Hersheypark’s All American Thrills section offers an exhilarating array of rides and attractions that embody the spirit of American adventure. From classic wooden coasters to cutting-edge steel giants, this area of the park delivers heart-pounding experiences for thrill-seekers of all ages. With a mix of record-breaking rides, unique features, and a touch of Hershey’s chocolate charm, the All American Thrills section stands as a testament to the park’s commitment to providing unforgettable memories and adrenaline-pumping fun.
What Rides Make Up the All American Thrills Section?
The All American Thrills section at Hersheypark boasts an impressive lineup of roller coasters and thrill rides that cater to various levels of excitement. Here’s a breakdown of the key attractions:
- sooperdooperLooper
- Height Requirement: 42 inches
- Thrill Rating: High
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Claim to Fame: First modern looping coaster on the East Coast
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Storm Runner
- Height Requirement: 54 inches
- Thrill Rating: High
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Special Feature: Launches from 0-72 mph in 2 seconds
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Fahrenheit
- Height Requirement: 54 inches
- Thrill Rating: High
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Unique Element: 97-degree negative drop
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Wildcat’s Revenge
- Height Requirement: 48 inches
- Thrill Rating: High
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Notable Feature: Hybrid coaster with the World’s Largest Underflip
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Lightning Racer
- Height Requirement: 48 inches
- Thrill Rating: Medium-High
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Exciting Aspect: Competitive racing coaster
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Comet
- Height Requirement: 42 inches
- Thrill Rating: Medium
- Classic Appeal: Wooden coaster with airtime hills
How Do the Ride Experiences Differ in All American Thrills?
Each ride in the All American Thrills section offers a unique experience:
- sooperdooperLooper: This historic coaster provides a classic thrill with its iconic loop, perfect for first-time loop riders.
- Storm Runner: The hydraulic launch and switch tracks offer a modern twist on coaster technology.
- Fahrenheit: With its near-vertical drop, this coaster delivers an intense, gravity-defying experience.
- Wildcat’s Revenge: The hybrid design combines the best of wood and steel for a smooth yet wild ride.
- Lightning Racer: Dual tracks allow for a competitive element, adding excitement to the coaster experience.
- Comet: This wooden coaster provides nostalgic thrills with its classic design and airtime moments.
What Are the Operating Hours for All American Thrills?
The operating hours for the All American Thrills section typically align with Hersheypark’s general hours:
| Season | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 10:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Spring/Fall | 11:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| Winter | Varies (Check park schedule) | Varies |
Note: Hours may vary depending on the day of the week and special events. Always check the official Hersheypark schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Are There Accessibility Options for All American Thrills Rides?
Hersheypark strives to make its attractions accessible to as many guests as possible. For the All American Thrills section:
- Many rides offer transfer options from wheelchairs/ECVs
- Specific restrictions apply for safety reasons:
- Hand-held items are not permitted on most rides
- Certain amputations may restrict ride access
- Guests with disabilities should consult with Guest Services for personalized assistance and information
What Dining Options Are Available Near All American Thrills?
While there aren’t specific dining options exclusively for the All American Thrills section, Hersheypark offers a variety of food choices throughout the park:
- Classic Theme Park Fare:
- Burgers
- Hot dogs
- Fries
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Pizza
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Hershey-Themed Treats:
- Chocolate-inspired desserts
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Candy-themed snacks
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Local Pennsylvania Cuisine:
- Philly cheesesteaks
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Pretzels
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Dietary Accommodations:
- Gluten-free options
- Vegetarian and vegan choices
- Allergy-friendly menus
How Can Visitors Maximize Their All American Thrills Experience?
To get the most out of your visit to the All American Thrills section:
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Arrive Early: Popular rides like Storm Runner and Fahrenheit often have longer wait times as the day progresses.
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Use Fast Track: Consider purchasing a Fast Track pass to skip regular lines on select rides.
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Check Height Requirements: Ensure all members of your group meet the height requirements for the rides they want to experience.
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Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed between thrills.
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Plan Around Shows: Check the park’s entertainment schedule to balance ride time with show attendance.
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Visit During Off-Peak Times: Weekdays and non-holiday periods typically have shorter wait times.
What Special Events Enhance the All American Thrills Experience?
Hersheypark offers several special events throughout the year that can add extra excitement to your All American Thrills visit:
- Hersheypark in the Dark:
- Halloween-themed event
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Special nighttime rides on select coasters
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Christmas Candylane:
- Holiday lights and decorations
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Some coasters remain open, weather permitting
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Summer Concert Series:
- Live music performances
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Potential for extended park hours
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Springtime in the Park:
- Early season opening
- Chance to experience thrill rides before peak summer crowds
What Safety Measures Are in Place for All American Thrills Rides?
Hersheypark prioritizes guest safety with several measures:
- Regular ride inspections and maintenance
- Strict adherence to height and safety requirements
- Trained ride operators on all attractions
- Clear safety instructions provided before each ride
- Secure restraint systems appropriate for each coaster’s design
How Does All American Thrills Compare to Other Theme Park Thrill Sections?
The All American Thrills section at Hersheypark stands out in several ways:
- Variety of Thrills:
- Mix of classic and modern coaster designs
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Range of intensity levels to suit different preferences
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Unique Ride Elements:
- Fahrenheit’s 97-degree drop
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Wildcat’s Revenge hybrid design
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Historical Significance:
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sooperdooperLooper’s place in coaster history
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Themed Experience:
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Integration of Hershey’s chocolate theme throughout
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Competitive Edge:
- Lightning Racer’s dual-track racing format
While other parks may have taller or faster coasters, Hersheypark’s All American Thrills section offers a well-rounded and uniquely themed thrill experience that pays homage to American coaster traditions while embracing modern innovations.
What Future Plans Exist for All American Thrills at Hershey Park?
Hersheypark continually invests in its attractions, including the All American Thrills section. While specific future plans are not publicly available, visitors can typically expect:
- Regular updates and refurbishments to existing rides
- Potential for new thrill ride additions in coming years
- Ongoing enhancements to the overall guest experience
Hersheypark’s commitment to innovation suggests that the All American Thrills section will continue to evolve, offering new and exciting experiences for years to come.
By exploring the All American Thrills section at Hersheypark, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of exhilarating rides, unique experiences, and the sweet charm that only Hershey can provide. Whether you’re a coaster enthusiast or a casual thrill-seeker, this section of the park promises unforgettable memories and heart-pounding adventures for all who dare to ride.
References:
1. https://stories.hersheypa.com/plan-your-hersheypark-day-by-height-category/
2. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/candymonium/
3. https://stories.hersheypa.com/the-15-coasters-of-hersheypark/
4. https://www.hersheypark.com/