Hershey, Pennsylvania is the home of Hershey’s chocolates, one of the most beloved brands of chocolates worldwide. It is located just 23 km (14 mi) east of Harrisburg and is a must-visit place if you want to see the origins of this popular candy. Apart from tasting one of the sweetest chocolates in the world, this tourist destination has plenty of activities to offer. You can make your own chocolate bar at Hershey’s Chocolate World or spend an exhilarating day at Hersheypark theme park. You will be amazed by the town’s tourist sites and activities, including its list of exquisite dining and drinking destinations. Start planning your getaway to the Sweetest Place on Earth with this guide on things to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania!
1. Make your own Hershey's chocolate bar at Hershey's Chocolate World
Ever dreamt of creating your own chocolate bar? Your dreams can come true when you visit the Create A Candy Bar attraction at Hershey’s Chocolate World, one of the major activities that you can do at the entertainment complex in Hershey. It’s an activity perfect for kids and those who are young at heart, especially if they want to learn how these delicious chocolates are made.
Visitors can choose their type of chocolate and packaging - perfect for creative guests! This attraction is located along Chocolate World Way, making it accessible to all tourists. Guests will have to book tickets ahead of time because slots are limited.
Hershey's Chocolate World
Address: 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Hershey’s Chocolate World
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: from 15.9 USD
2. Get exhilarated at Hersheypark
Hersheypark offers several rides and activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. It will take an entire day to get the whole park done, so it’s best to come early and plan ahead. What’s great about this attraction is that the ticket to the theme park allows entry for one day, including the night before as a sneak peek. What’s more, the price of 1 Hersheypark ticket entitles the holder to enter the 11-acre (4.5-hectare) ZooAmerica on a same-day visit. Such a great deal!
Hersheypark
Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Hersheypark
Opening hours: Fri - Mon: 11am - 7pm (closed from Tue - Thu)
Price: from 46 USD
3. Admire exotic flora and fauna at ZooAmerica
ZooAmerica is home to more than 200 native animals from North America, including lions, bats, snakes, bears, and more. People of all ages will be glad to meet exotic fauna and even become part of the conservation and outreach programs of the zoo. The 11-acre (4.5-hectare) zoo is located along Park Avenue and sits adjacent to Hersheypark.
ZooAmerica
Address: 201 Park Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: from 11 USD
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4. Check out the magnificent architecture at Founders Hall in Milton Hershey School
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Milton Hershey School on Thursday, April 1, 2021
Founders Hall is a picturesque monument that aims to educate guests about the philanthropic work of Milton and Catherine Hershey, the couple who founded the Hershey Company. The state-of-the-art architecture and facilities of Milton Hershey School are made from elegant white marble and granite, and the place is dedicated as an education center for disadvantaged children. The school only admits low-income individuals and caters to about 2,000 students as part of the advocacy of the Hershey Company to provide an equitable education to their youth.
The infrastructure is contemporary and functional, with large halls that have witnessed several graduations, inaugural balls, homecoming dances, and concerts. It will give tourists a wonderful experience of visiting one of the heritage sites in town.
Founders Hall at Milton Hershey School
Address: E Homestead Ln, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
5. Tour informative exhibits at The Hershey Story Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Update: Due to today’s weather conditions, The Hershey Story Museum will be closed all day today, February 20. Thank you.
Posted by The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue on Wednesday, February 20, 2019
The Hershey Story Museum tells the story of the town and the humble beginnings of the man behind its name, Milton S. Hershey, who pioneered the Hershey brand. It provides an informative, interactive, and inspiring experience for children and adults alike, and it’s a great place to visit for families. The museum is located along West Chocolate Avenue and is open daily.
The Hershey Story Museum
Address: 63 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: The Hershey Story Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 13.50 USD
6. See the artifacts at Hershey Derry Township Historical Society
The artifacts at Hershey Derry Township Historical Society will take you back in time from the earliest settlers in the town of Hershey up to the present day. The exhibits include information about the American Hockey League and the history of the Hershey Bears. Tourists of all ages will appreciate the heritage and history kept in this one place. During the holiday season, they also showcase a train exhibit that visitors will surely enjoy.
