The Ultimate Guide To The Best Things To Do In Hershey, PA: Beyond The Chocolate
Dreaming of a sweet escape where the air smells faintly of cocoa, world-class roller coasters dominate the skyline, and every corner tells a story of ambition and generosity? Welcome to Hershey, Pennsylvania, a destination that lives up to its nickname, "The Sweetest Place on Earth." But don't be fooled by the chocolate-centric moniker—this vibrant town offers a staggering variety of experiences that go far beyond a simple factory tour. Whether you're planning a thrilling family weekend, a romantic couples' retreat, or a solo adventure, knowing the top things to do in Hershey, PA is the key to unlocking an unforgettable getaway. From adrenaline-pumping amusement parks and serene botanical gardens to fascinating museums and festive seasonal events, Hershey crafts a perfect blend of nostalgia, excitement, and relaxation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every must-see attraction, hidden gem, and practical tip to help you plan your perfect trip, ensuring you experience the full, rich tapestry of what makes Hershey so uniquely special.
Hersheypark: The Crown Jewel of Thrills and Family Fun
No list of things to do in Hershey, PA could possibly start anywhere else. Hersheypark is the sprawling, 121-acre heart of the town's identity, an award-winning amusement park seamlessly integrated into the landscape of the original Hershey chocolate factory. It's more than just a park; it's an institution where generations have made memories. The park is meticulously divided into themed areas, from the nostalgic, old-timey charm of The Boardwalk (with its classic carousel and Ferris wheel) to the wild, adrenaline-soaked The Hollow, home to some of the country's most intense roller coasters.
The sheer variety of attractions is staggering. With over 70 rides and attractions, including 14 roller coasters, there's truly something for every thrill level. For the fearless, Candymonium—a hyper-coaster that was the tallest, fastest, and longest in Pennsylvania when it opened—offers relentless airtime and speeds up to 76 mph. Fahrenheit, with its 97-degree drop, remains a legendary benchmark for vertical intensity. Families with younger children will find paradise in ZooAmerica (included with park admission), a 11-acre wildlife park featuring over 200 animals from North America, or the whimsical Kissing Tower Hill area with its gentle rides and play zones. A crucial Hersheypark tip is to download the official app. It provides real-time wait times, a digital map, and show schedules, allowing you to maximize your day efficiently. Consider visiting on a weekday or during the park's "Hershey Estates" events for potentially smaller crowds. The park's operational season typically runs from late April through early January, with special events like Hersheypark Christmas Candylane transforming the park with millions of lights and holiday-themed rides, making it a top thing to do in Hershey, PA in winter.
Hershey's Chocolate World: A Delectable Journey for the Senses
While Hersheypark is the thrill-seeker's dream, Hershey's Chocolate World is the essential, foundational experience that connects every visitor to the town's raison d'être. This free, 45-minute Hershey's Chocolate World tour is not a traditional factory tour (the actual production lines are not open to the public for safety and proprietary reasons) but a brilliantly engaging, interactive journey through the history of Milton Hershey and the chocolate-making process. You'll learn about the cocoa bean's journey, see historic artifacts, and, most importantly, be treated to a complimentary sample at the end—a warm, gooey piece of Hershey's milk chocolate that perfectly encapsulates the experience.
But the magic extends far beyond the tour. Chocolate World is a sprawling, multi-level complex of chocolate-themed experiences and shopping. You can create your own candy bar in the Create Your Own Candy Bar attraction, a hands-on, customizable experience that is a huge hit with kids and adults alike. For a truly unique treat, don't miss the Hershey's Kisses Delight or the Hershey's Chocolate World Ice Cream Shop, serving up sundaes and shakes loaded with chocolate pieces. The retail space is a chocolate lover's paradise, offering exclusive merchandise, bulk candy, and products you can't find anywhere else. A strategic Chocolate World tip: The lines for the main tour are shortest right at opening or in the late afternoon. Consider combining your visit with a meal at one of the on-site restaurants, like The Chocolate Avenue Grille, for a full immersion. This attraction is a non-negotiable thing to do in Hershey, PA and provides the perfect educational and tasty context for the rest of your visit.
