The Ultimate Guide to the Best Food at Hersheypark
Explore the top must-try dishes, treats, and unique eats inside Hersheypark, from legendary funnel cakes to allergen-friendly fare.
Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is more than just a world-class amusement destination—it’s also a food lover’s paradise. While chocolate and sweets are undeniable stars, the park’s culinary offerings go far beyond dessert fare. Whether your cravings lean sweet or savory, decadent or wholesome, Hersheypark’s diverse dining options can satisfy every appetite. This comprehensive guide walks you through the park’s most memorable eats, iconic snacks, local specialties, and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Table of Contents
- Founder’s Way Funnel Cake
- Spring Creek Smokehouse
- Turkey Hill Creamery
- Overlook Food Court
- Gourmet Grille
- Tower Fries
- BBLz
- Simply Chocolate
- Pretzel House
- Makin’ Whoopie Pies
- The Outpost (Allergen Friendly)
- Chickie & Pete’s
- Frequently Asked Questions
Founder’s Way Funnel Cake
Funnel cake is synonymous with amusement parks, but at Hersheypark, you’ll find this classic treat elevated to new levels of decadence. Located along Founder’s Way—a bustling thoroughfare near the park entrance—this stand features signature sweet creations for every season. Among the standouts:
- Pumpkin Funnel Cake Sundae (seasonal autumn favorite)
- Dark Chocolate Funnel Cake—topped generously with melted chocolate chips and towering whipped cream
- Classic powdered sugar-topped funnel cakes remain available, but for chocoholics, the dark chocolate version is an absolute must-try
Expert tip: Order funnel cakes early in your visit; they’re best enjoyed fresh and warm, and you might want the energy for more rides ahead!
Spring Creek Smokehouse
If you lean savory, make a beeline for the Spring Creek Smokehouse, nestled near the water rides. The vibe is cozy and inviting, with a hearty selection of smoky, comfort-food classics. The ribs here are renowned—smoky, juicy, and tender. Other delicious options abound, but recommended can’t-miss picks include:
- Hickory-smoked ribs (fall-off-the-bone, slow-cooked onsite)
- Mac & cheese (ultra-gooey and rich, perfect as a side or main for cheese lovers)
- Monkey bread (sweet, sticky, cinnamon-laden pull-apart bread ideal for sharing)
- Pulled pork sandwiches, smoked brisket, and barbecue chicken round out the menu for carnivores
For fans of home-style barbecue, it’s a satisfying pit stop in the heart of the park.
Turkey Hill Creamery
Turkey Hill is an iconic Pennsylvania brand, celebrated for its ice cream and dairy desserts. Their Hersheypark location is a haven for cooling off on hot days, delighting guests with a variety of frozen specialties. Go beyond the standard ice cream cones and discover:
- Frozen-dipped cheesecakes—mini squares of decadent cheesecake on a stick, dipped in chocolate and frozen for a rich, satisfying treat you can enjoy as you stroll the park
- Classic hand-dipped ice cream in numerous flavors
- Frozen yogurt and seasonal milkshakes
Pro tip: Frozen-dipped cheesecakes are ideal for those who want a satisfying sweet but want to avoid melting ice cream or sticky cones.
Overlook Food Court
Food courts in amusement parks can be hit or miss, but Hersheypark’s Overlook Food Court offers a surprising gem: loaded pierogies. These pillowy Eastern European dumplings are transformed into indulgent meals:
- Pierogies loaded with bacon and kielbasa, smothered in butter and gooey cheese
- Hearty enough to serve as a meal or a substantial snack
Other classic quick-service stations at Overlook offer burgers, pizza, chicken tenders, and salads, catering to family-friendly, crowd-pleasing fare.
Gourmet Grille
If you’re seeking lighter or more contemporary dining fare, the Gourmet Grille is a welcome destination. A stylish sit-in restaurant in the park, it specializes in creative dishes and plant-based options:
- Impossible Burgers—plant-based patties topped with “avocado ranch” dressing and crisp lettuce and tomato
- Assorted wraps, fresh salads, and lighter entrees
This is the ideal spot for anyone wanting a break from heavy fried food or seeking vegetarian options.
Tower Fries
No trip to Hersheypark is complete without a stop at Tower Fries. This walk-up stand is an absolute icon for snacking, offering loaded fries with a variety of daring toppings.
Top picks:
- Pulled pork fries—crispy fries loaded with tender pulled pork and a sprinkle of coleslaw for crunch and tang
- Buffalo ranch chicken dip fries—fries slathered in spicy, creamy sauce with shredded buffalo chicken
- Classic cheese fries and plain salted fries are available for purists
Expert tip: These fries are best shared, but fans agree you might end up wanting a basket all to yourself!
