Looking for the perfect family destination this summer? Our family’s happy place is Hershey, Pa. — the sweetest place on earth! Home to Hersheypark — the absolute, best amusement park in the entire Northeast — it boasts 15 rollercoasters, a massive waterpark, and endless treats to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth.

Our goal is to help your family enjoy all the fun, thrills and food of Hersheypark. Plus, we can help you possibly get through the gates for FREE. Scroll to the bottom for a chance to win an epic family four-pack of tickets to visit this summer or later in the year.

How do we do Hersheypark? Glad you asked!

1. Become season pass holders

After visiting Hersheypark for the past eight summers, we made the leap to becoming first-time season pass holders this year. If you plan to visit a few days during summer, Dark Nights in Fall around Halloween, and Christmas Candylane during winter, a season pass it’s where it’s at. It includes many great benefits and perks — early entry, exclusive pass-holder events, free or reduced parking — in addition to saving lots of money. Financially, if you plan to visit more than three days per year, we recommend purchasing a season pass.

2. Play spot the Big 5

We love hugging, smiling, and posing with the lovable Hershey Characters: Hershey Bar, Reese’s, Jolly Rancher, Twizzler and Kisses. Which is your favorite?

New this year: In addition to being out and about, the characters this year were strategically stationed at some specific photo op points more than we’ve ever experienced. In the past, we had to seek out the famous Hershey characters. Now, it seemed like they were always popping up around the grounds for a high five or quick hug. Also new, sometimes surprise characters like Hershey’s Syrup and Cupfusion’s Gum Drop and Commander Cup show up for the fun. So keep a close eye out.

3. Always stay overnight for 2 or 3 days

We usually make a 3-day weekend out of our adventures because you need at least two days to do Hershey, Pa., and the park right. We just stayed at The Hotel Hershey – a stunning, majestic hotel located directly across the street from Hersheypark. Staying at one of the “official resorts” of Hersheypark comes with a range of awesome perks, including SWEET START! Being a season pass member OR if staying on property at one of the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, unlocks this priceless experience: one hour of early park access!

Other exclusive benefits of staying at an official Hersheypark resort include:

• free bus shuttle service to and from the front gate
• “Preview Plan”- up to 3 hours at the park the night before your park admission tickets
• best pricing on Hersheypark tickets
• free chocolate at check-in
• an abundance of on-property activities to keep the whole family entertained

Talk about being entertained: The outdoor pool complex at The Hotel Hershey is something out of a fairytale. It features waterslides, mushroom waterfalls, an adult-only infinity pool, a hot tub, a zero-entry pool, and drink service with delicious frozen cocktails. Then, we play glow-golf (mini-golf after dark), roast s’mores, tie-dye shirts, play ping-pong, corn hole, chocolate bingo, and so much more.

4. Conquer the coasters

With 15 rollercoasters, each with their unique quirks, surprises, twists, and thrills, rollercoasters are always our top priority. Buckle up because Hersheypark has some of the most high-octane coasters on the planet!

New this year: The fan favorite and classic Comet wooden coaster is sporting all new, updated trains celebrating over 75 years in operation! Additionally, the thrilling Skyrush coaster got “first class” upgrades with new trains and an awesome lighting package in the station. Come prepared to conquer the coasters and make sure to ride the award-winning and our family favorite, Wildcat’s Revenge!

5. YES DAY! Saying YES to our children!

Just say:

• YES to your kids helping to plan your daily itinerary
• YES to that ice cream sundae, s’more treat, or sweet confection
• YES to going on that ride again and again. Looking at you Wildcat’s Revenge!
• YES to staying until the park closes
• YES to coming back to the SWEETEST PLACE on EARTH

Free tickets to Hersheypark giveaway

Want to win a family four-pack of tickets to Hersheypark? Enter below for a chance to win four general admission tickets this summer or later in the year for the park’s Halloween event, Dark Nights, or Christmas Candylane? Winning tickets will be sent via email.

Important details:

• We’re giving away one family four-pack of one-day ticket general admission to Hersheypark. (Each winner will receive four one-day passes.)
• The contest runs from June 28 through July 10, 2024.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older and residents of the United States.
• One winner will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter after the entry period ends July 10, 2024.
• The winner must follow Rafflecopter instructions for getting entries
• The winner must supply an email address to receive four electronic tickets to Hersheypark 2024. Tickets are for one daily admission to Hersheypark. The tickets expire on Jan. 1, 2025.
• Hersheypark charges a separate fee for parking, which is NOT included with these tickets. The winner will need to pay for parking if needed.
• City Dads Group is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets.
• The winner must respond to the prize notification within 48 hours otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

Disclosure: Lance Somerfeld is a member of Hersheypark’s Sweet Insiders Program. The program includes complimentary park passes and one-night hotel accommodations to his family provided by the kind folks at Hershey’s Entertainment & Resorts. His thoughts and opinions are genuine and have not been influenced by the brand. All photos were provided by his family.

Growing up, watching the Harlem Globetrotters with my family was a cherished annual tradition. Every year, our family would venture into The Big City from Long Island to watch basketball wizardry, insane dunks and trick shots, and laugh at all the team’s comical antics. It was one of those memorable childhood traditions I couldn’t wait to share with my own children.

I was finally able to fulfill that promise last week. My kids and I went to Madison Square Garden along with a dozen other NYC Dads Group members and their kids to see the World Famous Harlem Globetrotters during their 2024 World Tour. They put on an insane performance that had all of us laughing in our seats watching these masters ham it up while sinking shots from half-court.

