Are you looking for the BEST things to do in Hersheypark this year?
In 2024, Hersheypark, The Sweetest Place on Earth, is poised to delight visitors with an array of thrilling new experiences.
As families and thrill-seekers alike flock to this iconic amusement park, they can expect to be greeted by an exciting lineup of attractions that promise to elevate their Hersheypark experience to new heights.
This will be my 3rd year as a Hersheypark Passholder and I can easily say that I am majorly excited to return to my home park and see what they’ve been cooking up during their off season.
I will take you through the new yummy seasonal treats, amazing roller coasters, high-energy entertainment, animal friends and so much more for Hersheypark’s 2024 season!
So let’s dive in and check out what we have in store for us.
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1. Skyrush’s New Look
Intamin’s “Skyrush” creation is one of the most popular coasters in the park. It’s bright yellow track hue, laid behind the backdrop of Candymonium ALWAYS leaves riders rushing over to see if it’s worth the hype.
In the past, many coaster enthusiasts, like myself, have had one complaint about the iconic Hersheypark attraction and thats the restraints and seats.
Nicknamed “Thighcrush,” the seats were very uncomfortable for riders like me with big thighs or taller guests.
One of the big reveals from Hersheypark last month was that they fully replaced the attraction with new seats and restraints!
I recently visited for Hersheypark’s opening day and can confirm after riding that the seats and restraints are a lot more comfortable than before, and provide for a much smoother, yet still thrilling experience.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
In addition to this, the coaster has been given a new lighting and sound package in them to an airport.
As you board the ride, you will hear sounds similar to what you would hear when boarding a plane. There are new lights above the trains as well at the station.
My favorite is the sound added to the lift hill, which is the sound of a plane taking off as you go swiftly up the hill!
The launch itself is very swift, getting you to the top height and first hill at 212 feet in less than 20 seconds. And yes I timed it.
These changes have made Skyrush jump back up to my top 3 Hersheypark coasters list with Great Bear and Wildcat’s Revenge!
Hipster Power Tip: Sit on the outer seats for extra exhilaration. You’ll thank me later.
What to Expect on This Ride
You will hit speeds of 75 miles per hour along on Skyrush along with 5 Gs as you twist and turn on 3,600 feet of track.
I admit that the G-forces get me every time but the ride is TRULY worth doing at least once, especially if you’re into thrills.
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2. Comet’s Anniversary & Refresh
Comet is the oldest roller coaster in Hersheypark, in fact being a certified ACE landmark.
It was also the very last ride purchased personally by owner and creator of Hersheypark, Milton Hershey, before his passing.
This classic and beloved coaster, which turns 78 this year, has undergone several changes over the years and for the 2024 season, its gotten another gorgeous change.
I checked it out and its so vibrant and reminiscent of “A Starry Night.”
While I must admit, the new trains were a bit uncomfortable for me personally, actually leaving a bruise on my leg. But to be fair, I was sitting next to my very tall boyfriend so we were a bit cramped haha.
I assure you that the experience will be comfortable on these simply beautiful trains for Comet.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
The new custom trains feature a three-tone blue color scheme and a glittering metal flake treatment.
Also, the lead car will have new logos that hint a throwback to the early 70’s iconography of the coaster but with a new celestial treatment that carries onto the side panels of each car for an out-of-this-world look.
The star is now featured prominently blazing across the track, leaving a sparkling ion tail in its wake. The new trains will also boast gold trim and diamond plate details.
Its truly beautiful and perfectly fit for the landmark coaster!
3. A New Toy Store
While walking around and waiting for my friends, I came across a brand new store on opening day for the 2024 season!
Located right across from 1906 Grill in Founders Way is the brand new HP Toy Box store.
Speaking to the friendly and welcoming staff, they mentioned that the building itself isn’t new, but everything else is.
This includes the fresh interior paint job and exterior signs for the new store.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
The store speaks to its name and sells all sorts of toys for all ages. Here I found vintager toys such as Lite Brite, puzzles and the like.
