Hersheypark Striving for Accessibility for All at The Sweetest Place on Earth
Even though we are smack dab in the middle of winter, no time like the present to start planning some summer fun. And no better place than right in our own Pennsylvania back yard. The land where they say the air smells like chocolate and the streets are paved with cocoa. Alright, maybe that’s not exactly accurate. But Hershey PA, is a magical town, nonetheless.
While known for being the home to some of our favorite chocolate treats, it is also home to Hersheypark, a family theme park founded in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey. Originally built for the employees of Hershey’s Chocolate Factory, Hersheypark supports Milton Hershey school which helps qualifying children receive an exceptional educational experience with all costs covered.
Hersheypark also strives to ensure that all guests are able to participate in the attractions as much as possible. They offer an Attraction Accessibility Program. Each of the rides in the park have been evaluated for the criteria necessary to ride the attraction safely.
The program matches the individual abilities of the guest for each attraction. To enroll in the program, guests just need to visit the Front Gate or Guest Services location. There they will complete a questionnaire and an Accessibility Service Agent/Team Member will help guide guests to which attractions might be best suited to their abilities. Here is a link to the questionnaire which can be downloaded and completed beforehand, as well. Just a note that the questionnaire is valid only for 30 days from completion, as well as any answers that may need to be modified. ada-questionaire.pdf (hersheypark.com)
While planning for summer adventures is a way to help get through the winter months, Hersheypark is actually open all 4 seasons with events such as Springtime in the Park, Summer Season, Hersheypark Halloween, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.
Hersheypark’s Halloween events include an immersive haunt experience called “Dark Nights.” They provide accessibility information for these attractions as well. They also include a sensory information symbol guide as shown below to indicate various sensory components to help guests determine if they can safely participate in the attractions.
The park also has several areas that are designated “Quiet Areas” where guests can have privacy and relief from sensory stimulation.
So, no time like the present to start lining up some fun and adventure. You can plan your trip by visiting Welcome | Hershey, PA (hersheypa.com). You can even download the Hersheypark mobile app, which includes an interactive map Mobile App | Hersheypark
If you have any questions regarding attractions or accessibility, guest service representatives are available to help. Go to Contact Us | Hersheypark and submit your inquiries or call 717-534-3900.
Hersheypark is only one of the many attractions that are located in Hershey, PA including, ZooAmerica, Hershey’s Chocolatetown, and Hershey Story Museum. Take some time and explore the area and maybe sample a sweet treat while there.
Photo Credit: Michael Gray, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