The farcical basketball game had something for everyone — alley oops, jaw-dropping skills, and a dancing mascot (Globie) that captivated the crowd. My 9-year-old daughter was loving every minute of the experience and it converted her into a lifelong fan. My older son was dazzled by the extraordinary ball-handling skills of the players. We were all confused by the wacky scoring system, but that didn’t seem to be very important. Of course, the Harlem Globetrotters pulled out the victory to continue their undefeated win streak.

All of the NYC Dads and kids loved the experience and had many positive things to say about the game. Many of them were making memories at their first-ever Harlem Globetrotter game. For our family, we highly recommend this new version of The Original Harlem Globetrotters that features former Louisana State University women’s basketball captain, NCAA Champion and WNBA draft pick Alexis Morris, a.k.a The Show.

Definitely plan to catch the Harlem Globetrotters when they visit your city as they conduct the spring leg of their 2024 World Tour – traveling across North America, including Nova Scotia and New Brunswick! See their tour schedule here.

Summertime is the perfect time to take the kids to an amusement park. Hersheypark in Pennsylvania makes for an ideal destination and, as seasoned veterans of The Sweetest Place on Earth, we have the ultimate cheat sheet on having a successful, entertaining and sweet vacation! If your family is going to read one article to get you prepared for a Hersheypark Happy visit, this should be your primary source.

In addition to helping your family enjoy all the fun, thrills and food with minimal hassles, we can help you possibly get through the gates for FREE. Scroll to the bottom for a chance to win an epic family four-pack of tickets to visit this summer or later in the year.

Secret #1: “Sweet Start” — VIP status means more rides

A fantastic bonus offered exclusively to guests at the official resorts of Hersheypark and some levels of season-pass holders is the “Sweet Start” option.

Sweet Start allows you to feel like a VIP. At no extra charge, you may enter Hersheypark one hour before the general public and access numerous popular rides in the front half of the park. These include Candymonium, Comet, Skyrush, Sooperdooperlooper and Reese’s Cupfusion. This amazing perk enabled our family to go several times on rollercoasters that usually have long lines and wait times. In fact, we can usually knock off seven or eight rides during Sweet Start.

Additionally, if you come the day before your ticketed visit to the amusement park, the “Preview Plan” allows you to enter Hersheypark three hours BEFORE closing that night. That’s three hours of bonus fun time to enjoy the rides and attractions.

Secret #2: Stay overnight at an official park resort

Hersheypark is our family’s happy place. Rather than cram in over 70 attractions — including 15 top-notch rollercoasters — in one day, we recommend staying two days to experience it all. We stayed overnight at The Hotel Hershey — located directly across from the amusement and water parks.

The Hotel Hershey, one of three official lodging sites, was as magical of an experience as the park. The accommodations were amazing and provided panoramic views of the rides and attractions.

Why is The Hotel Hershey so special?

For us, it was:

• The breathtaking, outdoor pool complex. (There’s an indoor pool on the property, too.) Here, you can sip frozen cocktails under a shady umbrella while watching your kids race through water slides in the pool.
• Roasting s’mores at a family-friendly fire pit EVERY evening was amazing as well.
• My children love the loads of engaging activities throughout the day like making ice-cream sundaes, playing “glow golf” after dark and bingo where the prizes are full-size Hershey candy bars!

When you stay at an official Hersheypark Resort, you receive VIP perks like Sweet Start (secret #1), Preview Plan and free shuttle service to an exclusive drop-off location – just steps away from the front gate of Hersheypark.

Secret #3: Candymonium — timing is everything

One of Hersheypark’s most popular rides is Candymonium. Located in Hershey’s Chocolatetown, right near the front gates, Candymonium the park’s tallest, fastest, longest and sweetest rollercoaster. It’s our second favorite thrill ride at Hersheypark. However, Candymonium often has average wait times of an hour or more.

Candymonium is included in Sweet Start, so make it your FIRST stop when the gates open. We’ve also found wait times for Candymonium usually dip to under 20 minutes in the late afternoon/evening before dark. Why? This is when most guests are deep inside the park. That could be another window of opportunity to ride this not-to-be-missed coaster.

Secret #4: “Rope Drop” — Hustle to your top attraction

Sweet Start is only for the rides in the front half of the park. It doesn’t include ZooAmerica or The Boardwalk waterpark. However, you’ve already been through security, had tickets scanned, and can be perfectly positioned inside the park near the Chevrolet Music Box theater where security guards have another set of gates and ropes set up as a barrier until Hersheypark officially opens. If you position yourselves at the “rope drop” area, it sets your family up to be among the first ones on any of the rides or waterpark attractions in the back half once Hersheypark fully opens. That’s invaluable on busy summer days.

We recommend you have a plan in advance. The entire family should select one popular attraction that can you hustle to (be safe because some guests literally race) when it’s rope drop time. We’ve tried this strategy on all of our visits and usually walk right onto popular attractions like LaffTrakk, Breaker’sEdge Water Coaster or Jolly Rancher’s Remix.

Secret #5: New entertainment – “The Sweet Escapes”

Want another way to brighten your day at Hersheypark? One new, extremely entertaining attraction this summer is the delightful “Sweet Escapes” a cappella group. This colorful and talented bunch is stationed by The Boardwalk waterpark and sings its hearts out four times a day. We timed our lunch each day so we could dine outdoors in the shade and sing along to their catchy tunes.