I also discovered Squishmallow type toys and what i was pleasantly surprised to find were STEM inspired toys.
Of course you can find toys inspired by Hershey Characters, mainly Hershey Bar and Reese’s Peanut Butter cup here as well and even grab a drink if you need to hydrate for those hot summer days at the park.
4. Chocolatier’s Seasonal Menu
One of my must-do’s when visiting Hersheypark, at least once per season, is to head to The Chocolatier restaurant.
The Chocolatier restaurant was part of the Chocolatetown expansion, the biggest in the park’s history at $150 million, opening in 2020.
Plus, the restaurant doesn’t require park admission to attend, but a reservation is recommended as it books up fast and often.
The restaurant itself, located on the second floor of the Hersheypark Supply Co. building, takes its inspiration from the life and legacy of their founder, Milton S. Hershey. You can learn more about his life here.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
This is a great place to take a break from the park and get a yummy lunch, as long as you’re okay returning to the front of the park amongst your busy park day.
If you are, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Candymonium, Skyrush and the famous Carousel.
It should be noted that the patio area is first come, first serve and doesn’t need a reservation. You can grab some yummy themed drinks here.
And if you are a bit tired of chocolate throughout the day, not to worry. Not all the food offerings feature chocolate hints in it and will be noted in the menu.
Best Food at The Chocolatier Restaurant
One of the most famous and popular offerings at the restaurant is the Ferris Wheel sampler with Hershey’s chocolate barbecue chicken wings, crispy mozzarella, classic chicken tenders, buffalo chicken dip, and soft pretzel dippers.
I’m partial to the mac and cheese and delicious cocktails. But what allows this place to stand out is their ability to allow guests to eat in actual retired ride vehicles of the past.
Even the bar has one of the vintage carousel’s horses in the middle.
Occasionally, they will have special character buffets, which i have indulged in and loved. They also have themed buffets for their Dark Nights and Christmas Candylane events later in the year.
During specific seasons, the restaurant offer seasonal items and menus. As of now, I haven’t tried the new spring menu but i have herd great things already. You can take a look at it here.
It features entrees, desserts and, my favorite, specialty cocktails! In the meantime, take a look at my FULL review here.
5. The Brand New Villas at Hotel Hershey
Not many people know this, but Hersheypark has several official hotel options that are right nearby and offer shuttle services to and from.
Hersheypark Hotels:
- Hotel Hershey
- Hershey Lodge
- The Hershey Campground Resort
All of these fit the needs especially of those who travel out of town to visit the theme park and the township.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
The Hotel Hershey is one of the finest Historic Hotels of America. Known for its signature service, abundant amenities, family-friendly activities, and views overlooking Hersheypark.
Opening Memorial Day Weekend as part of a phased expansion, The Villas at The Hotel Hershey will showcase refreshed furnishings, unmatched amenities including an all-new exclusive concierge lounge, and a tailored Hersheypark experience.
6. Celebrate 50 years of Hershey Characters
Anyone who knows me knows that I love meeting any characters at any theme park, and Hersheypark is no exception. Meeting characters at Hershey is especially fun!
2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic Hershey Characters delighting generations of guests.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
In celebration of this milestone, Hersheypark has announced a show celebrating the Characters, making it the first summer entertainment offering in Chevrolet Music Box Theatre since 2019.
Guest-favorite Hershey Characters will also make daily appearances at Hershey’s Hangout performance area across from the HPGO building.
In the meantime, you can snap a selfie with Hershey’s and Reese’s characters during their spring visit, with more summer experiences to come soon!
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7. Meet New Friends of the Seas at Aquatheatre
One of my most recent favorite things to do at Hersheypark is to sit down and relax while watching the “Our Friends from the Sea “show.
The Aquatheatre plays host to various adorable sea animal friends who inspire visitors with their talents and stories to be more kind to the ocean with over 50 years of expertise.
