Things To Do
in Hershey
Hershey, Pennsylvania sits in south-central Pennsylvania as a theme-park and chocolate-tasting destination built around the legacy of Milton S. Hershey. The town is famous for Hersheypark, Chocolate World, and a string of family-friendly attractions set among gardens and museums. Visitors come for amusement, sweet treats, and comfortable mid-Atlantic scenery, with easy access to the Susquehanna Valley.
The area blends a compact downtown with lush parks, PA Dutch heritage, and convenient day trips to Harrisburg and beyond.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Hershey's Chocolate World where you can immerse yourself in the chocolate-making experience. Participate in the interactive ride that takes you through the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar. Don't forget to sample some delicious chocolate treats as you learn about the history of Hershey's chocolate.
After lunch, take part in a chocolate tasting experience that will delight your senses and educate you on the nuances of flavor. Explore the various shops and attractions within Chocolate World, including the Create Your Own Candy Bar experience. Spend some time in the fun-filled 4D Chocolate Mystery show that combines live-action and animation for an unforgettable experience.
As the sun sets, head to The Hershey Story Museum to learn more about Milton Hershey's life and legacy. Enjoy a lovely dinner at one of the local restaurants, potentially indulging in a chocolate-inspired dish. Cap off your evening with a relaxing stroll through the charming streets of Hershey, soaking in the ambiance of this sweet town.
Kick off your morning at Hersheypark, where exhilarating rides await you. Start with the park's signature coaster, Skyrush, for an adrenaline rush that will set the tone for your day. Don't forget to grab a breakfast treat from one of the park's many eateries to fuel your excitement.
Continue your adventure by exploring the various themed areas of Hersheypark, from the thrilling rides to the family-friendly attractions. Take a break for lunch at one of the park's picnic areas or indulge in some classic park fare. Be sure to catch one of the entertaining shows that showcase talented performers throughout the day.
As evening approaches, enjoy the magical atmosphere of Hersheypark as the rides light up for nighttime fun. Grab dinner at a restaurant within the park or nearby, perhaps trying a local favorite like a cheesesteak. Conclude your day by experiencing the park's spectacular light show, which is a perfect way to end an exciting day of thrills.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍕Pizza slice | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel stay | $120-180 |
| 🚆Public transit or rideshare fare (per ride) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly attractions and chocolate heritage
- Compact town with easy access to parks and gardens
- Strong hospitality and solid mid-range pricing
- Limited nightlife and late-night venues
- Crowds around peak season
- Some attractions require a drive to Harrisburg area for more options
Places to Visit in Hershey
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush seasonal displays, water features, and a butterfly atrium provide vibrant nature photography.
Iconic brick-and-signage scenes and the park’s entrance offer dynamic twilight or daytime shots.
Historic brick architecture and decorative details ideal for architectural photography.
Impressive campus architecture and expansive green spaces make for wide-angle shots.
Food in Hershey
Hershey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Pennsylvania Dutch sandwich cookie with a creamy white filling; a must-try treat available at many local bakeries and gift shops.
Must-Try!
A molasses-based pie popular in PA Dutch cooking; found in bakeries and some restaurant menus.
Freshly baked soft pretzels sold at markets, snack shops, and at food stands around attracti ons.
Desserts and desserts-inspired drinks featuring Hershey chocolate are widely available in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering produce, PA Dutch specialties, baked goods, and local snacks from nearby vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi' is appreciated; please and thank you are standard in service interactions.
Americans in this region are generally direct but courteous; small talk is common in casual settings.
Maintain polite distances in queues and on sidewalks; use crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals.
Safety
Tipping in Hershey
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip 15-20% at restaurants; tip bellhops, housekeeping, guides, and valets as appropriate.
Cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted; some small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm days with humidity; crowds around Hersheypark and Chocolate World. Stay hydrated and seek shade or indoor activities during peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures and fall foliage; ideal for outdoor photography and garden walks.
Cold weather with possible snow; indoor venues shine and the town feels cozy with holiday decorations.
Blooming gardens and wildlife activity; expect showers and mild temperatures—great for garden photography.
Hershey at Night
Hiking in Hershey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested trails around a large lake, offering day hikes and birdwatching.
Scenic riverfront trails with easy to moderate terrain and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Gentle, peaceful trails with historical scenery and open-air views.
Airports
How to reach Hershey by plane.
About 15-25 minutes from Hershey by car; offers connections to major hubs; car rental and taxi services available.
Approximately 2-2.5 hours by car; major international and domestic connections.
Around 2-3 hours by car; convenient for eastern routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents visit Hershey for weekend getaways, contributing to a family-friendly atmosphere.
Visitors flock to Hershey Park, Chocolate World, and gardens year-round.
A portion of residents enjoy the quieter, garden-focused lifestyle near parks and cultural venues.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Hershey Bears are the local American Hockey League team, a major regional draw for hockey fans.
Active community leagues and nearby baseball venues are popular in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hershey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available across most menus; look for salads, veggie pastas, veggie burgers, and sides. Don’t hesitate to ask for dairy-free or egg-free preparations when needed.