Hershey Park, a popular amusement park in Pennsylvania, strives to accommodate guests of all sizes. However, like many theme parks, it has certain limitations and restrictions for larger visitors. This guide explores the park’s policies, ride restrictions, and amenities to help plus-size guests plan their visit and determine if Hershey Park is truly fat-friendly.
Is Hershey Park Welcoming to Plus-Size Visitors?
Hershey Park aims to be inclusive, but certain ride restrictions and weight limits may pose challenges for larger guests. The park offers some accommodations and services to enhance the experience for visitors of all sizes, but it’s essential to be aware of potential limitations.
What Are the Weight Limits for Rides at Hershey Park?
Hershey Park implements specific weight restrictions on various rides to ensure safety:
- Coastline Plunge – Riptide:
- Single rider: Max 250 lbs
- Double tube: Max 400 lbs combined
- The Claw: Max 225 lbs
- Breakers Edge Water Coaster: 100-700 lbs combined per vehicle
These limits may affect the ability of larger guests to enjoy certain attractions.
How Does Hershey Park Accommodate Larger Guests?
Hershey Park provides several features to assist plus-size visitors:
- Test seats for many rides
- Accessibility Services at the Front Gate
- Guest Services locations throughout the park
- Accessible pathways and facilities
- Aquatic wheelchairs for some water attractions
However, guests must transfer from wheelchairs or ECVs for most rides, which may be challenging for some.
What Rides Are Most Comfortable for Plus-Size Visitors?
While Hershey Park doesn’t have rides specifically designed for larger guests, some attractions may be more accommodating:
- Ferris Wheel
- Carousel
- Train rides
- Certain water attractions with higher weight limits
It’s advisable to check with Guest Services for the most up-to-date information on ride comfort and accessibility.
Are There Size Restrictions for Water Park Attractions?
Yes, some water park attractions have size and weight restrictions:
| Attraction | Weight Limit | Other Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Coastline Plunge – Riptide | 250 lbs (single), 400 lbs (double) | N/A |
| Breakers Edge Water Coaster | 100-700 lbs combined | N/A |
| Other water slides | Vary | May have height or size restrictions |
What Should Plus-Size Visitors Know Before Visiting Hershey Park?
- Check ride restrictions in advance
- Utilize test seats before waiting in line
- Visit Accessibility Services for personalized assistance
- Be prepared for potential limitations on some attractions
- Consider visiting during less crowded times for easier navigation
How Can Larger Guests Ensure a Comfortable Visit to Hershey Park?
To maximize comfort and enjoyment:
- Wear comfortable, breathable clothing
- Bring a personal fan or cooling towel
- Plan rest breaks and utilize shaded areas
- Consider renting an ECV if walking long distances is challenging
- Bring any necessary medical documentation for accommodations
What Dining Options Are Available for Plus-Size Visitors?
Hershey Park offers a variety of dining options, including:
- Sit-down restaurants with ample seating
- Quick-service locations with a range of food choices
- Snack stands throughout the park
Many locations offer healthier options and accommodations for dietary restrictions.
How Does Hershey Park Compare to Other Theme Parks in Terms of Fat-Friendliness?
While Hershey Park makes efforts to be inclusive, it faces similar challenges as other major theme parks regarding ride restrictions for larger guests. However, its accessibility services and amenities are comparable to those of other popular amusement parks.
What Improvements Could Hershey Park Make to Be More Fat-Friendly?
To enhance the experience for plus-size visitors, Hershey Park could consider:
- Increasing the number of rides with adjustable restraints
- Offering more attractions without strict weight limits
- Providing clearer information about size restrictions online
- Expanding seating options throughout the park
- Implementing sensitivity training for staff
In conclusion, while Hershey Park strives to accommodate guests of all sizes, it may not be fully fat-friendly due to certain ride restrictions and limitations. However, with proper planning and utilization of available services, larger guests can still enjoy many aspects of the park. It’s essential to research and prepare in advance to ensure the most comfortable and enjoyable visit possible.
References:
1. Hersheypark – Coastline Plunge – Riptide
2. Hersheypark – The Claw
3. Hersheypark – Rider Safety and Accessibility Guide
4. Hersheypark – Breakers Edge Water Coaster
5. Hersheypark – Accessibility Services