Taking Baby to Hershey Park: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Taking a baby to Hershey Park can be an exciting yet challenging experience for parents. This guide provides essential information on baby-friendly attractions, stroller accessibility, and baby care facilities. Hershey Park offers numerous rides suitable for infants and toddlers, with specific height restrictions and safety measures in place. The park also provides amenities for parents, including nursing rooms and changing stations, making it a family-friendly destination.

What Are the Baby-Friendly Attractions at Hershey Park?

taking baby to hershey park
Image ‘File:Hershey Triple Tower 2.jpg’ by crudmucosa, licensed under CC BY 2.0

Hershey Park offers a variety of attractions suitable for babies and toddlers. The park categorizes rides based on height:

  • Miniatures: 0-36 inches
  • Kisses: 36-42 inches
  • Reese’s: Above 42 inches

Here’s a list of toddler-friendly rides:

  1. Balloon Flite (Miniatures and Kisses, children only)
  2. Carrousel (All sizes)
  3. Coal Cracker (Kisses, water ride)
  4. Cocoa Cruiser (Kisses)
  5. Convoy (Miniatures and Kisses)
  6. Dizzy Drums (Kisses, children only)
  7. Dry Gulch Railroad (Miniatures and Kisses)
  8. Ferris Wheel (Miniatures and Kisses)
  9. Frog Hopper (Kisses, one taller companion may accompany each child)
  10. Frontier Flyers (Kisses)

For water-loving babies, the park offers several toddler-friendly waterpark rides:

  • Bayside Pier
  • East Coast Waterworks
  • Intercoastal Waterway (Miniatures must wear a life vest)
  • Sandcastle Cove
  • The Shore
  • Shoreline Sprayground

What Are the Height and Age Restrictions for Baby Rides?

taking baby to hershey park
Image ‘File:Waterpark 3g.jpg’ by Mike2478, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Hershey Park has specific height and age restrictions for various rides to ensure safety:

Height Category Height Range Suitable Rides
Miniatures 0-36 inches Balloon Flite, Carrousel, Convoy
Kisses 36-42 inches Cocoa Cruiser, Coal Cracker, Dizzy Drums
Reese’s Above 42 inches Most rides, but not suitable for babies

It’s important to note that:
– No hand-held infants are allowed on certain rides
– Some rides require children to walk by themselves
– The Kiddie Swap program allows parents to take turns on rides while one stays with the baby

How Stroller-Friendly is Hershey Park?

Hershey Park is generally stroller-friendly, but there are some considerations:

  1. The park is large and hilly, making strollers highly recommended for young children.
  2. There are no specific restrictions on stroller types, but sturdy and maneuverable strollers are advisable due to the terrain.
  3. While there are no designated stroller parking areas, you can park strollers near ride entrances or in shaded areas.
  4. Pathways are generally stroller-friendly, although some areas may be challenging due to the hilly terrain.
  5. Stroller rentals are available for added convenience.

What Baby Care Facilities Are Available at Hershey Park?

Hershey Park provides various baby care facilities to ensure a comfortable experience for parents and infants:

  1. Nursing Rooms: Available throughout the park (check with staff or the park’s app for exact locations)
  2. Changing Stations: Located in restrooms and baby care areas
  3. Rest Areas: Scattered throughout the park for parents to take breaks
  4. Dining Options: Various food outlets cater to different dietary needs
  5. Restrooms: Equipped to handle the needs of parents with infants

The Hersheypark app can help parents plan their day, including finding amenities and attractions suitable for their children.

What Should Parents Pack When Taking a Baby to Hershey Park?

When taking a baby to Hershey Park, it’s essential to pack the following items:

  1. Diapers and wipes
  2. Change of clothes
  3. Sunscreen and hat
  4. Snacks and bottles
  5. Stroller
  6. Baby carrier
  7. Comfort items (pacifier, favorite toy)
  8. Hand sanitizer
  9. Small first aid kit
  10. Plastic bags for wet or soiled clothes

How Can Parents Manage Feeding and Nap Times at Hershey Park?

Managing feeding and nap times at Hershey Park requires some planning:

  1. Utilize the nursing rooms for quiet feeding sessions
  2. Pack familiar snacks and bottles for convenience
  3. Plan rides and activities around your baby’s usual nap schedule
  4. Use the stroller or baby carrier for on-the-go naps
  5. Take advantage of shaded areas or indoor attractions during peak sun hours
  6. Consider leaving the park for a midday break if staying at a nearby hotel

What Safety Measures Should Parents Be Aware of When Taking a Baby to Hershey Park?

Safety is paramount when taking a baby to Hershey Park. Here are some key measures to keep in mind:

  1. Always follow height and age restrictions for rides
  2. Use appropriate safety gear, such as life vests on water rides
  3. Keep your baby hydrated and protected from the sun
  4. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
  5. Use the park’s Kiddie Swap program for rides not suitable for babies
  6. Keep emergency contact information on your baby (wristband or temporary tattoo)
  7. Familiarize yourself with the locations of first aid stations

By following these guidelines and utilizing the park’s baby-friendly facilities, taking your baby to Hershey Park can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.

References:

  1. Visiting Hersheypark with Toddlers | Simple Modest Mom
  2. Guide To Hershey, PA For Kids | Hershey Stories
  3. Hershey Park Day Trip with Toddlers | Maryland Kid Adventures

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