The Hershey Park Turnpike Ride, also known as the Twin Turnpike – Speedway, is a beloved attraction at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania. This classic ride offers visitors of all ages the chance to experience the thrill of driving miniature cars along a scenic track. Located in the Kissing Tower Hill area, the Twin Turnpike provides a fun and engaging experience for families, allowing children to take the wheel or ride as passengers while adults can join in the excitement or supervise younger drivers.
What is the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
The Hershey Park Turnpike Ride is a family-friendly attraction that simulates a driving experience. Guests can hop into miniature cars and navigate a winding track, enjoying the scenery and the sensation of being behind the wheel. The ride is designed to be accessible to a wide range of visitors, making it a popular choice for families with children of various ages.
What are the Height Requirements for the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
One of the most appealing aspects of the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride is its inclusivity. There are no specific height restrictions that would exclude any of the defined height categories at Hersheypark. This means that guests of all heights can participate in the ride, whether they’re tall enough to drive or need to ride as passengers.
Here’s a breakdown of the height categories and their ability to enjoy the ride:
- Hershey’s Miniatures (under 36 inches): Can ride as passengers
- Hershey’s Kisses (36-42 inches): Can ride as passengers or drive if able to reach pedals
- Reese’s (42-48 inches): Can ride as passengers or drive
- Hershey’s (48-54 inches): Can ride as passengers or drive
- Jolly Rancher (54 inches and taller): Can ride as passengers or drive
This inclusive policy ensures that families can enjoy the attraction together, regardless of height differences.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
While there are no specific age restrictions mentioned for the Twin Turnpike – Speedway, there are a few important points to consider:
- No hand-held infants are allowed on the ride.
- Children can either drive the cars themselves if they meet the operational requirements or ride as passengers.
- There is no explicit requirement for an accompanying adult.
It’s important to note that while there’s no strict age limit, younger children may need supervision to operate the vehicles safely. Parents and guardians should use their discretion to determine if their child is capable of driving independently.
What is the Duration of the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
Unfortunately, there is no specific information provided on the exact duration of the Twin Turnpike – Speedway ride in minutes and seconds. However, based on similar attractions at other amusement parks, we can make some educated guesses:
- Typical ride duration: 3-5 minutes
- Track length: Approximately 1/4 to 1/2 mile
- Speed: Slow to moderate (for safety reasons)
While the ride may seem short, it’s designed to provide a satisfying experience without causing long wait times for other guests.
How Long are the Wait Times for the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
Wait times for the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride can vary significantly depending on several factors:
- Time of day
- Day of the week
- Season
- Overall park attendance
Here’s a general guide to expected wait times:
| Time Period | Estimated Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Peak Hours (weekends, holidays) | 15-30 minutes |
| Off-Peak Hours (weekdays, non-summer) | 5-15 minutes |
| Early Morning or Late Evening | 0-10 minutes |
To minimize wait times, consider:
– Visiting on weekdays
– Arriving early when the park opens
– Riding during less popular times (e.g., during parades or shows)
– Using Hersheypark’s Fast Track system (if available for this ride)
What Accessibility Options are Available for the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
The Hershey Park Turnpike Ride strives to be accessible to as many guests as possible. However, there are some important considerations:
- Guests must transfer from wheelchairs or ECVs to participate in the ride.
- The cars are not designed to accommodate wheelchairs directly.
- Assistance may be available for guests who need help transferring to the ride vehicles.
For guests with other accessibility needs, it’s recommended to speak with Hersheypark staff or visit the park’s accessibility center for more information and assistance.
What Safety Precautions Should Riders Take on the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
Safety is a top priority on the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride. Here are some important safety precautions and rules to follow:
- Loose articles and hand-held items are not recommended
- Food and drinks are not permitted on the ride
- Follow all instructions given by ride operators
- Remain seated and keep hands, arms, and legs inside the vehicle at all times
- Do not bump or crash into other vehicles intentionally
- Observe and obey all traffic signs along the track
By following these guidelines, riders can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
How Does the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride Compare to Other Park Attractions?
The Hershey Park Turnpike Ride offers a unique experience compared to other attractions in the park:
- Family-Friendly: Unlike thrill rides, it’s suitable for all ages and most height categories.
- Interactive: Riders have control over their experience, unlike passive rides.
- Nostalgic Appeal: It’s a classic attraction that has been enjoyed by generations of visitors.
- Low-Intensity: Perfect for those who prefer milder rides or need a break from more intense attractions.
- Social Experience: Allows families to enjoy a shared activity together.
While it may not offer the adrenaline rush of roller coasters, the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride provides a charming and memorable experience that complements the park’s more thrilling offerings.
What are Some Tips for Maximizing Enjoyment on the Hershey Park Turnpike Ride?
To get the most out of your Hershey Park Turnpike Ride experience, consider these tips:
- Ride early in the day to avoid longer wait times.
- Let younger children take turns driving if they meet the requirements.
- Use the ride as a relaxing break between more intense attractions.
- Take in the scenery and themed elements along the track.
- Consider riding multiple times to try different cars or drivers.
- Capture memories with photos before or after the ride (not during, for safety reasons).
- Combine the ride with nearby attractions in the Kissing Tower Hill area for efficient park navigation.
By following these suggestions, you can enhance your enjoyment of this classic Hersheypark attraction and create lasting memories with your family and friends.
The Hershey Park Turnpike Ride remains a beloved attraction that offers a slice of nostalgia and family-friendly fun amidst the more thrilling rides of the park. Its accessibility, safety features, and appeal to all ages make it a must-visit attraction for many Hersheypark guests. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones with your children, the Twin Turnpike – Speedway provides a delightful driving adventure in the heart of Hersheypark.
References:
1. Hersheypark Official Website – Twin Turnpike – Speedway presented by Sunoco
2. Wikipedia – Hersheypark
3. Hersheypark Stories – Plan Your Hersheypark Day by Height Category