A Sweet Day at Hersheypark: Gluten-Free Thrills and Family Fun

When planning a trip to an amusement park with celiac disease, food is often the biggest source of stress. But at Hersheypark, that’s not the case. One of the reasons I keep coming back is that they offer safe, clearly labeled gluten-free food options throughout the park. From chicken tenders and burgers to fries cooked in a dedicated fryer, I know my family and I can enjoy the day without worry. It’s such a relief not to have to pack a cooler or leave the park to eat. And best of all, my kids can enjoy “typical” theme park food, just like their friends.

I recently took my children and their friends to Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania. It’s been a favorite of mine since I was a teenager. As I drove down the familiar road with four teenagers in the backseat, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own teenage trip—two friends from school, two friends from Northern Ireland, and me headed for a fun-filled day. Now, over twenty years later, I was the mom in the driver’s seat, bringing my children. It seemed quite surreal.

Thrill Rides

As soon as we arrived, we headed straight for Great Bear, one of our favorites. Hersheypark has 15 roller coasters, and this one is exciting! Your feet dangle, crazy loops, corkscrews, and that feeling of flying! If you’re up for it, sit on the edge or in the front row for the best (and most terrifying) experience.

Fahrenheit is the one that gets me every time. It creeps straight up into the sky, 121 feet up, and I feel like I’m hanging there forever before the drop. My kids, of course, love hearing me scream the whole way down.

Another ride I’ll leave to my thrill-seeking family is the Hershey Triple Tower. With heights ranging from 80 to 189 feet, it’s not for me! I’ll happily wait at the bottom, taking pictures and cheering them on. My children and husband love this ride!

Gluten-Free Food Options

For lunch, we visited the Overlook Food Court. Their gluten-free menu includes chicken tenders, hot dogs, burgers, and a southwest wrap—all prepared in a separate kitchen with its own ordering line. While it’s mostly fast food, having safe options on-site is such a relief. They even offer gluten-free cookies!

The Boardwalk

After lunch, we cooled off at The Boardwalk, Hersheypark’s water park (included with admission). There are tube slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and several splash zones for kids. On a hot day, it’s the perfect mid-afternoon break before heading back to the rides.

We ended our day with a peaceful ride on the Ferris wheel, taking in the views of the entire park—an ideal way to wind down after a high-energy day.

Piazza Sorrento

On our way out of town, we stopped at Piazza Sorrento for dinner. I found it years ago on the Find Me Gluten Free app, and it’s one of my favorite places to eat, with several gluten-free options.

The restaurant is endorsed by the Gluten Intolerance Group and offers an extensive gluten-free menu—including delicious pizza and warm dinner rolls. It is only 4 miles away from Hershey Park. After a long day, this was the perfect, safe, and satisfying meal to end our trip.