Chocolate Town, officially known as Hershey’s Chocolatetown, is indeed located inside Hersheypark. This new region, opened in 2020, serves as an immersive entrance to the park and offers year-round attractions. Chocolatetown seamlessly blends the park experience with dining, shopping, and a signature coaster, creating a unique gateway to the sweetest place on Earth.
What is the Location and Layout of Chocolate Town?
Hershey’s Chocolatetown is strategically positioned within Hersheypark:
- Location: Situated at the main entrance of Hersheypark
- Area: Occupies the former site of the Hershey Swimming Pool
- Boundaries: Extends into the new front gate area of Hersheypark
- Connectivity: Creates a seamless passageway between Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction
The layout of Chocolatetown is designed to enhance the visitor experience:
- New front gate with enhanced technology
- Designated lines for Season Pass Holders and Resort Guests
- Proximity to major park attractions
- Year-round access to certain amenities without a park ticket
What Are the Main Attractions in Chocolate Town?
Chocolatetown boasts several key attractions that make it a must-visit destination:
1. Candymonium
This signature coaster is the crown jewel of Chocolatetown:
- Type: Bolliger & Mabillard hyper coaster
- Theme: Distinctive Hershey’s candy theme
- Stats: Tallest, fastest, and longest coaster in Hersheypark
- Height Requirement: Typically 54-57 inches (check official website for exact details)
- Operating Hours: Follows Hersheypark’s schedule
2. Dining Establishments
Chocolatetown offers a variety of dining options:
| Restaurant | Type | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Chocolatier | Full-service restaurant | Second-story patio and bar with park views |
| Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor | Ice cream shop | Custom creations with Hershey’s candy toppings |
| The Sweeterie | Confectionery | Hand-crafted fudge and specialty desserts |
3. Shopping and Entertainment
- Retail shops featuring Hershey’s merchandise
- Gathering spaces for events and relaxation
How Does Chocolate Town Enhance the Hersheypark Experience?
Chocolatetown significantly elevates the Hersheypark experience in several ways:
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Improved Entry: The new front gate streamlines park entry, reducing wait times and enhancing the arrival experience.
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Extended Entertainment: With year-round access to certain areas, visitors can enjoy Hershey’s magic even outside regular park hours.
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Culinary Delights: The diverse dining options cater to various tastes, from full meals to sweet treats.
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Thematic Consistency: The area reinforces Hershey’s chocolate theme, creating a more immersive experience from the moment visitors arrive.
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Connectivity: It bridges the gap between Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World, creating a more cohesive visitor journey.
What Are the Operating Hours for Chocolate Town?
The operating hours for Chocolatetown vary:
- Park Attractions (e.g., Candymonium): Follow Hersheypark’s regular operating schedule
- Dining and Shopping: Many venues are open year-round, even when the park is closed
- Seasonal Variations: Hours may extend during peak seasons and special events
It’s always best to check the official Hersheypark website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
Are There Special Events in Chocolate Town?
While specific event schedules are not detailed, Chocolatetown hosts various seasonal and special events:
- Holiday celebrations
- Character meet-and-greets
- Themed activities throughout the year
These events often coincide with larger Hersheypark celebrations, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
How Does Chocolate Town Compare to Other Park Areas?
Chocolatetown stands out from other Hersheypark areas in several ways:
- Gateway Function: Serves as the primary entrance to the park
- Year-Round Access: Certain areas are accessible without a park ticket
- Modern Amenities: Features the newest dining and shopping options in the park
- Thematic Focus: Heavily emphasizes the Hershey’s chocolate brand and history
What Tips Should Visitors Know for Enjoying Chocolate Town?
To make the most of your Chocolatetown experience:
- Arrive early to enjoy the new entrance area without crowds
- Make dining reservations in advance, especially for The Chocolatier
- Try the custom ice cream creations at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor
- Don’t miss the hand-crafted confections at The Sweeterie
- Take time to explore the retail options for unique Hershey’s merchandise
- Check the Hersheypark website for any special events or seasonal offerings
Hershey’s Chocolatetown, nestled inside Hersheypark, offers a sweet start to your park adventure. From thrilling rides to delectable dining, it embodies the essence of Hershey’s chocolate legacy while providing modern amenities and experiences for all visitors.
References:
1. https://www.hersheypark.com/chocolatetown/map.php
2. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/things-to-do/chocolate-world.php
3. https://www.hersheypark.com/chocolatetown/