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out & about ‘cause parenting is a trip
Hersheypark HERSHEY, PA BY EMILY DREZ
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N 1906, Milton S. Hershey found the perfect spot to build a park for his employees of Hershey’s Chocolate Factory to relax, have a picnic, or go canoeing. Since then, Hersheypark has turned into an amusement park with awesome rollercoasters, a water park, and even a zoo! It’s always a good time for families to visit Hersheypark. The Park hosts special events for each season, so you might meet Rudolph and all of Santa’s reindeer, walk down the Trick or Treat trail, or meet the Hershey characters at Springtime in the Park. No matter the season, you’ll never miss out on chocolate. There are also hundreds of species of animals waiting for you on the other side of the Hersheypark bridge at ZooAmerica. And, don’t forget to visit the newest addition to the Park: Hershey’s Chocolatetown. WHERE TO STAY A few miles away from Hersheypark is Hershey Lodge, the perfect place for your family to relax during your stay. It features comfortable rooms with warm tones, chocolate-themed decor, and top-tier hospitality. From cozy guest rooms and spacious suites, to the year-round indoor pool Hershey’s Water Works and access to the Hershey Gardens, you are guaranteed to have the sweetest dreams at Hershey Lodge.
Coordinates: 40.2888° N, 76.6547° W Distance from Baton Rouge: 1,210 miles Flying Time: 4 hours, 43 minutes Driving Time: 17 hours, 43 minutes
The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen Save room for dessert! Your visit to Hersheypark will be even sweeter at one of the park’s latest additions, The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen. This collection of decadent sweets includes homemade fudge, chocolate-dipped treats, and mouth-watering cakes all topped with the classic Hershey’s candies. WHAT TO DO During wintertime at Hersheypark, you’ll be surrounded by five million twinkling lights and tons of holiday cheer. Some rides will include festive thrills while you zip around in loops, twists, and turns. Santa and his reindeer will make an appearance at the Christmas Candylane event, and you’ll even get to see the reindeer up close at Santa’s Reindeer Stables. Don’t forget to stop by before Santa heads back to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.
WHERE TO EAT 1906 Grill When you’re in Hersheypark, stop at 1906 Grill for a bite of the best burgers. Grab a hamburger, cheeseburger, or a bacon burger as you explore the park, or opt for the chicken tenders instead. There are also salads, kids meals, and gluten-free options. Whatever you’re hungry for, don’t forget to add fries and cheese sauce on the side.
At the 11-acre ZooAmerica, you’ll discover over 200 species of North American wildlife. This December, the Wild Winter Adventure is back for kids to explore the zoo and learn how each species adapts to the cold in their winter habitats. Kids will be able to come face-to-face with some animals and even visit the reindeer in Hersheypark. ZooAmerica also has behind-thescenes tours, camps, and group programs throughout the year.
Chickie’s and Pete’s You can find Chickie’s and Pete’s world famous Crabfries in Hersheypark. But, the menu doesn’t stop with those hot, crinkle-cut fries topped with cheese sauce and special spices; you’ll want to have the buffalo chicken cutlet sandwich to go with the Crabfries, or maybe a specialty cheeseburger instead. If you and your family are looking to grab dinner outside the park, Chickie’s and Pete’s has other locations outside of Hersheypark with even more delicious menu items, including crabs, cheesesteaks, and Pete-zzas.
Visit the all new Hershey’s Chocolatetown featuring Hersheypark’s fifteenth rollercoaster, Candymonium. It is the tallest, fastest, and longest rollercoaster in Hersheypark, reaching a maximum speed of 76 MPH and a maximum height of 210 feet. If roller coasters aren’t your idea of fun, Chocolatetown has new restaurants like Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor, The Chocolatier restaurant and bar, and The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen. You can also ride the historic carousel and capture memories at the Kisses Fountain before souvenir shopping at Hersheypark Supply Co. ■
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