Hershey Derry Township Historical Society
Address: 40 Northeast Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Hershey Derry Township Historical Society
Opening hours: Mon, Wed and Fri: 10am - 3pm (closed on Tue, Thu, Sat & Sun)
Price: 2 - 10 USD
7. See the vintage vehicles at AACA museum
AACA Museum holds the largest collection of Tucker automobiles worldwide and offers a detailed history of the industry. It is perfect for young and old folks alike who have an interest in automobiles or plan on picture-taking with a vintage and classic backdrop. Guests can have their pictures taken among the rarest automobiles and vintage vehicles in the world, including some cars that were used in Hollywood movies.
The museum offers family-friendly tours and changing exhibits that will delight children, teens, and adults. Several volunteers offer a tour of the museum if you want to learn more about the exhibits. This museum will certainly give you a unique experience you will never forget.
AACA Museum
Address: 161 Museum Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: AACA Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: from 9.50 USD
8. Explore interactive exhibits at Pennsylvania State Police Historical, Educational, & Memorial Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Pennsylvania State Police Historical, Educational, & Memorial Center preserves and exhibits artifacts and records of the state police department for curious and history-loving tourists. It includes the memorabilia of the police rodeo, an interesting era when police rode horses to fulfill their civic duties. The exhibits extend to over a century of police history. Commemorative gift and souvenir items are available on-site for visitors to take home for themselves or give to family and friends.
Pennsylvania State Police Historical, Educational, & Memorial Center
Address: 187 E Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Pennsylvania State Police Historical, Educational, & Memorial Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 3pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 4 - 7 USD
9. Enjoy chocolate spa treatments at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We love this view. @kiesha_lynn on Instagram
Posted by The Spa At The Hotel Hershey on Wednesday, July 28, 2021
The Hotel Hershey is famous for its luxurious chocolate spa treatments that guests can indulge in. The three-story European-style spa offers wonderful chocolate massages, cocoa body wraps, facials, and scrubs - all with a chocolate twist. The spa uses mineral-rich sea clay along with high-grade chocolate and cocoa essence to help detoxify, tone, nourish, moisturize, and soften your skin.
The therapists are all professionals and bring the magic with their hands. They know the pressure points that will relieve all the muscle tension and all your stresses, too. You will surely feel relaxed and you might even fall asleep during the treatment!
The Spa at The Hotel Hershey
Address: 100 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: The Spa at The Hotel Hershey
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: from 310 USD
10. Experience a relaxing massage at Emerald Springs Spa
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Emerald Springs Spa offers impeccable and professional massage treatments, including a cocoa massage. Prior to the treatment, clients are served hot tea to make them feel more relaxed before the session. Clients can request customized services to ensure that they get the type of massage that they prefer. Services are also available for couples who want to enjoy a romantic and relaxing massage together.
Emerald Springs Spa
Address: 1126 Cocoa Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Emerald Springs Spa
Opening hours: Mon: 12pm - 8pm; Tue - Fri: 10am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: from 57 USD
11. Catch the performances at Hershey Theatre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Hershey Theatre on Thursday, March 29, 2012
Hershey, Pennsylvania does not only offer the sweetest chocolates in the world, but they also showcase some of the finest Broadway shows, classical music performances, dance performances, and film screenings from world-renowned entertainers at the magnificent Hershey Theater.
Hershey has its own pool of musicians, dancers, and actors that will amaze the audience with their performance and talent. Guests will certainly marvel at the extravagance of the historic theater while enjoying a wide range of performances. The theater lobby was designed as an homage to the Greek god Apollo, the god of music, poetry, and arts. The live performances can even get interactive because the audience is sometimes part of the show. This premier performing arts center is located on Caracas Avenue in downtown Hershey.
Hershey Theatre
Address: 15 E Caracas Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United State
Website: Hershey Theatre
12. Catch a concert at Giant Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Fill in the blank: My favorite memory at GIANT Center was ____!
Posted by Giant Center on Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Visitors and locals alike enjoy the best live entertainment at Giant Center. Concerts of all genres happen in the arena, including rock, folk, blues, pop, contemporary, and indie, so all kinds of music lovers will find a performance to enjoy. Dance performances are also scheduled for kids and families. Sports enthusiasts know that this is the home of the Hershey Bears Hockey Club and that other high school state championship events occur at Giant Center.
