The Hershey Monorail is a compact, family oriented rail ride that has become a recognizable part of the Hersheypark landscape. Originally introduced as a forward looking transportation concept, the system now moves guests between key areas of the park, linking the Hershey chocolate themed district with portions of the park’s midway and picnic grounds. This guide explains how the monorail works, where it goes, and what riders can expect in terms of operations, accessibility, and practical visiting details.
History and Development of the Hershey Monorail
The Hershey Monorail was conceived as part of the park’s broader mid century modernization efforts, reflecting contemporary fascination with monorail systems emerging at other destination venues. Early plans emphasized efficient people movement and a novel aerial perspective that would showcase park themed environments from above. The system opened in the late 1960s, quickly becoming a signature attraction that complemented the park’s mix of coasters, shows, and family rides. Over the decades, the monorail has undergone several upgrades, including vehicle refreshes, track maintenance, and station improvements, while preserving its original role as a practical link between geographically separated zones of the resort.
How the Monorail System Operates
Basic Mechanics and Control
The Hershey Monorail uses an elevated track with a single rail, driven by a forward rotating tire and stabilized by a guide wheel along the top of the beam. Trains are typically powered by electricity, drawing current from a third rail or substations along the route. Operations are coordinated from a central dispatch, which manages departures, station dwell times, and load procedures to maintain a steady, predictable flow of guests. The ride emphasizes short, frequent circuits rather than long distance travel, aligning with its role as an internal park transport rather than an off site connection.
Rider Experience and Onboard Details
Riders board through a modest station area, then ascend to a platform level where floor markings indicate safe boarding zones. Each car accommodates a small number of passengers, with bench seating arranged around a central aisle. During the short loop, riders enjoy views over park pathways and themed landscapes, making the journey itself a scenic preview of nearby attractions. Because the monorail runs continuously during park hours, wait times typically remain manageable, even on busy days.
Primary Routes and Stations
The Hershey Monorail generally follows a simple, easy to memorize circuit. It serves several stations clustered near major park entries, the central midway, and areas adjacent to parking and transportation hubs. The line is designed to move guests from the entrance district toward the main concentration of rides and shows, with brief stops that align with peak demand points. Directional flow is consistently managed to reduce crossing traffic and minimize potential conflicts with foot traffic on the ground.
Station Coverage and Functional Role
- Main entrance and ticketing area, linking arrivals to park entry
- Midway hub, connecting to classic rides and games
- Themed district stop near chocolate and exhibit zones
- Parking and transportation satellite, supporting resort guests
Together, these stops allow the monorail to function as a circulation tool that enhances overall park flow, especially for guests with mobility considerations or those looking to avoid long walks in heat or rain.
Practical Visitor Information
Operating Hours and Frequency
On typical days, the Hershey Monorail operates from park opening until roughly an hour before park close, with service frequency adjusted based on attendance levels. During peak holiday and summer periods, trains may run at higher frequency, while off season or inclement weather can lead to temporary suspension or reduced hours. Guests are advised to check daily park maps and posted station signage for exact service windows at the time of their visit.
Accessibility and Special Needs Considerations
The monorail features level boarding at most stations and wide entry doors, making it suitable for guests using mobility devices. However, transfer techniques and platform height may still require assistance for some riders. Companion seating is available, allowing caregivers to remain adjacent to passengers who need support. Staff at each station can provide additional guidance on boarding safely and securing any loose articles during the ride.
Comparisons and Context Within Hersheypark
Relative to the park’s coaster focused lineup, the Hershey Monorail offers a gentler, more contemplative way to experience the property. Unlike high intensity rides that prioritize speed and airtime, the monorail emphasizes smooth motion, panoramic views, and educational theming related to the Hershey chocolate story. Families often use the monorail to move between sections without backtracking, and it pairs well with attractions aimed at younger children, dining venues, and shaded rest areas. Below is a concise comparison highlighting how the monorail fits alongside other primary ride types in the park.
| Ride Type | Intensity | Typical Wait Range (Peak) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monorail | Low | 10–30 minutes | Scenic transport, families, guests seeking mild rides |
| Family Coasters | Moderate | 20–45 minutes | Thrill seekers with younger companions |
| Major Coasters | High | 30–90 minutes | Enthusiasts comfortable with intense forces |
| Dark Rides | Low to Moderate | 15–35 minutes | Guests interested in themed storytelling |
Frequently Asked Questions
Visitors commonly ask whether the monorail requires a separate ticket, whether it operates during all park hours, and how accessible it is for guests with mobility devices. In most years, the monorail is included in general park admission and does not require an additional charge. Operations are generally aligned with park hours, although temporary service changes can occur due to special events, maintenance, or weather. Checking the official park website or app before arrival helps guests confirm current schedules and any reservation or capacity policies that may be in effect.
Current Status and Future Outlook
As of the most recent public information, the Hershey Monorail continues to operate as a scheduled attraction within Hersheypark, subject to routine maintenance and occasional short term closures for refurbishment. The park periodically evaluates fleet condition and guest feedback to guide future upgrades, balancing modern reliability with the nostalgic appeal that has long surrounded the monorail. While no major expansion or complete system overhaul has been announced, ongoing maintenance ensures that the monorail remains a reliable, safe, and enjoyable element of the resort experience for years to come.
For guests planning a visit, the monorall remains a dependable option for moving between key areas of Hersheypark, especially for families, guests with mobility needs, and anyone looking for a relaxed aerial tour of the grounds. Staying aware of posted schedules, peak times, and accessibility details helps ensure that the monorail ride fits smoothly into a broader park itinerary, complementing the wider mix of attractions that Hersheypark offers.