Yes, you can bring water bottles to Hersheypark. Guests may bring one sealed plastic water bottle per person or an empty reusable water bottle. Glass bottles are not allowed. Empty bottles can be refilled for free at water bottle filling stations and Pepsi Fast-Fill locations throughout the park.
Understanding Hersheypark’s Water Bottle Policy
Hersheypark’s refreshment policies have evolved over the years to balance visitor convenience with park operations. Let’s dive into the specifics of what you need to know about bringing water bottles to this popular attraction.
What the official rules say
Hersheypark permits guests to bring water into the park under specific conditions. The park allows one factory-sealed water bottle per person upon entry. Moreover, empty reusable water bottles are perfectly acceptable to bring along. However, there’s an important distinction – your reusable container must be completely empty when you pass through security.
The park strictly prohibits glass containers of any kind for safety reasons. Furthermore, alcoholic beverages are not permitted regardless of container type. These rules apply to all guests, though exceptions exist for medical necessities and infant care.
Why the policy exists
The water bottle policy at Hersheypark serves multiple purposes. First and foremost, safety concerns drive many of these regulations. By limiting outside beverages, the park can better control what substances enter the premises.
Secondly, theme parks generally rely on food and beverage sales as a significant revenue stream. Nevertheless, Hersheypark strikes a reasonable balance by allowing limited outside water while still maintaining their business model.
Finally, the empty bottle policy helps security staff quickly verify container contents without slowing down entry lines, enhancing the overall guest experience while maintaining necessary security protocols.
How it compares to other parks
Compared to competitors, Hersheypark’s water bottle policy stands as relatively visitor-friendly. While some theme parks prohibit all outside beverages entirely, Hersheypark’s allowance for sealed water bottles and empty reusables offers greater flexibility.
For instance, Cedar Point permits only empty water bottles, whereas Six Flags allows sealed water bottles similar to Hersheypark. Disney parks have comparable policies allowing empty reusable containers.
Overall, Hersheypark maintains a policy that aligns with industry standards while being somewhat more accommodating than stricter venues. This middle-ground approach demonstrates the park’s effort to consider visitor comfort, particularly given Pennsylvania’s hot summer temperatures, without compromising security or business interests.
What Types of Water Bottles Are Allowed?
When packing for your Hersheypark adventure, understanding exactly what types of water containers are permitted will save you time at the entrance. The park has clear guidelines about which bottles you can bring along to stay hydrated throughout your visit.
Sealed disposable water bottles
First of all, Hersheypark allows each guest to bring one factory-sealed plastic water bottle. This is perfect if you prefer the convenience of disposable bottles or want to avoid carrying an empty container until you reach a filling station. The key requirement here is that the bottle must be sealed upon arrival – previously opened bottles won’t make it past security checkpoints. Consider bringing a standard 16-20oz bottle that fits easily in a backpack or purse.
Empty reusable water bottles
Alternatively, you’re welcome to bring your own empty reusable water bottle. The emphasis here is on “empty” – your bottle must contain no liquid whatsoever when you arrive at the entrance. This policy enables you to bring your favorite eco-friendly bottle while allowing security staff to quickly verify its contents. Once inside, you can immediately fill it at one of the park’s water stations.
Are insulated bottles okay?
Absolutely! Many visitors report successfully bringing stainless steel and insulated bottles into the park. These bottles are ideal for keeping your water cold throughout a hot summer day at Hersheypark. Just remember that, like all reusable containers, these must be empty upon arrival. The prohibition against glass applies here too – no glass bottles of any kind are permitted for safety reasons.
What about souvenir cups?
Hersheypark offers souvenir cups that can be purchased within the park. These cups provide a memorable keepsake plus practical benefits. Once you own a Hersheypark Souvenir Cup, you can access all Pepsi FastFill stations throughout your visit. Even without purchasing a souvenir cup, these same stations offer free water and ice to all guests. Should you already own a souvenir cup from a previous visit, you’re certainly allowed to bring it – just ensure it’s empty when entering the park.
