Hershey Park, founded in 1906 as a leisure park for chocolate factory employees, has evolved into a world-class amusement destination. Over the years, it has introduced numerous exciting rides and attractions, constantly enhancing visitor experiences. This timeline explores the park’s evolution, highlighting key additions and changes in its ride offerings from its early days to the present and future plans.
What Were the Early Attractions at Hershey Park?
In its early years, Hershey Park focused on basic recreational facilities rather than major rides. The park gradually expanded to include family-friendly attractions, but specific details on early rides are not extensively documented. However, the park’s growth over the decades set the stage for the thrilling attractions we see today.
How Did Hershey Park Evolve in the 2010s?
The 2010s marked a period of significant expansion and modernization for Hershey Park. While specific ride introductions for each year aren’t detailed in our sources, this decade saw the park preparing for major developments that would come to fruition in the following years.
What New Rides Were Introduced in 2019?
2019 saw the introduction of a groundbreaking interactive ride:
- Reese’s Cupfusion: An interactive gaming ride where guests become agents protecting the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup factory. It features:
- The most targets in the world
- Six different ways to play
- A unique blend of chocolate-themed adventure and gaming
How Did Hershey Park Transform in 2020?
2020 was a landmark year for Hershey Park with the introduction of Hershey’s Chocolatetown:
- Hershey’s Chocolatetown: A new region featuring:
- Reimagined arrival experience
- Starbucks
- Shopping areas
- The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio
- Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor
-
The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen
-
Candymonium: A hypercoaster with impressive stats:
- Height: 210 feet
- Speed: 76 mph
- Ride duration: 2 minutes and 26 seconds
What Enhancements Were Made in 2021?
While 2021 didn’t see major new ride introductions, the park focused on enhancing existing areas:
- Continued popularity of The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio
- Improvements to dining options and visitor experiences
What Exciting Additions Came in 2022?
2022 brought several new attractions to Hershey Park:
- Jolly Rancher Remix: A reimagined coaster offering:
- Forward and backward rides on the same track
-
Different experiences each time
-
Mix’d Flavored By Jolly Rancher: A family ride featuring:
- Four arms for seating
- Visual riddles
-
Forward and backward motion
-
Dark Nights: An immersive haunt experience including:
- Three scare zones
- Four haunted houses
What Thrilling New Ride Debuted in 2023?
2023 saw the introduction of an exciting new coaster:
- Wildcat’s Revenge: A wood and steel hybrid coaster featuring:
- The world’s largest underflip
- A blend of classic wooden coaster feel with modern steel coaster technology
Additionally, the Dark Nights experience expanded with:
– Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir Haunted House
– Fallout Zone Scare Zone
What New Attractions Are Planned for 2024 and Beyond?
Hershey Park continues to innovate with plans for new attractions:
- 2024: Darkstone’s Hollow: The Battle Of Spring Creek Scare Zone
- A new addition to the Dark Nights experience
-
Theme: Darkstone’s war against formerly captive creatures
-
2025: Twizzlers Twisted Gravity
- Set to be the tallest Screamin’ Swing in the world
- Scheduled to open in summer 2025
How Does Hershey Park Operate Throughout the Year?
Hershey Park operates on various schedules to accommodate different seasons and events:
| Season | Operating Dates |
|---|---|
| Summer | Daily from May 23 to September 2 |
| Spring Weekends | Weekends from April 1 to May 21 |
| Halloween and Dark Nights | Weekends from September 13 to November 3 |
| Christmas Candylane | Select dates in November and December |
What Accessibility Features Does Hershey Park Offer?
Hershey Park is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors:
- Wheelchair-accessible rides and attractions
- Accommodations for guests with disabilities
- Mobile app features:
- Real-time ride availability
- Ride wait times
- Interactive map
How Have Recent Additions Impacted Visitor Experience?
The introduction of new rides and attractions has significantly enhanced the visitor experience:
- More diverse and thrilling options
- Increased attendance during typically slower periods due to seasonal events
- Improved visitor satisfaction (though specific metrics are not provided)
- Streamlined experience through digital tools like the park’s app
What Ticket Options and Add-ons Are Available?
Hershey Park offers various ticket options and add-ons to enhance the visitor experience:
- Tickets and Season Passes:
- Online ticket purchases for savings
- Season Passes for unlimited visits throughout the year
-
2-day tickets for best value (non-consecutive use allowed)
-
Add-ons:
- Fast Track: Skip lines on select attractions
- All-Day Drink Deal: Souvenir cup with free refills every 10 minutes
By continually introducing new rides and attractions, Hershey Park maintains its status as a premier destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. The park’s commitment to innovation ensures that each year brings new experiences for visitors to enjoy.
References:
- https://www.visithersheyharrisburg.org/things-to-do/family-fun/hersheypark/
- https://www.hersheypark.com/info/hours/
- https://www.hersheypark.com/new/
- https://stories.hersheypa.com/guide-to-spring-weekends-2023-at-hersheypark/