Hershey Park, a popular amusement park in Pennsylvania, is known for its thrilling rides and attractions. However, with great popularity comes long wait times. This guide focuses on the longest lines at Hershey Park, providing insights into average wait times, peak seasons, and strategies to minimize your time spent queuing. Understanding these factors can help you plan your visit more effectively and maximize your enjoyment at the park.
What Are the Average Wait Times for the Busiest Rides?
The busiest rides at Hershey Park often have the longest lines. Here’s a breakdown of the average wait times for some of the most popular attractions:
- Candymonium: 45 minutes (up to 87 minutes during peak times)
- Reese’s Cupfusion: 60 minutes (up to 79 minutes during peak times)
- Fahrenheit: 40 minutes
- Storm Runner: 30 minutes
- Skyrush: 26 minutes
It’s important to note that these times can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of day, and season.
Which Seasons Have the Longest Lines at Hershey Park?
Hershey Park experiences fluctuations in crowd levels throughout the year. Understanding these patterns can help you plan your visit to avoid the longest lines:
- Peak Months: April, May, and October tend to have higher wait times due to increased visitor numbers.
- Summer Season: June through August are typically busy, with longer lines on weekends.
- Special Events: Halloween’s Dark Nights and Christmas Candylane can draw large crowds, especially on weekends.
How Do Weekdays Compare to Weekends for Line Length?
There’s a significant difference in wait times between weekdays and weekends at Hershey Park:
- Weekdays (Monday-Thursday): Average wait time of 16 minutes
- Weekends (especially Saturdays): Average wait time of 22 minutes
This data suggests that visiting on weekdays can significantly reduce your time spent in lines.
What Strategies Can Minimize Wait Times at Hershey Park?
To make the most of your visit and avoid the longest lines, consider these strategies:
- Visit on Weekdays: As mentioned earlier, weekdays have shorter average wait times.
- Arrive Early: Being at the park when it opens can give you a head start on popular rides.
- Use Fast Track: This paid service allows you to bypass queues at participating attractions.
- Plan Your Route: Start with the most popular rides early in the day when lines are shorter.
- Visit During Off-Peak Seasons: Consider visiting in late spring or early fall to avoid summer crowds.
How Does the Fast Track System Work?
The Fast Track system is a valuable tool for avoiding long lines at Hershey Park:
- Types: Fast Track (one-time use per attraction) and Fast Track Unlimited (multiple uses)
- Cost: Varies by day, with higher prices on busier days
- Purchase Options: Available online or at the park
- Integration: Linked with the HPGO system for easy use
What Are the Longest Lines During Special Events?
Special events at Hershey Park can significantly impact wait times:
Halloween’s Dark Nights
- Busiest Days: Saturdays
- Less Crowded: Fridays and Sundays
Christmas Candylane
- Longest Lines: Weekends, especially Saturdays
- Shorter Lines: Mid-week visits
How Do Different Attractions Compare in Terms of Wait Times?
Here’s a comparison of wait times for some of Hershey Park’s popular attractions:
| Attraction | Average Wait Time | Maximum Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| Candymonium | 45 minutes | 87 minutes |
| Reese’s Cupfusion | 60 minutes | 79 minutes |
| Laff Trakk | 41 minutes | Varies |
| Fahrenheit | 40 minutes | Not specified |
| Storm Runner | 30 minutes | Not specified |
| Skyrush | 26 minutes | Not specified |
What Alternative Activities Are Available During Peak Line Times?
When lines are at their longest, consider these alternatives:
- The Boardwalk: This water park area is included with admission and can be less crowded.
- Shows and Entertainment: Check the schedule for performances that might have shorter waits.
- Dining Experiences: Use peak ride times to enjoy the park’s various dining options.
- Hershey’s Chocolate World: Located near the park, this attraction often has shorter lines.
By understanding the patterns of Hershey Park’s longest lines and employing these strategies, you can maximize your enjoyment and minimize your wait times during your visit.
References:
1. [https://www.thrill-data.com/waits/park/hershey/hershey-park/]
2. [https://www.isitpacked.com/crowd-calendars/hersheypark/]
3. [https://queue-times.com/en-US/parks/15/stats]