Hershey Park Behind the Scenes: Unveiling the Magic

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Hershey Park behind the scenes offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of this beloved amusement park. From exclusive tours at ZooAmerica to the rich history of the park’s development, visitors can experience the magic that happens beyond the public eye. These behind-the-scenes opportunities provide intimate encounters with animals, access to restricted areas, and insights into the park’s operations, making for an unforgettable experience.

What Does Hershey Park’s Behind-the-Scenes Experience Entail?

hershey park behind the scenes
Image ‘File:Hershey Park roller coaster tracks.jpg’ by Librarian1984, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Hershey Park’s behind-the-scenes experience primarily revolves around ZooAmerica, an integral part of the Hersheypark complex. The park offers several tour options that allow visitors to explore areas typically off-limits to the general public:

  1. After Hours Tour
  2. Duration: 2 hours
  3. Cost: $75 per person (ages 3+)
  4. Includes same-day admission to ZooAmerica
  5. Available on Wednesdays or Saturdays
  6. Limited to 10 participants

  7. Features:

    • Insider’s look at the Animal Health Center
    • Flashlight tour through animal buildings
    • Opportunity to feed river otters and black bears
    • Up-close visit with ambassador species

  8. Early Bird Tour

  9. Duration: 2 hours
  10. Cost: $75 per person (ages 3+)
  11. Includes same-day admission to ZooAmerica
  12. Available on Tuesdays, Fridays, or Sundays from 8-10 a.m.
  13. Limited to 10 participants

  14. Features:

    • Up-close look at select zoo species in outdoor habitats
    • Chance to feed the wolves
    • Interaction with ambassador species

  15. Photography Tour

  16. Duration: 2 hours
  17. Cost: $75 per person (ages 3+)
  18. Includes same-day admission to ZooAmerica
  19. Available on Thursdays or Saturdays from 8-10 a.m.
  20. Limited to 5 participants
  21. Features:
    • Access to non-public spaces
    • Opportunity to photograph select exhibit animals and ambassador species

How Has Hershey Park Evolved Over Time?

hershey park behind the scenes
Image ‘File:Hershey park gate.jpg’ by Gusc554, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The history of Hershey Park is a testament to its growth and development over the years:

  • 1906: Milton Hershey establishes Hersheypark as a recreational area for Hershey Chocolate Company employees
  • 1970: Expansion into a full-fledged amusement park with themed areas and rides
  • 1978: ZooAmerica becomes part of Hersheypark, focusing on North American wildlife
  • 1980s-1990s: Continuous expansion with new rides and attractions
  • 2000s: Introduction of Hershey’s Chocolate Tour and Hershey’s Chocolate World
  • 2010s: Further expansions and renovations, including new roller coasters

What Insights Can Employees Share About Hershey Park Behind the Scenes?

While specific employee insights are not available, we can infer some general points about working behind the scenes at Hershey Park:

  • Meticulous planning and preparation for park maintenance, especially during peak seasons
  • Ensuring animal health and safety at ZooAmerica
  • Maintaining cleanliness and functionality of all attractions
  • Managing large crowds and resources efficiently during busy periods
  • Long working hours to ensure a smooth visitor experience
  • Unique experiences like feeding animals and accessing non-public areas

What Amenities Are Available for Behind-the-Scenes Tour Participants?

Participants in Hershey Park’s behind-the-scenes tours can expect:

  • Accessibility options (though some areas may not be wheelchair accessible)
  • Parking available at designated areas for Hersheypark and ZooAmerica
  • Same-day admission to ZooAmerica included with tour tickets
  • Opportunity to participate in other events and activities at the zoo

How Does Hershey Park Ensure Safety During Behind-the-Scenes Tours?

Safety is a top priority for Hershey Park’s behind-the-scenes tours:

  • Limited group sizes (5-10 participants) for better control and supervision
  • Trained staff members guide all tours
  • Strict protocols for animal interactions
  • Designated paths and areas for tour participants
  • Safety briefings before entering restricted areas

What Makes Hershey Park’s Behind-the-Scenes Experience Unique?

Hershey Park’s behind-the-scenes experience stands out due to:

  1. Exclusive access to ZooAmerica’s facilities
  2. Intimate animal encounters not available to regular visitors
  3. Insights into park operations and animal care
  4. Small group sizes for personalized experiences
  5. Variety of tour options catering to different interests (e.g., photography, early morning, after hours)

How Can Visitors Make the Most of Their Behind-the-Scenes Tour?

To maximize your Hershey Park behind-the-scenes experience:

  1. Book in advance due to limited availability
  2. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes
  3. Bring a camera (especially for the Photography Tour)
  4. Prepare questions for the knowledgeable guides
  5. Arrive early to ensure you don’t miss any part of the tour
  6. Consider combining the tour with a full day at Hersheypark

By participating in these exclusive tours, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of running a world-class amusement park and zoo, making their Hershey Park experience truly unforgettable.

References:

  1. https://stories.hersheypa.com/go-behind-the-scenes-at-zooamerica-in-hershey-pa/
  2. https://www.visithersheyharrisburg.org/things-to-do/tours/
  3. https://www.mommarambles.com/behind-the-scenes-tour-zooamerica/

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