Are you going to Hershey Pennsylvania on vacation?
Here is a list of the best 26 things to do in Hershey PA. This list has everything going on in Hershey from family activities, to places to go for a girl’s weekend or even a couples’ getaway.
The best things to do in Hershey include Hersheypark, Chocolate World, 4D Chocolate movies, Create your own Chocolate Bar, Hershey Unwrapped, Chocolate Lab, The Hershey Story Museum, Hershey Trolley Show, Zoo America, Hershey Gardens, the Falconry Experience, Hersheypark Stadium and the Spa at Hotel Hershey.
More things to do not chocolate-related include Hershey Derry Township, Shank Park, Antique Automobile Club of America Museum, Echo Dell Indian Caverns, Cassel Vineyards, the Vineyards at Hershey, Troegs Brewing, golf and miniature golf, and of course shopping.
Table of Contents
Things to do in Hershey P A
1. Hershey Park
Originally built by Milton S. Hershey for employees of the chocolate factory and residences of Hershey to have a place to gather, it has become an American icon of amusement parks.
Today Hershey Entertainment & Resorts owns Hershey Park a family-friendly amusement park that has over 70 rides and attractions including 13 roller coasters. The park is full of family fun with kiddie rides, offers shows and live entertainment, and food for a fun-filled day.
There is also The Boardwalk at Hersheypark which is a waterpark built to resemble the beaches and boardwalks of the northeast area beach towns (like Atlantic City, Coney Island, and the Rockaways). The waterpark has a lazy river, a wave pool, and numerous water slides and rides.
The park celebrates the Halloween season with Hersheypark in the Dark. Hersheypark Christmas Candyland celebrates the holiday season with over 4 million lights throughout the park, a Christmas show, and a holiday train ride. Also, some of the rides are open during these special holiday weekends.
2. Hershey’s Chocolate World
Start your Hershey vacation by taking a free chocolate tour ride at Chocolate World. See this animated tour on how chocolate is made and discover what ingredients go into the chocolate and where they come from.
You sit in a “Hershey Kiss” as you ride through and see and even get to smell, the stages of chocolate making from the growing of the cocoa beans to the finished product. And of course, at the end of the tour, your sweet tooth gets a free sample of Hershey’s fine chocolate.
Chocolate World also has a very large gift shop where you can buy all types of Hershey’s souvenirs as well as Hershey’s candy.
There are numerous activities (extra fee) that you can also do here including creating a candy bar, seeing a 4D Chocolate movie, Hershey Unwrapped, Trolley Tours, Photo Memories (from the Chocolate World tour), and creating your wrappers.
If you are hungry to sure to stop for a bite to eat at the Food Hall and Bakery for some of the sweetest treats on earth.
Note: The Amish Dutch Country is another fun area to see in Pennsylvania and is only 30 minutes from Hershey. See our article on Things to Do in Amish County for more information.
3. Reese’s Stuff Your Cup
The “Reese’s Stuff Your Cup” experience at Hershey’s Chocolate World allows you to create a customized one-pound Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. You can choose from a variety of mix-ins like crunchy pretzels, mini marshmallows, cookie bits, and Reese’s Pieces. These ingredients are folded into fresh Reese’s peanut butter by a “tasteologist” and then scooped into a large chocolate shell. The experience is available daily and does not require reservations. The cost of creating your giant Reese’s cup is $19.95
If you’re planning a visit, it’s a unique opportunity to enjoy an over-the-top treat made with peanut butter directly from the nearby factory, ensuring freshness and a distinct taste
4. Create Your Own Candy Bar
Want to create your own candy bar, well you can do that here in Hershey. This is an authentic factory experience where you create your own candy bar as well as the many memories that go along with it. You get to choose your ingredients as well as design a wrapper for it too.
Ticket price is $29.95 for all ages (children 2 and under are free). Anyone 8 and under must to accompanied by a paying adult. This experience is wheelchair accessible and is about 45 minutes long. Tickets for this experience go fast, so reserve your space online as space is limited each day.
