Hershey, Pennsylvania
Summary of Hershey, Pennsylvania: Hershey, Pennsylvania, affectionately known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," is a charming town with a rich history rooted in chocolate and hospitality. Founded by Milton S. Hershey, the visionary behind the Hershey Chocolate Company, the town offers a delightful mix of attractions, entertainment, and relaxation for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or simply looking for a sweet escape, Hershey has something for everyone.
Here are my suggestions on what places you should visit!
Hershey Story Museum
The Hershey Story Museum, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a fascinating destination that delves into the legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the visionary behind the iconic Hershey's chocolate brand. More than just a museum, it offers an interactive experience that takes visitors on a journey through the history of chocolate, the creation of the Hershey Company, and Milton Hershey’s philanthropic efforts that shaped the town of Hershey. The museum offers a chocolate lab, where visitors can take on hand classes to learn about the creation of Hershey chocolate. You can create your own chocolate sweet!! The Café in the museum offers a special chocolate-tasting experience where visitors can sample warm drinking chocolates from around the world, each highlighting different flavors and cacao varieties. My favorite one has to be the Hershey one!
Hershey Chocolate World
Hershey's Chocolate World, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a dream destination for chocolate lovers and families alike. This immersive attraction offers a variety of interactive experiences centered around the world-famous Hershey’s chocolate brand, making it a must-visit when exploring the "Sweetest Place on Earth." Some attractions in the Chocolate World are the Hershey Chocolate tour, Create your own candy bar, Hershey tasting experience, and Shopping!!! You can also indulge in sweet treats like Hershey 's-themed milkshakes, baked goods, and more at the on-site dining area. From the immersive experiences to the delicious chocolate tastings, it’s a perfect destination for families and chocolate fans of all ages. I highly recommend you spend at least a good 2 hours maybe even more here! You can’t get bored of the activities they offer. Just be prepared to eat a lot of sugar!
Hershey Gardens
Hershey Gardens is a stunning 23-acre botanical garden offering breathtaking views, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a serene escape into nature. Originally opened in 1937 by Milton S. Hershey, the gardens were a gift to the community and continue to be a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the town. One of the most popular attractions is the Butterfly Atrium, home to hundreds of exotic butterflies from around the world. Visitors can walk through this tropical indoor haven, watching butterflies flutter and even land nearby. I’ve chosen not to go into the Butterfly atrium because I was terrified of bugs but everyone who was there seems to enjoyed the experience. There was a whole line so if you come to visit. It might take you like 15-20 to get into the Atriums. Out of all the gardens, my favorite would have to be the Japanese Garden. The Japanese Garden has a koi pond, tranquil water features, and cultivated designed landscape, which offer a perfect spot for a quiet reflection. eWhether you're strolling through the Japanese garden, enjoying the butterflies, or attending a seasonal event, this beautiful outdoor space is a perfect complement to any visit to Hershey.
Hershey Theatre
The Hershey Theatre, located in downtown Hershey, Pennsylvania, is an architectural gem and a premier entertainment venue that hosts a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows and concerts to comedy acts and dance performances. Opened in 1933 as part of Milton S. Hershey's "Great Building Campaign," the theatre remains a centerpiece of the town’s cultural scene. The theatre is well-known for its Broadway Series, featuring touring productions of popular shows like The Lion King, Hamilton, and Wicked. In addition to Broadway hits, the Hershey Theatre also hosts concerts, comedy acts, ballet performances, and more, offering entertainment for all tastes. With its magnificent design, world-class performances, and rich history, the Hershey Theatre is a must-visit for any culture enthusiast. Whether you’re catching a Broadway show or admiring the stunning architecture, this historic venue provides an unforgettable experience.
Hotel Hershey
The Hotel Hershey is a luxury 5 stars resort known for its timeless elegance, exceptional service, and close proximity to the town's most famous attractions. Opened in 1933 and built by Milton S. Hershey, this iconic hotel offers a unique blend of history, relaxation, and modern luxury, making it a perfect retreat for visitors looking to experience the charm of the "Sweetest Place on Earth."The Hotel Hershey offers a range of luxurious rooms and suites, many with stunning views of the gardens or the scenic Hershey countryside. The hotel features a variety of dining options, including The Circular, an upscale restaurant offering farm-to-table cuisine, and Trevi 5, an Italian dining experience. Highly recommend the Trevi 5. One of the best Italian dining experiences I’ve ever experienced. The hotel offered a world class spa called the “Chocolate Spa”. They offered chocolate scented massages, facials, and body treatments in the most relaxing atmosphere possible. There’s a lot of activities and shopping inside the hotel like s’mores roasting, scavenger hunts for little kids, and even an infinity pool. The Hotel Hershey provides a premier experience in a setting that’s as rich as its chocolate heritage.
Hershey Park
Hersheypark is a world-famous amusement park offering an exciting blend of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and sweet chocolate-themed experiences. Originally opened in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey as a leisure park for his employees, Hersheypark has since evolved into a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe.With over 70 rides and attractions, Hersheypark offers something for everyone. Thrill-seekers will love the park’s iconic roller coasters, such as Candymonium, Skyrush, and Storm Runner, while families with younger children can enjoy gentler rides like Kissing Tower, Carrousel, and the many kiddie rides spread throughout the park. The park does offer a water section called “The Boardwalk”. It features water slides, a wave pool, lazy rivers, and splash zones for all ages. The “Chocolatetown” is a themed area at the park entrance that celebrates the sweet legacy of Hershey. Visitors can enjoy the shopping and dining, located above the shop where you can exit the park or come visit before you get into the shop, there’s a restaurant called the chocolatier. Highly recommend you visit there and try their many chocolate foods option! With its combination of exhilarating rides, water park fun, and sweet chocolate-themed experiences, Hersheypark is a must-visit destination if you come visit Hershey Pennsylvania!
Other Notes: After my trip to Hershey, I highly recommend everyone to visit this incredible town at least once in their life. There’s so much to do and of course, SUGAR! Who doesn’t love the taste of Hershey Chocolate? Definitely spend at least a couple of days here so you can visit everything!
Trip Rating: 10/10
Money tips: Look for deals, especially with Hersheypark tickets! Occasionally, a ticket to the museum and garden comes into a package deal!!