The Hershey Story: The Museum of Chocolate
To truly understand the man behind the myth, a visit to The Hershey Story, The Museum of Chocolate is indispensable. Located in a beautifully restored, historic building on Chocolate Avenue, this museum delves deep into the improbable and inspiring life of Milton S. Hershey. It’s a masterclass in narrative curation, moving beyond chocolate to explore themes of innovation, failure, philanthropy, and community building. The exhibits chronologically guide you from Hershey's early, struggling candy-making ventures to the creation of the Hershey bar, the founding of the model town, and the establishment of the Milton Hershey School for orphaned children—a legacy that continues to transform lives today.
What sets this museum apart is its interactivity and depth. You can step into a recreated Hershey's first factory, see vintage chocolate-making equipment, and even participate in a chocolate-tasting experience (offered for an additional fee) where you learn to discern notes in different dark chocolates, much like a wine tasting. The museum also hosts rotating special exhibits, often focusing on the cultural history of chocolate or related industries. It provides the crucial "why" behind the things to do in Hershey, PA. You leave not just with a sugar rush, but with a profound appreciation for the vision that built an empire and a town dedicated to its workers' well-being. Plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours here. It’s a quieter, more reflective counterpoint to the park's excitement and is especially engaging for adults and older children interested in history and entrepreneurship.
Hershey Gardens: A Floral Oasis with a View
For a serene and visually stunning respite from the park crowds, Hershey Gardens is a breathtaking 23-acre botanical oasis perched on a hill overlooking the town. Established in 1937 by Milton Hershey as a gift to his community and his wife, Catherine, the gardens are a testament to meticulous horticultural design and year-round beauty. The undisputed star is the Rose Garden, which blooms with over 1,000 varieties and 13,000 roses in peak season (late May through October), creating a kaleidoscope of color and fragrance. However, the gardens offer much more.
Winding paths lead you through distinct themed areas: the tranquil Japanese Garden with its koi pond and lanterns, the vibrant Herb Garden, and the whimsical Children's Garden, featuring interactive water play and themed topiaries. A major highlight is the Butterfly Atrium, a tropical indoor garden where hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the world flutter among lush vegetation. Visiting the gardens is one of the most peaceful things to do in Hershey, PA, especially during the morning or late afternoon. They also host spectacular seasonal events, most notably the Hershey Gardens Rose Show in June and the dazzling Hershey Gardens Christmas Candylane (separate from the park's event), where the gardens are transformed with over 1 million lights and elaborate displays. The elevated location provides a stunning panoramic view of Hersheypark and the town below—a perfect photo opportunity.
Beyond the Chocolate: More Family Adventures in Hershey
While Hersheypark and Chocolate World are the anchors, the greater Hershey area is packed with additional attractions that make it a true multi-day destination. ZooAmerica, as mentioned, is a major draw included with Hersheypark admission, but it's also accessible separately. This AZA-accredited zoo focuses exclusively on North American wildlife, offering naturalistic habitats for animals like black bears, gray wolves, and bald eagles. The Woodlands area, with its nature trails and interactive exhibits, is a great place to learn about local conservation.
A short drive from the main Hershey complex brings you to Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park. This charming, castle-themed park is ideal for families with toddlers and elementary-aged children. With its gentle rides, live shows, and interactive play areas, it offers a more relaxed, storybook atmosphere. It's a perfect thing to do in Hershey, PA for younger kids who might find Hersheypark's big coasters intimidating. For a completely different flavor, head to the Tanger Outlets Hershey. With over 200 brand-name and designer outlet stores, it's a shopper's paradise and a great way to balance out the theme park days. Don't miss the Hershey's Chocolate World Store here for additional shopping and samples without the main tour crowds.
