Hershey Park, a popular amusement park in Pennsylvania, implements specific height restrictions for children to ensure their safety on various rides and attractions. These restrictions are categorized into five height groups, ranging from under 36 inches to over 54 inches. Each category determines which rides a child can access, with taller children having more options. The park provides measurement stations, waiting areas, and alternative attractions for families with children who may not meet certain height requirements.
What Are the Height Categories at Hershey Park?
Hershey Park categorizes guests into five height groups, each associated with a specific Hershey’s candy:
- Hershey’s Miniatures: Under 36 inches
- Hershey’s Kisses: 36-42 inches
- Reese’s: 42-48 inches
- Hershey’s: 48-54 inches
- Twizzler and Jolly Rancher: Above 54 inches
Each category determines the number of rides accessible to guests:
| Height Category | Number of Accessible Rides |
|---|---|
| Hershey’s Miniatures | 28 rides |
| Hershey’s Kisses | 42 rides |
| Reese’s | 58 rides |
| Hershey’s | 66 rides |
| Twizzler and Jolly Rancher | 52-58 rides |
How Do Height Restrictions Affect Ride Access?
Height restrictions significantly impact which rides children can enjoy at Hershey Park. Here are some examples of popular rides and their height requirements:
- Fahrenheit:
- Minimum height: 54 inches
-
Additional restrictions: Prosthetic leg removal required, no hand-held items or food/drinks allowed
-
Great Bear:
- Minimum height: 54 inches
-
Additional restrictions: Prosthetic leg removal required, no casts or hard braces, no hand-held items or food/drinks allowed
-
Trailblazer:
- Minimum height: 36 inches (with an adult), 42 inches (alone)
-
Additional restrictions: Wheelchair transfer required, size limitations due to safety restraints, no hand-held items or food/drinks allowed
-
Skyrush:
- Minimum height: 54 inches
- Additional restrictions: Maximum height of 6 feet 5 inches, prosthetic device removal required
What Amenities Are Available for Families with Children?
Hershey Park offers several amenities to assist families with children who may not meet height restrictions:
- Height Measurement Stations: Located throughout the park to help determine suitable rides for each child
- Waiting Areas: Some rides provide bag drop areas or bins for storing items
- Complimentary Lockers: Available for certain rides like Skyrush
- Alternative Attractions: Numerous rides and attractions suitable for younger children in the Hershey’s Miniatures and Hershey’s Kisses categories
Are There Special Events or Activities for Children?
While there are no specific scheduled events solely for children who do not meet height requirements, Hershey Park offers various family-friendly activities accessible to all ages:
- Live performances
- Character meet-and-greets
- Park-wide events
Families can also consider additional options like the Fast Track package, which allows them to skip lines on select attractions, making the day more enjoyable for all family members regardless of height restrictions.
How Can Parents Prepare for Height Restrictions?
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Hershey Park, parents can take the following steps:
- Measure children before the visit to determine their height category
- Research ride requirements in advance
- Plan alternative activities for children who may not meet certain height restrictions
- Consider purchasing Fast Track passes for popular rides
- Bring appropriate footwear that doesn’t significantly alter height
What Safety Measures Are in Place for Height Restrictions?
Hershey Park prioritizes guest safety through various measures:
- Regular ride inspections and maintenance
- Trained staff to enforce height restrictions
- Clear signage indicating height requirements at each ride
- Multiple height measurement stations throughout the park
How Does Hershey Park Accommodate Guests with Special Needs?
Hershey Park strives to accommodate guests with special needs:
- Accessibility guides available on the park’s website
- Ride-specific information for guests with prosthetics or mobility devices
- Designated quiet areas for guests with sensory sensitivities
- Wheelchair rentals and accessible pathways throughout the park
What Are Some Tips for Families with Children of Various Heights?
- Plan your visit around rides that all family members can enjoy together
- Use the park’s mobile app to check wait times and plan your route
- Take advantage of the park’s Parent Swap program for rides with height restrictions
- Visit during off-peak times for shorter lines and more ride options
- Explore non-ride attractions like shows and character meet-and-greets
How Often Are Height Restrictions Updated at Hershey Park?
Height restrictions at Hershey Park are based on manufacturer guidelines and industry standards. While they don’t change frequently, the park may update restrictions:
- When new rides are introduced
- If ride modifications are made
- To comply with updated safety regulations
Visitors should always check the most current information before their visit.
What Are Some Popular Rides for Each Height Category?
Here’s a list of popular rides for each height category:
- Hershey’s Miniatures (Under 36 inches):
- Carousel
- Tiny Tracks
-
Mini Scrambler
-
Hershey’s Kisses (36-42 inches):
- Cocoa Cruiser
- Frog Hopper
-
Convoy
-
Reese’s (42-48 inches):
- Wildcat
- Wildmouse
-
Laff Trakk
-
Hershey’s (48-54 inches):
- Comet
- Sooperdooperlooper
-
Lightning Racer
-
Twizzler and Jolly Rancher (Above 54 inches):
- Fahrenheit
- Great Bear
- Skyrush
By understanding Hershey Park’s height restrictions and planning accordingly, families can ensure a fun and safe experience for all members, regardless of their height category.
References:
1. https://stories.hersheypa.com/plan-your-hersheypark-day-by-height-category/
2. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/fahrenheit/
3. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/great-bear/
4. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/trailblazer/
5. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/skyrush/