Hershey Park’s ride accessibility program is designed to ensure all guests, including those with disabilities, can fully enjoy the park’s attractions. The program offers specialized passes, companion access, and tailored ride guidelines. Guests can enroll at Hospitality Services, receive an Attraction Boarding Pass, and use designated accessible entrances. The program aims to balance safety requirements with inclusivity, providing a memorable experience for all visitors.
What is the Hershey Park Ride Accessibility Program?
The Hershey Park Ride Accessibility Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to ensure that guests with disabilities can fully enjoy the park’s attractions. It includes:
- Specialized enrollment process
- Attraction Boarding Pass
- Companion access
- Tailored ride guidelines
- Accessible facilities and amenities
This program demonstrates Hershey Park’s commitment to inclusivity and guest satisfaction.
How Do Guests Enroll in the Accessibility Program?
Enrolling in the Hershey Park Ride Accessibility Program is a straightforward process:
- Visit Hospitality Services inside the Front Gate upon arrival
- Complete and sign a Ride Accessibility Questionnaire
- Can be downloaded and filled out in advance to save time
- Discuss needs with an Accessibility Services Agent or Supervisor
- Receive an Attraction Boarding Pass and wristband
This enrollment process ensures that each guest’s specific needs are addressed and accommodated.
What Does the Attraction Boarding Pass Offer?
The Attraction Boarding Pass is a key component of the accessibility program:
- Lists rides the guest can safely enjoy
- Allows access to designated accessible entrances (usually at ride exits)
- Permits up to three companions to accompany the guest
- Helps reduce wait times in standard lines
It’s important to note that while the pass provides easier access, it doesn’t guarantee immediate boarding.
What Are the Ride Accessibility Guidelines?
Hershey Park has established comprehensive guidelines to ensure guest safety:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Safety Restraints | Ability to use all safety restraints and devices as designed |
| Riding Position | Maintain proper riding position throughout the attraction |
| Instructions | Understand and follow all safety instructions |
| Physical Abilities | Hold head up, grasp bars, and use safety restraints |
| Prosthetics | May need to be removed or require manufacturer documentation |
These guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of all guests while maximizing ride accessibility.
What Facilities and Amenities Are Available for Guests with Disabilities?
Hershey Park offers a range of facilities and amenities for guests with disabilities:
- Wheelchair-accessible options throughout the park
- Water-friendly wheelchairs in the water park
- Quiet areas for sensory breaks:
- Guest Services inside the Family Health and Services Center
- Kissing Tower Hill area
- ADA/handicap accessible parking areas
- ADA/handicap accessible trams for in-park transportation
These amenities ensure that guests with various needs can navigate and enjoy the park comfortably.
How Does the Height Category System Work?
Hershey Park uses a unique height category system to help guests determine ride eligibility:
- Categories are named after Hershey candies:
- Miniatures
- Kisses
- Reese’s
- Hershey’s
- Twizzlers
- Jolly Ranchers
- Guests can get their height checked at any Guest Services location
- Receive a bracelet indicating their height category
This system simplifies the process of identifying which rides are suitable for each guest.
What Challenges Have Been Reported with the Accessibility Program?
While the program aims to enhance guest experience, some challenges have been reported:
- Inefficiencies in using the accessibility pass
- Longer wait times for families with special needs children
- Limited inclusion of immediate family members on the pass
- Difficulty locating adult changing stations
Hershey Park continually seeks feedback to improve the program and address these challenges.
Where Can Guests Find More Information or Assistance?
For additional information or assistance, guests can:
- Contact Hershey Park’s Hospitality Services at 717-534-3900
- Visit Guest Services locations within the park
- Check the official Hershey Park website for updates and guidelines
The park staff is committed to ensuring all guests have a enjoyable and accessible experience.