Fun Things to Do in Hershey PA: Your Ultimate Guide
Hershey, Pennsylvania is “The Sweetest Place On Earth”! This town offers thrills, relaxation, and chocolate-infused experiences. Families and fun-seekers will love Hersheypark’s 70+ rides and attractions, including 14 roller coasters.
Explore the 23-acre Hershey Gardens, home to over 5,000 plant varieties. Treat yourself to a unique chocolate spa treatment at MeltSpa. Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World for an immersive experience and free tour.
Food lovers can enjoy 15+ award-winning restaurants. Options range from casual family dining to upscale culinary experiences. The town hosts exciting events year-round, including the popular Chocolate Festival.
The historic Hershey Theatre seats 1,600 and offers captivating performances. Golf enthusiasts can play at three professional-level courses at Hershey Country Club. For a unique adventure, try the Falconry Experience at The Hotel Hershey.
Hershey welcomes millions of visitors annually with over 1,000 hotel rooms. Peak seasons see an average occupancy rate of 70%. The town caters to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
From roller coasters to chocolate tours, Hershey’s attractions promise unforgettable memories. Get ready for the sweetest vacation of your life in Hershey, PA!
Explore Hersheypark: Thrills for All Ages
Hersheypark is a top spot for hershey activities, attracting nearly 3 million visitors each year. This huge wonderland offers over 70 rides and attractions. Fun awaits everyone, no matter their age.
Ride the Coasters
Adrenaline junkies love Hersheypark’s 14 roller coasters. The tallest one stands at 121 feet, promising intense excitement. Wildcat’s Revenge and Candymonium are crowd favorites among coaster fans.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Hersheypark welcomes families, with 30% of guests bringing kids under 12. Many thrilling rides have a 42-inch height rule for safety. The Boardwalk, a water area, has 16 cool attractions included in the ticket price.
Seasonal Events at Hersheypark
Hersheypark is open from May through January, changing with the seasons. Halloween and Christmas events bring special magic to the park.
With over 15 places to eat and a 4.5-star rating, Hersheypark offers year-round fun. Visitors can enjoy the park’s many attractions throughout the year.
- Make-your-own candy bar experience: $30 for 45 minutes
- Free Hershey Chocolate World dark ride
- Recommended visit duration: 2.5 to 3 days
Discover Hershey Gardens: A Botanical Paradise
Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre oasis of natural beauty. This stunning botanical paradise has captivated visitors for over 85 years. It offers a refreshing break from other Hershey PA attractions.
The gardens boast more than 5,000 plant varieties. This feast for the senses attracts nearly 300,000 visitors each year.
Rose Garden Highlights
The Historic Hershey Rose Garden is the crown jewel of Hershey Gardens. It features 3,000 roses from 115 different varieties. These include Hybrid Tea, floribunda, shrub, and miniature roses.
New AARS rose variety winners are added yearly. This ensures a fresh experience for returning visitors. In spring, the Seasonal Display Garden showcases 28,000 tulips from 93 varieties.
Butterfly Atrium Experience
The Butterfly Atrium is a tropical haven within Hershey Gardens. This 10,000-square-foot indoor exhibit houses over 300 butterflies from various continents. Species rotate frequently, providing a unique experience with each visit.
The atrium is included with general admission. This makes it an excellent value for nature enthusiasts.
Hershey Gardens offers many benches throughout its themed areas. These include the M.S. Hershey Tribute Garden and Rock Garden. Guided walks are available for a more in-depth exploration.
Entrance fees are $12 for adults and $8 for children. Hershey Gardens is an accessible and enriching destination for all ages.
Visit the Hershey Chocolate World
Hershey’s Chocolate World is a must-visit attraction in Hershey. It offers delightful experiences for all ages. This paradise brings the magic of Hershey’s chocolate to life.
Chocolate-Making Experience
The free Hershey’s Chocolate Tour ride is the main attraction. It takes you through a simulated chocolate-making process in 30 minutes. The tour is wheelchair accessible and runs continuously during operating hours.
For fewer crowds, visit during the first or last two hours. This will give you the best experience possible.
Tasting Tours and Gifts
Hershey’s Chocolate World offers various paid attractions. You can create your own candy bar or join chocolate tasting sessions. You can also meet beloved Hershey’s characters.
The facility hosts seasonal events like the REESE’S Pep Rally. Most attractions provide alternatives for guests with common allergies.
Book tickets online in advance for weekends and holidays. Free short-term parking is available. The facility offers Wi-Fi, stroller parking, and accessible restrooms.
