Hersheypark Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions parents ask about visiting Hersheypark with kids.
Where are the restrooms at Hersheypark?
Hersheypark has 25+ restroom locations spread across 10 themed areas. Founder's Way has restrooms near the entrance plaza and arena. Carousel Circle has family restrooms and the Baby Care Station near the toddler rides. Kissing Tower Hill, Midway America, Pioneer Frontier, The Hollow, and Minetown each have restroom facilities. The Boardwalk waterpark has its own restrooms and changing rooms. ZooAmerica has restrooms near the zoo entrance and habitats. See our
interactive restroom map for exact locations.
Where is the Baby Care Station at Hersheypark?
The Baby Care Station is located near Carousel Circle, Hersheypark's family and toddler ride area. It has a private nursing room with a comfortable chair and electrical outlet, baby changing tables, a feeding area with high chairs and a microwave for warming bottles, and supplies for purchase including diapers, wipes, formula, and sunscreen. It is free to use and fully air-conditioned — essential during hot Pennsylvania summers.
Which Hersheypark restrooms have the shortest lines?
Pioneer Frontier restrooms consistently have shorter lines because it is toward the back of the park and fewer guests walk that far. ZooAmerica restrooms are also quieter since it is a separate area. Avoid Founder's Way restrooms during the lunch rush (11:30am-1:30pm). The Boardwalk restrooms thin out after 4pm as families leave the water attractions.
Are there changing tables in every Hersheypark restroom?
Yes. All restrooms at Hersheypark have baby changing tables in both men's and women's rooms. The Baby Care Station near Carousel Circle has dedicated infant changing stations. The Boardwalk changing rooms also have changing tables and family changing suites.
Can I bring a stroller to Hersheypark?
Yes, strollers are welcome throughout Hersheypark. Single stroller rental is $18/day and double is $28/day near the park entrance. Stroller parking is marked near every major ride and restroom area. Be aware that Hersheypark has hilly terrain — some areas require walking up and down grades, making stroller pushing more tiring than flat parks. Bring a lightweight stroller with good brakes.
Can I get free water at Hersheypark?
Yes. Any quick-service restaurant at Hersheypark will give you a free cup of ice water — just ask at the counter. There are also water fountains throughout the park. Stay hydrated, especially in summer when Pennsylvania heat and humidity combine with the park's hilly terrain to accelerate dehydration.
What are the best toddler rides at Hersheypark?
Carousel Circle and Founder's Way are purpose-built for young children. Hersheypark uses a candy bar height system — Hershey's Miniatures (36") can ride several attractions. Key toddler rides include the Carrousel (all ages), Fender Bender (bumper cars), Mini Pirat (pirate ship), and Cocoa Cruiser (junior coaster). Hershey characters roam these areas for photo ops. The Baby Care Station is steps away.
How does Rider Swap work at Hersheypark?
Rider Swap lets one adult wait with a child who cannot ride while the other adult and the rest of the group ride. Then the waiting adult rides without waiting in line again. Tell the ride attendant at the entrance. Available at all Hersheypark rides with height requirements including Candymonium, Storm Runner, Fahrenheit, Great Bear, Skyrush, and Laff Trakk.
Where should I park at Hersheypark?
General parking is $30 in the main surface lots. Preferred parking is $45 and closer to the entrance. Best value: Stay at a Hershey resort (The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, or Camping Resort) for free shuttle service, skipping parking entirely. If driving in, arrive before opening on summer Saturdays. ADA parking is available with placard display.
Which hotels are best for families near Hersheypark?
Best luxury: The Hotel Hershey (spa resort, from $349) and Hershey Lodge (Water Works, from $259). Mid-range: Hampton Inn ($149+, free breakfast), Days Inn ($99+), Country Inn & Suites ($119+). Budget: Super 8 ($79+), Rodeway Inn ($69+), Quality Inn ($74+). Hershey resort guests get Sweet Start early park access and free shuttle.
Is Hersheypark wheelchair accessible?
Yes, fully accessible. Wheelchair rental is $15/day and ECV is $55/day near the entrance. However, Hersheypark has hilly terrain — an ECV is strongly recommended over a manual wheelchair for full-day visits. Accessibility Services are at Guest Services. All restrooms are ADA accessible with companion restrooms at four locations.
What is the best time to visit Hersheypark to avoid crowds?
Weekdays in May, early June, and September are the quietest. Tuesday and Wednesday are the least crowded days. Avoid the Fourth of July week, Saturdays, and Dark Nights Saturdays (October). Arrive at park opening. Hersheypark operates roughly May through New Year's with seasonal events.
Is Hershey's Chocolate World free?
Yes. The Chocolate Tour ride is completely free — no Hersheypark ticket required. You ride through a simulated chocolate factory and get a free piece of Hershey's chocolate at the end. Additional experiences like Create Your Own Candy Bar ($29+) and the Trolley Tour cost extra. Chocolate World has its own restrooms, is air-conditioned, and is open year-round. Visit before or after your park day.
Is The Boardwalk waterpark included with admission?
Yes. The Boardwalk is included with regular Hersheypark admission — no separate ticket. This is a major advantage. It features a wave pool, lazy river, water slides, and a kids' splash area. It has its own restrooms, changing rooms, and lockers. Bring swimwear and towels — they are not provided.
Are there restrooms near Candymonium?
Yes. Midway America restrooms are near the Candymonium station area. There are also restrooms in the adjacent Kissing Tower Hill area. Use these before joining the Candymonium queue, which can exceed 60 minutes during peak season with no restroom access inside the line.
What is Dark Nights at Hersheypark?
Dark Nights is Hersheypark's Halloween event on select nights in September and October. Daytime is family-friendly with fall decorations and costumed Hershey characters. After dark, scare zones and haunted attractions activate. Not recommended for young children after dusk. If visiting with kids, enjoy the daytime and leave before the scare elements begin.
Can I visit ZooAmerica without Hersheypark admission?
Yes. ZooAmerica has a separate entrance and can be visited with a standalone zoo admission year-round. When Hersheypark is open, park guests can walk to ZooAmerica via a connecting walkway at no additional charge. The zoo features 200+ North American animals, has its own restrooms, and is a great low-key activity for families needing a break from rides.
How far is Hersheypark from Philadelphia and New York?
Hersheypark is approximately 95 miles from Philadelphia (1.5 hours via PA Turnpike), 175 miles from New York City (3 hours via I-78), 90 miles from Baltimore (1.5 hours), and 110 miles from Washington DC (2 hours). Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is the closest airport at just 15 miles (20 minutes). Many families make Hershey a weekend trip combining the park with Chocolate World, the Hershey Story museum, and Hershey Gardens.