5. Hershey Unwrapped—A Chocolate Tasting Journey
Another thing to do in Hershey PA is Hershey Unwrapped. Enjoy this theatrical experience as you watch a show and taste and smell Hershey’s candy. When you enter you are given a box of mini chocolates. Starting in one room, you learn about the senses of chocolate. This is when you open the box and begin sampling the chocolate. Then you go into another area where the show starts “Doc Chocolate” and the chocolate lab.
The cost of this show is $18.95 for ages 3 and up (2 and under are free). It is wheelchair accessible and is about a half-hour long.
Note: I believe this show is geared more toward younger kids. If you have older kids, I think the make-your-own chocolate bar would be better.
Related Post: Food Factory Tours in Pennsylvania
6. Hershey’s Great Candy Expedition
Hershey’s Great Candy Expedition is a brand-new, multi-sensory, cinematic adventure at Hershey’s Chocolate World. This immersive experience celebrates the 50th anniversary of Chocolate World and takes visitors on a train journey through various candy-themed worlds inspired by Hershey’s iconic brands like JOLLY RANCHER, KIT KAT®, TWIZZLERS, and ALMOND JOY & MOUNDS.
During the 30-minute adventure, guests will travel from Hershey’s Chocolate World Train Station to different candy lands using 270-degree 4K projection mapping, engaging with interactive characters, and experiencing themed scents. Unique features include the ability to vote on the next destination using light-up buttons on armrests and receiving an Adventurer’s Guide filled with games and puzzles. Each ticket costs $19.95, and the attraction operates year-round
7. The Hershey Story Museum
The Hershey Story Museum tells the story of Milton Hershey’s life and how Hershey became a famous town in Pennsylvania.
Exhibits tell the story of how Milton came from an impoverished childhood to how he built a chocolate empire and town. The museum also has exhibits on his work with education and how these include gifts to local churches and the Penn State Milton Hershey Medical Center that helped the whole community.
Even after his death, his legacy lives on with the work of the Hershey Foundation.
The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission to the museum varies; adults pay $16.50, seniors (ages 62 and up) pay $15.50, and juniors (ages 3-12) pay $12.50. There’s no charge for children under 3. Discounts are available for military personnel, veterans, and their families, as well as for teachers with valid ID. Additionally, the museum participates in the Museums for All initiative, offering free access to EBT cardholders for up to four guests.
Guests of the Hotel Hershey or the Hershey Lodge will receive complimentary passes.
8. Chocolate Tastings
For something different on your things to do in Hershey PA list you must add tasting a flight of Hershey chocolate.
It’s located in the museum building but not included in the museum admission is the Chocolate Tastings.
- Taste chocolate from Around the World
- Open daily from 11:30 to 3:30
- Indulge in the sweetness of chocolate by sampling flights of warm drinking chocolates
- Get a full flight for $13.00 or a half flight for $8.00 (adults only)
- Tasting for Kids—warm mug filled with warm milk and chocolate $8.00 (temporarily unavailable)
9. Chocolate Lab
- A hands-on experience where you get to make chocolate
- A 45-minute program where you get to pour and decorate chocolate
- Learn all about the ingredients and process of making chocolate
- You even get to take home your chocolate creations
- Located in the Hershey Museum
Tickets are limited and can only be purchased in person at the Hershey Museum for that day. Please note you must be at least 5 years old to participate.
10. Hershey Gardens
It started in 1937 with a “garden of roses” that Milton Hershey created. Today it has grown into a 23-acre botanical garden of pure beauty. The gardens operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, extending to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Come and see the beautiful flowers and trees that delight your soul. The stunning colors are filled with theme gardens and seasonal displays including a nice garden of roses.
Visit the indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium where beautiful butterflies from around the world fly freely. Also, see the stages of the butterfly’s life in the chrysalis “cabinet”. In addition to the butterflies, experience the tropical exotic plants that produce nectar, the butterfly’s food.
The Hershey Gardens are open to the public however if you are a guest of the Hershey Lodge or Hotel Hershey you will receive complimentary tickets.
Admission prices are $16.50 for adults (ages 13-61), $15.50 for seniors (ages 62+), and $12.50 for juniors (ages 3-12), with children under 2 years old entering for free. Discounts are available for groups, and there are special rates for military personnel and teachers. Combination tickets are also available for the Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum.
