park when I don’t ride roller coasters?"

The New York Times writer Justin Sablich was notorious within his inner circle for being afraid of roller coasters – a fear he’s had since childhood. During a recent visit to Hersheypark, however, Sablich was able to garner some positive thoughts regarding theme parks and shared his experience with his readers.

Sablich believes that one doesn’t have to scream to have a blast at amusement parks. "I do enjoy horror films, but the great thing there is I don’t have to have an actual encounter with, say, a demonic clown to get a rush. With coasters, watching a clip of others scream while dropping 300 feet at over 100 miles per hour is enough to get my blood flowing" – which is very common!

So, if you aren’t visiting Hersheypark for the roller coasters, then why come? "‘While, maybe, roller coasters are the single most popular type of attraction, they’re really not the things that drive attendance to the top parks in the country,’ said Robert Niles, the editor of ThemeParkInsider.com. ‘It’s more the characters, the brand names, it’s the stuff you go to Disney and Universal to see.’ While Disney has Mickey and Universal Studios has Harry Potter, Hersheypark and its related attractions have a common thread with even more widespread appeal: chocolate," Sablich states. "Parks that can offer these types of one-off experiences, along with an assortment of other engaging activities, are the ones to look for."

Hersheypark not only offers more than 70 rides and attractions; ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park and The Boardwalk at Hersheypark are included in the Park’s one-price admission. Additionally, the destination offers a wide array of attractions within close proximity to Hersheypark, including The Hershey Story Museum, where guests can learn about Milton S. Hershey and the history of the town he created; Hershey Gardens, a 23-acre botanical garden; and Hershey’s Chocolate World, where guests can experience chocolate making like never before.

Finally, we can’t forget to mention the food, and boy did Sablich enjoy it! In his article, Sablich notes that themed food is another popular trend in the amusement park industry. While Hersheypark prides itself on featuring local and regional favorites in the park – such as whoopie pies from Makin’ Whoopie Pies, a Lancaster-based company and crabfries from Chickie’s & Petes, a Philadelphia favorite – we cannot shortchange our guests on the chocolate experience. From 32-ounce king-size shakes to chocolate-covered Twizzlers and bacon, there’s never too much chocolate at Hersheypark.

As Sablich states in his article, "amusement parks, and theme parks in particular, can still be fulfilling, especially if you can shed the shame that often accompanies those of us who prefer both feet on the ground." From the thrilling rides to the delicious food, The New York Times truly believes that there is something for everyone at Hersheypark – even if you prefer to enjoy the view from the ground!

Read the full story via The New York Times.