As a certified Autism Center™, it welcomes guests with sensory needs. This makes Hershey’s Chocolate World a truly inclusive attraction.
Enjoy the Hershey Story Museum
The Hershey Story Museum is a must-visit for history buffs and chocolate lovers. It offers a fascinating look into Milton S. Hershey’s life and Hershey, PA’s rich history.
This engaging attraction draws visitors with its unique blend of education and entertainment. It’s a sweet experience that appeals to all ages.
Interactive Exhibits
The museum brings history to life with over 20 interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore replica props from Hershey’s office and use adaptive touchscreens.
The Power of Promotion exhibit is a highlight. It showcases Hershey’s products and marketing materials through digital displays.
Milton Hershey’s Legacy
Discover Milton Hershey’s journey from humble beginnings to chocolate empire. The museum spotlights his philanthropic efforts, including the Milton Hershey School for underprivileged children.
| Museum Highlights | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Annual Visitors | Over 200,000 |
| Interactive Exhibits | More than 20 |
| Chocolate-Making Classes | Over 100 annually |
| Average Visit Duration | 2 hours |
| Visitor Satisfaction Rate | 95% |
Families will find plenty of kid-friendly activities at the museum. There’s a scavenger hunt and special exhibits just for children.
The popular Chocolate Lab offers hands-on workshops. Here, visitors can create their own delicious chocolate treats.
Experience ZooAmerica: A Wild Adventure
ZooAmerica is a top Hershey attraction, offering a unique wildlife experience. This 11-acre park showcases over 200 animals from 60 different species. Nature lovers will find it a must-visit destination.
Native Animal Exhibits
The zoo features five distinct regions, each representing different North American habitats. Visitors can explore exhibits like North American River, Desert, and Eastern Woodlands. These areas show the diverse ecosystems found across the continent.
Educational Programs
ZooAmerica’s commitment to education shines through its various programs. Over 10,000 school children join these educational initiatives yearly. The zoo offers special tours for different interests and schedules:
| Tour | Schedule | Cost | Max Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Friends Tour | Sat-Sun, 11AM-12PM (Jan 11-Mar 30) | $175/person | 10 |
| After Hours Tour | Wed or Sat, variable timing | $115/person | 10 |
| Early Bird Tour | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, 8AM-10AM | $115/person | 10 |
ZooAmerica boasts a 100% satisfaction rate among visitors. The average visit lasts 2-3 hours. This gives plenty of time to explore and learn about North American wildlife.
Attend Events and Festivals in Hershey
Hershey offers exciting events and festivals all year round. From seasonal celebrations to chocolate-themed gatherings, there’s always something fun happening. Visitors and locals can enjoy a variety of activities in this sweet town.
Hersheypark Happy Festival
Hersheypark changes with the seasons, offering unique experiences for everyone. Fall brings scary lights-out coaster rides. Winter features Christmas magic with Santa and his reindeer.
These seasonal events attract large crowds. Summer attendance is much higher compared to off-peak times.
Chocolate-Centric Events
Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction hosts special events for chocolate lovers of all ages. Downtown Hershey comes alive with street festivals that bring the community together.
These events can attract over 100,000 people on busy weekends. This turns the small town of 14,000 into a lively hub of activity.
The Hershey Theatre adds culture with Broadway shows and musicals. Visitors typically stay 2-3 days during events, allowing time to explore Hershey’s attractions.
Hershey’s festivals offer something for everyone. You’ll find live music, craft vendors, food trucks, and kid-friendly activities.
These events boost tourism and support local businesses. Check the Hershey events calendar when planning your trip. You might discover a festival that becomes your visit’s highlight!
Take a Guided Chocolate Tour
Embark on a delightful journey through Hershey, PA’s chocolate wonderland! The guided tour offers a tasty peek into cocoa’s world. You’ll discover the secrets behind Hershey’s famous treats.
Behind-the-Scenes Exploration
Witness the magic of chocolate-making up close. Your guide will reveal how cocoa beans transform into sweet delights. Watch machines in action and learn about Milton Hershey’s innovative vision.
It’s like stepping into a real-life chocolate factory! You’ll gain insights into the entire process from bean to bar.
Tasting Delicious Treats
Indulge in a variety of Hershey’s chocolates, including special flavors. Learn to taste like a pro, focusing on aroma, texture, and flavor notes.
You might even get the chance to create your own candy bar! This hands-on experience adds extra sweetness to your tour.
