Hersheypark, known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” offers an entirely different experience once the sun dips below the horizon. Hersheypark After Dark isn’t just about the absence of daylight; it’s about a complete sensory shift, amplifying the thrills and adding a layer of mystery and excitement to your visit. It’s when the park transforms from a family-friendly amusement park into a pulse-pounding playground for thrill-seekers and those looking for a unique evening adventure.
The Allure of Night Rides
Riding roller coasters during the day is exhilarating, but experiencing them at night is a whole other level of adrenaline rush. Imagine plunging down a massive drop on the Skyrush, but this time, the wind whips through your hair as you’re surrounded by nothing but inky blackness dotted with the sparkling lights of Hershey, PA. Or picture yourself twisting and turning on the Great Bear, the forest around you illuminated only by strategically placed lights, creating an otherworldly feel.
The darkness intensifies the speed, the drops feel steeper, and the twists and turns are more disorienting in the best possible way. The visual cues you rely on during the day disappear, forcing you to rely on your other senses, making each ride a more visceral experience. For seasoned Hersheypark enthusiasts, night rides are a must-do.
Heightened Sensory Experience
It’s not just the absence of sunlight that makes night rides special. The entire atmosphere changes. The air is cooler, the crowds tend to thin out slightly, and the screams and laughter of fellow riders echo through the night, creating a symphony of thrill.
Hersheypark does a fantastic job of enhancing the nighttime ambiance with strategic lighting. Coasters and surrounding areas are bathed in colorful hues, adding to the visual spectacle. The lights create a beautiful contrast against the darkness, making for stunning photo opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime.
Reduced Wait Times
While Hersheypark is always a popular destination, the crowds tend to thin out a bit in the evenings. This means shorter wait times for your favorite rides, allowing you to squeeze in more thrills during your visit. You can potentially ride more coasters in a few hours at night than you might during an entire day visit. This makes the nighttime hours a particularly valuable time to visit.
Dining Under the Stars
Hersheypark After Dark isn’t just about the rides; it’s also a great time to enjoy the park’s diverse culinary offerings. Dining outdoors under the stars adds a romantic and festive touch to your meal. The aroma of funnel cakes, burgers, and other park favorites seems even more enticing in the cool evening air.
Many of the park’s restaurants and food stands stay open late, catering to the evening crowd. This gives you the opportunity to refuel and recharge after a few hours of exhilarating rides.
Special Nighttime Menus and Treats
Sometimes, Hersheypark will offer special nighttime menus or themed treats that are only available after dark. These limited-time offerings add an extra layer of excitement to your culinary experience. Keep an eye out for special desserts or savory snacks that perfectly complement the nighttime atmosphere.
Ambiance and Entertainment
Many of the dining areas feature live music or other forms of entertainment in the evening. This creates a vibrant and festive atmosphere that enhances your dining experience. Imagine enjoying a delicious meal while listening to live music under the stars – a truly unforgettable experience.
Entertainment and Shows
Hersheypark After Dark extends beyond just rides and dining. The park often features special nighttime entertainment and shows that are tailored to the evening crowd. These shows can range from live music performances to dazzling light displays to interactive street performers.
These performances add another layer of excitement and entertainment to your visit. They provide a welcome break from the rides and offer a chance to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Fireworks Spectaculars
One of the most popular nighttime attractions at Hersheypark is the fireworks spectacular. These dazzling displays light up the night sky with bursts of color and coordinated music, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Find a good spot early to secure a prime viewing location. The fireworks are a perfect way to end your Hersheypark After Dark adventure.
Special Events and Festivals
Hersheypark often hosts special events and festivals throughout the year, and many of these events extend into the evening hours. These events can include Halloween-themed haunted houses, Christmas-themed light displays, and other seasonal celebrations. These special events add an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to your Hersheypark After Dark experience.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Nighttime Visit
Planning is key to maximizing your enjoyment of Hersheypark After Dark. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your nighttime visit.