Secret #6: New rollercoaster — Wildcat’s Revenge

Buckle up! Hershpark’s newest attraction is Wildcat’s Revenge which opened in early June. You definitely need to ride this Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) hybrid coaster. It’s an amazing addition to the iconic rollercoasters at the park. Wildcat’s Revenge is sleek, smooth and so epic that we rode it six times on opening day! Get ready for 2 1/2 minutes of ride time during which you’ll be thrust at 62 mph and rolled for four inversions including the world’s largest underflip!

More importantly, we love how Hersheypark designed this intense coaster with families in mind. Even our 8-year-old daughter was tall enough to enjoy the thrill.

Secret #7: Download the Hersheypark app

Most people enter Hersheypark and start with the rides nearest to the entrance. Then, they either work their way back or follow a rigid agenda that tries to squeeze everything into one day. Forget those approaches.

Thriving in Hersheypark starts with the free and fairly reliable Hersheypark mobile app. It enabled our family to strategize and maximize our fun time.

First, keep a loose agenda. Start by creating it based on park geography using the app’s online park map. Then drill into its useful tools, such as ride descriptions and minimum heights, then apply the app’s “ride wait time” feature — it’s a game changer.

We always kept a close eye on the app for wait times under 25 minutes for our favorite attractions like Sooperdooperlooper, Breakers Edge Water Coaster and Candymonium.

Secret #8: Food and treats exceed expectations

Most people don’t get excited about eating at a theme park. Hersheypark, though, elevates the culinary experience. There are quality, name-brand options across the park. These include many of our favorites, such as Nathan’s Famous, Subway, Chick Fil-A and Moe’s Southwest Grill. East Coast Mini Donuts are also outstanding.

Additionally, we always carve out time for a family meal at The Chocolatier. It’s our favorite restaurant on the property. This not-to-be-missed destination features a diverse menu including crowd-pleasers like nachos, club sandwiches, chicken and waffles, and sweet potato fries. Our best memories, however, are of their drool-worthy dessert menu.

We also love the house-made, custom-created ice creams at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor located just down the stairs from The Chocolatier. Try the toasted marshmallow! Another tasty option is to grab a batch of homemade cookies or fudge at neighboring The Sweeterie!

Secret #9: Water, water, everywhere

Staying hydrated at Hersheypark is important. You’re allowed to bring in your own sealed water bottles or empty bottles that can be refilled at numerous bottle-filling Coca-Cola Freestyle locations throughout the park. The water at the filling stations is ice cold!

Secret #10: Take the path less traveled

The best way to beat the crowds over to The Hollow Area, especially Skyrush and SooperDooperLooper, is to take “Skyrush Way” which is a little-known secret. This shady path navigates around the winding turns of the Skyrush Rollercoaster and literally drops you off at the entry gate to the ride. During “Sweet Start,” this should be your go-to path. It lets you avoid the massive crowds headed through Founder’s Way.

Secret #11: Hit The Boardwalk waterpark when it opens

Remember, your Hersheypark admission ticket INCLUDES The Boardwalk waterpark as well as ZooAmerica. The lines for waterpark attractions are much more manageable when The Boardwalk first opens for the day. This season, The Boardwalk opens at the same time as the rest of Hersheypark. Lines are also much lighter on weekday visits, so skip weekends if you can.

There’s something for everyone at The Boardwalk, but we recommend making a dash for Breakers Edge Water Coaster. It’s an incredible ride, arguably the best at The Boardwalk. Naturally, it normally has the longest wait time. We usually hit it twice in a row before the crowds descend on it. The nearby Whitecap Racer is a spectacular, timed mat-racing slide, and the entire family can get whisked through looping tunnels to determine who is the champion.

What are you waiting for? Make Hersheypark your next family getaway.

Ticket giveaway for visiting Hersheypark

Want to win a family four-pack of tickets to Hersheypark? Enter below for a chance to win four general admission tickets this summer or later in the year for the park’s Halloween event, Dark Nights, or Christmas Candylane? Winning tickets will be sent via email.

Important details:

• We’re giving away one family four-pack of one-day ticket general admission to Hersheypark. (Each winner will receive four one-day passes.)
• The contest runs from June 23 through July 7, 2023.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older and residents of the United States.
• One winner will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter after the entry period ends July 7, 2023.
• The winner must follow Rafflecopter instructions for getting entries
• The winner must supply an email address to receive four electronic tickets to Hersheypark 2023. Tickets are for one daily admission to Hersheypark. The tickets expire on Jan. 1, 2024.
• Hersheypark charges a separate fee for parking, which is NOT included with these tickets. The winner will need to pay for parking if needed.
• City Dads Group is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets.
• The winner must respond to the prize notification within 48 hours otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

Disclosure: Lance Somerfeld is a member of Hersheypark’s Sweetest Families Program. The program includes complimentary park passes and hotel accommodations for our family provided by the kind folks at Hershey’s Entertainment & Resorts. His thoughts and opinions are genuine and have not been influenced by the brand. All photos were provided by his family.

Most people think of Hersheypark — with it’s combined theme park, zoo and water park — as the ultimate summer destination. You might be surprised to know that Hersheypark is open daily for the rest of December (closed Christmas Day) and through January 1, 2023.

During the most wonderful time of the year, you’ll be amazed by the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane spectacular. The seasonal event is a feast for the eyes as it features more than five million twinkling lights. Most incredible is the NOEL light show with lights synchronized to holiday music.

It’s also a sense-tingling thrill time. Several family-friendly rides are open including six awesome roller coasters, including Candymonium and Laff Trakk. Additionally, your taste buds will be dancing. Hersheypark rolls out a host of holiday-themed sweet treats like s’mores carts, king-sized shakes and their signature hot chocolate (see photo).