This show, in collaboration with Ocean Connections, is about a 20 minute show where you can sit in the Aquatheatre near Kissing Hill and watch 3 sea animal friends.
Their beloved trainers will show off their skills, how they train them, the animals’ stories, answer questions and more as we learn more about the work they do with these adorable creatures.
Hersheypark amusement park is home to an Aquatheatre that has provided educational and entertaining programming to guests for 50 years.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
You can enjoy Our Friends From The Sea daily performances featuring California sea lions, Atlantic harbor seals, and a new rescued gray seal pup, Bowie!
The 15-20 minute shows are included with a Hersheypark ticket, providing a sweet option for guests looking to take a break from the thrills.
Since 2009, Hersheypark has partnered with Ocean Connections to immerse guests in the world of marine animals, animal care and environmental protection.
The cast from Our Friends From The Sea features seal and sea lion rescues who can inspire positive action toward our ocean and environment.
Character Meet-and-Greets, Showtimes and Photo Opportunities
Newcomers this year includes three new marine animals with special needs – Harbor seals Scooter and Satara and a female California sea lion, Reese.
Recently, I took in a show and got to meet Satara, Scooter and their friend, who’s name I feel so bad for forgetting.
The first two just recently celebrated birthdays and they were majorly talented and seemed happy with their trainers.
You can also take in photo and feeding opportunities which range from $20-$60 depending on the package you choose.
They have showings 3 times a day at 11:30 a.m, 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
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8. Longest Concert Series to Date
Hershey offers great entertainment with a full lineup of concerts, Broadway shows and more coming to Hersheypark Stadium, GIANT Center arena and Hershey Theatre venue throughout 2024.
2024 Hersheypark Summer Concert Series Schedule
The 2024 Summer Concert Series will be the longest ever at Hersheypark Stadium, built in 1939, featuring:
- Morgan Wallen on May 9
- Stevie Nicks on June 15
- Hootie & the Blowfish on June 28
- Justin Timberlake on July 4
- Janet Jackson on July 6
- Outlaw Music Festival featuring Bob Dylan on July 7
- Foo Fighters on July 23
- Journey & Def Leppard on July 25
- Five Finger Death Punch on August 2
- New Kids On The Block on August 3
- Green Day on August 10
- CREED on August 23
- P!NK on October 1
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9. Relax and Melt away at the Hershey Spa
Those looking for a day of relaxation can visit two iconic, chocolate-filled spas in The Sweetest Place On Earth.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa offer one-of-a-kind chocolate spa treatments, as well as rotating treatments inspired by the scents of the season.
Before, in between and after treatments, you can unwind in the spa relaxation lounges and enjoy sweet refreshments like hot cocoa and double chocolate chip muffins made fresh daily.
As with everything, they have seasonally themed treatments which you can price out here!
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10. Create Your Own Foodie Tour
Believe it or not, Hersheypark is known for having some of the best theme park food such as:
- Berk’s Great Bear Hot Dog
- Chickie’s & Pete’s Crabfries
- Doritos Walking Taco
- The Chocolatier- Fun Wheel Appetizer
- King Size Milkshake
So, if you’re a foodie, make sure this activity is on TOP of your list of things to do at Hersheypark!
11. Conquer the Best Rides
You can’t come to Hersheypark without taking on some of the best roller coasters in the country!
Here are all of the rides that you MUST-DO on your trip to the park:
- Skyview
- Reese’s Cupfusion
- Skyrush
- Great Bear
- Fahrenheit
- Storm Runner
- Laff Trakk
- Lightning Racer
12. Ride Wildcat’s Revenge
While we are still talking about the best things to do at Hersheypark, it’s imperative that you make sure to put this roller coaster on your to-do list.
Wildcat’s Revenge is the sequel that replaced the old wooden coaster, Wildcat, that opened in 1996.
Wildcat was a classic and won many awards but over the years gained a negative reputation for being extremely rough.
