Does Hershey Park Close When It Rains?

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Hershey Park does not completely close when it rains. The park remains open, but some rides and attractions may close temporarily depending on the severity of the weather. Light rain typically doesn’t affect most rides, but heavy rain, lightning, or high winds can lead to temporary closures of certain attractions. Hersheypark has a comprehensive weather policy to ensure guest safety while maximizing enjoyment during inclement weather.

What Is Hersheypark’s Official Rain Policy?

does hershey park close when it rains
Image ‘File:Hershey coaster.jpg’ by Librarian1984, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Hersheypark’s official rain policy is designed to balance guest safety with park enjoyment:

  • During light rain without lightning, most rides remain operational.
  • Certain rides close in any precipitation due to safety concerns:
  • Storm Runner
  • Candymonium
  • Skyrush
  • Wild Mouse

  • Pirate

  • Heavy rain may lead to additional closures, including:

  • All Boardwalk attractions
  • Coal Cracker
  • Comet
  • Cocoa Cruiser
  • Fahrenheit
  • Ferris Wheel
  • Great Bear
  • Hershey Triple Tower
  • Jolly Rancher Remix
  • Kissing Tower
  • Lightning Racer
  • Monorail
  • sooperdooperLooper
  • Trailblazer

How Does Severe Weather Affect Park Operations?

does hershey park close when it rains
Image ‘File:Hershey coaster.jpg’ by Librarian1984, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Severe weather can significantly impact park operations:

  1. Lightning Threat:
  2. All rides, including Boardwalk attractions, may close.

  3. Reopening occurs once the storm passes and the area is deemed safe.

  4. High Winds:

  5. Rides close based on specific wind speed thresholds:
    • 25+ mph: Frontier Flyers, Kissing Tower
    • 30+ mph: Balloon Flite, Candymonium, Cocoa Cruiser, Fahrenheit, Ferris Wheel, Hershey Triple Tower, Jolly Rancher Remix, Mix’d, Skyrush, Skyview, Sweet Swing, Swing Thing, Tea Cups, Tidal Force
    • 35+ mph: Breakers Edge, Frog Hopper, Music Express, Storm Runner, The Claw, Whitecap Racer, Wild Mouse
    • 40+ mph: Coal Cracker, Great Bear, Lightning Racer, Mini Pirate, Trailblazer, Wave Swinger, Pirate, The Howler

Which Rides Typically Remain Open During Rain?

During light rain without lightning, several rides usually stay operational:

  1. Roller Coasters:

  2. Most coasters, except those mentioned earlier

  3. Family and Thrill Rides:

  4. Carrousel
  5. Fender Bender
  6. Whip
  7. Laff Trakk (indoor, spinning, glow-coaster)

Are There Scheduled Weather-Related Closures?

Hersheypark doesn’t have scheduled closures specifically for rain. However:

  • Temporary closures occur based on current weather conditions.
  • Closure duration varies from a few minutes to over an hour.
  • If major rides close for 60+ continuous minutes, guests may receive a Return Visit Voucher for a future visit in the same operating season.

What Activities Are Available During Rainy Weather?

Hersheypark offers numerous indoor activities and amenities for rainy days:

  1. Indoor Attractions:
  2. Laff Trakk
  3. Reese’s Xtreme Cup Challenge
  4. Reese’s Cupfusion
  5. Overlook Arcade

  6. Play Dome Arcade

  7. Dining Options:

  8. Hersheypark Place (full-service restaurant and bar)
  9. Overlook Food Court
  10. Gourmet Grille
  11. The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

  12. Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor

  13. Special Events and Programs:

  14. ZooAmerica (included in park admission)
  15. Hershey’s Chocolate World (outside park gates)
  16. Indoor shopping at over 20 shops

How Does Hersheypark Ensure Guest Safety During Inclement Weather?

Hersheypark prioritizes guest safety through:

  1. Comprehensive Weather Monitoring:
  2. Constant tracking of weather conditions

  3. Immediate response to severe weather threats

  4. Clear Communication:

  5. Announcements about ride closures and reopenings

  6. Staff guidance for guests during weather events

  7. Flexible Policies:

  8. Return Visit Vouchers for extended closures
  9. Indoor alternatives to maintain guest enjoyment

What Should Guests Do If It Rains During Their Visit?

If rain occurs during your Hersheypark visit:

  1. Stay Informed:
  2. Listen for park announcements

  3. Check with ride operators for current status

  4. Explore Indoor Options:

  5. Visit indoor attractions and dining venues

  6. Enjoy shopping at covered locations

  7. Be Prepared:

  8. Bring rain gear or ponchos

  9. Consider purchasing weather protection at park shops

  10. Remain Flexible:

  11. Adjust your itinerary based on open attractions
  12. Take advantage of shorter lines on operating rides

By understanding Hersheypark’s rain policies and available options, guests can maximize their enjoyment even during inclement weather. The park’s commitment to safety and guest satisfaction ensures a memorable experience, rain or shine.

References:
1. Hersheypark: What happens when weather impacts your visit?
2. 6 Sweet Ways to Savor a Rainy Day at Hersheypark
3. Rainy Day Fun in Hershey, PA

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