Hersheypark is one of the nicest amusement parks for families to visit. It’s located in Hershey (also known as Chocolate Town), Pennsylvania. The park is open April through December. During the in-season they’re open 7-days a week and during the spring, fall and early winter season just on weekends and for special events.
Every year we purchase season tickets as a family Christmas gift to one another. We live 20 minutes from the park and will take our children down 4-6 times a season. Season passes save you money if you plan on going 3 or more times a year.
As parents we really love Hersheypark for two reasons: 1. Family-friendly atmosphere and 2. the BEST kiddie rides and a lot of them. Some parks will have a small kiddie ride section, not Hersheypark. They have a lot of them and will keep your youngster busy all day long.
Their ride attendants are thoroughly trained and they take great care to getting the kids strapped and buckled in. When necessary, children are given ride instructions like they have to stay seated, keep their arms in, etc. I also like that each ride as a “height” sign and kids must reach a certain height to get on the rides. Yes, those type’s of restrictions are great for safety reasons.
My daughter gets on a lot of the adult and some of the kiddie rides (she’s almost 11) and my son stays strictly on the kiddie rides for his age group. My husband will often venture off with the Princess and I will hang out with our Prince. This allows each child from time to time to get on their preferred rides.
When visiting I do recommend that you dress your kids in season-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear. They will be outside and doing a lot of walking. Apply sunscreen before you enter the park and if possible, bring it into the park with you for re-application throughout the day.
You’ll want to give the kids frequent “ride breaks” throughout the day. Those breaks are a great time to take in a show, play a few games, grab a quick bite to eat, do a little shopping, use the restrooms, etc. These breaks help kids to rest in between all of the excitement of the day.
Here’s another tip: If you plan on spending all day at the park I recommend that you pack a few bottles of water and shelf-stable snacks in the car. If you have small children along with you…pack extra clothing (in case of accidents) and bring along their pajamas. After you leave the park for the day they can enjoy a snack and water. Put the little ones in their pj’s as they’ll most likely fall asleep on the way home.
One final word: Talk to you children about stranger danger and safety. Write your information on the bottom of their shoes or have them wear an ID bracelet. Make sure they understand they’re not to wonder off, talk to people they don’t know and that if they get separated from you to walk up to an employee to ask for help.
I have said it before this post, but I would love to take my grandchildren to Hershey park. I know that I would enjoy it too.
It sounds like a fun park for families. I can see little ones loving those rides.
I’d love take my grandchildren to Hersheypark someday. They would have so much fun! Thanks for sharing about your visits to the park.
I love kiddie parks. The children have so much fun on “their” rides. Thank you for the pics.
I’ve been to parks that just have a few small kid’s rides. This looks like a really fun place.