Their Christmas Candylane event includes photo ops with Santa Claus, of course. But it also prides itself as being the only Northeast destination with an interactive, up-close experience with Santa’s Reindeer, including Rudolph!

The Boardwalk water park becomes a festive holiday adventure trail called TREEville. The trail includes a dozen pit-stops with uniquely decorated trees, each sharing stories about the Sweetest Place on Earth.

Don’t want to be chilly? You can also enjoy some Hershey magic from the comforts of your own car. Just outside Hersheypark is the Hershey Sweet Lights drive-through attraction, open nightly through New Year’s Day 2023. This experience (beware: you need a separate ticket) includes two miles of fields and trails with beautifully designed, animated displays and LED lights galore.

Beyond Christmas Candylane and Hershey Sweet Lights, there is still plenty of fun to be had to make it a Hersheypark happy holiday:

• Make a personalized Hershey chocolate bar or hop on the FREE tour ride on how chocolate is made at Hershey’s Chocolate World.
• Play and stay at one of the Hershey’s Entertainment Resorts.
• View some animals at ZooAmerica.

Coming in 2023: Wildcat’s Revenge roller coaster

Already looking forward to 2023 at Hersheypark? So are we!

The Wildcat roller coaster is back with an exhilarating twist! The all-new wood and steel hybrid coaster, Wildcat’s Revenge, will take riders on a thrilling new Hersheypark experience. Climb a 140-foot hill, hit max speeds of 62 mph, dive into an 82-degree drop, invert four times, and get whisked through the world’s largest underflip. This new coaster will be ready for Summer 2023 and is the most highly anticipated ride opening since Candymonium.

Disclosure: Lance Somerfeld is a member of Hersheypark’s Sweetest Families Program. The program includes complimentary park passes and hotel accommodations for our family provided by the kind folks at Hershey’s Entertainment & Resorts. His thoughts and opinions are genuine and have not been influenced from the brand. All photos provided by Hersheypark.

City Dads Group has joined a national online campaign to help combat stereotyping and change inaccurate perceptions about Black fathers.

The #CelebrateBlackDads social media initiative, launched by Dove Men+Care highlights stories of Black fathers caring for and engaging with their children. The positive tales of love and commitment include several from City Dads members, contributors and supporters.

According to a recent research study commissioned by Dove Men+Care, less than half of Black fathers polled think social media, mainstream media, and popular culture portray Black fatherhood accurately.

“All caring fathers deserve to be seen, respected, and celebrated,” said Carlos Gil, Global Brand Vice President of Dove Men+Care. “We know how important a dad’s care is, and the transformational effect that care has on everyone around them. But too often, the care that Black fathers have for their kids and family is not seen or celebrated. It felt incredibly important to help break down the barriers that limit who is seeing the true stories of these fathers.”

#CelebrateBlackDads is the latest addition to the grooming product company’s Commit to C.A.R.E. (Care About Racial Equality) initiative, launched in 2020 in the wake of the murder of George Floyd at the hands of police. This campaign initially launched on Father’s Day 2022 with the support of country music star Jimmie Allen, vlogger and influencer Beleaf in Fatherhood (Glen Henry), and Black fatherhood network The Dad Gang. 

City Dads has been a longtime partner and supporter of Dove Men+Care’s ongoing mission to shatter stereotypes about what it means to be a man and a father. Some past campaigns, City Dads has worked with them on include advocating for universal paternity leave and recognizing father figures.

To learn more about the campaign and find more inspiring Black dads, visit DoveMenCare.com/CelebrateBlackDads.

Photo: © WavebreakMediaMicro / Adobe Stock.

Take the kids to an amusement park on a summer weekend? Are you crazy? Not all at. A trip to Hersheypark in Pennsylvania makes for the perfect two- or three-day getaway and, as seasoned veterans of Hershey, Pa., we have insider tips on not just surviving while visiting Hersheypark but thriving there!

In addition to helping your family enjoy all the fun, thrills and food with minimal hassles, we can help you possibly get in the gates for FREE. Scroll to the bottom for a chance to win an epic family four-pack of tickets to visit this summer or later in the year.

Tip #1. There’s a Hersheypark app for that!

Most people enter Hersheypark and start with the rides nearest to the entrance. Then, they either slowly work their way back or follow a rigid agenda that tries to squeeze everything into one day. Forget those approaches.

Surviving Hersheypark starts with the free and reasonably reliable Hersheypark mobile app. It enabled our family to strategize and maximize our fun time.

First, keep a loose agenda. Start by creating it based on park geography using the app’s online park map. Then drill into its useful tools, such as ride descriptions and minimum heights, then apply the app’s ultimate weapon — a “ride wait time” feature.

We’re always obsessed with the app during our visits. We kept a close eye for wait times under 20 minutes for our favorite attractions like Sooperdooperlooper, Breakers Edge Water Coaster and Candymonium. When we see those magic numbers, we take off!

Tip #2: Don’t let rain wash out your good times

Most families cringe when rain starts falling during their visit to Hersheypark. Not us.

Wait times are usually shortest when inclement weather hits. The crowds bolt indoors to shop and eat or leave to head home. That means more rides for us! We always come prepared with rain ponchos and relish having the park nearly to ourselves during showers.

Don’t like getting wet? You can still ride while escaping the rain on several indoor/covered rides: Reese’s Cupfusion, Laff Trakk, Kissing Tower, the carousel and bumper cars, for example. Or head over to Hershey’s Chocolate World for their free and entertaining chocolate factory tour ride.

