Beloved amusement park attraction permanently closed
Tidal Force first opened in 1994, creating memories for those who splashed down on it for decades to come
KickT
One of Hersheypark’s beloved attractions has permanently closed, leaving fans grieving the loss of a childhood favorite.
“After 32 years, it’s time for Tidal Force to set sail,” Hersheypark said of the famed water ride in a Facebook post Sunday. “Visit us for one last ride through Monday.”
Visitors of the candy-themed park in Pennsylvania enjoyed the thrill of riding one of the tallest splash-down rides in the world for the last time this Labor Day before the long-standing ride was shuttered forever.
Tidal Force, one of the more than 15 attractions offered at the water park called The Boardwalk inside Hersheypark, carried guests in a boat up 100 feet before dropping them down at speeds exceeding 50 mph.
The boat creates such a massive splash as it drops that bystanders — often on purpose — get drenched.
Hersheypark did notify fans at the beginning of the summer of Tidal Force’s impending closure, writing in a June 9 post on X, “When a vessel takes its last voyage, we believe it deserves a proper send-off.
“After 32 years of making the biggest splashes #Hersheypark has seen, we'll dock the boats permanently after Sept. 7.”
It’s unclear why Hersheypark decided to shutter the ride or what will replace it. The Independent has reached out to Hersheypark for comment.
Fans have been mourning Tidal Force’s closure, with one writing on X last month, “This is so sad! One of my favorite rides as a kid.”
Members of a Facebook group called Hersheypark Connoisseurs visited The Boardwalk on Monday to ride Tidal Force one last time.
“Farewell, Tidal Force! You'll be missed!” the group wrote.
The Great Ohio Coaster Club posted on X Monday, “Farewell to Tidal Force at @Hersheypark! Can’t wait to see what the future for this area of the park has in store!”
Tidal Force closed as Hersheypark’s summer season ended. But more fun is in store with the park’s Halloween season starting soon.
The Halloween season —which includes a Trick Or Treat Trail for kids and haunted houses for those seeking even more thrills — will run from September 12 through November 1.