Check out the concerts and other events coming up before your trip and make it part of your itinerary when you visit Hershey. Some tickets are as low as 30 USD, so don’t miss out!
Giant Center
Address: 550 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Giant Center
Price: from 30 USD
13. Watch a play at Hershey Area Playhouse
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Hershey Area Playhouse on Monday, July 29, 2019
Hershey Area Playhouse offers plays and musicals to tourists and locals. All members of the audience will get a great view because the seats are close to the performance stage. There’s a variety of performances that kids and adults will appreciate, and the performers selected for the plays and musicals are great stage actors and actresses.
The playhouse has hosted various performances, including classics such as A Christmas Carol, Little Women, The Secret Garden, and more. If you want to catch a play on your trip here, be sure to check their website for upcoming shows.
Hershey Area Playhouse
Address: 830 Cherry Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Hershey Area Playhouse
14. Check out a concert or a sporting event at Hersheypark Stadium
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Hersheypark Stadium is conveniently located on Hersheypark Drive. It is an ideal location for various events and gatherings. The stadium does not only host sporting events such as soccer and football for sports enthusiasts, but it also has live performances and concerts for music lovers. The capacious arena will make you feel excited, especially when it lights up during evening events. The stadium has plenty of restrooms and a large seating capacity.
Hersheypark Stadium
Address: 100 West Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Hersheypark Stadium
15. Stroll around the beautiful Hershey Gardens
Anyone will enjoy the beauty and wonder of nature by walking around the 23-acre (9-hectare) Hershey Gardens. This botanical garden has beautiful rose bushes and an indoor butterfly atrium that will amaze kids and adults alike. They also have an education and horticultural wing with changing exhibits, as well as a themed garden and a children’s garden with fun exhibits.
Hershey Gardens
Address: 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Hershey Gardens
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 9.50 - 13.50 USD
16. Bring your kids to play at Cocoa Castle
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Derry Township Parks & Recreation on Monday, May 27, 2019
It’s important that kids and adults have time to take a break from the stress of touring so many places every day. The Derry Township Parks & Recreation funded one of the best parks in Hershey: Cocoa Castle. Kids of all ages will enjoy the beautiful wooden play structure, and parents will surely appreciate a break while the kids have fun. Cocoa Castle is located on Cocoa Avenue, adjacent to Hershey Recreation Center. It’s free and open to the public daily.
Cocoa Castle
Address: Cocoa Avenue, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Cocoa Castle
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
17. Enjoy a fun ride around Hotel Hershey with Segway of Hershey
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Segway Of Hershey on Tuesday, February 18, 2020
Tourists will have a fabulous time with a fun and adventurous ride with Segway of Hershey. Guests can ride on a Segway while touring the historic and upscale Hotel Hershey. A few hours won’t be enough to savor the magnificent place, and guests will surely want to ride some more. If you’ve never ridden a Segway before, don’t worry because it’s easy to learn and maneuver. The guides are enthusiastic and patient in teaching participants how to ride a Segway.
Segway of Hershey
Address: 100 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Segway of Hershey
Price: 75 - 85 USD
18. Play golf at Spring Creek Golf Course
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Spring Creek opens on April 15....have you booked your tee time yet? Call the Golf Shop at 717-533-2847 to book your reservation.
Posted by Spring Creek Golf Course on Friday, April 2, 2021
The expansive Spring Creek Golf Course will not only help you hone your golfing skills, but it will also amaze you with the magnificent views of the lush golf course itself for an affordable cost. The course offers golf clinics for beginners starting from age five, with options for customized lessons. The place is perfect for families and friends, and guests can even meet new people while they’re here.
Spring Creek Golf Course
Address: 450 E Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Spring Creek Golf Course
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 7am - 7:30pm; Thu - Sun: 7am - 8pm
Price: from 13 USD
19. Take a bike ride at Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail has a safe and paved road for Hershey locals and tourists who want to enjoy a bike ride. The trail runs for about 13.5 mi (21.7 km) and is open for various recreational and physical activities besides biking, such as hiking, jogging, and even taking your pets for a walk.
