Overview
Hershey is a small unincorporated community in Derry Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. It was purpose-built in the early 1900s by Milton S. Hershey alongside his chocolate factory, and it retains a distinctive company-town character that sets it apart from most American tourist destinations.
Despite its modest size, Hershey draws millions of visitors annually, primarily for Hersheypark, one of the oldest and most recognized regional amusement parks in the eastern United States. The town also hosts a respected medical center, a performing arts venue, a garden, and a zoo — all originally funded through Hershey's philanthropic legacy.
The surrounding region is part of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, meaning day trips can extend into Lancaster County's Amish farmland, Harrisburg's state-capital attractions, and the rolling Cumberland Valley. Hershey functions well as a base for exploring central Pennsylvania more broadly.
Before You Go
Visas: Hershey is in the United States. For entry requirements, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov) or the U.S. embassy in your country.
When to visit: Summer (June–August) is peak season for Hersheypark, with the longest operating hours and all attractions open, but crowds are heaviest and accommodation prices rise. Shoulder seasons — May and September — offer a reasonable balance of good weather and thinner crowds. The park's Halloween (Hersheypark in the Dark) and Christmas (Hersheypark Christmas Candylane) seasonal events are popular and worth planning around if those themes appeal to you.
Booking ahead: Hersheypark tickets are typically cheaper when purchased online in advance. Hotel rooms in the immediate area — particularly those on the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts campus — book out well in advance during summer weekends and holiday events. Verify current pricing and availability directly with providers.
Health: The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is located in town and is a major regional facility.
Getting There
By air: The closest commercial airport is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located roughly 15 miles west of Hershey. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) are larger hubs within two to three hours by car, offering more flight options.
By car: Hershey sits near US Route 422 and is easily reached from I-81 and I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike). Driving is by far the most practical option for most visitors. Parking is available at and around the main attractions; verify fees with each venue.
By bus/train: Amtrak serves Harrisburg station, from which you would need a taxi, rideshare, or rental car to reach Hershey. Regional bus service exists but is limited; confirm current routes and schedules with local transit authorities before relying on it.
Getting Around
Hershey's main attractions are concentrated enough that some visitors walk or cycle between them, but a car or rideshare is practical, especially with luggage or young children. The core cluster — Hersheypark, ZooAmerica, Hershey Gardens, and the visitor area — is walkable if you're staying nearby.
Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) operate in the area. Taxis are available but less prevalent than in urban centers. During peak season, Hersheypark runs shuttle services between certain partner hotels and the park entrance — verify availability when booking accommodation.
For exploring the wider region (Harrisburg, Lancaster County), a rental car is strongly recommended.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Hershey ranges from the large resort properties on the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts campus to independent motels and vacation rentals in the surrounding area. The flagship resort properties are well-known landmarks in their own right — verify current names, rates, and packages on the official Hersheypa.com site.
Budget-conscious travelers will find more affordable options in nearby Harrisburg, Lebanon, or along US-422, though this requires a short drive to the main attractions. During summer weekends, holiday events, and local festivals, accommodation fills quickly across the entire region — book as early as possible.
Camping is available in the broader Dauphin County area; verify current options through Pennsylvania state parks or private campground listings.
Things to See & Do
Hersheypark
The anchor attraction is a full-scale amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly areas. It operates seasonally with special events in autumn and winter. Check hersheypark.com for current operating dates, hours, and ticket prices.
ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park
Adjacent to Hersheypark, ZooAmerica is a mid-sized zoo focused exclusively on North American species across five regional habitats. It can be accessed separately from Hersheypark. Verify current admission and hours on the official site.
Hershey Gardens
A 23-acre botanical garden on a hill above the town, known for its rose collection and seasonal themed displays. The butterfly atrium is a particular draw for families. Hours and admission vary by season — confirm before visiting.
The Hershey Story Museum
A museum on Chocolate Avenue dedicated to Milton Hershey's life, the history of the company, and chocolate-making. Hands-on chocolate lab experiences are available (typically at an additional cost; book in advance during busy periods).
Hersheypark Stadium & Giant Center
Large entertainment venues that host concerts, sporting events, and ice hockey (the Hershey Bears AHL team). Check event schedules if live entertainment interests you.
Antique and scenic drives
The surrounding countryside offers pastoral Pennsylvania scenery. Nearby Dauphin County roads provide access to state parks and reservoir areas worth exploring if you have a car.
Food & Drink
Hershey's dining scene is modest for its visitor volume. The Hershey Entertainment & Resorts properties contain several full-service restaurants ranging from casual to upscale; verify current names and reservations directly with the resorts, as offerings change.
Chocolate Avenue (the main commercial strip) has a mix of chain restaurants, casual diners, and a handful of independent spots. For a wider variety of independent restaurants, Harrisburg — about 15 miles away — offers a more developed dining scene.
Unsurprisingly, chocolate-themed desserts and candy shops are easy to find throughout the town. The Hershey's Chocolate World attraction (separate from Hersheypark, free to enter) includes food and merchandise tied to the brand.
Alcohol is served at resort restaurants and many local establishments. Pennsylvania has specific liquor laws; wine and spirits are sold through state-run Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores, while beer is available through licensed distributors and some bars and restaurants.
Practical Information
Emergency services: In any emergency in the United States, dial 911.
Connectivity: Mobile coverage from major US carriers is reliable in Hershey. Free Wi-Fi is available at many resort properties, hotels, and some public areas — confirm with your accommodation.
Tipping: Standard US tipping norms apply — 18–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars per day for hotel housekeeping is customary.
Accessibility: Hersheypark and the major resort facilities maintain accessibility accommodations. The park publishes a specific accessibility guide — check hersheypark.com before visiting if this is relevant to your group.
Useful contact: The official tourism resource for the area is VisitHersheyHarrisburg.org. Verify hours, prices, and event details through official sites, as these change seasonally.
Safety
Hershey is a generally safe destination with a low crime profile relative to larger US cities. Normal travel precautions apply: secure your valuables, don't leave belongings visible in parked cars, and be aware of your surroundings.
During peak-season events, large crowds gather at Hersheypark and surrounding areas. Keep an eye on children in crowded spaces and establish a clear meeting point in case anyone becomes separated. The park has a lost-child protocol — ask guest services for details on arrival.
Summer heat and humidity can be significant. Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and take breaks if spending a full day at the outdoor park.
