Key Takeaways:
- Hersheypark is introducing two new water play areas in the Bayside Pier, featuring 45 aquatic elements and shade-filled play zones
- The waterpark upgrades will include rubberized decking, shaded canopies, and an open design to allow guests to flow between attractions
- Hersheypark Stadium will feature a new Premium Viewing Deck with exclusive food and beverage options, a dedicated restroom, and designated parking and entrance
- A new hotel, Hershey Inn & Suites, will open in Derry Township with 130 rooms, a lobby bar, and an indoor pool
- Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar will open in the former Houlihan’s restaurant location
Introduction to Hersheypark Upgrades
Hersheypark is gearing up for a splashing 2026 season with several exciting upgrades to its waterpark, the Boardwalk. On Tuesday, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts announced the enhancements, which include two new water play areas in the Bayside Pier. The new areas, featuring 45 aquatic elements, will provide a fun and refreshing experience for visitors of all ages. The Inlet at Bayside Pier will boast a shade-filled play zone with water-spouting dolphins and fish, as well as water spray features. Meanwhile, The Island at Bayside Pier will feature 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of water, adding to the excitement and thrill of the waterpark.
Waterpark Upgrades and Features
The waterpark upgrades will also include rubberized decking, allowing guests to sit and splash under shaded canopies. The open design of the new areas will enable visitors to flow seamlessly between the Boardwalk’s other water attractions. This thoughtful design will create a more immersive and enjoyable experience for guests, making it easier for them to explore and discover all that the waterpark has to offer. The water attractions at the Boardwalk at Hersheypark are set to open on Memorial Day and will remain open through Labor Day. With the park’s 120th season scheduled to begin on April 3, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable summer of fun and entertainment.
Hersheypark Stadium Renovations
In addition to the waterpark upgrades, Hersheypark Stadium is also undergoing renovations. A second Premium Viewing Deck will be added, offering guests exclusive food and beverage options, a dedicated restroom, and designated parking and entrance. The stadium construction will also include behind-the-scenes improvements, such as dressing rooms and loading zones, to support tour production needs. These enhancements will elevate the overall experience for visitors, providing a more comfortable and convenient environment for enjoying events and performances. The renovations demonstrate Hersheypark’s commitment to continuously improving and expanding its offerings to meet the evolving needs and expectations of its guests.
New Hotel and Restaurant Openings
Hershey Entertainment is also slated to open a new hotel, Hershey Inn & Suites, located at 1300 West End Ave. in Derry Township. The 75,380-square-foot, four-story hotel will feature 130 rooms, including seven suites, as well as a lobby bar, lobby marketplace, arcade, fitness center, and indoor pool open year-round. This new hotel will provide visitors with a convenient and comfortable place to stay, with a range of amenities to enhance their overall experience. Furthermore, Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar is scheduled to open this spring at the former Houlihan’s restaurant location, offering a new dining option for guests. With these new additions, Hersheypark is solidifying its position as a premier destination for entertainment, relaxation, and recreation.
Conclusion and Future Plans
As Hersheypark prepares to embark on its 120th season, the upcoming upgrades and new additions are sure to generate excitement among visitors. From the waterpark enhancements to the stadium renovations and new hotel and restaurant openings, there is something for everyone to look forward to. With its commitment to continuous improvement and expansion, Hersheypark is poised to remain a beloved destination for years to come. As the park continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see what other surprises and innovations are in store for visitors. For now, the 2026 season is shaping up to be an unforgettable one, with plenty of thrills, entertainment, and memories to be made.
