2026 Hersheypark Spring Weekends Guide

Date: March 19, 2026

Spring has arrived at Hersheypark amusement park! The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania returns for another season of epic coaster rides, King Size Shakes, Character hugs and more on April 3, 2026, in celebration of its 120th operating year. 

Hersheypark is open for seven fun-filled Spring Weekends from April 3 through May 17 before daily summer operations begin May 21. Hours vary by day this spring, with extended hours over Easter weekend (April 3-5):

• Friday, April 3 (Good Friday) from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday, April 4, and Saturday, April 11, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturdays from April 18 through May 16 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sundays from April 5 through May 17 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

If you plan a springtime visit to Hersheypark, this ultimate Spring Weekends 2026 Guide covers all the details on things to do, where to eat and stay, and insider tips to maximize your time in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

THINGS TO DO

Whether you’re looking for coaster rides, family-friendly thrills, character entertainment or strolls through the zoo, there are so many uniquely Hershey experiences to enjoy this spring.

Coasters and Family-Friendly Rides

Hersheypark Spring Weekends signal the return of the coaster-riding season after a cold and snowy winter in Central Pennsylvania. For dedicated thrill-seekers and casual parkgoers alike, this is the first opportunity of the year to experience the largest coaster collection in the Northeast. Hersheypark offers a truly unmatched lineup of attractions that cater to every level of adrenaline, ensuring plenty of thrills from mild to wild. 

Visitors during the spring season will find more than 50 attractions to explore, weather and maintenance permitting. Hersheypark is thoughtfully designed to welcome guests of all ages, including the youngest thrill-seekers, with nearly 20 kiddie rides that offer a first taste of amusement park fun. Families can enjoy mild thrills together, like the Kissing Tower, Ferris Wheel and Dry Gulch Railroad, which offer the most scenic views of the amusement park’s expansive 121-acre landscape. Dry Gulch Railroad, along with other select attractions, will celebrate a milestone anniversary in 2026, highlighting the rich history and enduring legacy of Hersheypark as a premier family destination.

While it’s not uncommon to see some hotter days in Central Pennsylvania during the spring season, The Boardwalk At Hersheypark will remain closed for Spring Weekends. The 11-acre water park will open daily from May 23 through Sept. 7 and will debut two new water park enhancements in summer 2026.

Hersheypark is open rain or shine, and while we can’t control the weather, we can control the fun with our Rainy Day Promise! If inclement weather causes the majority of major rides to close for more than 60 minutes, visitors can head to Guest Services to claim a FREE Return Visit Voucher, valid on any public operating day through Jan. 3, 2027. Please note that Return Visit Vouchers are issued in the day for the day based on the posted weather policy. We are unable to predict daily weather conditions or their impact on available attractions, and therefore cannot determine in advance when these vouchers will be issued.

Insider Tip: Download the Hersheypark app for real-time ride availability and wait times.

Hershey Characters

For over 50 years, the iconic Hershey Characters have been a beloved staple of the Hersheypark experience, bringing joy and excitement to guests of all ages. Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world where visitors can meet and greet with their favorite Hershey brands brought to life. During Spring Weekends, guests can snap selfies with two of the most popular Characters, Hersh and Reese, at Hersh's Hangout located in Hershey's Chocolatetown.

Insider Tip: In the event of inclement weather, the characters will be located outside the main entrance to the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. To ensure guests don’t miss a photo opportunity, the official Hersheypark app is the go-to resource for appearance times and locations on the day of the guest’s visit.

Our Friends From The Sea Show

Located in the Aquatheatre inside Hersheypark is the Our Friends From The Sea show, presented in partnership with Ocean Connections throughout the Hersheypark operating year. This entertaining and educational show features animal care specialists interacting with California sea lions and Atlantic harbor seals to teach guests about marine life, conservation and the environment. 

Our Friends From The Sea is offered every operating day this spring at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Starting May 8, showtimes will change to 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. The educational show is included with a Hersheypark ticket. Animal lovers can elevate their visit with feeding and photo opportunities following each show for an additional fee.

Insider Tip: Guests interested in a VIP experience should consider the Flippered Friends & Family program, which includes a feeding and training session. The program is offered at noon on all Spring Weekends operating days. Registration is required in advance.

ZooAmerica Visits

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park provides a break from the hustle and bustle of the Hersheypark midways with a quieter adventure. The 11-acre zoo offers a unique look at dozens of North American animals, including gray wolves, a black bear, river otters, Canada lynx and more. The best part? ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only by accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. This means that during Spring Weekends, guests of Hersheypark will be able to access ZooAmerica through the bridge from Park opening until 4:30 p.m., as ZooAmerica is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through May 22. It takes about one hour to walk through the whole Zoo, but guests are encouraged to observe the animal behavior and take as much time as they need to explore!
 

Insider Tip: ZooAmerica hosts behind-the-scenes tours during the spring season. These tours bring participants through non-public spaces and offer an up-close look at the North American animals. 