- Tours last about 2 hours
- Groups are small, with up to 20 people
- Book early, as tours fill up fast in summer
- Wear comfy shoes for walking
Seize this opportunity to become a chocolate connoisseur. The Hershey chocolate tour promises fun and flavor in equal measure.
You’ll create lasting memories and perhaps take home some treats. Don’t miss out on this delicious adventure in Hershey!
Spend Time at the Hershey Theatre
The Hershey Theatre is a crown jewel among Hershey attractions. Built from 1929 to 1933, it blends history and entertainment perfectly. Culture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike find it captivating.
A Glimpse into History
The theatre’s construction was part of Milton S. Hershey’s “Great Building Campaign” during the Great Depression. It provided jobs for 600 skilled workers and cost $3 million. The venue’s grandeur shines through its Byzantine and Venetian-inspired decor.
A stunning “canopy of gold” arched tile ceiling adorns the theatre. German artisans crafted this masterpiece over two years.
Upcoming Shows and Performances
The Hershey Theatre hosts world-class performances today. Broadway musicals and concerts by famous acts like the Beach Boys grace its stage. There’s always something exciting happening at this impressive venue.
The theatre boasts impressive technical capabilities. Its 75-foot-wide stage has five elevators and 44 counter-weighted lines for sets and lights.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organ | Aeolian-Skinner with over 4,000 pipes |
| Stage Size | 75 feet wide, 44 feet deep |
| Movie Screen | 18 feet by 44.5 feet |
| Lighting | Three super trouper spotlights, complete house sound system |
Check the theatre’s schedule when planning your Hershey visit. A night here blends historical charm with modern entertainment. It’s sure to be a highlight of your Hershey adventure.
Visit the Indian
Indian Echo Caverns offer a cool escape near Hershey’s chocolate-scented streets. These natural wonders stay at 52 degrees year-round. They’re perfect for beating summer heat or winter chill.
Step into a world of geological marvels as you descend underground. The two-hour tour showcases chambers with stalactites and stalagmites. A crystal-clear lake, dramatically lit, is a tour highlight.
Your guide will share the caverns’ rich history. You’ll learn about William Wilson, the “Pennsylvania Hermit,” who lived here for nearly 20 years.
Above ground, fun continues for the whole family. Kids can enjoy the playground or visit the petting zoo. Gem mining attracts budding geologists, while souvenir hunters browse the gift shop.
FAQ
What are the best attractions for families in Hershey, PA?
Hersheypark tops the list of family-friendly attractions in Hershey. Hershey’s Chocolate World, ZooAmerica, and Hershey Gardens are also popular choices. These spots offer thrilling rides, learning experiences, and fun exhibits for all ages.
When is the best time to visit Hersheypark?
Hersheypark shines in every season, each offering unique experiences. Summer brings The Boardwalk water park to life. Fall features the spooky Dark Nights event.
Winter transforms the park into a magical Christmas Candylane. Spring offers milder weather and smaller crowds for ride enthusiasts.
Are there any free attractions in Hershey?
The Chocolate Tour Ride at Hershey’s Chocolate World is free. It includes a tasty chocolate sample at the end. Walking tours of the town are also free.
You can enjoy the unique Hershey’s Kisses streetlights at no cost. These public areas offer a sweet glimpse into Hershey’s charm.
What unique chocolate experiences are available in Hershey?
Create your own candy bar at Hershey’s Chocolate World. Take guided tours for behind-the-scenes peeks at chocolate making. Join chocolate tastings to refine your palate.
Throughout the year, various chocolate-themed events pop up. These offer even more ways to indulge in Hershey’s sweet heritage.
Is there more to do in Hershey besides chocolate-related activities?
Hershey offers a variety of non-chocolate attractions. ZooAmerica caters to wildlife fans, while Hershey Gardens delights nature lovers. The Hershey Theatre hosts exciting shows and performances.
Golf courses and spas provide relaxation options. Shopping areas and seasonal festivals round out the town’s diverse offerings.
How can I learn about Milton Hershey and the history of Hershey?
The Hershey Story Museum is the go-to spot for Milton Hershey’s history. It showcases Hershey’s journey from struggle to success through interactive exhibits.
The museum highlights his charitable work and vision. You’ll gain insights into how Hershey shaped the town’s development.
Are there any special events or festivals in Hershey throughout the year?
Hershey hosts many events year-round. The Hersheypark Happy Festival is a crowd favorite. Seasonal celebrations at Hersheypark include Halloween and Christmas-themed events.
Chocolate-centric gatherings attract sweet-toothed visitors. Hersheypark Stadium hosts concerts for music lovers. Check local event calendars for specific dates during your visit.
