Hersheypark’s unique candy-themed sizing chart determines ride access based on height categories. This system ensures guest safety while maximizing enjoyment across various attractions. From Hershey’s Miniatures (under 36 inches) to Jolly Ranchers (60 inches and taller), each category corresponds to specific ride eligibility. Understanding this chart is crucial for planning your visit and managing expectations for all group members.
What Are the Height Categories in Hershey Park’s Sizing Chart?
Hersheypark uses a candy-themed height category system to determine which rides guests can access. Here’s a breakdown of the complete sizing chart:
- Hershey’s Miniatures: Under 36 inches
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Eligible for 28 rides, primarily designed for toddlers and young children
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Hershey’s Kisses: 36-42 inches
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Can enjoy 42 rides, including some mild rollercoasters like Cocoa Cruiser and Trailblazer
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Reese’s: 42-48 inches
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Access to 58 rides, including the first ‘upside-down’ coaster, the sooperdooperLooper
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Hershey’s Bar: 48-54 inches
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Eligible for 66 rides, including most attractions and eight rollercoasters
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Twizzlers: 54-60 inches
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Can ride 52-58 attractions, including all big coasters, but may be restricted from some smaller rides
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Jolly Rancher: 60 inches and taller
- Access to 37 rides, primarily larger and more intense attractions, but excluded from ‘kiddie’ rides
How Does Age Factor into Ride Eligibility at Hershey Park?
Contrary to what some might expect, Hersheypark doesn’t use age as a determining factor for ride access. Instead, the park relies solely on height categories to dictate which rides are accessible to each guest. This approach ensures that safety measures are based on physical attributes rather than arbitrary age limits.
What Are the Specific Ride Restrictions at Hershey Park?
Hersheypark enforces several health, safety, and physical requirements for specific attractions:
- Prosthetic Devices:
- Some rides may require removal of prosthetic legs
- Residual limb must be below the knee
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Documentation from limb manufacturer may be necessary
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Casts and Braces:
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Hard casts or mobility-limiting braces are prohibited on certain rides (e.g., Candymonium, Skyrush)
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Weight and Size Limitations:
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Some rides have restrictions based on guest size due to safety restraint configurations
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Medical Devices:
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Guests with devices sensitive to magnetic fields should avoid certain attractions
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Wheelchair/ECV Transfer:
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Most rides require transfer from mobility devices to attraction units
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Hand-Held Items and Loose Articles:
- Many rides prohibit unsecured items during the ride
How Does Hershey Park Accommodate Guests with Special Needs?
Hersheypark offers several accommodations for guests with special needs or accessibility requirements:
- Accessibility Services:
- Located outside the Front Gate and at various Guest Services locations
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Provides information and assistance for guests with disabilities
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Attraction Accessibility Program:
- Guests must demonstrate ability to understand and follow all attraction requirements
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This includes maintaining proper riding position and using restraints correctly
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Transfer Requirements:
- Most attractions require guests to transfer from wheelchairs or ECVs to ride units
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Exceptions include Dry Gulch Railroad and Carrousel
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Documentation and Assistance:
- Some guests may need to provide documentation or receive assistance from park personnel
What Should Guests Know About the Hershey Park Sizing Chart Before Visiting?
Before planning your trip to Hersheypark, consider the following tips related to the sizing chart:
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Measure Before You Go: Accurately measure all members of your group at home to avoid surprises at the park.
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Check Ride Eligibility: Use the sizing chart to plan which rides each member of your group can enjoy.
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Consider Growth: If visiting with children, be aware that they may grow into a new category between visits.
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Wear Appropriate Footwear: Shoes can affect height measurements, so wear typical footwear for accurate sizing.
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Be Prepared for Re-Measurement: Park staff may request re-measurement if there’s any doubt about a guest’s height category.
How Can Families Maximize Their Experience with the Hershey Park Sizing Chart?
To make the most of your Hersheypark visit using the sizing chart:
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Plan Shared Experiences: Identify rides that all family members can enjoy together.
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Use Parent Swap: For rides with height restrictions, one parent can wait with younger children while the other rides, then switch.
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Explore Height-Appropriate Areas: Focus on sections of the park that cater to your group’s height categories.
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Set Expectations: Discuss ride eligibility with children before the visit to manage expectations.
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Consider Multi-Day Visits: If there’s a significant height difference in your group, a multi-day visit allows time for everyone to enjoy their eligible rides.
By understanding and utilizing the Hershey Park sizing chart effectively, visitors can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-planned experience for all members of their group.