WHERE TO EAT

When guests visit Hersheypark during Spring Weekends, they will discover that the fun doesn’t stop at the thrilling rides and attractions - it extends to the incredible food offerings available throughout the Park. Hersheypark offers dozens of places to get a taste of spring, ranging from quick-service counters to a full-service dining experience. Stay tuned for our Spring Weekends Foodie Guide with all the delicious details coming soon!

In-Park Food and Beverage Updates

Whether you are craving a classic park staple, a gourmet meal or a signature Hershey’s dessert, Spring Weekends provide the perfect opportunity to indulge. Here is a taste of what is new or changed for food and beverage offerings this spring at Hersheypark.

• Exciting news for sweet treat enthusiasts: Simply Chocolate is gearing up to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the King Size Shake. To mark a decade of decadent indulgence, Simply Chocolate will offer a limited-time Birthday Shake topped with rainbow cake and a cookie candle. Beyond the celebratory concoction, guests can enjoy fresh takes on the Chocolate Overload and Reese’s Peanut Butter varieties.

• A second Rita’s location will be added next to the Chick-fil-A patio in the Founder’s Way region, providing guests with another convenient option for a cool-down treat.

• Milton's Ice Cream Parlor will be open and ready to serve custom ice cream creations during Park operating hours for those craving a sweet treat. 

• Overlook Food Court will continue to offer allergen, vegan and gluten-friendly options, including wraps, salads, pizzas, chicken tenders, and vegan and gluten-friendly snacks.

Insider Tip: When available, guests can utilize the mobile ordering system at select locations around the Park through the Hersheypark app. New this year, guests can utilize their All-Day Dining Deal and Season Pass Dining Plans via mobile ordering. Season Pass Holders can also use their Season Pass discount.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

Those seeking  a full-service option during their visit should look no further than The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio. This signature dining location is open daily in Hershey's Chocolatetown. The restaurant offers a delightful menu of family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate, one-of-a-kind views and a second-story patio and bar open this spring, weather permitting.

The Chocolatier will debut a new menu later this spring, so stay tuned to their Facebook page and @thechocolatierrestaurant Instagram for details!

Insider Tip: Reservations are strongly encouraged at The Chocolatier. Seating at the Carrousel Bar and the patio is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

WHERE TO SHOP

Nearly a dozen gift and souvenir shops are open during Spring Weekends inside Hersheypark.

Guests looking to give the gift of Hersheypark Happy or take a piece of it home with them will find the largest selection of apparel, gifts, toys and more at Hersheypark Supply Co., the premier, 10,000-square-foot flagship store in Hershey's Chocolatetown. New this spring, Hersheypark Supply Co. features 2026-branded clothing, hats and drinkware for parkgoers of all ages, as well as a new and returning line of Season Pass Holder swag.

New Spring Retail Offerings

Other new retail offerings this spring include the following: 

• A new Destination Hershey store (across from Fahrenheit roller coaster in the former Coaster Collectables location) features apparel and souvenirs celebrating the iconic town of Hershey, Pa., and highlighting the many landmarks that make it The Sweetest Place On Earth.

• A new location for the Coaster Collectables store in Founder’s Way (formerly Surfside Styles) features new and returning apparel and gifts celebrating the iconic coasters and rides of Hersheypark. 

Insider Tip: Check out our 2026 Hersheypark Retail Guide for a full breakdown of all the latest swag. 

New Ways To Play

Get your game on at Hersheypark with two arcade locations featuring video games, crane machines and arcade classics including skee-ball! Located in the Pioneer Frontier location, the Play Dome Arcade features two new video games: Hot Wheels Ultimate Speedway and Icee Slush Rush. These interactive, multiplayer games offer a unique new way to win tickets and redeem great prizes. In the Overlook Arcade, guests can enjoy the all-new Top Gun Maverick game, which combines simulator thrills and target-based gameplay for the ultimate gaming experience! 

 

WHERE TO STAY

Visitors looking to extend their stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book a springtime getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground, or the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites select service hotel debuting soon. Popular packages available on select dates starting April 3 include the Hersheypark 1-Night Package and 2-Day Stay and Play Package, with the Best Price Of Summer available through March 31.

All guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free Resort Benefits, including discounted Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan, free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, and more.

The Hotel Hershey

Opened by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey in 1933, The Hotel Hershey is a one-of-a-kind destination with a rich history. Situated high atop the town of Hershey, the resort is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and has received the AAA Four-Diamond Award.

The Villas at The Hotel Hershey offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with 48 reimagined rooms, refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities, including access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person.

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge provides convenience and comfort for families and guests of all ages. The property is home to Hershey’s Water Works indoor pool complex featuring two pools, Twizzlers Twists Slides, Reese’s Water Walk, a sand castle water play structure, a whirlpool and an outdoor splash pad. 

Insider Tip: Check out the Hershey Lodge Spring Guide for more information on this family-friendly resort.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Hersheypark Camping Resort is a year-round camping facility in Hershey, Pa., that has welcomed guests since 1963 with its 55 acres of emerald hills. The campground offers more than 300 open and shaded sites, including 50 cabins and two tiny homes with heat, air conditioning and additional amenities; full hook-up sites with electric, water, sewer and cable; partial hook-up sites with electric, water, and cable; and no-hook-up tent sites.