Let’s just say, I’ve ridden the original only twice in my lifetime and haven’t missed it since its departure.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
But Wildcat’s Revenge is the perfect replacement. Working with Rocky Mountain Construction, Hersheypark created a hybrid wooden/steel coaster, starting in July 2022.
After opening in 2023, it would end up being a raving success with glowing reviews, even earning a Golden Ticket Award and a spot on USAToday’s top coasters list for 2023.
It is still one of the most popular rides in the park.
What to Expect on Wildcat’s Revenge
In the end, compared to its predecessor, it would be taller at 140 ft and a drop of 135 ft, longer at 3,510 ft of track and faster at 62 MPH.
It has the world’s largest underflip inversion, which Hersheypark described as ascending upwards before the train twists counterclockwise into a 270° roll before descending down.
Something I noticed during Passholder Previews is that it can run all three trains at one time, utilizing it’s max efficiency.
Either way, I would say either start your day with this coaster or end with it, otherwise you’ll have some long wait times in the sun, as the queue has no protection from it.
13. Visit ZooAmerica
Did you know that you are able to visit ZooAmerica, which is attached to Hersheypark, when you buy an admission ticket to the park?
Most guests are so focused on the rides at Hersheypark that they never realize or simply forget that that’s available to them.
The entrance to the Zoo is on top of Kissing Hill, just look for the giant Elk statue and the entrance is behind it.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
The zoo itself has an excellent range of North American Wildlife and is a great place to take little ones who are overstimulated from the parks for a bit.
Plus, you can go at your own pace and explore the whole zoo and a bridge connects the two areas, making it accessible and easy to return to Hersheypark.
You can even partake in behind-the-scenes tours!
It should be noted that if you do want to access the zoo with your park ticket before the park opens, you will have to go to the zoo entrance separate from the park.
You would not be able to use the park’s zoo entrance until the park fully opens.
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14. Get Classic with Kissing Tower or Hershey’s Giant Wheel
To me, there’s nothing wrong with going old school with the rides at Hersheypark!
In fact, at the very back of the park, they have a whole section dedicated to old school rides.
In this particular part of the park, you’ll find Herseypark’s Giant Wheel. The original Giant Wheel debuted in 1973 and was manufactured by Intamin.
It soon retired in 2004 and was replaced with the current giant wheel today.
Some of the gondolas from that original version were sold to collectors and restored. One can be found at the Chocolatier Restaurant.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
Hersheypark’s logo pays tribute to Giant Wheel with the spinning gondala aspect of the original. The ride is quaint, fun, requires 2 people per gondola and lights up at night.
It takes me back to a different era and played an important role in the park’s history.
Kissing Tower, the key figure of Kissing Tower hill, is a gyro tower that is even taller than Candymonium.
At 330 ft, it’s the tallest attraction in the park, despite it taking riders to only 250 ft. Even then, Candymonium tops out at 210 feet.
The ride gives you a chance to breathe while experiencing breathtaking, panoramic views of not only the park but of the entire town of Hershey.
From my experiences, I have seen the main street of Hershey, the Hershey Factory and even Milton Hershey School from the Kissing Tower.
It’s something I would highly recommend as it reminds you that there’s more to explore beyond the park itself.
15. Go for a Swim at the Boardwalk
The Boardwalk is the themed water park area of Hersheypark, which boasts 15 attractions within.
It opened at the time as the biggest expansion in the park’s history at $21 million to celebrate Hersheypark’s 100th birthday in 2007.
Over the years it has expanded from the 5 original water rides to its now 15.
This water park is one of the most visited parts of the park. I have personally been witness to the rope drop to get into the water park and its wild.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
Ultimately, it’s well-themed, full of great rides for all ages, but mostly those with little ones and awesome food offerings.
As a non-water park person, who is slowly becoming a water park person, I especially enjoyed the Breakers Edge Water Coaster, Lazy river and wave pool.
It should be noted that the seats are small but it’s important to get there as early as possible to get a seat in the shade.
