Hershey Park offers a range of sensory-friendly accommodations for guests with special needs. The park provides quiet areas, staff training, and a Ride Accessibility Program to ensure a comfortable experience. While not advertising specific sensory-friendly events, Hershey Park’s daily operations are designed to support guests with sensory sensitivities throughout their visit.
What Quiet Areas Does Hershey Park Offer?
Hershey Park provides several designated quiet areas for guests who need a break from sensory stimulation:
- Pioneer Frontier Area: Inside the Family Health & Services Center
- Kissing Tower Hill Area: At Guest Services
These spaces offer a calm environment away from the park’s hustle and bustle, allowing guests to recharge before returning to the attractions.
How Does Hershey Park Accommodate Sensory Needs?
Hershey Park has implemented several measures to accommodate guests with sensory sensitivities:
- Staff Training: Employees are trained in accessibility procedures and autism-friendly experiences.
- Customized Planning: Staff work with guests to create personalized visit plans.
- Ride Accessibility Program: This program helps guests identify suitable rides based on their needs.
While Hershey Park itself doesn’t provide sensory bags, the nearby Hershey Story Museum offers sensory-friendly backpacks with helpful tools like noise-reduction headphones and fidget toys.
What Is the Ride Accessibility Program?
The Ride Accessibility Program at Hershey Park is designed to ensure all guests can enjoy attractions safely:
- Enroll at Hospitality Services inside the Front Gate
- Complete a questionnaire about your disability
- Receive a Boarding Pass indicating safe rides
- Use Fast Track pass entrance with up to three companions
This program allows guests with disabilities to navigate the park more easily and enjoy attractions suited to their needs.
Are There Sensory-Friendly Water Park Options?
Yes, Hershey Park’s water park offers sensory-friendly options:
- Water-friendly wheelchairs available
- Bayside Pier Spray Area: Enclosed and monitored space
- Single entrance through a turnstile
- Safe, controlled environment for children with special needs
These features make the water park more accessible and enjoyable for guests with sensory sensitivities.
What Are the Costs for Sensory-Friendly Accommodations?
Hershey Park’s sensory-friendly accommodations are included in the standard admission price:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Park Admission | Standard ticket price |
| Sensory Accommodations | Included in admission |
| Preferred Parking | $25 extra (optional) |
Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to avoid long lines at the entrance.
Are There Benefits to Staying at Hershey Park Resorts?
Staying at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offers several advantages:
- Free Front Gate Shuttle Service
- Up to 4.5 extra hours in the park with Preview Plan (summer season)
- Free admission to:
- Hershey Gardens
- Butterfly Atrium
- The Hershey Story Museum
These perks can enhance your visit and provide additional value, especially for guests with sensory needs who may benefit from extended, less crowded park time.
How Can I Plan a Sensory-Friendly Visit to Hershey Park?
To plan a sensory-friendly visit to Hershey Park:
- Purchase tickets online in advance
- Consider staying at an Official Hershey Resort for extra benefits
- Familiarize yourself with quiet areas and sensory accommodations
- Enroll in the Ride Accessibility Program upon arrival
- Bring any personal sensory tools you find helpful
- Take advantage of the water park’s accessible features
- Don’t hesitate to ask staff for assistance or accommodations
By planning ahead and utilizing the park’s sensory-friendly resources, you can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable visit for guests with sensory sensitivities.
Hershey Park’s commitment to accessibility and sensory-friendly accommodations makes it a welcoming destination for all visitors, regardless of their sensory needs. With proper planning and utilization of available resources, guests can create a memorable and comfortable experience at this beloved amusement park.
References:
1. https://needquest.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-visiting-hersheypark-with-a-child-with-special-needs.html
2. https://stories.hersheypa.com/7-tips-on-planning-a-trip-to-hersheypark-for-special-needs-parents/
3. https://stories.hersheypa.com/hersheyparks-accessibility-program-making-the-most-of-your-visit-with-asdspd/