Hershey Inn & Suites

Hershey Inn & Suites is the first select-service property as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offering comfort and convenience. The new four-story hotel features 130 rooms, seven family suites with bunk beds, an indoor pool, an arcade and a fitness center. This all-new way to stay is now accepting reservations for visits after May 1`.

HOW TO SAVE

Planning your visit to Hersheypark for Spring Weekends starts with choosing the right admission option for your needs. The Park offers a variety of ticket types and resort packages, ensuring flexibility for every type of guest, from single-day thrill-seekers to dedicated Season Pass Holders. By exploring the different admission tiers and leveraging available discounts, you can maximize your fun while minimizing the cost of your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Admission Tickets

Guests can save more than 45 percent on 1-Day Any Day Tickets to Hersheypark when purchased online by March 31, 2026, with the current Best Price Of Summer offer. Tickets purchased during the sale are valid on any 2026 public operating day, including Spring Weekends, through Jan. 3, 2027. If you plan to visit Hersheypark twice in 2026, a 2-Day Any Day Ticket is the best value. Plus, it does not need to be used on consecutive days, so you can visit once during spring and again at any other point throughout the operating year. 

Insider Tip: A free Preview Plan isincluded with every ticket. Guests can present their ticket at the main entrance before their full-day visit (if the Park is open the preceding day) to enjoy two free extra hours of fun. For a 2-day ticket, Preview Plan must be experienced prior to a guest's first full day visit. Guests at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark can enjoy three hours of riding the night before their full day. The Hersheypark calendar lists the Preview Plan start time by date.

2026 Season Passes

The 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass program features four tiers with unlimited visits and sweet perks to fit every family’s lifestyle - all for less than the cost of three visits. 

All 2026 Season Passes include unlimited visits throughout the 2026 operating year for all four seasons at Hersheypark, including Spring Weekends, Summer, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Depending on the Pass type, Season Pass Holders can also enjoy free parking, a free Pre-K Pass, other sweet perks, exclusive Season Pass Holder events and great discounts around town. 

Now is the time to buy a Season Passes to save with the Best Price Of The Year through March 31.

Insider Tip: Please note that Spring Weekends do not include Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access, which begins on May 21 for 2026 Hersheypark Full Size, King Size, Giant Size and Pre-K Season Pass Holders and Resort guests.

Parking

Guests are encouraged to purchase a parking voucher online in advance of their visit to save money. General parking is $25 plus taxes and fees online.

For planning, the entire Hersheypark Entertainment Complex is completely cashless, including the parking booths. Hersheypark accept all major credit cards, Hersheypark gift cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay and Google Pay.

Insider Tip: Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free front-gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location. Hersheypark Full Size, King Size and Giant Season Size Pass Holders receive free parking. 

Drink and Dining Add-Ons

Hersheypark offers ticket add-ons that allow guests to save on experiences around the Park, including drink and dining plans.

• All Day Drink Deal ($24.98 plus taxes and fees): The All-Day Drink Deal includes a 2026 Souvenir Cup for free fountain drink and Slush refills every 10 minutes on the day of redemption. Plus, you get $1 refills on future visits.
• All-Day Dining Deal ($39.99 plus taxes and fees): The All-Day Dining Deal includes one entrée and one side at more than 15 locations throughout Hersheypark for one low price! You must wait 90 minutes between uses. View the locations and menu.
• Single-Use Meal Deal ($19.99 plus taxes and fees): The Single-Use Meal Deal includes one entrée, one side and one drink from one of 15 participating locations. Guests must present their Meal Deal voucher at any of the participating locations for use. Vouchers are valid for one use only.

Fast Track

Guests can get to the thrills faster with Fast Track and Fast Track Unlimited.

• Regular Fast Track (starting at $30 plus taxes and fees): Regular Fast Track allows guests to skip the regular line on participating attractions once per day during a visit.

• Fast Track Unlimited (starting at $55 plus taxes and fees): Fast Track Unlimited allows guests to skip the regular line on participating attractions all day long.

• All-Year Fast Track Unlimited ($1,050 plus taxes and fees): This option is only available only as a Season Pass add-on.

The following attractions are available with Fast Track this spring: Candymonium, Carrousel, Comet, Fahrenheit, Great Bear, Hershey Triple Tower, Jolly Rancher Remix, Laff Trakk, Lightning Racer, Reese’s Cupfusion, Skyrush, sooperdooperLooper, Storm Runner, Trailblazer, Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, Wild Mouse and Wildcat’s Revenge. Please note height restrictions for Fast Track-eligible attractions, as they are primarily high-thrill rides. Attraction availability is subject to change. Please note that Hersheypark admission is not included with Fast Track and must be purchased separately.

We can’t wait to welcome you for another season of coaster rides, character hugs and, of course, Hersheypark Happy! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your best moments from seasons past, and as you continue to create even more sweet memories in the upcoming year!