As the day goes on, it only gets busier so keep that in mind when visiting!
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16. Try the Famous King Size Milkshakes
One of my favorite treats to get when I visit Hersheypark is the famous King Size Milkshakes.
There are many awesome sweet treats at Hersheypark but they are most famous for their huge, and I mean HUGE king size milkshakes.
Located at Simply Chocolate in Founders Way, this is one of the places I stop on my way out of the park.
These specialty shakes change flavors occasionally.
Last time I had the Wildcat’s Revenge king size shake in honor of the ride’s opening.
It consisted of a Chocolate Shake drizzled with Chocolate Syrup. Rimmed with Vanilla icing, rolled in Sprinkles.
Served with a Chocolate Dipped Pretzel, Twizzler loop, chocolate Drizzled Bacon Slice, and topped with a Maple Bacon Waffle.
Now they are a bit pricey at $17.99 but with the amount of treats you’re getting, it’s worth the value and easy to share.
Best Milkshakes at Hersheypark
- Chocolate Overload King Size Milkshake: A Chocolate Shake topped with whipped cream, two Chocolate Covered Pretzels, a Chocolate Mousse Pop and a Pinwheel stamped Chocolate Shortbread Cookie.
- Strawberry Shortcake King Size Milkshake: A Strawberry Shake topped with two White Chocolate Covered Pretzels, Whipped Cream and a Strawberry Cheesecake.
- Reese’s King Size Milkshake: A Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake topped with Whipped Cream, two Chocolate Covered Pretzels and a Peanut Butter Brookie.
- Birthday Cake King Size Milkshake: A Birthday Cake flavored shake topped with a White Chocolate Dipped Pretzel, a slice of Funfetti Cheesecake and a Lollipop.
17. Take a Trip to Hershey’s Chocolate World
Now this is not TECHNICALLY part of Hersheypark.
If I’m honest, it’s a short walk uphill from the park entrance but it’s still a must-do in my book.
Hershey’s Chocolate World is a separate experience from Hersheypark and free to enter.
This center features loads of shopping, entertainment and of course the main attraction, The Hershey Chocolate Factory Tour.
What to Expect at the Hershey Chocolate Factory
For full transparency, this ride is free and not a tour of the actual factory.
But it is a fun edutainment ride that shows you how your favorite chocolate and candies from the company are created.
You even get a free piece of candy at the end of the tour!
Plus, you can check out the largest center for Hershey candy shopping and buy items including 20 pound Hershey Bars.
You’ll also find exclusive Hershey products and flavors only available there and in their respective countries.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Hersheypark This Year
Catch it at the right time and you can even get new flavors that haven’t hit your local grocery store shelves yet.
On top of this, you can buy fun candy themed merchandise like shirts, hoodies, souvenirs, games, dolls, plushies and more!
There are some experiences that have a cost if you want to try it out.
The newest addition is “Hershey’s Great Candy Expedition,” where guests can explore colorful, candy-filled worlds in an authentic train station, and then cast your vote for the three lands you’ll visit in an immersive theatre.
I have personally only done the “Hershey’s Unwrapped” experience which was cute but I honestly expected a bit more too.
The sets are fun, vibrant and unexpected! I won’t give away too much though. You can learn more about what you can do here and plan your stay!
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My Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Hersheypark
I hope you enjoyed learning about all the things that I feel are great things to try while visiting Hersheypark!
All of these I have done from personal experience and enjoy every time I go and I hope you and your family will too.
As you head to Hersheypark this year, you will have cherished memories of exhilarating rides, delicious treats, and moments of pure joy shared with loved ones.
The park’s commitment to innovation and excellence has once again shone brightly, offering guests an unparalleled experience that embodies the spirit of fun and adventure.
With each passing year, Hersheypark continues to captivate hearts and imaginations, ensuring that every visit is filled with excitement and wonder.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home.
(Original Article Date: April 27, 2024/Updated by the Editor on July 1, 2024)