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Hersheypark Named Among Best Theme Parks in U.S. for 2026 Image

Hersheypark Named Among Best Theme Parks in U.S. for 2026

Hersheypark and The Hotel Hershey Nationally Ranked in USA TODAY 10Best Awards

Date: April 29, 2026

Hersheypark amusement park today announced it was once again named one of the top 10 amusement parks in the country in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2026. The Park’s hybrid coaster, water coaster, wave pool and Official Resort were also ranked in the top 10 in various theme park categories. 

Thank you to all our fans who voted for us!

Top 10 Ranked Hersheypark Open for Spring Weekends

Hersheypark received a top 10 ranking in the Best Theme Park category after competing amongst 19 other theme parks nominated out of more than 400 amusement parks and attractions on the continent.

Centrally located within driving distance of five of the largest metropolitan areas in the Northeast, Hersheypark is open for Spring Weekends on Fridays through Sundays through May 17. Daily operations begin May 21, followed by The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park opening on May 23 with two new water play areas - The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier. Hours vary by day. 

The amusement park of every chocolate lover's dreams features 121 acres with more than 70 rides, a water park with 17 water attractions (including the top 10 best water coaster and wave pool) and an 11-acre North American Wildlife Park – all accessible via a single admission. 

Thrill seekers can enjoy the most coasters in the Northeast with a lineup of 15, including Wildcat's Revenge, which claimed a top 10 spot in the Best Roller Coaster contest. Opened in 2023, the first hybrid manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) in Pennsylvania combines the best of wood and steel with unique elements like the World's Largest Underflip for a one-of-a-kind thrilling ride experience found only at Hersheypark. 

In addition to the water park enhancements this summer, Hersheypark will host patriotic events and activations in celebration of the nation's 250th. Visitors can look forward to multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S, an all-new star-spangled show, limited-time food and drink, select Americana-themed rides and Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best with more summer surprises to come during the Park’s 120th operating year.

The Hotel Hershey Ranked the Country's Best Theme Park Hotel

The Hotel Hershey, one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, claimed the no. 1 spot in the Best Theme Park Hotel category. A member of Historic Hotels of America, the AAA Four-Diamond Hotel 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. 

Guests can take advantage of recreation on property, including 5.5 miles of hiking trails, daily fitness classes, an indoor pool complex, an arcade, an 18-hole putting course, disc golf, and an outdoor sports complex featuring basketball, volleyball, tennis, pickleball, spikeball, bocce ball, cornhole and soccer. On Spring Weekends, The Hotel Hershey also offers family-friendly activities ranging from s'mores roasts and chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, glow putting, scavenger hunts and more. 

For an elevated luxury accommodation experience, The Villas at The Hotel Hershey offer 98 rooms and unmatched amenities, like access to an all-new exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person to use on park operating days. 

All resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, free front gate shuttle service to and from the Park, extra hours at the Park and more.

Check out The Hotel Hershey Spring Guide 2026 to learn more.

Unlimited Summer Visits for $99

Guests can save on tickets to Hersheypark when purchased online with the current ticket offers.

For endless summer fun, guests should consider the Hersheypark Summer Fun Card, which includes unlimited visits from the date of purchase through Labor Day for $99 plus taxes and fees when purchased on Hersheypark.com.

Visitors looking to extend their stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book a sweet spring or summer getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. Popular resort packages like Kids Stay, Play & Eat Free are available for online booking.

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