30 Facts About Hersheypark

Hersheypark's Sweet Beginnings

Hersheypark, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a theme park with a rich history and a lot of fun facts. Let's dive into some interesting tidbits about this iconic destination.

1. Hersheypark was founded by Milton S. Hershey in 1906 as a leisure park for his employees.
2. The park originally featured a baseball field, a bandstand, and a few rides.
3. Hersheypark opened to the public in 1907, just one year after its creation.

Rides and Attractions

Hersheypark is known for its thrilling rides and attractions. Here are some facts about what you can experience there.

4. The park has over 70 rides, including 14 roller coasters.
5. The oldest ride still in operation is the Carrousel, which dates back to 1919.
6. Hersheypark's first roller coaster, the Wild Cat, opened in 1923.
7. The park's tallest roller coaster, Candymonium, stands at 210 feet.

Sweet Treats and Food

No visit to Hersheypark is complete without indulging in some delicious treats. Here are some facts about the food offerings.

8. Hersheypark offers over 60 different food and beverage locations.
9. You can find unique treats like the King Size Milkshake, which is topped with a slice of cake.
10. The park has a special area called "The Chocolatier," where you can enjoy chocolate-infused dishes.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Hersheypark hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals throughout the year. Let's look at some of these special occasions.

11. Hersheypark in the Dark is a Halloween-themed event with spooky attractions and trick-or-treating.
12. Christmas Candylane transforms the park into a winter wonderland with over 5 million lights.
13. Springtime in the Park celebrates the arrival of spring with special entertainment and activities.

Educational Programs

Hersheypark isn't just about fun; it's also a place for learning. Here are some educational programs offered at the park.

14. The park offers educational field trips for students, focusing on subjects like physics and biology.
15. Hersheypark's "Behind the Scenes" tour gives guests a look at the inner workings of the park.
16. The park collaborates with local schools to provide hands-on learning experiences.

Wildlife and Conservation

Hersheypark is committed to wildlife conservation and education. Here are some facts about their efforts.

17. ZooAmerica, located within Hersheypark, is home to over 200 animals from North America.
18. The zoo focuses on conservation and education, offering programs for all ages.
19. Hersheypark participates in breeding programs for endangered species.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Let's wrap up with some fun and lesser-known facts about Hersheypark.

20. Hersheypark has its own water park, The Boardwalk, which opened in 2007.
21. The park covers over 121 acres of land.
22. Hersheypark's mascot, Hershey Bar, has been entertaining guests since 1973.
23. The park has a unique ride rating system based on height, with categories like "Hershey's Miniatures" and "Jolly Rancher."
24. Hersheypark's Kissing Tower offers a panoramic view of the park and the town of Hershey.
25. The park's founder, Milton S. Hershey, is buried in Hershey Cemetery, just a short distance from the park.
26. Hersheypark has a special area called "Founder's Way," dedicated to the history of the park and its founder.
27. The park's entrance features a replica of the original Hershey Chocolate Factory smokestacks.
28. Hersheypark's "Great Bear" roller coaster is the first looping coaster in the park.
29. The park's "Reese's Cupfusion" ride is an interactive dark ride where guests can compete for high scores.
30. Hersheypark has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including "The Goldbergs" and "The Office."

Hersheypark's Sweet Legacy

Hersheypark isn't just a theme park; it's a slice of history, a candy lover's dream, and a family-friendly destination all rolled into one. From its humble beginnings in 1906 to becoming a world-renowned amusement park, Hersheypark has grown and evolved, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking for the next big coaster or someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds, Hersheypark delivers.

The park's unique blend of rides, entertainment, and, of course, chocolate makes it a must-visit. With over 70 rides, including 14 roller coasters, and a water park, there's no shortage of fun. Plus, the park's commitment to innovation ensures there's always something new to experience.

So next time you're planning a trip, consider Hersheypark. It's more than just a park; it's a sweet adventure waiting to happen.