-Edition
Font Resize
With nothing but air above and below them, Skyrush riders have the chance to soar through spring into summer.
"It really gives you the sensation of flying," said Hersheypark spokeswoman Kathy Burrows.
When Hersheypark opens this weekend, guests will get a peak at the amusement hub's newest coaster-which is one of three models debuting in the U.S. this year.
At 200 feet tall and with speeds greater than 75 mph, Skyrush is the tallest, fastest and longest coaster in the park, she said.
In each row of the wing-rider style coaster, two center seats with traditional floors are flanked on both sides by two seats where riders' legs dangle freely. It accommodates both adrenaline junkies and the less-brave leisure lovers, she said.
The design is modeled by Intamin, a Swiss manufacturer that first introduced the style in 2007. Intamin also designed other Hersheypark coasters Storm Runner, built in 2004, and Fahrenheit, built in 2008.
Skyrush, the latest design, is one of three wing coasters opening across the country this spring. Wild Eagle opened March 24 in Dollywood, located in Sevierville, Tenn., and X-Flight will open May 12 in the Gurnee, Ill., Six Flags.
"It's the new trend," Burrows said.
Though Hersheypark opens this weekend, guests will have to wait to ride Skyrush until it opens on May 26. The Boardwalk at Hershey, the park's water area, will also open Memorial Day weekend.
In addition to a new coaster, guests may also notice increased admission rates this year. Regular one-day admission prices are $56.95 for ages 9 to 54, $35.95 for children ages 3 to 8, $35.95 for seniors ages 55-69, $22.95 for seniors 70 and older, and children 2 years old and younger are admitted free.
The rates reflect a $5 increase since 2009, and they include admission to ZooAmerica and performances held inside the amusement park.
Burrows said it's typical for amusement parks to increase the price of admission when there's a new ride.
Skyrush, the park's 12th coaster, came with a $25 million price tag and is the "most significant coaster investment in Hersheypark's 105-year history," she said.
Hersheypark also continues to invest in its Summer Concert Series - which is a separate lineup from that of Hershey Stadium, she said. A full list of performers is available on the park's website www.Herseypark.com, but some highlights include Chubby Checker on May 6, Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx on July 15, Air Supply on July 22, Eddie Money on July 29, Megan Hilty on Sept. 23 and Kellie Pickler on Sept. 30.
- Reach Candy Woodall at 505-5437 or cwoodall@yorkdispatch.com.
