Did you know that Hershey, Pennsylvania processes over 70 million pounds of cocoa beans annually, enough to make more than 33 billion Hershey’s Kisses? This chocolate-scented town, where even the street lamps are shaped like Kisses, offers visitors a uniquely sweet experience unlike anywhere else in America. From world-class theme parks to interactive chocolate-making adventures, Hershey transforms the simple pleasure of chocolate into an entire vacation destination that delights all ages.
Getting to Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hershey is conveniently located in central Pennsylvania, making it accessible from several major cities. The closest major airport is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), just 20 minutes away. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) are both within a 2-hour drive.
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If you’re driving, Hershey is easily accessible via major highways. It’s located just off Interstate 76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) and Interstate 81, approximately 2 hours from Philadelphia, 90 minutes from Baltimore, and 3 hours from New York City or Washington, DC.
Best Time to Visit Hershey
Summer (June-August)
Peak season offers the full Hersheypark experience with all rides and water attractions open. The weather is warm, typically 75-85°F (24-29°C), perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. Expect larger crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
Fall (September-November)
Experience beautiful foliage and special events like Hersheypark In The Dark (Halloween) and cooler temperatures ranging from 45-70°F (7-21°C). Fall weekends can be busy with seasonal events, but weekdays offer smaller crowds.
Winter (December-February)
Enjoy Hersheypark Christmas Candylane and the Sweet Lights driving tour. Indoor attractions like Chocolate World remain open year-round. Temperatures range from 20-40°F (-6-4°C), with occasional snow adding to the charm.
Spring (March-May)
The park begins its seasonal opening with gradually increasing operating days. Hershey Gardens blooms with spring flowers, and temperatures range from 45-70°F (7-21°C). Spring offers a nice balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Getting Around Hershey Pennsylvania
While having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Hershey and the surrounding area, there are several transportation options available:
Rental Cars
The most convenient option for exploring beyond the main attractions. Several rental agencies operate at Harrisburg International Airport and in town.
Shuttle Services
Many Hershey hotels offer complimentary shuttles to popular attractions like Hersheypark and Chocolate World. Check with your accommodation about availability.
Trolley Works
The Hershey Trolley Works offers narrated tours of the town, providing historical information while transporting you to key attractions.
The main Hershey attractions (Hersheypark, Chocolate World, Hershey Gardens) are relatively close to each other, and some are within walking distance depending on where you stay. For visitors staying at The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge, complimentary transportation to Hersheypark and Chocolate World is provided.
Where to Stay in Hershey
Official Hershey Resorts
The Hotel Hershey (luxury) and Hershey Lodge (mid-range) offer perks like free shuttle service to attractions, early park access, and discounted tickets. Both feature multiple dining options, pools, and recreational activities.
Family-Friendly Hotels
Several chain hotels like Hampton Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Express, and Comfort Inn offer comfortable accommodations with amenities like free breakfast, pools, and easy access to attractions.
Camping Options
Hersheypark Camping Resort offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals with shuttle service to the park, swimming pools, and other recreational facilities.
Find Your Perfect Hershey Accommodation
Book early, especially during summer and holiday periods when accommodations fill quickly.
Top Hershey Pennsylvania Things to Do
Hershey’s Chocolate World
The sweetest starting point for any Hershey visit, Chocolate World offers several chocolate-themed experiences:
- Free Chocolate Tour: Take the immersive ride through the chocolate-making process, complete with a free chocolate sample at the end.
- Create Your Own Candy Bar: Design a custom chocolate bar with your choice of ingredients, packaging, and name.
- Chocolate Tasting Experience: Learn to taste chocolate like a professional with this guided sensory experience.
- Hershey’s Unwrapped: An interactive show that reveals the secrets of chocolate through all five senses.
Hersheypark
This 121-acre theme park features over 70 rides and attractions, including 15 thrilling roller coasters, a water park (The Boardwalk), and a zoo (ZooAmerica).
- Roller Coasters: From the wooden Comet (operating since 1946) to modern steel giants like Candymonium and Skyrush.
- Water Attractions: The Boardwalk at Hersheypark features water slides, wave pools, and splash areas.
- Family Rides: Plenty of options for younger children, including the Carrousel, Cocoa Cruiser, and Hershey Triple Tower.
- Seasonal Events: Special programming during Halloween (Hersheypark In The Dark) and Christmas (Candylane).
