Starship America, often mistakenly referred to as ‘Battleship America’, is a popular family-friendly attraction at Hersheypark. This Jets ride, manufactured by German company Kaspar Klaus, simulates a space journey with spacecraft moving in circular motions. Located in the Founder’s Way region, it’s accessible to visitors of all height categories, making it a versatile option for families. This guide will provide detailed information about the ride, its requirements, and its place within Hersheypark.
What is Starship America at Hersheypark?
Starship America is a classic Jets ride that offers a simulated space journey experience. Here are the key details:
- Manufacturer: Kaspar Klaus (German company)
- Ride Type: Jets ride (also known as ‘flying jet’ or ‘rocket’ ride)
- Location: Founder’s Way region of Hersheypark
- Experience: Circular motion with up and down movements, mimicking a space launch
The ride is designed to give visitors the feeling of blasting off into outer space, providing a thrilling yet family-friendly experience.
What are the Height Requirements for Starship America?
Starship America is known for its inclusivity, but there are some important restrictions to note:
- Accessible to all height categories
- No hand-held infants allowed
- Riders must transfer from wheelchairs or Electronic Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs)
- Loose articles and hand-held items not recommended
- Food and drinks prohibited
This makes Starship America an excellent choice for families with members of varying heights and ages, as long as they can safely ride independently.
What are the Operating Hours for Starship America?
The operating hours for Starship America align with Hersheypark’s general hours, which vary by day and season. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information:
- Check the official Hersheypark website
- Contact the park directly
- Look for posted schedules at the park entrance or information kiosks
It’s always a good idea to verify the operating hours before planning your visit to ensure you don’t miss out on this exciting attraction.
Where is Starship America Located in Hersheypark?
Starship America is strategically located within Hersheypark:
- Region: Founder’s Way
- Nearby Attractions:
- Monorail
- Scrambler
- Other classic rides
The ride is easily accessible from the main pathways, with nearby amenities including:
- Restrooms
- Food stands
- Other facilities
This central location makes it convenient to include Starship America in your park itinerary, regardless of which other attractions you plan to visit.
How Does Starship America Compare to Other Hersheypark Rides?
To help you understand how Starship America fits into your Hersheypark experience, here’s a comparison with other popular rides:
| Ride Name | Type | Thrill Level | Height Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starship America | Jets | Moderate | All heights |
| Comet | Wooden Coaster | High | 48 inches |
| Reese’s Cupfusion | Interactive Dark Ride | Moderate | 42 inches |
| Hershey Triple Tower | Drop Tower | High | 48 inches |
| Cocoa Cruiser | Junior Coaster | Low | 36 inches |
As you can see, Starship America offers a unique experience that’s accessible to a wider range of visitors compared to some of the more intense rides in the park.
What Should You Know Before Riding Starship America?
Before you embark on your space journey with Starship America, keep these tips in mind:
- Secure loose items: While not explicitly prohibited, it’s best to secure or store loose articles.
- Eat afterwards: Food and drinks are not allowed on the ride.
- Plan for transfers: If you use a wheelchair or ECV, be prepared to transfer to the ride vehicle.
- Consider motion sensitivity: The circular motion may affect those prone to motion sickness.
- Check height requirements: While accessible to all heights, ensure children can ride safely without being held.
How Can You Make the Most of Your Starship America Experience?
To maximize your enjoyment of Starship America and your overall Hersheypark visit:
- Ride early or late: Consider experiencing Starship America at the beginning or end of your day to avoid peak crowds.
- Combine with nearby attractions: Plan to visit other Founder’s Way rides to minimize walking time.
- Use it as a break: Starship America can be a good ‘breather’ between more intense rides.
- Engage with the theme: Encourage children to imagine they’re real astronauts for added fun.
- Capture the moment: The ride’s circular motion can make for great action photos or videos.
By following these suggestions, you can ensure that Starship America becomes a memorable part of your Hersheypark adventure.
Remember, while often mistakenly called ‘Battleship America’, the correct name is Starship America. This family-friendly Jets ride offers a unique space-themed experience that’s accessible to most park visitors, making it a must-try attraction during your Hersheypark visit.