Visiting 'The Sweetest Place on Earth?'

Thinking of trekking to Central Pennsylvania for a day full of family-friendly amusements? Here are some tips on how to maximize your visit to Hersheypark.

When to visit?
Tuesdays through Thursdays are best. Saturdays are generally the busiest day. On three-day weekends (like this weekend) Sundays are generally the busiest. Crowds typically thin out after 6 p.m.

Be prepared!
If you want to get the most out of your trip to Hershey, you should get ready ahead of time by doing the following:

• Buy your tickets in advance.
• Bring a camera.
• Visit hospitality services to help plan your day.
• Plan your meals – either bring food with you or decide where you want to eat lunch and/or dinner in advance.

Fun in the Sun
On hot sunny days, your Hershey visit should be informed by the following tips:

• Use lots of sunscreen.
• Wear comfortable shoes since you'll be walking a lot. Sneakers are recommended.
• Stay away from the Boardwalk until later in the day. Right before dinner is a good time. 
• Ride the Tidal Force first. 
• Go to the Coal Cracker (ride this as many times as you can/want as it is high capacity and has short waiting times). 
• Go to Tiny Timbers during lunch or later in the afternoon if you have young children. 

Cool day water options
All attractions will be walk on. The water at the East Coast Water Works will be warmest at the start of the day as the water heats in a tank overnight.

How to fit in the most rides

• Walk to the rear of the park and work your way to the front.
• The lines for the Comet and Carousel are usually busiest in the morning, so ride them on your way out.
• Things to try in the morning hours for shorter lines: Coal Cracker, Wild Mouse, Wildcat, Storm Runner and Tidal Force—shorter wait times first thing in the morning and right after dinner.
• Things to try during midday for shorter lines - Carousel, Comet, Hershey's Chocolate World
• Things to try in the evening hours - Great Bear, Sooperdooperlooper, The Boardwalk (if it is really hot wait until after 4 p.m. to visit the area).

Don’t forget to check out Hershey Chocolate World. In addition to the traditional Chocolate Tour that ends sweetly with a free Hershey's sample, there is a new attraction, "Create Your Own Candy Bar." Hershey now lets visitors select their favorite candy bar ingredients, operate authentic factory equipment and design packaging for their own custom-made candy bar.

If interested in making your own personal candy bar, go early in the morning to avoid long lines. This activity is great for small children.

Don’t forget to check out the Dessert Creation Studio where you can create your own Hershey’s desserts and eat them too! From s'mores to fondue, there’s lots to try. There is also a really great 3-D, HD animated show which plays frequently throughout the day. 

For more information visit www.hersheypark.com, e-mail: info@hersheypa.com or call 1-800-HERSHEY.