Hershey Park, a beloved destination for thrill-seekers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, experiences varying levels of attendance throughout the year. Understanding the peak days at Hershey Park is crucial for visitors planning their trips. This guide provides detailed information on the busiest times, wait times, operating schedules, and accessibility features to help you navigate the park during its most crowded periods.
What Are the Specific Peak Days for Hershey Park?
Summer Season Crowds
The summer months of June, July, and August typically see the highest attendance at Hershey Park. During this period:
- Weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) are consistently the busiest days
- Holidays, particularly the 4th of July, draw large crowds
- The day immediately following a major holiday often experiences a significant drop in attendance
Spring and Easter Rush
Spring break and the Easter holiday bring their own surge of visitors:
- Good Friday and Easter Weekend tend to be more crowded than usual
- Spring break weeks for local schools can lead to increased attendance
Halloween Season Fluctuations
The Halloween season at Hershey Park offers a unique crowd dynamic:
- Fridays and Sundays are generally less crowded during this period
- Saturdays are the busiest days, with special Halloween events drawing large crowds
- Weekdays can vary, but are typically less crowded than weekends
Holiday Season Patterns
During the Christmas Candylane event and other holiday celebrations:
- Weekends, especially Saturdays, see the highest attendance
- Mid-week days offer a respite from the crowds
- Special holiday events can cause spikes in attendance on specific days
How Do Wait Times Vary on Peak Days?
Understanding wait times is crucial for maximizing your Hershey Park experience. Here’s what you need to know:
General Wait Time Trends
- Busiest weeks correlate with longer wait times
- Weekends and holidays consistently have the longest queues
- Weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Thursdays, often boast shorter wait times
Factors Affecting Wait Times
Several factors can influence wait times at Hershey Park:
- School trips and group events
- Weather conditions
- Special promotions or events
- Time of day (peak hours vs. off-peak hours)
Peak Hours and Wait Time Management
To minimize time spent in lines:
- Arrive early, as peak hours typically occur from late morning to early afternoon
- Consider visiting popular attractions during off-peak hours
- Utilize any available fast pass or queue management systems offered by the park
What Is the Operating Schedule for Hershey Park During Peak Days?
The park’s operating hours can vary significantly based on the season and special events. Here’s a general overview:
Standard Operating Hours
- Opening times: Usually between 10 AM and 11 AM
- Closing times: Range from 6 PM to 10 PM, depending on the day and season
Special Event Hours
During peak seasons and special events, Hershey Park often extends its hours:
| Event | Typical Opening Time | Typical Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Summer Weekends | 10 AM | 10 PM or later |
| Halloween Events | Varies | Often later than standard |
| Christmas Candylane | Afternoon | Evening |
Attraction-Specific Hours
It’s important to note that:
- Some attractions may have different operating hours than the main park
- Water attractions often have shorter hours, especially in cooler months
- Certain rides or areas may close earlier for maintenance or special events
Always check the official Hershey Park schedule or app for the most up-to-date information on operating hours during your visit.
What Parking Options and Accessibility Features Are Available?
Ensuring a smooth arrival and comfortable visit is key to enjoying Hershey Park, especially on peak days.
Parking Options
Hershey Park offers several parking choices to accommodate various needs:
- General Parking: The most economical option, located further from the entrance
- Preferred Parking: Closer to the entrance, at a premium price
- Accessible Parking: Designated spots for guests with disabilities
- RV and Oversized Vehicle Parking: Special areas for larger vehicles, may incur additional fees
Accessibility Features
Hershey Park is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all guests:
- Wheelchair and ECV rentals available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Accessible restrooms located throughout the park
- Guest Services office for additional accessibility information and assistance
- Special accommodations for guests with disabilities on certain rides and attractions
Transportation Alternatives
For those preferring not to drive, consider these options:
- Shuttle services from select nearby hotels
- Public transportation options (limited, check availability in advance)
- Ride-sharing services drop-off and pick-up areas
By understanding the peak days, wait times, operating schedules, and accessibility options at Hershey Park, you can better plan your visit and maximize your enjoyment, even during the busiest times. Remember to check the official Hershey Park website or contact their guest services for the most current information before your visit.
References:
1. IsItPacked.com – Hersheypark Crowd Calendar
2. Thrill Data – 2024 Hershey Park Crowd Calendar
3. Queue Times – Hersheypark crowd calendar – November 2024