Hershey Park Armed Forces Day is part of the park’s broader military appreciation efforts, particularly around Memorial Day weekend. While there isn’t a specific Armed Forces Day event, Hersheypark offers various discounts and benefits for military personnel, veterans, and their families during this period. The park provides free admission to active and retired military members from May 25-27, along with discounted tickets for family members. Additionally, a buy-one-get-one-free ticket deal is available for military members when purchasing online by May 31, 2024.
What Are the Military Appreciation Discounts at Hersheypark?
Hersheypark demonstrates its gratitude to military personnel through several discount offers:
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BOGO Tickets: Military members can enjoy a buy-one-get-one-free ticket deal when purchasing online by May 31, 2024. These tickets remain valid through September 8, 2024.
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Free Admission: During Memorial Day weekend (May 25-27), active and retired military members, including National Guard, reserves, and veterans, receive complimentary admission to the park.
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Discounted Family Tickets: Military personnel can purchase discounted tickets for up to six friends or family members during the Memorial Day weekend.
These offers provide significant savings for military families looking to enjoy the thrills and attractions of Hersheypark.
How Does Hersheypark Recognize Veterans?
Hersheypark extends its appreciation to veterans through various means:
- Free Entry: Veterans, along with active and retired military members, enjoy free admission during the Memorial Day weekend.
- Family Discounts: Veterans can also take advantage of the discounted tickets for their family members.
- Extended Validity: The BOGO ticket offer for veterans and military members is valid for use throughout most of the park’s operating season.
While specific recognition activities for Armed Forces Day are not detailed, the park’s overall military appreciation efforts encompass veterans as part of their honored guests.
What Special Activities Are Offered During Memorial Day Weekend?
While Hersheypark doesn’t list specific Armed Forces Day activities, the Memorial Day weekend includes several special offerings:
- Free Military Admission: The cornerstone of the weekend’s activities is the free admission for military personnel from May 25-27.
- Family Discounts: Discounted tickets for family members enhance the experience for military families.
- Regular Park Attractions: All visitors, including military personnel, can enjoy the park’s regular attractions, rides, and entertainment options.
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| May 25-27 | Free admission for military personnel |
| May 25-27 | Discounted family tickets available |
| Entire weekend | Access to all park attractions and rides |
What Amenities and Facilities Are Available for Military Visitors?
Hersheypark ensures that all visitors, including military personnel, have access to various amenities and facilities:
- Parking: General parking is available for all guests. Season pass holders receive free parking.
- Accessibility Options: The park offers wheelchair and Electronic Conveyance Vehicle (ECV) rentals through their guest services.
- Food and Beverage: Numerous dining options are available throughout the park, catering to various tastes and dietary requirements.
- Rest Areas: The park provides various rest areas and shaded spots for visitors to relax between attractions.
While there are no specific amenities exclusively for military visitors, the park’s overall facilities are designed to accommodate all guests comfortably.
How Can Military Personnel Plan Their Visit to Hersheypark?
Planning a visit to Hersheypark during the Armed Forces Day period or Memorial Day weekend involves several steps:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you qualify for the military discounts (active duty, retired, veteran status).
- Book Tickets: Purchase tickets online to take advantage of the BOGO offer before May 31, 2024.
- Plan Transportation: Arrange personal transportation as no specific military transport is mentioned.
- Prepare Documentation: Bring necessary military ID or proof of service for verification at the park.
- Consider Accommodations: If staying overnight, look into local hotels that may offer military discounts.
What Are the Most Popular Attractions at Hersheypark?
While enjoying the military appreciation benefits, visitors can experience Hersheypark’s top attractions:
- Candymonium: The tallest, fastest, and longest coaster in the park.
- Hershey’s Chocolatetown: A new region featuring unique dining and shopping experiences.
- The Boardwalk: A water park area with various slides and pools.
- ZooAmerica: An 11-acre walk-through zoo adjacent to the park.
- Hershey Triple Tower: Three drop towers of varying heights for thrill-seekers.
These attractions offer a mix of excitement, relaxation, and family-friendly fun for all visitors, including military personnel and their families.
How Does Hersheypark’s Military Appreciation Compare to Other Parks?
Hersheypark’s military appreciation offers stand out in several ways:
- Extended Discount Period: The BOGO ticket offer is available for purchase until May 31 and valid for use through September 8, 2024.
- Inclusive Definition: The discounts apply to active duty, retired military, National Guard, reserves, and veterans.
- Family Consideration: The ability to purchase discounted tickets for family members enhances the overall value for military families.
While other parks may offer similar discounts, Hersheypark’s combination of free admission during Memorial Day weekend and the extended BOGO offer provides significant value and flexibility for military visitors.
What Additional Tips Should Military Visitors Know?
To make the most of a visit to Hersheypark during the Armed Forces Day period or Memorial Day weekend, consider these tips:
- Arrive Early: The park can get busy, especially during holiday weekends. Arriving early ensures more time to enjoy attractions.
- Use Fast Track: Consider purchasing Fast Track passes to minimize wait times for popular rides.
- Check Weather: Be prepared for various weather conditions and dress accordingly.
- Explore Package Deals: Look into package deals that might include accommodations and park tickets for extended stays.
- Bring Essentials: Pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and any necessary medications.
By following these tips, military visitors can maximize their enjoyment of Hersheypark’s offerings while taking advantage of the special military appreciation benefits.