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A Spooky, Chocolate-Fueled Day Trip to Hersheypark image
Amusement & Waterparks
September 20, 2021
A Spooky, Chocolate-Fueled Day Trip to Hersheypark
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Squeeze in Some Sweet Halloween-Themed Fun at Hersheypark In The Dark

“The Sweetest Place On Earth” celebrates Halloween with three fun-filled weekends in October.

Hersheypark has long been celebrated as a go-to destination for summer fun, thrill rides and, of course, chocolate. But once the days cool down and the nights get longer, everyone’s favorite candy-themed park goes to the ghouls, goblins and ghosts. Hersheypark In The Dark is an annual celebration of all things autumn and Halloween. From trick-or-treating to lights-out coaster rides to Creatures of the Night at ZooAmerica and so much more, the iconic theme park offers tons of classic fall fun for the whole family.

Hersheypark hosts the popular fall attraction for three weekends, starting October 15 and continuing every weekend through Halloween. On Fridays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., the park welcomes costumed (and non-costumed) guests to enjoy the spooky spoils of the season. You’ll find delicious, seasonal treats, costumed Hershey characters and the legendary Treatville trick-or-treat trail.

And it’s all just a simple day trip away from anywhere in NEPA.

Classic Thrills and Games

For most, Hersheypark’s main attraction is the rides. No matter the age or level of bravery, the park offers over 50 fun, unique options. Thrill seekers can get the adrenaline pumping on Hershey Triple Tower, or the classic Wildcat coaster. Reach insane top speeds of nearly 60 mph on Fahrenheit, or Great Bear. Then, see if you can handle all 5 zero-G hills on the high-speed, twisting and turning Skyrush. Of course, your day just wouldn’t be complete without taking on Candymonium, featuring the park’s tallest climb at 210 feet. Throughout Hersheypark In The Dark weekends, guests can also enjoy special “lights-out” rides on Laff Trakk, Wildcat, Comet and Lightning Racer.

But it’s not all about those big thrills. Hershey also features classic theme park staples like the Scrambler, Tea Cups, Swings and Tilt-A-Whirl to name a few. And the little riders can enjoy a wide selection of “just-my-speed” attractions. Take off with Balloon Flite. Hop aboard Dry Gulch Railroad, and don’t forget the most adorable Granny Bugs.

And if taking it slow and steady is more your kind of thing, enjoy a scenic cruise over and around the entire park on the famous Monorail. Keep your eyes peeled for bats, bears and bobcats as you soar over parts of ZooAmerica. Or, head over to The Hollow region and hop on the Skyview for a round-trip gondola ride over Spring Creek.

When you’re ready for a break from all the action, check out nearly 50 Midway-style games. There’s something for every talent and skill level. From The Big Claw to Bob’s Fishin’ Hole to Skeeball and so many more, it’s nearly impossible to go home without one of those adorable, silly prizes.

The 12 and under crowd can also enjoy Treatville, Hersheypark’s popular trick-or-treat trail. 2021 marks the 15th anniversary for the beloved Halloween attraction. Trick-or-treaters can load up on candy at 13 sweet stops along the trail.

Tasty Fall Treats

No visit to Hersheypark would be complete without funnel cakes and milkshakes. During the Halloween season, look for new, seasonally-inspired treats throughout the park. Get your fall fix with Pumpkin King Size Shakes, Pumpkin Donuts and Pumpkin Pie Funnel Cake Sundaes. And keep your eye out for S’mores. The cold weather classic features Hershey’s Milk Chocolate, warm, gooey marshmallows in a crunchy graham cracker sandwich. With nearly 80 sit-down and quick stop dining options throughout the park, finding that hot dog, sandwich, pizza, ice cream, popcorn fix is as easy as pie.

Before you leave, be sure to visit Hersheypark’s newest region, Chocolatetown. You may have guessed it – this place is all about chocolate. And this part of the park takes that love of sweets to a whole new level. Sit down for a bite and a beer at the full-service Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio. The spacious eatery features a wide-ranging menu of classic family fare, signature cocktails and desserts and a kid’s menu. From there, head over to Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor for house-made creations featuring all the Hershey candy toppings you’ll ever need. And don’t forget a little something for the road. Swing by The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen for hand-crafted treats and desserts.

Who’s that lurking in the dark?

At Hersheypark In The Dark, guests have the unique opportunity to see one of the park’s most popular attractions like never before. Hershey’s ZooAmerica Wildlife Park will be open after dark. It’s the only time of year that guests can experience the zoo’s Creatures Of The Night program. Look out for all the night-loving, nocturnal animals that call North America home. From vampire bats and armadillos to owls, snakes, bears and gators, you’ll see them all out and about enjoying a little peace and quiet under the stars.

Plan your Halloween-themed day trip to Hershey, PA for Hersheypark In The Dark.

Where:
Hersheypark
100 W. Hersheypark Drive
Hershey, PA 17033

When:
Weekends starting October 15 and running through October 31, 2021
Fridays from 5-9 pm / Saturdays & Sundays from 2-9 pm.

Buy Online Now and Save
One-day admission to Hersheypark In The Dark is $54.95 plus tax for ages 9 to 61.
Children 2 years of age and younger are free.
Current Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark In The Dark as part of their year-long perks.
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Stay Overnight
All guests of The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort properties receive FREE Resort Benefits including FREE shuttle service to the all-new exclusive resort drop-off location, resort activities, and more.
Overnight deals and packages are now available, including the Kids Treat FREE package.
Learn More >