Hersheypark Boardwalk vs Dorney Park Wildwater Kingdom
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
By the Numbers
The ride and height data most comparisons leave out — sourced from each park's official rules.
| Metric | Hersheypark Boardwalk | Dorney Park Wildwater Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Water attractionsSlides, pools, and rides we've logged | 14 | 10 |
| Water slides | 8 | 5 |
| Tallest slide requiresHigher = bigger thrills | 48" | 48" |
| Rides a 40″ child can doAlone or with a supervising adult | 5 | 5 |
| Rides a 48″ rider can do | 14 | 10 |
| No-height-limit attractionsBest for non-swimmers & toddlers | 1 | 0 |
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Hersheypark Boardwalk | Dorney Park Wildwater Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Hersheypark Boardwalk
Pennsylvania
Hersheypark Boardwalk sits right next to the famous chocolate theme park in Hershey, giving you that classic Pennsylvania vacation vibe with the sweet smell of chocolate in the air. This outdoor water park feels like an old-school boardwalk experience, complete with wooden decking and that nostalgic summer atmosphere that Hershey does so well. The water slides here range from family-friendly tube rides to some decent thrill slides that'll get your heart pumping. The lazy river is solid - not the longest I've floated, but perfect for cooling off between rides. Kids absolutely love the interactive play structure with dumping buckets and smaller slides, plus there's a dedicated shallow area where little ones can splash safely while parents keep watch from nearby lounge chairs. The wave pool generates decent waves every few minutes, though it can get packed during peak summer days. What really sets this place apart is how it connects to the larger Hersheypark experience. You can do combo tickets and bounce between the theme park and water park, which is perfect for families who want variety. The theming feels authentic rather than corporate, with plenty of chocolate-themed touches that kids get a kick out of. I'd recommend arriving when they open, especially on weekends, because the slide lines can get brutal by noon. The food options are typical water park fare but decent quality, and you'll pay theme park prices. Rent a cabana if you're visiting during peak season - the shade is worth every penny when it…
Read the full Hersheypark Boardwalk guide →Dorney Park Wildwater Kingdom
Pennsylvania
Wildwater Kingdom sits right next to Dorney Park's amusement park in Allentown, and honestly, the combo ticket is the way to go if you're planning a full day. This outdoor water park has that classic Pennsylvania summer vibe - it gets busy on hot weekends, but the shade trees scattered throughout actually make it more comfortable than some of the concrete jungle water parks I've visited. The wave pool here is solid, with waves that are strong enough to be fun but not so intense that parents worry about their kids. The lazy river winds around a good portion of the park, and I always grab a tube early because they do run out during peak times. The slide complex has a nice mix - some family raft rides where everyone can go together, plus a few body slides that'll get your heart pumping without being terrifying. The kids' area is well-designed with smaller slides and interactive water features that keep the little ones entertained while parents can actually relax nearby. What I really like about Wildwater Kingdom is how it feels integrated with the main park. You can hop between the water park and the roller coasters, which is perfect for families where some people want to cool off while others chase thrills on dry land. The food options are typical theme park fare, but there are plenty of shaded eating areas. My advice: arrive when they open if you're visiting on a weekend, rent a locker early, and…
Read the full Dorney Park Wildwater Kingdom guide →Ready to visit Hersheypark Boardwalk?