Visiting Hersheypark Pro Tip: If the weather gets severe and causes the majority of major rides and attractions to close for a continuous 60 minutes, a voucher may be issued for a return visit for the current operating season.

Tip #3: Don’t miss Hersheypark’s Jolly Rancher rides

Everyone always wants to be in on what’s new and trending. Here are two bright additions to Hersheypark’s playscape.

Jolly Rancher Remix is one of 15 Hersheypark rollercoasters. Formerly known as the Sidewinder, this reimagined boomerang coaster takes thrill seekers on a “flavor ride.” Riders and their senses zoom forward and backwards on the same track, inverting six times in 90 seconds while jamming to sweet, catchy tunes. Jolly Rancher Remix features five randomized flavor rides, like Watermelon or Green Apple. Each features completely different music, lights and SCENTS as you blast through the “flavor tunnel.” You’ll definitely want to ride it a few times like we did to compare each immersive experience. 

Mix’d Flavored By Jolly Rancher is steps away from Jolly Rancher Remix. Riders of this family attraction sit in one of the massive four arms and spin 360 degrees. The ride really shifts into gear when it mixes, lifts and drops, providing spectacular park views as you dodge the other riders. My 7-year-old couldn’t get enough of this ride!

While there, don’t miss the Frozen Spoon food truck next to Mix’d. It offers Jolly Rancher Grape, Green Apple, Cherry, and Blue Raspberry sorbets to help keep your family cool and refreshed.

Tip #4: New heights in amusement park food and treats 

We don’t usually get excited about eating at a theme park. Hersheypark, though, elevates the whole experience. There are quality, name-brand options across the park. These include many of our favorites, such as Nathan’s Famous, Subway, Chick Fil-A and Moe’s Southwest Grill. The East Coast Mini Donuts are also unbelievable!

Additionally, we always carve time out for a family meal at The Chocolatier. This culinary destination features a restaurant, bar and an expansive second-floor, outdoor patio with spectacular views.

The largest restaurant in all Hershey, Pa., The Chocolatier features a diverse menu. We enjoyed nachos, chicken and waffles, flatbreads and a host of other unique dining options. Our best memories, however, are of their dreamy dessert menu. It includes Chocolate Fun-Due (like a chocolate fountain), The Chocolatier Cake and milkshakes.

Visiting Hersheypark Pro Tip: Make reservations at The Chocolatier in advance using the Open Table app or the restaurant website. Book as soon as you know the dates you’re visiting the park this summer because wait times can be long!

Visiting Hersheypark Pro Tip #2: Staying hydrated is important. You’re allowed to bring in your own sealed water bottles or empty bottles that can be refilled at various locations throughout the park.

Tip #5: “Sweet Start” — More rides, less waiting

An incredible bonus offered exclusively to guests at the official resorts of Hersheypark and some levels of season-pass holders is the “Sweet Start” option.

Sweet Start allows you to feel like a VIP. You can enter Hersheypark one hour before the general public and access several popular areas in the front half of the park including Candymonium, Skyrush, Comet and Sooperdooperlooper. This amazing perk enabled our family to go several times on rollercoasters that usually have long lines and wait times.

While Sweet Start is only for the rides in the front half of the park, it sets you up to be among the first ones on any of the rides in the back half once Hersheypark fully opens. That’s invaluable on busy summer days.

Lastly, if you come the day before your ticketed visit to the amusement park, “Preview Plan” allows you to enter Hersheypark three hours BEFORE closing that night. That’s three hours of bonus fun time to enjoy the rides and attractions.

Visiting Hersheypark Pro Tip: One of Hersheypark’s newer and most popular rides is Candymonium. Located in Hershey’s Chocolatetown, Candymonium is the park’s tallest, fastest, longest and sweetest rollercoaster. It has become our favorite thrill ride in all the land. With average wait times of an hour or more, Candymonium is easily one of the most popular rides in the entire park. Candymonium is included in Sweet Start, so make it your FIRST stop when the gates open. We’ve also found wait times for Candymonium dip in the late afternoon so that could be another window of opportunity to ride this impressive coaster.

Tip #6: Hit The Boardwalk waterpark when it opens

The lines for waterpark attractions are much more manageable when The Boardwalk first opens for the day. They are also much lighter on weekday visits, so skip weekends if you have the choice.

There’s something for everyone at The Boardwalk, but we recommend making a beeline for Breakers Edge Water Coaster. It’s an incredible ride and usually has the longest wait time. We usually hit it three times in a row before the crowds descend on this ultra-popular attraction.

Visiting Hersheypark Pro Tip: Shade is a rarity in The Boardwalk. Make sure to set up a home base under one of the canopied or umbrella areas when you first arrive. Those spots go quickly!

Tip #7: Don’t do everything in one day – stay overnight at an official park resort

Rather than drive three hours back to New York City after an action-packed day of thrills in Hersheypark, we stayed overnight at The Hotel Hershey — located directly across from the amusement and water parks. The Hotel Hershey, one of three official lodging sites, was as memorable of an experience as the park! The accommodations were luxurious and provided panoramic views of the rides and attractions.

Why is The Hotel Hershey so special?

• You receive Hershey Bars and have photo opportunities with some of the park mascots at check-in.
• Breathtaking, outdoor pool complex (there’s an indoor pool on the property, too) to cool off. Or sip frozen cocktails under a shady umbrella while watching your kids zip and zag through water slides in the pool.
• Roasting s’mores at a family-friendly fire pit EVERY evening.
• Loads of engaging activities throughout the day like making ice-cream sundaes, playing “glow golf” after dark and bingo where the prizes are full-size Hershey bars!