Check the Park Hours and Schedule
Before you go, be sure to check the park’s official website or app for the most up-to-date information on park hours, show schedules, and special event listings. This will help you plan your itinerary and ensure that you don’t miss any of the highlights.
Dress Appropriately
Even during the summer months, the temperature can drop significantly in the evening. Be sure to dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed. Comfortable shoes are also a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Plan Your Route
Hersheypark is a large park, so it’s helpful to plan your route in advance. Identify the rides and attractions that you want to experience and map out a course that minimizes walking time. This will allow you to maximize your time and avoid unnecessary fatigue.
Stay Hydrated
Even though it’s cooler at night, it’s still important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the evening to avoid dehydration. You can bring your own water bottles or purchase drinks at the park’s various food and beverage locations.
Take Advantage of Photo Opportunities
Hersheypark After Dark offers a wealth of photo opportunities. The colorful lights, the thrilling rides, and the festive atmosphere all create stunning backdrops for memorable photos. Bring your camera or smartphone and capture the magic of the night.
Safety Considerations
While Hersheypark is a safe and well-maintained environment, it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards, such as uneven pavement, crowded walkways, and moving rides. Keep a close eye on children and ensure that they stay within your sight.
Follow Park Rules and Regulations
Adhere to all park rules and regulations, including height restrictions, ride safety guidelines, and prohibited items. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests.
Report Any Concerns
If you see anything suspicious or unsafe, report it to a park employee immediately. They are trained to handle a variety of situations and can provide assistance as needed.
Utilize Lighting
Hersheypark strategically places lights around the park for safety and ambiance, but it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit paths and avoid dark or secluded areas.
Accessibility at Night
Hersheypark strives to provide an accessible experience for all guests, regardless of their abilities. Accessibility considerations are just as important, if not more so, during the nighttime hours.
Navigating in Dim Light
For guests with visual impairments, navigating the park in dim light can be challenging. Utilize the park map to familiarize yourself with the layout of the park and identify potential obstacles. Consider bringing a small flashlight to help you see better in dark areas.
Assistance Animals
Service animals are welcome at Hersheypark. Be sure to follow the park’s guidelines for service animals, including keeping them leashed and under control at all times.
Ride Accessibility
Many of Hersheypark’s rides and attractions offer accessibility options for guests with disabilities. Check the park’s website or app for information on specific ride accessibility features.
Beyond the Park: Hershey at Night
The fun doesn’t have to end when you leave the park. The town of Hershey itself offers plenty of evening activities and attractions.
Hershey’s Chocolate World
While it might be tempting to assume Hershey’s Chocolate World closes with Hersheypark, many of its attractions and shops remain open later into the evening, offering a sweet continuation of your day. You can enjoy chocolate tastings, create your own candy bar, or simply browse the extensive selection of Hershey’s products.
Hershey Gardens
Although primarily a daytime attraction, Hershey Gardens sometimes hosts special nighttime events, such as illuminated garden displays. Check their schedule for any after-dark happenings that might coincide with your visit. Even if you can’t visit the gardens at night, a daytime visit is a great complement to your Hersheypark experience.
Dining in Hershey
Beyond the park’s offerings, the town of Hershey boasts a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets. From casual eateries to upscale dining establishments, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite after a long day of thrills.
Hersheypark After Dark is more than just riding roller coasters in the dark; it’s a complete transformation of the park into a vibrant and exciting nighttime destination. With thrilling rides, delicious food, captivating entertainment, and a unique atmosphere, it’s an experience that should not be missed.
What exactly is Hersheypark After Dark?
Hersheypark After Dark refers to the park’s operating hours after the regular daytime schedule concludes. During these extended hours, the park offers a unique and thrilling atmosphere compared to the daytime experience. Key elements contributing to this transformation include enhanced lighting, immersive entertainment, and often, special events or promotions tailored specifically for the evening crowd.
