Things To Do
in Hershey
Hershey is a small town located in Pennsylvania, United States, known for being the headquarters of the Hershey Company, a famous chocolate manufacturer. The town has a rich history closely tied to the chocolate industry, with attractions like Hersheypark, Hershey's Chocolate World, and the Hershey Gardens drawing visitors from all over. Hershey is also home to the Milton Hershey School, founded by the chocolate magnate to provide education and opportunities to children in need.
The town has a charming, welcoming atmosphere and is a popular tourist destination for chocolate lovers and families alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Hershey Gardens, where you can stroll through beautiful themed gardens and enjoy the vibrant flowers. Don't forget to check out the Butterfly Atrium for a closer look at these delicate creatures.
Head to Hershey's Chocolate World to dive into the history of chocolate and enjoy delicious chocolate-themed attractions. Participating in the create-your-own candy bar experience is a fun highlight!
Wrap up your day at Hersheypark, where you can ride thrilling roller coasters and enjoy live entertainment. Make sure to stop by a food stall for classic amusement park treats.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, explore the Hershey Story Museum to learn more about Milton Hershey's legacy.
Visit a local chocolate factory for a tour and tasting. You'll discover the chocolate-making process and get to indulge in some delectable samples.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant in town and try some local cuisine. End your night with a walk through Hersheypark, enjoying the nighttime lights and atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to Hersheypark, a large amusement park with rides and attractions.
- Known for its chocolate factory and sweet-themed attractions.
- Rich in history, including the founding of the town by Milton Hershey.
- Family-friendly environment with various community events.
- Pleasant suburban lifestyle with access to nature and parks.
- Limited job market outside of tourism and hospitality sectors.
- Smaller size might lead to fewer entertainment and dining options.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons due to attractions.
- Weather can be variable, with cold winters and humid summers.
- Higher cost of living compared to other small towns in the region.
Best Activities in Hershey
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
An amusement park featuring roller coasters, water rides, and family attractions set in a chocolate-themed environment.
A beautiful botanical garden that includes a butterfly atrium, rose garden, and various themed gardens for visitors to explore.
A thrilling roller coaster at Hersheypark that features a 180-degree twist and an exhilarating launch at the start.
An interactive experience where visitors can learn about the chocolate-making process, enjoy a chocolate tour, and create their own candy bar.
Enjoy scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere while hiking or biking along this picturesque rail trail near Hershey.
A North American wildlife park featuring a variety of animals in naturalistic habitats, perfect for family visits and outdoor exploration.
Experience the beauty of the countryside on horseback with guided trail rides available for all skill levels.
Play a round of golf at the scenic Hershey Country Club, which offers well-maintained courses and beautiful landscapes.
Places to Visit in Hershey
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful botanical garden offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including a panoramic view of the Hershey Chocolate Factory. The vibrant floral displays provide numerous photo opportunities.
A scenic chairlift ride that offers aerial views of Hersheypark and the surrounding area. Perfect for capturing wide-angle shots of the amusement park and the hills beyond.
This museum not only offers insights into Milton Hershey's life but also has a lovely outdoor area where visitors can get great photos with sculptures and fountains.
At Hershey's Chocolate World, visitors can take a chocolate tour and enjoy the fun atmosphere. The large chocolate-themed displays and the iconic Hershey's chocolate bars offer unique photo opportunities.
The historic buildings and beautifully landscaped grounds of this private school provide a picturesque backdrop for photographs, showcasing the legacy of Milton Hershey.
A serene spot within Hersheypark Camping Resort, offering lovely views of the lake and surrounding greenery, ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.
An iconic ride at Hersheypark that provides stunning views of the amusement park and the surrounding area from a height, making it a prime location for impressive photography.
A short drive from Hershey, this overlook offers breathtaking views of the Susquehanna Valley, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a perfect spot for photographers.
Food in Hershey
Hershey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in the town's famous chocolate in various forms such as bars, shakes, and desserts at Hershey's Chocolate World or local bakeries like Phillip Arthur's.
Must-Try!
Sample this traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert featuring molasses and crumbs, available at Hershey Farm Restaurant and other local diners.