When you stay at an official Hersheypark Resort, you receive VIP perks like Sweet Start, Preview Plan, and free shuttle service to an exclusive drop-off location – just steps away from the front gate of Hersheypark.

Ticket giveaway for visiting Hersheypark

Want to win a family four-pack of tickets so you can visit Hersheypark? Enter below for a chance to win four general admission tickets this summer or later in the year for the park’s Halloween event, Dark Nights, or Christmas Candylane? Winning tickets will be sent via email.

Important details:

• We’re giving away one family four-pack of 1-day ticket general admission to Hersheypark. (Each winner will receive four 1-day passes.)
• Contest runs July 26 through Aug 9, 2022.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older and residents of the United States.
• ONE winner will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter after the entry period ends Aug. 9, 2022.
• Winner must follow Rafflecopter instructions for getting entries
• Winner must supply email address to receive four electronic tickets to Hersheypark 2022. Tickets are for one daily admission to Hersheypark. The tickets expire Jan. 1, 2023.
• Hersheypark charges a separate fee for parking, which is NOT included with these tickets. The winner will need to pay for parking if needed.
• City Dads Group is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets.
• Winner must respond to prize notification within 48 hours otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

Disclosure: Lance Somerfeld is a member of Hersheypark’s Sweetest Families Program. The program includes complimentary park passes and hotel accommodations for our family provided by the kind folks at Hershey’s Entertainment & Resorts. His thoughts and opinions are genuine and have not been influenced from the brand. All photos provided by Hersheypark.

If your family is like mine, we are raring for adventure, a sense of normality and mouth-watering treats this summer. So, in 2022, we’re heading back to the “Sweetest Place on Earth” — Hersheypark.

Hersheypark continues to be our family’s favorite destination in the Northeast. Why? Because it keeps raising the bar each year by adding new thrills, experiences and sweet things to tastes.

Hersheypark started its summer schedule Memorial Day weekend. This means all three of its parks — the traditional amusement park, The Boardwalk water park, and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park — are open daily, and one ticket gets you admission to all three! This three-for-one runs through early September.

Here’s the latest and greatest things that have us salivating for another trip to Hersheypark in summer 2022:

New rides, flavors at Hersheypark in 2022

Your senses should be on high alert for two bright new additions to Hersheypark’s playscape. You can’t miss these rides with their special color scheme of bright green, pink, purple, blue and red, representing the Jolly Rancher candy flavors.

Jolly Rancher Remix is one of 15 Hersheypark rollercoasters. Formerly known as the Sidewinder, this reimagined boomerang coaster takes thrill seekers on a “flavor ride.” Riders (who must be at least 48 inches tall) and theirs senses zoom forward and BACK (intense!) on the same track, inverting six times in 90 seconds while jamming to sweet tunes. Each ride, though, is different from the last. Jolly Rancher Remix features five randomized flavor rides, like Watermelon or Green Apple. Each features completely different music, lights and SCENTS as you blast through the “flavor tunnel.” It’s an only-in-Hershey immersive experience. 

Mix’d Flavored By Jolly Rancher is located steps away from Jolly Rancher Remix in the heart of Hersheypark. Riders (minimum height of 42 inches) of this family attraction sit in one of the massive four arms and spin 360-degrees. The ride really shifts into gear when it mixes lifts, drops and spectacular views as its dodges the other riders.

Those are not the only Jolly Rancher inspired additions to Hersheypark for 2022:

• At The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio guests can now enjoy a Jolly Rancher Watermelon Cocktail or a Jolly Rancher Sorbet Sundae. (While there, also take a sip of the Twizzlers Frozen Daiquiri!)
• Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor features a sundae with Jolly Rancher Watermelon and Jolly Rancher Blue Raspberry Sorbets.
• Debuting in June, The Frozen Spoon food truck will offer Jolly Rancher Grape, Green Apple, Cherry, and Blue Raspberry Sorbets.

Nearly new, still completely awesome

If you haven’t visited Hersheypark in a few years, brace yourself. One of the park’s most ambitious, most awesome and newest sections is Hershey’s Chocolatetown, opened in 2020. Conquering Candymonium — the park’s tallest, fastest and longest — rollercoaster should be your top priority. It’s our favorite ride.

Of course, Hersheypark is not just thrill rides. It’s tasty treats!

The previously mentioned Chocolatier, opened in summer 2021, is the culinary destination for our family. It features a restaurant, bar and an expansive second-floor, outdoor patio with mesmerizing views of Hersheypark and Candymonium.

The largest restaurant in all Hershey, Pa., The Chocolatier features a diverse menu. This includes nachos, chicken and waffles, Reese’s Peanut Butter Hummus, flatbreads, and a host of other unique dining options. We love their food, but our best memories are of their dreamy dessert menu. It includes Chocolate Fun-Due (like a chocolate fountain), The Chocolatier Cake and milkshakes.

Additionally, if you’re famished and seeking food or dessert more swiftly, the “newish” Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor is also located in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. Opened in spring 2021, it is sure to hit the spot.

Pro Tip: You can now make reservations at The Chocolatier in advance using Open Table. Waits in the past were long. Book as soon as you know the dates you’re visiting the park this summer!

More Hersheypark 2022 updates, giveaway coming

Stay tuned on the NYC Dads Group social media feeds (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) when our family heads to Hershey, Pa., this week!