This spot offers a great place to spend time in nature, and the trail serves as a link to other landmarks and trails such as Swatara Creek Greenway Trail, Bullfrog Valley Park, and Shank Park.
Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail
Address: Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail, Hummelstown, PA 17036, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
20. Relax at Brookside Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
This neighborhood park is great for kids and adults who want to relax, enjoy scenic views, and spend time outdoors. Families and friends can take a stroll around or play a game of basketball on the basketball court. Visitors can also have picnics on the shaded metal tables. Playground facilities are available so kids will have fun on your family day out.
Brookside Park
Address: Church Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
21. Solve a puzzle at Escape Room Hershey
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Thank you for continuing to support small businesses during this time! We are open tonight for regular hours and still...
Posted by Escape Room Hershey on Friday, December 11, 2020
Tourists will love the adventures offered in the private escape rooms of Escape Room Hershey. The facility has quests perfect for kids and adults with a wide range of genres, including sci-fi, magic, and horror. There is also an escape room for beginners - Candy Factory - that has a higher success rate. The facility and the moderators are amazing at keeping things mysterious and exciting. Guests will enjoy solving unique and interactive puzzles and looking for clues before they run out of time and get locked in the room.
Escape Room Hershey
Address: 253 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Escape Room Hershey
Opening hours: Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6:30pm; Wed - Thu: 3pm - 9:30pm; Fri: 2:30pm - 9pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 25 USD
22. Try kart racing at Adventure Sports Family Entertainment
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Adventure Sports in Hershey on Wednesday, June 29, 2011
It’s time to get your adrenaline high with a go-kart adventure along a 1,100-ft (335-m) track that features a lot of twists and turns for more thrill and excitement. Families and groups of friends can enjoy so many attractions in one place. Apart from kart racing, guests can play in a miniature golf course, ride bumper boats, practice baseball in a batting cage, experience exciting arcade games, get on a 20-ac (8-ha) championship golf driving range, satisfy cravings at the park’s ice cream parlor, and compete in outdoor laser tag.
All this fun comes at a low cost. What’s more, the park is only about 6.5 km (4 mi) away from Hersheypark. Admission is free, but each attraction is priced differently.
Adventure Sports Family Entertainment
Address: 3010 Elizabethtown Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Adventure Sports Family Entertainment
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 12pm - 10pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
23. Go canoeing at Swatara Creek Water Trail
Swatara Creek Water Trail will let you enjoy boating, primitive camping, fishing, wildlife-watching, and other nature-inspired activities. The place offers a picturesque view for nature enthusiasts, be they children or adults.
Guests can go on a canoeing adventure on shaded banks. The tributary runs for approximately 72 mi (115 km), but the water trail is approximately 42 mi (67.6 km) long. Routes range from easy to difficult, allowing visitors to partake in a paddling experience according to their pace, skill level, and appetite for adventure. Swatara Creek Water Trail is located in Middletown, just 8.5 mi (13.7 km) from Hershey.
Swatara Creek Water Trail
Address: 100 Fulling Mill Rd, Middletown, PA 17057, United States
Website: Swatara Creek Water Trail
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
24. Enjoy an exquisite dining experience at The Circular
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by The Hotel Hershey on Friday, April 9, 2021
If you are looking for exquisite dining, you should drop by The Circular, Hotel Hershey’s iconic restaurant. It has a spacious area for small or big groups who would love a fine dining experience in town. It is good for romantic dates, special occasions, and business meetings. Customers can opt to have an intimate meal or they can also get small plates and drinks at the bar. Menu items include grilled filet mignon, lobster bisque, and yellowfin tuna tartare, among others.
The Circular
Address: 100 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: The Circular
Opening hours: Mon - Wed, Sun: 7am - 10:30am; Thu: 7am - 10:30am, 5pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 7am - 10:30am, 5pm - 9:30pm
25. Eat out and drink at The Chocolate Avenue Grill
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Thank you @The Greenskeeper for always making us look so pretty!!!
