Visitors heading to Hershey this summer will encounter two major changes: the retirement of a longtime Hersheypark attraction and updated parking procedures at Hershey's Chocolate World.
Hersheypark announced Tidal Force will permanently close after Sept. 7, ending the water ride's 32-year run.
"When a vessel takes its last voyage, we believe it deserves a proper send-off," Hersheypark said in announcing the closure. "After 32 years of making the biggest splashes Hersheypark has seen, the final tide goes out on Tidal Force at the end of the 2026 summer season."
The ride opened in 1994 as a $4 million attraction and became one of the park's most recognizable experiences. Riders climb a steep 100-foot incline before plunging downhill at speeds exceeding 50 mph, creating one of the largest splashdowns in the park.
The attraction is also known for soaking unsuspecting bystanders along the midway.
"We invite you to spend the entire summer making tidal waves before we dock the boats permanently on September 7," the park said.
The announcement sparked strong reactions from fans on social media, with many expressing disappointment over the ride's impending retirement and others speculating about what attraction could replace it.
At the same time, Hershey's Chocolate World has announced changes to its parking operations as the busy summer tourism season begins.
Starting this summer, guests may be directed to Hersheypark parking and charged the daily parking fee when the Chocolate World parking lot reaches capacity, according to the attraction.
"When available, parking for visits under 2 hours at Hershey's Chocolate World remains free," the attraction said.
Chocolate World said the changes are intended to help manage increasing visitor traffic and "ensure everyone can safely experience all of the sweet fun that HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE WORLD has to offer."
According to the company's website, guests visiting Chocolate World for two hours or less may still park free when spaces are available. Guests who purchase attraction ticket bundles also receive free parking.
When the Chocolate World lot is full, visitors may be directed to Hersheypark's main parking lot, where the standard parking fee applies. Guests who enter the Hersheypark lot and decide not to stay may request a refund by exiting immediately through the designated exit near the Hersheypark Entertainment Complex Public Safety building, where an attendant will assist them.
Hershey Entertainment & Resorts said it continues to evaluate ways to improve the guest experience and will announce any plans for the Tidal Force area at a later date.
These announcements come the day after 55 people were charged for fighting at Hersheypark. Click here to read our report.
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