We’ll have loads of time to cruise on our favorite coasters — again and again, plunge down the waterslides at The Boardwalk water park, hug adorable Hershey characters, and spoil ourselves rotten in all of the new Jolly Rancher delights. Plus, we’ll be sharing our top tips for visiting Hersheypark this summer as well as hosting a ticket giveaway later this month.

Hersheypark, here we come!

Disclosure: Lance Somerfeld is a member of Hersheypark’s Sweetest Families Program. The program includes complimentary park passes and hotel accommodations for our family provided by the kind folks at Hershey’s Entertainment & Resorts. His thoughts and opinions are genuine and have not been influenced from the brand. All photos provided by Hersheypark.

Parents of young children have carried an especially difficult burden since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Remote learning, daycare closings and other limitations on daily life because of worry about disease spread, especially among the unvaccinated, has made raising a child more difficult and stressful. The availability of a pediatric COVID vaccine for all children age 5 and older can now help change that.

Everyone in the United States ages 5 and older is now eligible to get vaccinated. In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend all children 5 and older get a COVID vaccine as soon as possible.

The vaccines are free to all, regardless of health insurance or immigration status. More than 30,000 trusted and convenient locations, such as drugstores or community health centers, offer the pediatric COVID vaccine. You can find a nearby site in one of three ways:

• visiting vaccines.gov
• texting your ZIP code to 438829 (GETVAX)
• calling 1-800-232-0233.

We understand you may have concerns about the pediatric COVID vaccine, so let’s address some using facts provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

I thought kids weren’t as vulnerable to coronavirus?

Children rarely die or get severely ill from COVID — true. However, scientific study has found they are just as likely to get and spread the disease as adults. This puts everyone an unvaccinated child comes in contact with — their friends, parents, grandparents, teachers, etc. — at greater risk, regardless of that person’s vaccination status.

Need more statistics? One recent study found children are four times more likely to be hospitalized from COVID if they live in a state with low vaccination rates compared to states with high vaccination rates.

I keep hearing about vaccinated people still getting COVID. Why should I even bother getting my kids vaccinated?

“Breakthrough” cases of COVID do occur because no vaccine for any disease is a 100% effective. However, COVID vaccines are more than 90% effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death. The pediatric COVID vaccine helps protect your child from getting coronavirus but, in the event of a breakthrough case, it also helps keep your child from getting seriously ill. It also helps protect those your child comes in contact with, especially those most at risk such as the elderly or those with compromised autoimmune systems.

Could my child get coronavirus from a pediatric COVID vaccine?

No. None of the authorized and recommended COVID vaccines contain the live virus that causes coronavirus. No live virus, no way to contract COVID via the vaccine.

Some temporary side effects, in children just as in adults, are possible after receiving the vaccine. These are signs the vaccine is working and your child’s body is building protection against the virus. Common side effects include:

• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site on the body
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Chills
• Fever
• Nausea

Will a pediatric COVID vaccine alter my child’s DNA?

No. COVID vaccines do not change or interact with your child’s DNA in any way. It is biologically impossible.

Do COVID vaccines affect fertility?

Currently, no evidence indicates that any vaccines, including COVID vaccines, cause fertility problems, in women or men. A recent study showed people who had gotten the COVID vaccine had the same pregnancy success rate as people who had not been vaccinated. The CDC recommends that women trying to become pregnant now or want to get pregnant in the future, get a COVID vaccine. Vaccines are carefully studied and monitored, and it is clear they are safe for people who are pregnant or who want to become pregnant.

Aren’t there some heart issues related to the COVID vaccine in children?

A very small number of cases of myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart) have been reported following COVID vaccination. Most cases in children have been in adolescent males and most occur after the second vaccine dose.

While these conditions are rare, the available evidence suggests a link with mRNA COVID vaccination. In general, however, the few persons who develop these conditions respond well to medical treatment and rest and recover.

I’m worried because these vaccines are just too new and unproven.

Millions of people have already safely received COVID vaccines since first becoming available in early 2021. These vaccines are the most closely and rigorously monitored vaccines for safety ever in our country and are being monitored just as closely in children.

But I have more concerns …

If you have more questions or concerns, speak with your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider. Note that The American Medical Association reports over 96% of doctors have been fully vaccinated against COVID.

Disclosure: City Dads Group has partnered with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide parents with accurate information about pediatric COVID vaccines for those ages 5 to 17. Photo: © angellodeco / Adobe Stock.

Hersheypark has always been our happy place during the summer months: rollercoasters, chocolate treats, frolicking around the Boardwalk, the water park. So what’s so special and different about visiting during the fall for Hersheypark in the Dark?

We just returned from our first ever visit to The Sweetest Place on Earth during its annual Hersheypark In The Dark. There’s only one magical weekend left (Halloween, Oct. 29-31, 2021), and I wanted to reveal a few reasons why you need to relish in their high octane, autumn extravaganza. Doing so will prime you to want to ENTER TO WIN FOUR FREE TICKETS to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane!

1. Ride ’em … The majority of your favorite rides and rollercoasters are open. These include Laff Trakk, Reese’s Cupfusion, Skyrush, sooperdooperLooper and the Monorail. The water park, however, is closed.

2. In the dark! Experience an adrenaline rush with intense lights-out rides on Candymonium, Comet, Laff Trakk, Lightning Racer and Wildcat. After a year where Hersheypark closed early, it was a thrill to ride after dark.

3. Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail: We loved navigating the festive Boardwalk “Treatville” area snagging sweet candy at every turn. There are 10 pit-stops in the park for children under 12 years of age as well as three additional stops in Hershey’s Chocolate World distributing classics like Hershey Bars, Kit Kats, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Bags provided, too.

