If there’s one place that perfectly captures the magic of chocolate, family fun, and the joy of summer, it’s Hershey Park in Pennsylvania. My recent visit to this iconic destination was nothing short of a sweet adventure, filled with thrills, treats, and memories that I’ll cherish for a long time. Here’s a recount of my delightful experience.
Arrival: Anticipation and Excitement
As I with my family and friends, we approached Hershey Park, the excitement was palpable. The air seemed to carry a hint of chocolate, which wasn’t surprising considering the park’s association with Hershey’s chocolate. The park is conveniently located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, a town that exudes charm and warmth. The drive itself was a pleasant one, with scenic views of rolling hills and lush greenery setting the stage for the day ahead.
Parking was a breeze, and after a short walk, I found myself at the entrance of Hershey Park. The iconic Hershey Kisses, Reese’s, and other beloved candy characters welcomed visitors, their giant smiles promising a day of fun. I couldn’t help but smile back, my anticipation growing with each step.
First Stop: Chocolate World
Before diving into the rides and attractions, we decided to start our day with a visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World, which is conveniently located just outside the main park. This was an absolute must for most visitors, as I’ve always been fascinated by the process of chocolate making.
Chocolate World offers a free ride called *Hershey’s Chocolate Tour*, where visitors can see how Hershey’s chocolate is made, from the harvesting of cocoa beans to the final product. The ride was informative and entertaining, with animated characters and interactive displays guiding us through the chocolate-making process. The best part? At the end of the tour, everyone receives a free Hershey’s chocolate bar. It was a perfect way to kickstart the day.
Exploring the Park: Rides and Attractions
After our sweet start at Chocolate World, it was time to dive into the main attractions of Hershey Park. The park is divided into several themed areas, each offering a unique set of rides and experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer something more relaxed, Hershey Park has something for everyone.
One of the first ride of the day was the *Candymonium*, a hypercoaster that’s become a fan favorite. This ride is not for the faint of heart—it’s the tallest, fastest, and longest coaster in the park. As I strapped in and ascended the first hill, I could feel my heart racing. The drop was exhilarating, and the speed left me breathless. The twists, turns, and airtime hills made for an unforgettable experience. It was the perfect way to get the adrenaline pumping.
After the thrill of Candymonium,
My daughter and I made my way to *The Boardwalk*, Hershey Park’s water park section. The day was warm, so a water ride sounded like the perfect way to cool off. I opted for the *Breakers Edge Water Coaster*, a water coaster that combines the best of both worlds: the excitement of a roller coaster with the refreshing splash of a water ride. It was a blast! The ride zipped through twists and turns, with water spraying and splashing at every corner. I left the ride soaked but smiling from ear to ear.
Lunchtime: Savoring the Flavors
All the excitement had worked up quite an appetite, so it was time to find something to eat. Hershey Park offers a wide variety of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals. We decided to treat myself to something a bit special and headed to *The Chocolatier*, a full-service restaurant located just outside the park gates in Hershey’s Chocolatetown.
The Chocolatier is a must-visit for any food lover. The menu is filled with dishes that incorporate chocolate in creative ways. I opted for the *Cocoa-Dusted Pulled Pork Sandwich*, which was simply divine. The pork was tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of cocoa adding a subtle richness to the dish. I paired it with a side of sweet potato fries and a refreshing Hershey’s chocolate milkshake. The meal was indulgent, but hey, when in Hershey, right?
After lunch, we took a moment to explore Chocolatetown, a newer addition to Hershey Park. This area is beautifully designed, with shops, eateries, and attractions that celebrate all things Hershey. It’s the perfect spot to take a breather, do some shopping, and maybe grab a sweet treat before heading back into the park.
Afternoon: More Thrills and Chills
With my energy replenished, it was time to tackle more of the park’s attractions. Next up was *Skyrush*, another one of Hershey Park’s legendary roller coasters. Skyrush is known for its intense airtime and steep drops, and it did not disappoint. The ride was a heart-pounding experience, with moments that made anyone feel like they are floating out of their seat. It’s the kind of ride that leaves you both exhilarated and a little bit shaken—in the best possible way.
For a more nostalgic experience, We hopped on the *Carrousel*, one of the oldest rides in the park. There’s something magical about carousels, and this one was no exception. As the classic organ music played and the horses moved up and down, I couldn’t help but feel like a kid again. It was a lovely contrast to the high-energy rides I’d been on earlier and a reminder of the park’s rich history.
For a change of pace, my wife and friends decided to visit *ZooAmerica*, a North American wildlife park that’s included with admission to Hershey Park. ZooAmerica is home to a variety of animals, from black bears to bald eagles, and offers a nice break from the high-energy rides. they enjoyed strolling through the zoo’s shaded paths, learning about the animals, and appreciating the peaceful environment.
Evening: Sunset and Sweets
As the day began to wind down, we made my way back to the park’s central area to catch the sunset. Hershey Park is particularly beautiful in the evening, with the soft glow of the setting sun casting a warm light over the attractions. The park takes on a different atmosphere at dusk, with the lights of the rides and the sounds of laughter filling the air.
Before leaving, we couldn’t resist indulging in a sweet treat. we stopped by *Moorlyn Terrace Ice Cream Parlor* for a scoop (or two) of their famous ice cream. I opted for a classic—Hershey’s Chocolate ice cream, of course—and it was the perfect way to end the day. Creamy, rich, and perfectly chocolatey, it was everything I had hoped for.
A Sweet Goodbye
As we made our way to the exit, I took a moment to reflect on the day. Hershey Park had exceeded all my expectations. From the thrilling rides to the delicious food, every aspect of the park is designed to create a memorable experience. It’s a place where you can feel like a kid again, no matter your age, and where the magic of chocolate is around every corner.
What struck me the most about Hershey Park is the attention to detail. Every ride, every restaurant, every shop is thoughtfully designed to celebrate the legacy of Milton Hershey and the joy that his chocolate has brought to millions of people. It’s more than just an amusement park—it’s a tribute to a man who believed in the power of community, happiness, and, of course, chocolate.
If you’re looking for a destination that offers a mix of excitement, nostalgia, and sweetness, Hershey Park is the place to be. Whether you’re a roller coaster enthusiast, a chocolate lover, or just someone looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone. As we drove away, the lights of the park fading in the rearview mirror, I couldn’t help but smile. Hershey Park had left me with a heart full of joy and a craving for just one more piece of chocolate. And really, what more could you ask for?
