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While approaching Hersheypark, what is the first ride one sees? Storm Runner? No. Fahrenheit? Nope. Great Bear? No as well. So what is it? Shockingly all of Hershey’s tallest coasters are dwarfed by this attraction. Not only that, but this attraction is gentle enough that almost anyone is willing to ride it. So what is it then? Why, it’s none other than Hersheypark’s iconic observation tower, the Kissing Tower.
Standing 330 feet tall, the Kissing Tower can be seen from quite a distance. While approaching the park, chances are that you will see the cabin slowly rising to the top of the gigantic tower. Situated in Minetown near the Great Bear, the Kissing Tower looks even better up close. Up close, one can tell where the ride’s name comes from. Instead of sporting generic shaped windows, the Kissing Tower instead features Hershey Kiss shaped windows, which are an excellent touch in my opinion. While I never have had one due to my hatred of chocolate, I still can’t deny the fact that the windows are an incredible touch that helps add to the atmosphere and charm of the park. Additionally, thanks to the large cabin, the Kissing Tower is almost always a walk-on.
First and foremost, I feel I should mention that while the Kissing Tower’s cabin is very cool thanks to several fans positioned throughout. The best seats in my opinion are the ones directly beneath the fans. Regardless of your seat though, the Kissing Tower proves to be an excellent escape from the Pennsylvania heat. Once the ride begins, the cabin slowly begins to rotate and rises to the top of the tower. I am a huge fan of the rotating cabin since it allows for everyone to experience a full view of both Hersheypark and the surrounding area. From the top though, I especially love seeing the tangled mess of coaster track below. Additionally, Hershey’s famous chocolate factory can be seen as well, but being the amusement park fanatic and chocolate hater that I am, I didn’t really focus on that too much. One final note, the cycle is a pretty good length and the cabin stays at the top quite long.
Overall, the Kissing Tower is one of Hersheypark’s most iconic and beloved attractions. While it lacks the thrills of park’s roller coasters, that is by design. Instead the Kissing Tower is designed to offer riders outstanding views, and without a doubt the Kissing Tower succeeds. Personally, I enjoy these observation towers to the far more common Ferris Wheels since one gets to spend far longer at the top on these. Don’t miss the Kissing Tower in a visit to Hershey since it provides incredible views of the park.
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