First Ride at Hershey Park: A Thrilling Adventure Begins

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Choosing your first ride at Hershey Park sets the tone for your entire visit. With over 70 attractions, including 15 roller coasters, the park offers a diverse range of experiences for all ages and thrill levels. From family-friendly options to heart-pounding coasters, your first ride can be tailored to your preferences. This guide will help you navigate the park’s offerings and select the perfect inaugural attraction for an unforgettable start to your Hershey Park adventure.

What Makes a Great First Ride at Hershey Park?

first ride at hershey park
Image ‘File:Hershey Park roller coaster at night.jpg’ by Librarian1984, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

When selecting your first ride at Hershey Park, consider these factors:

  1. Thrill level
  2. Height requirements
  3. Wait times
  4. Location within the park
  5. Your personal preferences

A great first ride should match your comfort level while giving you a taste of what Hershey Park has to offer.

Which Rides Are Best for Thrill-Seekers?

first ride at hershey park
Image ‘File:Hersheypark.jpg’ by Jwesser24, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Hershey Park doesn’t disappoint. Here are some top choices for thrill-seekers:

  1. Skyrush: This steel wing coaster is a highlight of the park.
  2. Height requirement: 54 inches
  3. Speed: 75 mph
  4. Duration: 1:03 minutes

  5. Intensity: High

  6. Candymonium: The newest and tallest coaster in the park.

  7. Height requirement: 54 inches
  8. Speed: 76 mph
  9. Duration: 2:26 minutes

  10. Intensity: High

  11. Storm Runner: A launched steel coaster with intense acceleration.

  12. Height requirement: 54 inches
  13. Speed: 72 mph
  14. Duration: 0:50 minutes
  15. Intensity: High

What Are the Best Family-Friendly Options?

For families or those preferring a more moderate experience, consider these rides:

  1. Lightning Racer: A racing wooden coaster with a competitive element.
  2. Height requirement: 48 inches
  3. Speed: 51 mph
  4. Duration: 2:20 minutes

  5. Intensity: Moderate

  6. Comet: The park’s oldest operating coaster, recently refreshed.

  7. Height requirement: 42 inches
  8. Speed: 50 mph
  9. Length: 3,360 feet

  10. Intensity: Moderate

  11. Cocoa Cruiser: A small steel coaster perfect for younger riders.

  12. Height requirement: 36 inches
  13. Speed: 25 mph
  14. Duration: 0:47 minutes
  15. Intensity: Low

How Can Beginners Ease into the Park Experience?

For first-time visitors or those new to theme parks, these attractions offer a gentle introduction:

  1. Trailblazer: A family coaster with mild thrills.
  2. Height requirement: 42 inches
  3. Speed: 35 mph

  4. Intensity: Low to Moderate

  5. Coal Cracker: A classic log flume ride.

  6. Height requirement: 36 inches
  7. Intensity: Low

  8. Features: Water splashes, gentle drops

  9. Skyview: A gondola ride offering panoramic views of the park.

  10. Height requirement: None
  11. Intensity: Very Low
  12. Duration: Approximately 10 minutes

What Are the Wait Times for Popular First Rides?

Understanding wait times can help you plan your first ride effectively:

Ride Name Average Wait Time (Peak Season)
Skyrush 30-60+ minutes
Candymonium 45-90+ minutes
Lightning Racer 20-40 minutes
Comet 15-30 minutes
Trailblazer 10-20 minutes
Coal Cracker 15-30 minutes

Note: Wait times can vary significantly based on day, time, and season.

Where Are These Rides Located in the Park?

Knowing the location of potential first rides can help you plan your park entry strategy:

  1. Skyrush: Located in Kissing Tower Hill area
  2. Candymonium: Found in Hershey’s Chocolatetown
  3. Lightning Racer: Situated in Midway America
  4. Comet: Located near the main entrance in The Hollow
  5. Trailblazer: Found in Pioneer Frontier
  6. Coal Cracker: Located in The Hollow

What Amenities Are Available Near Popular First Rides?

To enhance your first ride experience, be aware of nearby amenities:

  • Restrooms: Located throughout the park, with facilities near major ride areas
  • Food Options:
  • The Chocolatier Restaurant (near Candymonium)
  • Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor (in Hershey’s Chocolatetown)
  • Various snack stands near popular rides
  • Lockers: Available near major coasters for storing personal items
  • First Aid: Stations located in multiple areas of the park

How Can You Prepare for Your First Ride?

To make the most of your first ride at Hershey Park:

  1. Check height requirements in advance
  2. Arrive early to beat crowds
  3. Use the Hershey Park app for real-time wait times
  4. Consider purchasing Fast Track passes for popular rides
  5. Stay hydrated and take breaks between intense rides

By considering these factors and options, you can select the perfect first ride at Hershey Park to kick off an unforgettable day of fun and excitement.

References:
1. The Points Guy – Coasters and chocolate: The ultimate guide to Hersheypark
2. Theme Park Brochures – 12 Hersheypark Roller Coasters Ranked (2024)
3. Hersheypark Official Website – New Rides & Attractions

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