BBLz
BBLz puts a creative and dazzling twist on the usual soda fountain with spectacular, candy-inspired beverages. Created through a unique partnership between Hershey and Pepsi, BBLz offers drinks that are both interactive and unforgettable.
- Colorful, over-the-top soft drinks and mocktails
- Each drink is made to order while you interact with “drinkologists” who craft your custom concoction before your eyes
- Expect vibrant, Instagram-worthy drinks loaded with candy garnishes
Insider advice: Enjoy BBLz at the start of your park day—the sugar rush pairs well with early excitement, and you can walk off the sweetness throughout your visit.
Simply Chocolate
Prepare for dessert nirvana at Simply Chocolate, where all things Hershey reign supreme. The highlight? Monumental milkshakes, decked with toppers so wild and generous, they’re practically a meal.
- King-Sized Shakes—massive shakes served in cups overloaded with cupcakes, brownies, cookies, sprinkles, and piles of whipped cream
- Classic chocolate, peanut butter, cookies and cream, and more, all featuring signature Hershey’s candies and syrups
Note: These legendary shakes are substantial—consider sharing so you can still sample other treats!
Pretzel House
For classic park snacking, the Pretzel House is unbeatable. Fresh-baked pretzels in both sweet and savory styles are a satisfying, portable snack.
- Original salt-dusted pretzels—perfectly soft with a distinct chew
- Cinnamon sugar pretzels—coated in fragrant cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist
Pro tip: According to locals, the secret is to take a half-bite of each style at once—salty and sweet perfection!
Makin’ Whoopie Pies
No Pennsylvania food tour would be complete without sampling whoopie pies. Hersheypark puts a personalized spin on this local specialty at its Makin’ Whoopie Pies station:
- Mix-and-match whoopie pies—customize your cake flavors (chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, and more) and fillings (marshmallow, chocolate, fruit, and more)
- The resulting creations are large enough to share—but you may not want to!
- Staff provide utensils for digging into the decadent creamy filling—trust us, you’ll need them
Expert tip: Pick up a whoopie pie for the road—these treats travel well and will bring a smile hours after you leave the park.
The Outpost (Allergen Friendly)
Dietary restrictions should never mean missing out. At The Outpost, guests with food allergies or special dietary needs find diverse allergen-friendly fare—prepared with care and served fresh. The menu focuses on lighter, wholesome options:
- Spinach and artichoke flatbread—a favorite for its flavor and portion size
- Salads with a variety of greens and fresh toppings
- Gluten-free pizza, chicken tenders, and wraps
- Plant-based options
Insider tip: Check labels and ask staff for specifics on allergens—they’re trained and knowledgeable about special accommodations.
Chickie & Pete’s
Philadelphia’s Chickie & Pete’s is legendary for its signature fries, and the Hersheypark outpost lives up to the hype:
- Crinkle fries tossed with bold Old Bay seasoning
- Paired with velvety white cheddar dipping sauce—an addictive combination, beloved by both kids and adults
- Classic pub fare including chicken tenders, wings, and sandwiches
For those craving a savory snack with a tangy, salty punch, Chickie & Pete’s is a must.
Additional Insider Tips for Eating at Hersheypark
- Don’t Skip Breakfast: Some food stands open at park opening—start your day with a treat like funnel cake or chocolate croissants before lines grow.
- Share Big Portions: Many treats are massive—sharing allows you to sample more variety while avoiding a food coma.
- Plan for Wait Times: Hot spots (like Simply Chocolate or Tower Fries) can have long lines during peak hours—visit during off-hours or use the app to track wait times.
- Allergy Awareness: Hersheypark is allergy-conscious, but always confirm ingredients for severe allergies or restrictions at each eatery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most popular food item at Hersheypark?
A: The king-sized shakes at Simply Chocolate and the loaded fries at Tower Fries are among the park’s most iconic and best-selling foods.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options in Hersheypark?
A: Yes! Try plant-based Impossible Burgers at Gourmet Grille and allergen-friendly salads, flatbreads, and wraps at The Outpost.
Q: Where can I find allergy-friendly or gluten-free foods?
A: The Outpost specializes in gluten-free and allergy-friendly menu items, with trained staff to handle special dietary needs.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks into Hersheypark?
A: Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed, but accommodations can be made for specific dietary and medical needs—check park policy in advance.
Q: Are there options for quick snacks if I’m in a hurry?
A: Yes. Pretzel House, Makin’ Whoopie Pies, and BBLz are quick-service spots with snacks perfect for eating on the go.
Plan Your Perfect Food Adventure
Whether you’re aiming for classic chocolate confections, hearty barbecue, or inventive snacks, Hersheypark is filled with unforgettable food experiences for every visitor. Use this guide to build your own eating itinerary, ensure you don’t miss legendary bites, and savor the sweetest day ever at Hersheypark!
