OZ Adventure 2002 - Washingtion DC, Lancaster PA, Hershey PA

Hershey, Pennsylvania

The municipality of Derry Township founded 170 years before Milton S. Hershey arrived is probably best known as the town that chocolate built - Hershey, PA. Located here for its proximity to high quality dairy mik (a key ingredient in milk chocolate), the town is home to the nations largest Chocolate factory - Hershy and Reeses chocolate factories. Hershey also manufactures Jolly Ranchers and other delights.

Most notable about the town is that it is home to a most remarkable orphanage. Originally opened to orphaned boys, it now includes girls and runs the full range of ages infant through high school. The kids live in family units, attend school and spend some time working in the local farm industry. We were told that all students so desiring are offered a full scholarship to any college where they are accepted after 2 years at the local junior college, a new suit, laptop computer and the traditional $100 cash.

Travel Tip
Sign up as soon as you arrive for the trolly tour. It was really good.

The Hershey attractions include an amusement park, a zoo, a museum, monorail, and the simulated factory tour. The park is pretty big and includes rides for all ages. The water 'participation' rides were most popular in the heat of the late afternoon.

And yes, you can smell the chocolate miles away.

There were pleny of characters walking around the Hershey park to keep the kids entertained.

Lunchtime entertainment in the barn was this lively and talented ensemble. There was a fair variety of food choices among the different themed kitchens, but at an disappointing standard of service.

The roller soaker was also great fun for the kids because you get to help soak the riders from below.

Need to Cool Off?

Tidal Force gets my vote as the best ride to get wet on. First you get soaked in the boat as the water deacceleration pool explodes around you and your world goes to white. As you exit, you have the opportunity to pause on the bridge for some additional soaking in case you missed a spot on the ride.

Travel tip
Bring 'wet' and 'dry' cloths and some flipflop shoes. Of course they sell them there.

If we had more time:

Indian Echo Caverns
Rennaisance Faire
Hershey Park Zoo
Tour or Stay at the Hotel Hershey

Travel time from Lancaster to Hershey is about 45 minutes and 28 miles. We took the toll road.

Hershey, PA

Hershey Park

Washington DC and
Pennsylvania