11. Hershey Trolley Show
It is an interesting and informative trolley tour of the heart of Hershey and about the lives of Milton and Catherine Hershey. You get to see the actual Hershey factory building as well as learn and see about all the good things Hershey did for this community.
The tour is about 1 hour and 15 minutes and leaves from Hershey Chocolate World. The cost of the tour is $22.95 for ages 3 and up (2 and under are free) and is well worth the experience. You even get to see the Hershey Kiss lights throughout the town.
Of all the things to do in Hershey PA, this tour was my favorite. The thing that impressed me the most was the Hershey School.
The tour guides are knowledgeable and funny at the same time making your overall experience pleasant. I was surprised to find out that the Hershey’s were genuine folks who did so much for the good of the community.
Oh, and did I mention that throughout your ride you will be tasting the chocolate that made Hershey famous!
The show (trolley ride) changes for each season with the History and Chocolate tasting Trolley Show running all year on certain days. During the summer, a shorter version takes place every day.
The Trick or Treat Trolley Show focuses more on the joy of being a kid and all the good things the Hershey’s did for children. This runs during the 3 weekends of “Halloween in Hershey”.
The Holly Jolly Trolley Show is a wintertime show with a Christmas theme. These shows are during the weekends of “Christmas in Hershey”. They include many treats such as an elf who can tell which kids are being good and Christmas caroling.
12. Zoo America
Founded in 1910 by Milton Hershey with just a few animals today it’s 11 acres and has over 75 species (some of which are endangered and rare) with over 200 individual animals. The zoo is privately owned by the Hershey Foundation and has animals from North America broken down into the following five regions:
Southern Swamps—Wetland animals including many types of snakes and alligators.
Southwest Animals—Mostly desert animals including ferrets, lizards, and turtles.
Big Sky Country—Animals from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains such as elk, pronghorn, and prairie dogs.
Eastern Woodlands –Animals that live from Maine to the Appalachians including white-tail deer, black bear, and wild turkeys.
Northlands–Represent animals that need to survive the harsh wilderness environment such as wolves, lynx, peregrine falcon, and bald eagles.
Tickets are as follows:
- Regular (ages 9-61) $16.50
- Junior (ages 3-8) $14.50
- Senior (62+) $14.50
- Children 2 and under are free.
There is also an annual pass that costs $60.00 for individuals and $140.00 for a Family Pass (up to 4 people admitted each visit). Hersheypark annual pass holders are also free.
13. The Falconry Experience
The Hershey Hotel offers the Falconry Experience. Here you get to learn about Falconry which includes free-flight demonstrations, and a simulated hunt demo and you even get this unique experience of one of these majestic birds landing on your hand.
Pricing is $80 for hotel guests or $90 for the public for adults and $50 for all children 3 to 12 ( and under are free).
The hotel also offers in 2024 a Hawk Walk. To do this, you would have needed to have done the Falconry Experience or have prior experience with these birds of prey and feel comfortable walking the grounds of the Hershey Hotel with the birds landing on your hand when called. The walk costs $150 and is by appointment only.
Both these experiences are fun and educational for the whole family.
14. Hersheypark Stadium
The stadium holds outdoor sports and concerts in its 30,000-seat facility. Check here for the schedule of events.
Also next to the stadium is the Star Pavilion, an 8,000-seat amphitheater that features musical events during summer.
The Hershey Bears, an American Professional hockey team was founded by Milton S.Hershey in 1932. The team plays in Giant Center in the 12,500-seat arena, part of Hersheypark Stadium. The team is the longest club still playing in its original city. If you’re in Hershey during their season stop by a see a hockey game.
15. Spa at Hotel Hershey
Known as the Chocolate Spa, the Spa at the Hotel Hershey is luxury at its finest. You can get a massage, a bodywrap, a foot massage, or even indulge in the ultimate sweet chocolate relaxation package. There are so many packages to choose from, it’s pampering yourself at its best!
Other Things to Do in Hershey PA
Although most people come to Hershey for Hershey Park and Chocolate World, there are so many more things to do in Hershey PA. Here are some of the non-Hershey activities in the area.
