Hi everyone, have you ever been to the most fanciful theme park north of Disney World? It’s Hershey Park – actually Hersheypark (one word) and it’s right in the middle of Pennsylvania.
Hershey of course is the most famous brand of chocolate in the world, and as you might guess, the theme here is … CHOCOLATE. Technically speaking, Hersheypark isn’t owned by the Chocolate company, it is Hershey Entertainment and Resorts. But both are owned by the Hershey Foundation, so not a big difference.
You might wonder, how in the world did I wind up here? Well, I’m an employee there, at least for a few months, so free entry is a sweet fringe benefit (pun intended)!
Sweet Stats:
Before we get started here’s some vital stats:
- Theme: Hershey’s Chocolate / Hershey’s Kisses / Pennsylvania Heritage
- Attendance: Over 3,000,000 each year.
- Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania.
- Opened: May 30, 1906.
- Size: About 120 acres.
- Rides: Over 75 rides, numerous roller coasters, live entertainment, and a water park. I’m a big roller coaster fan, so read below for some reviews!
- ZooAmerica: Next door is a great zoo.
- Visitors: millions each year.
- Hotels: Hershey Lodge, The Hotel Hershey, and Hersheypark Camping Resort.
- Website: hersheypark.com
Sweet Start
Sweet Start is when King Size Season Pass Holders can get into the park an hour early. Employees can get in early as well. Some of the rides open early so you can go on them with not much lines.
Candy Monium
The first one I went on, was the tallest ride in the park. Candy monium is a coaster right in the front of the park in the Chocolate Town section. It goes 75 mph and you have to be at least 54in to ride. There was also a 100 foot first drop. It is a smooth and exhilarating ride.
The Claw
The claw is a spinning ride that lifts you up 64 feet in the air in each direction above trees. This one was super fun. It also spines you in each direction gaining momentum each time. It feels like you are flying.
Jolly Rancher Remix
This is a very unique roller coaster. It is Jolly Rancher themed. There are bright lights, music, and a flavor tunnel that sprays Jolly Rancher flavors. It is a different flavor each time. The time I went on it it was green apple flavored.
Drop Tower
This ride looked like so much fun from the ground. There are three different towers all of different heights. I went on the highest one which was the Hershey’s one . It does a series of drops, including a full drop from the top. So if you like to feel high – Gs, this is a ride for you. Another insider tip about this ride: often the line is not very long!
Great Bear
Great Bear is a thrilling inverted roller-coaster. This means that your feet are dangling. You are also bellow the track the whole time. It goes 60 MPH. Insider tip: This ride has a height requirement of 45 inches (just under four feet).
Conclusion
In conclusion I loved Hershey Park. My goal is to ride every ride in the park this summer. I can not believe I got the opportunity to work in such a amazing place. I am having the time of my life here. Can not wait to spend my summer exploring.
