Memorial Day at Hersheypark typically sees larger crowds due to the holiday weekend. Visitors can expect longer wait times for popular attractions and potentially busier parking areas. However, with proper planning and strategies, it’s possible to navigate the crowds and enjoy a memorable day at the park. This guide provides insights on expected crowd levels, wait times, and tips for managing your visit during this busy holiday.
What Are the Expected Crowd Levels at Hershey Park on Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is traditionally one of the busier days at Hersheypark. While exact attendance figures aren’t publicly available, historical trends indicate that holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, draw significant crowds. Here’s what you can generally expect:
- Higher than average attendance
- Increased wait times for popular rides and attractions
- Busier dining and retail areas
- Potentially fuller parking lots
It’s important to note that crowd levels can vary based on factors such as weather, special events, and overall travel trends for the year.
How Do Wait Times Compare to Regular Days?
While specific wait time data for Memorial Day isn’t provided by Hersheypark, we can make some educated guesses based on general holiday trends:
| Attraction Type | Regular Day Wait Time | Estimated Memorial Day Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| Popular Coasters | 30-60 minutes | 60-90+ minutes |
| Family Rides | 15-30 minutes | 30-45+ minutes |
| Water Park Attractions | 20-40 minutes | 40-60+ minutes |
These estimates are speculative and can vary widely based on actual attendance and park operations on the day.
What Are the Best Strategies to Avoid Crowds on Memorial Day?
To make the most of your visit and minimize time spent in lines, consider these strategies:
- Arrive Early: Be at the park gates before opening to get a head start on the crowds.
- Use Fast Track: If available, consider purchasing Fast Track passes to skip lines on popular rides.
- Visit Less Popular Attractions First: While everyone rushes to the newest or most thrilling rides, enjoy shorter lines at other attractions.
- Take Advantage of Meal Times: Ride lines often shorten during peak lunch and dinner hours.
- Stay Late: If the park has extended hours, crowds often thin out in the evening.
How Can I Plan My Visit to Maximize Enjoyment Despite the Crowds?
Planning is key to enjoying Hersheypark on a busy day like Memorial Day. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Morning (9 AM – 12 PM):
- Arrive at park opening
- Head directly to the most popular coasters
-
Enjoy shorter lines for big attractions
-
Afternoon (12 PM – 4 PM):
- Visit indoor attractions or shows during peak sun/crowd hours
-
Have a late lunch to avoid busiest dining times
-
Evening (4 PM – Close):
- Return to popular rides as lines may shorten
- Enjoy nighttime entertainment or special events
What Amenities Does Hershey Park Offer to Help Manage Crowds?
Hersheypark provides several amenities to help guests navigate busy days:
- Mobile App: Offers real-time wait times and park maps
- Fast Track Passes: Available for purchase to skip lines on select rides
- Single Rider Lines: On some attractions, to fill empty seats and reduce wait times
- Dining Plans: Can help avoid long food lines during peak times
Are There Any Special Events or Activities for Memorial Day at Hershey Park?
While Hersheypark doesn’t always announce specific Memorial Day events far in advance, they often have special activities for holiday weekends. These might include:
- Patriotic-themed shows or parades
- Special character meet-and-greets
- Extended park hours
- Fireworks displays (though more common on July 4th)
It’s best to check the official Hersheypark website or social media channels closer to the date for any announced Memorial Day specials.
How Does Parking Work on Busy Days Like Memorial Day?
Parking can be a challenge on busy holidays. Here’s what to know:
- Arrive early to secure a spot closer to the entrance
- Be prepared for potential overflow parking areas
- Consider using any available shuttle services from hotels or off-site parking
What Should I Pack for a Memorial Day Visit to Hershey Park?
Given the potential for crowds and long days, pack smartly:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and hats
- Refillable water bottles
- Snacks (check park policies on outside food)
- Portable phone charger
- Light jacket for evening hours
How Can I Stay Informed About Crowd Levels and Wait Times During My Visit?
To stay updated throughout your visit:
- Download the official Hersheypark mobile app
- Follow Hersheypark’s social media accounts for real-time updates
- Check in with Guest Services for any crowd management tips or updates
- Use third-party crowd tracking apps or websites for historical data and predictions
Remember, while Memorial Day crowds at Hersheypark can be challenging, with proper planning and a positive attitude, you can still have a fantastic and memorable experience at the Sweetest Place on Earth!