Hershey Park, a renowned chocolate-themed amusement park in Pennsylvania, offers a diverse range of attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides and a water park. Many visitors wonder if they can experience all the park has to offer in just one day. This comprehensive guide addresses whether one day is enough for Hershey Park, providing expert tips and strategies to make the most of your visit, optimize your time, and ensure you don’t miss out on the park’s top attractions.
Is One Day Sufficient for Hershey Park?
Yes, one day can be enough to experience the highlights of Hershey Park if you plan strategically and prioritize your must-see attractions. With the park typically open from 10 AM to 10 PM, you have a full 12 hours to explore. However, your experience will depend on factors such as crowd levels, your ride preferences, and how efficiently you navigate the park.
How Can You Make the Most of One Day at Hershey Park?
To maximize your one-day visit to Hershey Park, consider the following strategies:
- Arrive early: Get to the park before opening to secure parking and be among the first to enter.
- Start at the back: Begin your day at the rear of the park to avoid initial crowds.
- Prioritize popular rides: Head to top attractions like Skyrush and Candymonium early in the day.
- Use Fast Track: Consider purchasing Fast Track passes for priority access to popular rides.
- Plan meals strategically: Pack snacks or use meal plans to minimize time spent on food breaks.
- Stay flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plan based on crowd levels and wait times.
What Is the Ideal One-Day Itinerary for Hershey Park?
Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your day:
Morning (10 AM – 1 PM)
- Start with Skyrush in the Boardwalk area
- Head to Candymonium in Chocolatetown
- Ride The Great Bear in Kissing Tower Hill
Afternoon (1 PM – 5 PM)
- Lunch break (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Explore ZooAmerica
- Visit the water park (if open and weather permits)
- Enjoy family-friendly rides
Evening (5 PM – 10 PM)
- Dinner at The Chocolatier or another park restaurant
- Revisit favorite rides or explore missed attractions
- End the day with nighttime rides for a different experience
Which Rides Should You Prioritize in One Day?
To make the most of your one-day visit, focus on these top attractions:
- Skyrush
- Candymonium
- The Great Bear
- Wildcat’s Revenge
- Tidal Force
| Ride Name | Height Requirement | Fast Track Available | Ride Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skyrush | 54 inches | Yes | High |
| Candymonium | 54 inches | Yes | High |
| The Great Bear | 54 inches | Yes | Medium to High |
| Wildcat’s Revenge | 48 inches | Yes | Medium |
| Tidal Force | 48 inches | No | Medium |
How Can You Avoid Peak Crowds at Hershey Park?
To minimize wait times and make the most of your one-day visit:
- Visit on weekdays when school is in session
- Avoid summer weekends if possible
- Consider visiting on slightly rainy days
- Use the Hershey Park app to monitor real-time wait times
What Are the Essential Tips for a One-Day Hershey Park Visit?
- Arrive early and park strategically ($15 parking fee)
- Utilize the park’s Accessibility Program if needed
- Pack snacks to save time and money
- Consider purchasing a meal plan for convenience
- Use the Hershey Park app for real-time updates and wait times
- Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking
- Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
Is the Water Park Included in a One-Day Hershey Park Ticket?
Yes, admission to The Boardwalk water park area is included with your Hershey Park ticket. However, keep in mind:
- The water park is typically open from late May to early September
- Operating hours may differ from the main park
- Consider the time trade-off between water attractions and dry rides
How Much Does a One-Day Visit to Hershey Park Cost?
One-day ticket prices vary based on the season and promotions:
- Regular one-day admission: $75.95 (ages 3+)
- Junior/Senior admission: $57.95 (ages 3-8 and 62+)
- Children 2 and under: Free
Additional costs to consider:
– Parking: $15
– Meal plans: Starting at $15.99
– Fast Track passes: Prices vary based on demand
What Should You Pack for a One-Day Hershey Park Visit?
To make the most of your day, pack these essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and hat
- Light jacket (for evening)
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks (if allowed)
- Change of clothes (if planning to visit the water park)
- Portable charger for your phone
By following these tips and strategies, you can make the most of your one-day visit to Hershey Park, experiencing the top attractions and creating lasting memories in the Sweetest Place on Earth.
References:
1. Hershey Park in One Day
2. Ultimate Guide to Visiting Hersheypark
3. 7 Reasons to Visit Hersheypark PA