Lake Tobias Wildlife Park and Hershey Park are two popular attractions in Pennsylvania, separated by about 45-60 minutes of driving time. This guide provides detailed information on the journey from Lake Tobias to Hershey Park, including driving directions, attractions at Lake Tobias, wildlife tours, and transportation options. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer excursion, this article will help you navigate between these two exciting destinations.
What are the driving directions from Lake Tobias to Hershey Park?
To reach Hershey Park from Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, follow these step-by-step directions:
- Start on Tobias Road from Lake Tobias Wildlife Park
- Turn onto Route 225 South
- Continue on Route 225 South until you reach Route 322 West
- Follow Route 322 West to I-81 South
- Take I-81 South to Exit 77 (Manada Hill)
- From Exit 77, follow Route 39 East towards Hershey
The estimated travel time for this route is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always advisable to check for real-time traffic updates before starting your journey, as road conditions can change.
What attractions can visitors enjoy at Lake Tobias near Hershey Park?
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park offers several exciting attractions for visitors:
- Safari Tours
- Cover 150 acres of rolling hills
- See herds of wild animals
- Guided tours in open-air buses during peak summer season
- Self-guided tours using personal vehicles in spring and fall
- Operational hours: Generally May to October (check official website for specific hours)
- Entry fees vary (check official website for current pricing)
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Unique feature: Hand-feed animals like bison, water buffalo, and watusi
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Petting Zoo
- Interact with domesticated farm animals
- Animals include African pygmy goats and alpacas
- Operational hours: Same as park hours
- Entry fees: Included in general admission
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Unique feature: Hands-on experience with friendly farm animals
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Reptiles & Exotics Building
- Features scaly, slithery, and creepy creatures
- Houses exotic mammals and tropical birds
- Operational hours: Same as park hours
- Entry fees: Included in general admission
- Unique feature: Eye-opening presentations and opportunity to touch an alligator
How long do wildlife tours at Lake Tobias typically last?
Wildlife tours at Lake Tobias vary in duration:
- Self-guided tours: No time limit; visitors can explore at their own pace
- Guided tours: Typically last about 1-2 hours
Tour schedules:
– Peak season: Guided tours run frequently throughout the day
– Spring and fall: Self-guided tours available during park hours
Pricing for tours varies, so it’s best to check the official Lake Tobias Wildlife Park website for current rates.
What are the transportation options and travel time from Lake Tobias to Hershey Park?
| Transportation Option | Travel Time | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving (personal vehicle) | 45-60 minutes | Always available | Most convenient option |
| Public Transport | Not applicable | No direct services | Impractical combination of buses and taxis |
| Shuttle Services | Not applicable | Not available | No dedicated shuttles between locations |
Driving is the most practical and convenient option for traveling from Lake Tobias to Hershey Park. Both locations offer parking facilities for visitors.
Are there any accessibility considerations for the journey?
While Lake Tobias Wildlife Park is generally accessible, it’s best to contact the park directly for specific accessibility needs. For those driving larger vehicles:
- Buses and heavy vehicles should avoid Peter’s Mountain (Route 225)
- Use alternate routes as specified by the park
What should visitors know about planning their trip from Lake Tobias to Hershey Park?
When planning your trip from Lake Tobias to Hershey Park, keep these points in mind:
- Check operating hours:
- Lake Tobias is typically open from May to October
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Hershey Park has varying hours depending on the season
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Consider package deals:
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Look for combination tickets if planning to visit both parks
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Plan for meal stops:
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The journey takes about an hour, so factor in time for breaks if needed
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Weather considerations:
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Both parks have outdoor attractions, so check the weather forecast
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Traffic updates:
- Use real-time traffic apps to avoid delays, especially during peak tourist seasons
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey from Lake Tobias to Hershey Park, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience at both destinations.
References:
1. https://www.laketobias.com/visitor-information/directions-parking/
2. https://www.visithersheyharrisburg.org/plan-a-trip/getting-here/
3. https://www.visithersheyharrisburg.org/things-to-do/family-fun/lake-tobias/