The change from day to night significantly alters the park’s ambiance. Ride experiences become more intense under the cloak of darkness, offering a different sensory experience. Guests can enjoy the thrill of their favorite roller coasters with a new perspective, creating lasting memories and a distinct Hersheypark adventure.
What kind of special events or attractions might Hersheypark offer during After Dark?
Hersheypark After Dark often features seasonal celebrations like Hersheypark in the Dark for Halloween and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane for the holiday season. These events incorporate themed decorations, costumed characters, special shows, and unique food and beverage offerings that align with the respective holiday. Guests can expect immersive experiences that go beyond the regular park attractions.
Beyond seasonal events, Hersheypark may also host concerts, fireworks displays, or themed nights during After Dark hours. These can range from live music performances on various stages throughout the park to spectacular pyrotechnic shows synchronized with music. These additions enhance the entertainment value and provide a more dynamic experience for visitors.
Are all rides and attractions open during Hersheypark After Dark?
While many of Hersheypark’s popular rides and attractions remain open during After Dark, it’s important to note that operating schedules can vary. Factors influencing ride availability include weather conditions, maintenance schedules, and staffing levels. Some water park attractions, especially those outdoors, may be closed during colder months or due to darkness.
To ensure you can experience your desired rides, checking the official Hersheypark website or mobile app for the most up-to-date operating schedule is crucial. This will provide you with a clear picture of which attractions are open and their respective hours of operation, allowing you to plan your evening efficiently and avoid disappointment.
How does the atmosphere of Hersheypark change from day to night?
The transformation of Hersheypark from day to night is dramatic, characterized by a shift in lighting, sound, and overall ambiance. As the sun sets, the park’s landscape is illuminated with a vibrant display of lights, creating a visually stunning experience. Enhanced lighting packages on rides, buildings, and walkways contribute to a heightened sense of excitement and intrigue.
The music and entertainment offerings also evolve during After Dark. The daytime soundtrack transitions to a more energetic and contemporary playlist, and live performances often feature enhanced production value with amplified sound and lighting effects. These elements work together to create a more immersive and thrilling atmosphere, appealing to a different range of senses.
Are there special ticket options or pricing for Hersheypark After Dark?
Hersheypark’s ticket options and pricing can vary depending on the time of year, special events, and promotional offers. Sometimes, separate tickets are required specifically for events like Hersheypark in the Dark or Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Other times, regular park admission might grant access to After Dark hours, particularly during summer months with extended operating schedules.
It is recommended to consult the Hersheypark website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on ticket prices and admission policies. Consider purchasing tickets in advance online, as this can often result in discounted rates and ensure entry to the park during peak seasons or special events.
What types of food and beverage options are available during Hersheypark After Dark?
Hersheypark offers a wide range of food and beverage options during After Dark hours, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. Most of the park’s popular restaurants, snack stands, and dessert locations remain open, providing guests with ample opportunities to satisfy their cravings. Some locations may even offer extended hours or special menu items specifically for the evening crowd.
In addition to the regular fare, Hersheypark often introduces seasonal or event-themed food and beverage offerings during After Dark events like Hersheypark in the Dark or Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. These unique items can range from specialty desserts and festive snacks to themed cocktails and warming beverages, enhancing the overall experience and providing a taste of the season.
Is Hersheypark After Dark suitable for families with young children?
Hersheypark After Dark can be enjoyable for families with young children, but it’s important to consider a few factors. The later hours may be past the typical bedtime for some children, potentially leading to fatigue or crankiness. Additionally, the heightened atmosphere, including louder music and darker environments, may be overwhelming for very young or sensitive children.
However, many families with young children still find Hersheypark After Dark enjoyable. The park offers a variety of rides and attractions suitable for younger guests, and the festive atmosphere can be exciting and memorable. Parents should assess their child’s individual needs and preferences when deciding whether to visit Hersheypark during After Dark hours, and plan accordingly with breaks and downtime as needed.