Posted by The Chocolate Avenue Grill on Sunday, November 29, 2020
The Chocolate Avenue Grill is a newly refurbished bistro and bar that features all your favorite dishes and beverages. You will especially love their seafood dishes, along with their steaks and ribs. You must also try their beers and cocktails for an entertaining night. This restaurant sits on a beautifully landscaped outdoor space, which will be a great background for family pictures and travel photos with friends. You can enjoy the great outdoor views from the restaurant’s big windows or dine al fresco.
The Chocolate Avenue Grill
Address: 114 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: The Chocolate Avenue Grill
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm (closed on Sun)
26. Hang out at Penn Hotel Sports & Raw Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
There’s a lot to love about Penn Hotel Sports & Raw Bar, but a favorite among those who appreciate alcoholic beverages is the top-of-the-line appetizer menu so you can pair the finest spirits with good food. You can choose from baked Penn Crab Toast and crispy hand-battered onion rings to pierogies and fried pickles. Visitors will surely have a great experience at this sports bar.
Penn Hotel Sports & Raw Bar
Address: 600 Old West Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Penn Hotel Sports & Raw Bar
Opening hours: 11am - 2am (daily)
27. Grab a beer at Troegs Brewing Company
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Troegs Brewing Company brews the perfect flavors for beer lovers. The tasting room will also allow you to enjoy light snacks while you sample their seasonal and specialty beers. What’s even more fun is that the beer garden is dog-friendly, so you can bring your little buddies while you grab a drink. Brewery tours are also available if you’re interested.
Troegs Brewing Company
Address: 200 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Troegs Brewing Company
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
28. Taste wines at Cullari Vineyards and Winery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We are happy to announce the return of Dry Riesling! We have been sold out of this wine for about two years! It is...
Posted by Cullari Vineyards and Winery on Friday, April 16, 2021
This winery makes a fine selection of wine, especially since the owner was born and raised in Italy, a country known for producing some of the best wines in the world. Cullari Vineyards and Winery offers 35 varieties, including white wines, rosé, fruit wines, and red wines ranging from dry to sweet notes. When in Hershey, all tourists - except minors - should have a taste of its signature offering, a delicious chocolate wine called Coco Nostra.
With a combination of ambiance, great views, good music, and friendly staff, the place is definitely worth a visit.
Cullari Vineyards and Winery
Address: 1251 E Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Cullari Vineyards and Winery
Opening hours: Tue: 11am - 5pm; Wed - Fri: 1pm - 6pm; Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
29. Enjoy craft brews at Rotunda Brew Pub
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Flowers and Masks - East Coast DIPA, 8.3% w/ Moutere, Kohatu and Rakau hops, is our second beer coming at you this...
Posted by Rotunda Brew Pub Hershey on Thursday, April 8, 2021
Adult tourists can enjoy a drink or two at Rotunda Brew Pub, a place that offers specially made craft beers. They have a wide selection of craft brews, including some fruity drink options for those who love alcohol with a sweet, fruity taste.
Visitors will also appreciate the small plate selections that are best served with beer, such as the pub’s smoked wings, pretzels, breakfast tots, and deviled eggs. They are the perfect match for your beverage of choice. Sunday brunch and cocktails are also available.
Rotunda Brew Pub
Address: 814 E Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Rotunda Brew Pub
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm
30. Go on a shopping spree at Tanger Outlets
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Tanger Outlets, Hershey on Thursday, May 2, 2013
Get on a shopping spree for a wide range of products and designer brands at Tanger Outlets in Hershey. Located in Outlet Square, this mall offers deals and discounts. The open-air layout lets you enjoy the fresh air while you window shop. Check out popular brands such as Coach, Guess, American Eagle, and more.
Tanger Outlets Hershey
Address: 46 Outlet Square, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
Website: Tanger Outlets Hershey
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Enjoy visiting the Sweetest Place on Earth
The Sweetest Place on Earth is a town worth visiting, and the smell of sweet chocolate in the air invites you to stay for a while and explore. Offering everything from family-friendly attractions to nature escapes, you will surely enjoy your trip. Add this wonderful place to your travel bucket list and plan your adventure to Hershey, Pennsylvania soon!
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