A Town Built on Sweetness: Milton Hershey's Lasting Legacy
To fully appreciate the things to do in Hershey, PA, one must understand the philanthropic philosophy of its founder, Milton S. Hershey. Unlike many industrialists of his era, Hershey believed in building a community that supported his employees' health, education, and recreation. He founded the town of Hershey, providing quality housing, schools, and recreational facilities. His greatest legacy is the Milton Hershey School, a cost-free, pre-K through 12th-grade school for children from low-income families. The school is funded by a trust that controls the Hershey Company's voting stock, meaning that every chocolate bar sold indirectly supports the education and nurturing of thousands of children. This ethos of "giving back" permeates the town's culture. You see it in the beautifully maintained public spaces, the low-cost recreational opportunities for residents, and the overall sense of communal pride. When you visit, you're not just touring attractions; you're walking through a living model of one man's vision for a "sweet" society. This context makes every visit to the gardens, the park, or even just strolling down Chocolate Avenue more meaningful.
Seasonal Spectacles: Hershey Year-Round
Hershey is not a summer-only destination. The town masterfully leverages its brand for year-round events that offer completely different experiences. Spring brings the bloom of Hershey Gardens and the lively Hershey Gardens Rose Show. Summer is, of course, peak season for the parks, but also features outdoor concerts and the Hershey Half Marathon and 10K, which wind through the town and park. Fall is magical with the Hershey's Chocolate and Spice festival at Chocolate World and the beautiful autumn foliage in the gardens. Winter, however, is arguably Hershey's most enchanting season. Hersheypark Christmas Candylane and Hershey Gardens Christmas Candylane are separate, ticketed events that should not be missed. The park is aglow with millions of lights, features select rides operating in the cold, and offers special holiday treats. The gardens' light displays are often considered even more spectacular, with themed areas and a cozy atmosphere. Additionally, the town hosts a Hershey New Year's Eve celebration with family-friendly activities. Planning your trip around one of these seasonal events in Hershey, PA can dramatically alter and enhance your experience.
Practical Planning: Where to Stay, Eat, and Save
To make the most of your things to do in Hershey, PA itinerary, smart planning is essential. Accommodations range from the iconic, chocolate-scented Hotel Hershey and the family-centric Hershey Lodge (both offering packages with park tickets and early park entry) to numerous off-site chain hotels and cozy bed-and-breakfasts in the surrounding countryside. Booking well in advance, especially for summer and holiday weekends, is critical. For dining, Hershey offers options far beyond theme park fare. For a special occasion, reserve a table at The Circular (in the Hotel Hershey) for fine dining with a view. For a classic, family-friendly meal, The Hershey Grill or Cocoa Beanery are excellent. Don't miss the chance to have a "Hershey's Extract" cocktail at a local bar—a nod to the town's flavor. A key money-saving tip is to purchase multi-day park tickets, which offer significant per-day savings. Look for combo tickets that include Chocolate World, ZooAmerica, or even the Hershey Story Museum. Consider visiting during the "value season" (spring before Memorial Day or fall after Labor Day) for lower hotel rates and smaller crowds. Finally, always check the official Hershey, PA events calendar before booking to avoid conflicts with sold-out events or private park closures.
Conclusion: Crafting Your Own Sweet Story in Hershey
From the scream-inducing peaks of its world-class roller coasters to the quiet contemplation of its rose gardens, Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a destination of delightful contrasts. It successfully marries high-octane family entertainment with profound history, botanical beauty, and a deep-seated culture of generosity. The things to do in Hershey, PA are as diverse as the visitors it attracts. Whether you're a chocolate aficionado eager to trace the origins of your favorite treat, an adrenaline junkie chasing the next big coaster, a parent seeking a stress-free vacation with kid-approved activities, or a couple looking for a unique weekend getaway, Hershey provides a meticulously crafted backdrop for your memories.
The true magic of Hershey lies in its ability to be many things to many people, all under the unifying theme of "sweetness"—sweet thrills, sweet treats, sweet history, and sweet philanthropy. It’s a place where a simple question, "What are the best things to do in Hershey, PA?" opens a door to a world where a candy bar's legacy built a town, and that town, in turn, offers an escape that's anything but ordinary. So, pack your bags, bring your sweet tooth and your sense of adventure, and come write your own chapter in the ongoing story of The Sweetest Place on Earth. Your unforgettable Hershey getaway awaits.