16. The Hershey-Derry Township Historical Society
The history of the town of Hershey before and after the chocolate factory and the Hershey Company. Displays include a recreation of the home of Dick Winters, an exhibit on the history of the Hershey Bears team franchise, and a children’s discovery area.
During Christmas time a huge display of model trains is there for your enjoyment.
17. Shank Park
The largest of the 8 parks located in Hershey, Shank Park is a great way to get away from the crowds for a little while and take a hike or have a family picnic. The park has a playground, picnic tables and BBQ grills, sports fields, and even disc golf.
18. Antique Automobile Club of America Museum
Known as the AACA Museum, eight decades of the automobile are on display including a large collection of Tucker automobiles. There is also an exhibit on bus transportation and another exhibit about roads to rails. There is also an extensive model train display.
19. Echo Dell Indian Echo Caverns
A guided walking tour (about 45 minutes) through the caverns where you will see stalagmites, stalactites, columns, flowstone, and lakes. The pathways are lighted and mostly flat and easy to walk however are not wheelchair accessible.
You will also be able to pan for gemstones at the Gem Mill Junction.
20. Cassel Vineyards of Hershey, Hummelstown, PA
Looking to spend a quiet afternoon relaxing outside during the summer drinking wine and listening to good music, well Cassel Vineyards is for you. Also, open during the winter inside for bottled sales.
Cassel offers fine wines and cider while enjoying some downtime. Visit the winery or you can also purchase online here.
21. The Vineyard at Hershey, Middletown, PA
The Vineyard at Hershey opened in 2012 when 4 friends went together and decided to make award-winning wines. Today it’s not only a winery but also a brewery with the introduction of craft beer. It’s a relaxing place to get together with friends and enjoy a glass of wine or beer in a beautiful setting at this 40-acre farm.
22. Tröegs Independent Brewing
Handcrafted robust craft beer made with all local ingredients. The brewery is open for tastings and dinner with indoor and outdoor seating. They also have a General Store where you can purchase beer and merchandise to go.
23. Golf in Hershey PA
HERSHEY COUNTRY CLUB
Founded by Milton Hershey in 1930, the two championship courses, the west course and the east course. are 18 holes each of prime challenging golf.
This golf course is only open to its members or guests of the Hotel Hershey and the Hershey Lodge.
SPRING CREEK GOLF COURSE
A 9-hole golf course open to the public.
GOLF AT THE HERSHEY HOTEL
An 18-hole all-grass putting course is perfect if you want to practice your short game and is open to the public.
24. Shopping in Hershey PA
Crossroads Antique Mall
Crossroads Antique Mall is located at 825 Cocoa Avenue in Hershey, Pennsylvania. It’s housed in a building known as Brookside, which is noted for being Hershey’s largest two-story parabolic arch barn.
The mall features a wide variety of antiques and collectibles spread across multiple booths, offering items like rustic furniture, primitives, pottery, glass, dolls, toys, china, and local collectibles. Crossroads Antique Mall is not just about shopping; they also host special events like Spring and Fall Fling Weeks, the annual National Antiques Show, and the Hershey Classic Car Show, providing light refreshments and discounts during these events.
The mall operates Thursday to Monday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM and is open daily during the summer months (June, July, and August)
Olde Factory Antiques & Crafts
Olde Factory Antiques & Crafts is located at 139 South Hanover Street in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, which is just a short drive from Hershey. This unique shop is housed in a historic three-story brick factory building and offers a vast assortment of antiques and crafts across its spacious 24,000-square-foot layout. It features a diverse array of items, including old furniture, collectibles, and handcrafted goods, presented in booths.
The shop is open daily, with specific hours being 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sundays.
The Tanger Outlets at Hershey
The Tanger Outlets in Hershey, PA, located at 46 Outlet Square, offers a varied shopping experience with a wide range of stores and significant discounts on many popular brands. This outlet mall is adjacent to Hersheypark, making it a convenient stop for visitors enjoying the park and other local attractions.
The outlet features over 55 stores, including designer and name-brand outlets like Polo Ralph Lauren, Nike, J.Crew, Kate Spade New York, and Michael Kors. It’s a prime destination for shopping for apparel, footwear, accessories, and more.
Tanger Outlets Hershey operates from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Sundays.