4. Feeling Halloween-y: Celebrate Halloween at Hersheypark! In addition to trick-or-treating, loads of families dress up in costume. Dense fog and strobe lights abound along with glowing pumpkins and spooky music. It all adds to the festive autumn decor, especially after sundown.

5. Fall-inspired treat overload: Pumpkin-spiced donuts, king-size shakes, sundaes and funnel cakes are added to all of your usual Hershey favorites. You must try the warm, pumpkin-spiced, mini donuts. To die for!

6. Hershey’s newest region, Chocolatetown, is open: Our favorite place on the property, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, was exactly what our family needed to recharge before being thrust back into the high energy of Hersheypark In The Dark. Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor was our go-to destination for snacks (the grilled cheese and tater tots are heavenly) and ice cream sundaes. The Supply Company store is where our daughter fell in love with our newest “stuffy” (see photo). This shop was a much more quiet and pleasurable experience than the overcrowded Hershey’s Chocolate Town.

7. Visit on Friday and/or Sunday at Hersheypark in the Dark to enjoy less congestion: Smaller crowds means enjoying more time on your favorite rides and attractions. Beware: Based on our experience and crowdsourcing other families, Saturday is packed with park guests and had the longest wait-times on most of the rides. Either way, download the Hersheypark app for real-time, “wait times” to help you plan your agenda.

8. Stay overnight at an official Hersheypark Resort. Instead of driving three hours back to New York City after an exciting day of thrills in Hersheypark, we stayed overnight at Hershey Lodge — located just a few minutes from the amusement park. Hershey Lodge, one of three official lodging sites, was a wonderful experience! The comfortable accommodations combined with free resort access benefits, including convenient shuttle bus service to/from Hersheypark, early entry to the park the night before with the “preview plan,” access to the indoor Hershey’s Water Works water park, chocolate bars at check-in, character meet and greets, and even chocolate bingo.

Overall, the most compelling reason to attend Hersheypark in the Dark is because it’s an electrifying, entertaining, and memorable family experience. We’re still reflecting about whirling around Laff Trakk in complete darkness and seeing Hersheypark aglow as we careened on Candymonium.

Ticket Giveaway: Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

After Hersheypark in the Dark wraps this weekend, the park is decked out with more than 5 million lights for their most merry event of the year, Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

Starting Nov. 12 and running through Jan. 2, families can enjoy their favorite rides and coasters, a visit with Santa, festive Hershey Character experiences and more. Want to win tickets to attend with your family?

• *Update* -This Contest has been closed. Congratulations to the two lucky winners: 1. Maria M., 2. Judith M. Please check your inboxes
• We’re giving away two sets of family four-packs of 1-day ticket admission to Hersheypark. (Each winner will receive four 1-day passes.)
• Contest runs Oct. 29 through Nov. 10, 2021.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older and residents of the United States.
• TWO winners will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter after the entry period ends Nov. 10, 2021.
• Winner must follow Rafflecopter instructions for getting entries
• Winner must supply email address to receive four electronic tickets to Hershey’s Christmas Candylane for 2021. Tickets are for one daily admission to Hersheypark during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. The tickets expire Jan. 2, 2022.
• Hersheypark charges a separate fee for parking, which is NOT included with these tickets. The winner will need to pay for parking if needed.
• City Dads Group is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets.

Disclosure: Lance Somerfeld is a member of Hersheypark’s Sweetest Families Program. The program includes complimentary park passes and hotel accommodations for his family provided by the kind folks at Hershey’s Entertainment & Resorts. His thoughts, opinions and Hersheypark tips are genuine and have not been influenced by the brand.

You might also enjoy:

In the spirit of reconnecting fathers in real life after the pandemic kept us apart for so long, City Dads Group members around the country will take part in a National Dads’ Day Out on Saturday, Nov. 6. The event is being done in partnership with our friends at Dad 2.0.

Local event organizers will decide how to celebrate the day, but outdoor gatherings that include some light physical activity to promote bonding and better physical and mental health are being encouraged. For example, our Columbus, Ohio, chapter plans on meeting for coffee than going on a hike at a local park; the NYC chapter will has its participating fathers take an “urban hike” from Manhattan to Brooklyn via the Brooklyn Bridge.

“Real life happens in real contact with real people, and when we’re deprived of that contact, our collective mental health suffers. For dads, that suffering means we’re less effective in the most important role of our lifetime,” Dad 2.0 organizers wrote in a website announcement about the join event.

National Dads’ Day Out events have been confirmed in the following metropolitan areas and more will likely be added as the date draws nearer (links go to the City Dads organized event):

• Austin
• Charlotte, N.C.
• Cleveland
• Columbus, Ohio
• Dallas
• Denver
• Detroit
• Houston
• Indianapolis
• Kansas City, Mo.
• Las Vegas
• Los Angeles
• New York City
• Orlando
• Portland
• Providence (through Boston Dads Group)
• Salt Lake City
• Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul)
• Toronto, Canada

Event information and RSVPs available via each city’s Meetup page.

“Since the beginning, City Dads Group has been on a mission to bring fathers together in real life. We hope guys that are ready will join us for this much needed opportunity to connect with fellow dads of all stripes,” said Matt Schneider, co-founder of City Dads Group.

National Dads’ Day Out will be sponsored by the creators of American Underdog, an upcoming film about former professional football quarterback Kurt Warner’s rise from supermarket employee to 1999 Super Bowl MVP.