“For the best Hersheypark experience, download the official app before your visit. It provides real-time wait times, show schedules, and an interactive map to help you navigate the park efficiently.”
More Must-See Attractions
Hershey Gardens
Explore 23 acres of botanical beauty featuring themed gardens, a tropical butterfly atrium, and a children’s garden. The seasonal displays change throughout the year, from spring tulips to summer roses and fall foliage.
The Hershey Story Museum
Discover Milton Hershey’s remarkable rags-to-riches story and the town’s history through interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the Chocolate Lab, where you can make your own chocolate creations.
ZooAmerica
This 11-acre North American wildlife park houses over 200 animals from five regions of North America. You can visit as part of your Hersheypark admission or as a standalone attraction.
Free Things to Do in Hershey
- Hershey’s Chocolate Tour: The signature ride at Chocolate World is completely free and includes a chocolate sample.
- Hershey’s Kiss Streetlights: Take photos with the unique Kiss-shaped streetlights that line Chocolate Avenue.
- Hershey Community Archives: Learn about the town’s history through historical documents and photographs.
- Cocoa Castle Playground: Let kids burn off energy at this community playground just a few blocks from Chocolate Avenue.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the Hershey Medical Center Trail system with 10 trails for walking, hiking, or biking.
Where to Eat in Hershey
Chocolate-Themed Dining
The Chocolate Avenue Grill and Fenicci’s of Hershey offer menus featuring chocolate-infused dishes. Try the cocoa-dusted scallops or chocolate BBQ sauce for a unique culinary experience.
Resort Dining
The Hotel Hershey’s Circular Dining Room and Hershey Lodge’s The Forebay offer upscale dining experiences with seasonal menus featuring local ingredients.
Family-Friendly Options
Chocolate World Food Hall, Hersheypark Place, and Devon Seafood + Steak provide varied options for families with different preferences and budgets.
“Don’t leave Hershey without trying the famous chocolate martini at The Hotel Hershey’s Iberian Lounge or the chocolate-rimmed milkshakes at Chocolate World!”
Seasonal Events and Festivals
- Springtime in the Park (April): Hersheypark opens for weekends with reduced crowds and cooler weather.
- Hershey Gardens Butterfly House (May-September): Hundreds of butterflies in a tropical setting.
- Hersheypark In The Dark (October): Halloween-themed rides, attractions, and trick-or-treating.
- Hersheypark Christmas Candylane (November-December): More than 5 million lights, holiday rides, and Santa.
- Hershey Sweet Lights (November-December): Drive-through light display featuring nearly 600 illuminated displays.
Practical Tips for Visiting Hershey
Money-Saving Tips
- Purchase Hersheypark tickets online in advance for discounts.
- Consider multi-day passes if visiting for more than one day.
- Check hotel packages that include attraction tickets.
- Visit during shoulder seasons (spring/fall) for lower rates.
Weather Considerations
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, 75-85°F (24-29°C)
- Fall (September-November): Cool, 45-70°F (7-21°C)
- Winter (December-February): Cold, 20-40°F (-6-4°C)
- Spring (March-May): Mild, 45-70°F (7-21°C)
Insider Tips for Hershey Pennsylvania Things to Do
- Visit Hersheypark on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially Tuesday or Wednesday.
- Arrive at Chocolate World early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak times.
- Download the Hersheypark app for real-time ride wait times and show schedules.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially in summer.
- Consider the Hershey Trolley Works tour early in your visit for an overview of the town’s history.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
| Day 1 | Hershey’s Chocolate World Tour and Create Your Own Candy Bar experience | Lunch at Chocolate World, then visit The Hershey Story Museum | Dinner at The Chocolate Avenue Grill |
| Day 2 | Full day at Hersheypark (arrive early to beat crowds) | Continue enjoying Hersheypark and The Boardwalk water attractions | Dinner at one of the park restaurants, enjoy night rides |
| Day 3 | Hershey Gardens and Butterfly Atrium | ZooAmerica and souvenir shopping | Hershey Trolley Works tour, farewell dinner at The Forebay |
Hershey Pennsylvania Map
Plan Your Sweet Hershey Adventure
Hershey, Pennsylvania truly lives up to its reputation as “The Sweetest Place on Earth.” From the thrilling rides at Hersheypark to the fascinating chocolate-making tours at Chocolate World, this unique destination offers a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and of course, chocolate indulgence. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couples getaway, or a solo adventure, Hershey delivers a memorable experience that appeals to all ages and interests.
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