How to Stay Hydrated Inside the Park
Once you’ve entered Hersheypark with your approved water bottle, staying hydrated throughout your visit is straightforward thanks to several convenient options throughout the park.
Free water refill stations
Hersheypark provides multiple bottle filler stations strategically placed throughout the park. These dedicated water fountains are specifically designed for refilling bottles quickly and efficiently. I’ve found these stations particularly useful for topping up my reusable water bottle between rides without wasting time waiting in line at food stands.
Where to find Pepsi FastFill stands
Pepsi FastFill stations offer another excellent option for hydration. These self-serve beverage dispensers are located at multiple spots including 1906 Grill and Dispatch Pizzeria Express in the Founder’s Way area. What makes these stations particularly convenient is that they dispense free water and ice without requiring you to scan a souvenir cup. Simply place your container under the dispenser and help yourself to water whenever needed.
Dining locations that offer free water
Beyond dedicated refill stations, all Hersheypark-owned food and beverage locations provide complimentary cups of water upon request. Simply approach any park-owned concession stand and ask for a cup of water – staff will happily provide one at no charge. To easily locate these participating venues, check the Hersheypark app for any location marked as an All Day Drink Deal participant.
Tips for hot summer days
Staying properly hydrated is especially crucial during summer visits. Plan your lunch around the hottest part of the day to enjoy air conditioning while eating. For extended relief from the heat, visit indoor dining locations like Overlook Food Court or Gourmet Grille.
Remember that dehydration often occurs before you feel thirsty. By the time you’re experiencing thirst, your body is already in a water deficit, so drink regularly throughout your visit rather than waiting until you feel parched.
For families, I recommend setting regular water breaks to ensure everyone stays properly hydrated – this prevents the energy crash and crankiness that often comes from dehydration during an exciting day of rides and attractions.
What Not to Bring and Common Mistakes
Avoiding common mistakes at Hersheypark can save you time and frustration at the entrance gates. Knowing what not to bring is just as important as knowing what’s allowed.
Outside food and snacks
Despite what you might have heard, Hersheypark strictly prohibits outside food and beverages beyond the one sealed water bottle per person. Although some visitors report successfully bringing snacks in, official policy stands firm on this restriction. There is, nonetheless, an important exception – guests with special dietary needs or restrictions can bring small amounts of food. If this applies to you, consider contacting guest services ahead of your visit to make arrangements.
Coolers and large containers
Hard-sided coolers are explicitly prohibited at Hersheypark. Security thoroughly checks bags at entry points, and prohibited items will need to be returned to your vehicle. Instead of bringing large containers, consider utilizing the re-entry privilege to enjoy meals at your car during your visit.
Bringing full reusable bottles
A frequent mistake is arriving with full reusable bottles. Remember that while empty refillable containers are welcome, they must contain absolutely no liquid upon arrival. Security checks all containers, consequently causing delays if yours needs to be emptied.
Forgetting sunscreen and layers
Beyond hydration concerns, many guests forget essential comfort items. Sunscreen is crucial yet often overlooked. Fortunately, if you forget these items, Hersheypark retail stores carry many supplies you might need. Weather in Pennsylvania can change quickly, hence bringing layers is always wise even on seemingly perfect days.
Conclusion
Planning for a day at Hersheypark requires understanding their water bottle policies to ensure proper hydration throughout your visit. After all, enjoying those thrilling rides and sweet treats becomes much more pleasant when you’re well-hydrated, especially during hot summer months.
Hersheypark strikes a reasonable balance between visitor comfort and operational needs with their water policy. You can bring one factory-sealed water bottle per person or an empty reusable container, including insulated bottles that keep your water cool all day. This policy stands as more accommodating than many competing theme parks, demonstrating Hersheypark’s commitment to guest satisfaction.
Once inside, staying hydrated becomes effortless thanks to multiple options available throughout the park. Free water refill stations, complimentary cups at dining locations, and Pepsi FastFill stands ensure you’ll never be far from refreshment. These convenient services allow you to focus on making memories rather than worrying about dehydration.