25. Adventure Sports in Hershey
Enjoy go-karts, miniature golf, bumper boats, and more at this family-friendly sports complex.
26. Mount Gretna Area
Just a short drive from Hershey, this charming area offers a beach, lake, and the Gretna Theatre, which is known for its summer stock theatre productions.
Restaurants in Hershey PA
Hershey, PA, offers a variety of dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Here are some of the best places to eat in Hershey:
- The Circular at The Hotel Hershey: This is one of Hershey’s most elegant dining experiences, known for its refined atmosphere and excellent American cuisine. The Sunday brunch here is particularly popular.
- Devon Seafood + Steak: Located in downtown Hershey, this upscale restaurant offers fresh seafood and premium cuts of steak. It’s a great spot for a special occasion.
- Fenicci’s of Hershey: A local favorite, Fenicci’s serves Italian-American cuisine in a family-friendly environment. They are known for their delicious pasta dishes and historic ties to Hershey.
- Houlihan’s Restaurant and Bar: Situated near the Hershey Lodge, Houlihan’s offers a wide-ranging menu with something for everyone, from burgers and salads to steaks and pasta.
- Troegs Independent Brewing: While primarily a brewery, Troegs also offers a fantastic food menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and unique flavor pairings, perfect to enjoy with their craft beers.
- The Mill in Hershey: Set in a beautifully restored old mill, this restaurant offers a rustic yet modern dining experience with dishes that incorporate fresh, local ingredients.
- Piazza Sorrento: This Italian restaurant is a hit for those who love authentic Neapolitan pizza and traditional pasta dishes. They also offer gluten-free options.
- Hershey Pantry: Known for its breakfast and brunch, the Hershey Pantry is a local staple with homemade pastries and hearty dishes. It’s a small, quaint spot that often has a line out the door, which is always a good sign.
- Iron Hill Brewery: Located on Chocolate Avenue, this brewery and restaurant serves handcrafted beers and American cuisine in a casual, friendly atmosphere.
- Rotunda Brew Pub: A good place for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a solid selection of beers brewed on-site and a menu filled with hearty American pub fare.
These establishments provide a range of options depending on what kind of dining experience you’re looking for, from casual to fine dining, all offering a taste of what Hershey has to offer beyond its famous chocolate.
Places to Stay in Hershey PA
When visiting Hershey, Pennsylvania, there are several great places to stay that cater to different tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best options:
- The Hotel Hershey: This is one of the most iconic places to stay in Hershey. Known for its historic elegance and luxury, The Hotel Hershey offers fine dining, a spa, and proximity to Hersheypark. It’s perfect for those looking for a high-end experience.
- Hershey Lodge: Another excellent option provided by the Hershey company, this lodge offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with many amenities, including an indoor water park, which makes it very family-friendly.
- Hersheypark Camping Resort: For those who enjoy camping or want a more adventurous accommodation, this resort offers cabins, RV sites, and tent areas. It provides a different kind of Hershey experience, complete with the comforts of a campsite.
- The Inn at Westwynd Farm B&B: Located a few miles from the main attractions in Hershey, this charming bed and breakfast is set on a beautiful horse farm, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting.
- Tru by Hilton Hershey Chocolate Avenue: A newer option in Hershey, this hotel offers modern, vibrant accommodations with essential amenities at a reasonable price. It’s a good pick for travelers looking for a fresh and efficient place to stay.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Hershey Chocolate Avenue: This is a reliable choice for those who prefer the familiarity of a Marriott hotel. It offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast, making it a solid choice for families.
- Simmons Motel and Suites: For a budget-friendly option, this motel provides basic accommodations with a homey feel and an outdoor pool, right in the heart of Hershey.
Each of these places offers a unique way to experience Hershey, depending on your preferences for luxury, budget, or type of accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a full-service hotel with all the amenities or a cozy, quiet retreat, Hershey has something to suit your needs.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading about all the things to do in Hershey PA also known as Chocolate Town USA. There are plenty of activities for visitors of all ages, So what are you waiting for, it’s time to plan your vacation to the sweetest place on earth, Hershey Pennsylvania!
For more places to visit in Pennsylvania check out my other posts:
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It is! Thank you
This guide to Hershey PA is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!