Hershey Park maintains a strict policy against bringing outside food and beverages into the park, with limited exceptions for medical needs and infant care. Visitors are allowed one sealed water bottle per person, and empty reusable water bottles are permitted. The park offers various dining options inside but does not provide designated picnic areas for outside food consumption. Understanding these rules is crucial for planning your visit to Hershey Park.
What is Hershey Park’s Current Outside Food Policy?
Hershey Park enforces a stringent policy regarding outside food and beverages:
- No outside food or drinks are allowed inside the park
- Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited
- Exceptions are made for:
- Guests with medical restrictions or conditions
- Baby food and formula for infants
This policy aims to maintain food safety standards and support the park’s internal food service operations.
Are Any Snacks or Beverages Permitted from Outside?
While the general rule prohibits outside food and drinks, there are a few exceptions:
- Water bottles:
- One sealed water bottle per person is allowed
-
Reusable water bottles are permitted if empty upon arrival
-
Medical necessities:
-
Food required for specific medical conditions
-
Infant needs:
- Baby food and formula
It’s important to note that all other snacks, drinks, and food items are not permitted inside the park.
Does Hershey Park Offer Designated Picnic Areas?
Contrary to some amusement parks, Hershey Park does not provide designated picnic areas within the park for consuming outside food. Here’s what you need to know:
- No picnic areas inside the park for outside food
- Picnic facilities are available outside the park area
- Restroom facilities are provided near the external picnic areas
This arrangement encourages visitors to enjoy the park’s culinary offerings while providing options for those who prefer to bring their own meals.
How Can Visitors with Special Dietary Needs Navigate the Food Policy?
Hershey Park recognizes that some visitors may have special dietary requirements. Here’s how they accommodate these needs:
- Medical exceptions:
- Visitors with medical conditions requiring specific foods can bring them
-
Documentation from a healthcare provider may be required
-
Allergy-friendly options:
- The park offers allergy-friendly menu items at various locations
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Staff are trained to handle allergy-related inquiries
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Kosher and Halal options:
- Limited Kosher and Halal food choices are available in the park
Visitors with dietary restrictions are encouraged to contact Guest Services in advance for personalized assistance.
What Food Options are Available Inside Hershey Park?
Despite the restrictions on outside food, Hershey Park offers a wide variety of dining options to cater to different tastes and dietary needs:
| Restaurant Type | Examples | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Service | Chickie’s & Pete’s, Nathan’s | Fast, convenient options |
| Sit-down Dining | The Outpost, Simply Crafted | Relaxed atmosphere |
| Snack Stands | Dippin’ Dots, Kettlecorn | Perfect for quick treats |
| Specialty Shops | Hershey’s Ice Cream, Cocoa Beanery | Unique Hershey-themed offerings |
Many of these locations offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary requirements.
How Does the Outside Food Policy Affect All-Day Dining Plans?
Hershey Park offers All-Day Dining Plans as an alternative to bringing outside food:
- Allows guests to eat at participating locations throughout the day
- Includes an entrée and side at each visit
- 90-minute interval between meals
- Does not include snacks or beverages
This plan can be a cost-effective option for families planning to spend the entire day at the park.
What are the Consequences of Violating the Outside Food Policy?
Hershey Park takes its outside food policy seriously. Here are the potential consequences of violating this policy:
- Confiscation of prohibited items
- Requirement to return items to your vehicle or dispose of them
- Possible denial of entry to the park
- No refunds issued for tickets if entry is denied due to policy violation
To avoid any issues, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the policy before your visit.
How Does Hershey Park’s Food Policy Compare to Other Amusement Parks?
Hershey Park’s outside food policy is relatively strict compared to some other amusement parks:
- Six Flags: Allows outside food in designated picnic areas
- Disney World: Permits outside food and non-alcoholic beverages
- Universal Studios: Similar to Hershey Park, restricts outside food and drinks
It’s always advisable to check the specific policies of any park you plan to visit, as they can vary significantly.
What Tips Can Help Visitors Plan Their Meals at Hershey Park?
To make the most of your dining experience at Hershey Park, consider these tips:
- Review menu options online before your visit
- Consider purchasing an All-Day Dining Plan for extended stays
- Bring empty water bottles to refill at water fountains
- Eat a hearty meal before entering the park to reduce in-park food expenses
- Plan your meals around less busy times to avoid long lines
- Check for any seasonal food specials or limited-time offerings
By planning ahead, you can ensure a satisfying and hassle-free dining experience during your visit to Hershey Park.
Remember, while the outside food and drink policy at Hershey Park may seem restrictive, it’s designed to ensure food safety and quality for all guests. By understanding and adhering to these rules, you can focus on enjoying the thrilling rides, attractions, and the unique Hershey’s chocolate experience that the park has to offer.
References:
1. Policies & Procedures – Hershey Entertainment
2. What are the bag and item policies at Hersheypark? – ABC27
3. Packing List for Hersheypark – Hershey, PA Stories
4. Hersheypark Official Website
5. Hersheypark FAQ – TripSavvy