Try the hearty and comforting pot pie, a staple of PA Dutch cuisine, at The Mill in Hershey or nearby diners like Black Dog Cafe.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats at the Hershey Farmers Market, open on Thursdays in downtown. Don't miss the Amish baked goods and locally sourced products.
Attend the annual Food Truck Festival at Hersheypark Stadium, where you can savor a wide array of street food offerings from savory to sweet.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hershey, as in much of the United States, it's important to respect personal space. People generally prefer a distance of about an arm's length during conversations, especially with those they don't know well.
Using polite greetings like 'hello' and 'thank you' is appreciated in Hershey. When meeting someone, a firm handshake is a common practice, and maintaining eye contact shows confidence and respect.
In restaurants and other service industries, tipping is customary. A standard tip is around 15-20% of the bill. This is seen as a way to acknowledge good service and is an important part of the cultural norm.
Safety
Tipping in Hershey
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hershey, Pennsylvania, tipping practices generally follow typical American customs. In restaurants, it is customary to tip servers between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Tipping is also common for taxi drivers, hairdressers, and other service providers, often ranging from 10% to 20% of the service cost.
Payment practices in Hershey align with standard practices across the United States. Most establishments accept a variety of payment methods, including cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly popular. In tourist areas, it is advisable to check if smaller vendors accept card payments, as some may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Hershey. The weather is mild, and flowers begin to bloom, making it a picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy the Hershey Gardens, which are particularly vibrant during this season, and take part in various outdoor activities as the crowds are generally smaller compared to summer.
Summer (June to August) is peak season in Hershey, known for warm weather and bustling attractions. Families flock to Hersheypark, where visitors can enjoy thrilling rides and water attractions. Expect larger crowds and various summer events, including concerts and festivals in the local area.
Fall (September to November) offers a stunning display of foliage, making it a great time for scenic walks and photography. The weather is cooler, and visitors can enjoy seasonal events like Hersheypark’s Halloween celebration. It's less crowded than summer and ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter (December to February) transforms Hershey into a festive wonderland. Visitors can experience holiday lights, special events at Hersheypark, and enjoy winter activities like ice skating. Although it may be cold, the atmosphere is cozy and full of holiday spirit, making it a unique time to visit.
Hershey at Night
Hiking in Hershey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful botanical garden with walking paths and scenic views, located near Hershey, offering a leisurely hike through landscaped gardens.
A 3,520-acre park with a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, surrounding the Swatara Creek.
A famous long-distance hiking trail that runs through Pennsylvania, offering a variety of access points for day hikes and scenic views.
Located about 30 minutes from Hershey, this park offers a network of trails with varying difficulty levels and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to wildlife exhibits, the park offers trails that provide a chance to hike through nature and observe local flora and fauna.
A lovely area offering trails around the lake and various recreational activities, ideal for a peaceful hiking experience.
Aiports
How to reach Hershey by plane.
Located approximately 12 miles from Hershey, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 95 miles from Hershey, it is the largest airport in Pennsylvania with numerous international and domestic flights.
Situated approximately 90 miles from Hershey, this major airport serves both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., with extensive international connections.
About 95 miles from Hershey, this airport provides flights primarily to domestic destinations.
Located around 70 miles from Hershey, it serves domestic flights and is the closest international airport in the Lehigh Valley.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily consisting of individuals of European descent.
A significant demographic group with roots primarily in the African diaspora.
A growing demographic group, including individuals from Latin American countries.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, with varied cultural backgrounds.
Individuals who identify with more than one racial group.
This group represents the indigenous peoples of the United States.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals from various Pacific Islands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hershey is known for its strong hockey culture, particularly with the Hershey Bears, an AHL team that has a passionate fan base.
Baseball is popular in Hershey, with local leagues and youth teams participating in various competitions.
American football is widely followed in Hershey, especially at the high school level with enthusiastic community support.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Hershey, with youth programs and local leagues fostering interest in the sport.
Basketball is played at various levels in Hershey, including school teams and recreational leagues, attracting many participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hershey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Hershey’s chocolate is prevalent, many eateries in the area offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. The Chocolate Avenue Grill and Harvest Seasonal Grill are known for their plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating menus at places like Devon Seafood + Steak and What If ... of Hershey, which offer a range of gluten-free selections.