"Visit the chocolate capital of the USA."
Hershey, Pennsylvania, also known as the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” is a small town located in central Pennsylvania. Famous for being the home of The Hershey Company, the town's history is deeply rooted in chocolate. Hershey is a popular tourist destination, offering an array of family-friendly activities, attractions, and historical landmarks. Visitors flock to the town not only for its delicious chocolate but also to enjoy its theme parks, beautiful gardens, and rich history.
Hershey is located about 15 miles east of Harrisburg, the state capital, and is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane.
By Car: Hershey is located along the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), making it accessible from many major cities in the region, such as Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. The drive from Philadelphia is about 1.5 hours, while from Harrisburg, it's a short 20-minute drive. Visitors can also take Route 322, which connects Hershey to nearby towns and cities.
By Air: The nearest major airport to Hershey is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located about 15 minutes away by car. This airport offers domestic flights, and from there, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle to Hershey. For international travelers, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is about 1.5 hours away.
By Bus: Greyhound and other bus companies offer service to Harrisburg, and from there, visitors can easily take a taxi, rental car, or local bus to Hershey.
Hershey experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, each offering different experiences for visitors.
Summer: Summers in Hershey are warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s °F (24-29°C). It is an ideal time to enjoy the outdoor attractions, such as Hersheypark and the Hershey Gardens.
Fall: Fall is a beautiful time to visit Hershey, as the foliage turns vibrant colors. The temperature ranges from the mid-50s to mid-70s °F (13-24°C), offering perfect weather for outdoor activities and scenic walks through the town’s parks.
Winter: Winters are cold, with temperatures averaging in the low 30s to low 40s °F (0-5°C). Snow is common, especially in January and February, adding a picturesque touch to the town. During this time, Hershey is also transformed into a winter wonderland with holiday lights and events.
Spring: Spring in Hershey is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s °F (7-18°C). The town’s gardens begin to bloom, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the local attractions.
The best time to visit Hershey depends on what you are looking to experience. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is a great time to visit, especially if you want to experience Hersheypark or visit the Hershey Gardens. Fall is another popular time to visit due to the beautiful foliage and moderate temperatures.
If you’re a fan of holiday events and don’t mind the cold, winter can be magical in Hershey. The town is known for its holiday lights and special events at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Spring is a great time for those looking to avoid the summer crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather and blooming flowers.
Hershey, Pennsylvania, is famous for being the birthplace of Hershey's chocolate. Founded by Milton S. Hershey in the early 20th century, The Hershey Company revolutionized the candy industry and became a global brand. The town of Hershey was specifically designed by Milton Hershey to be a model community for his employees, and it includes many attractions that reflect his vision.
In addition to being a chocolate lover’s paradise, Hershey is famous for Hersheypark, a family-friendly amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and attractions for all ages. The town is also home to the Hershey Theatre, Hershey Gardens, and the Hershey Museum, all of which attract thousands of visitors each year.
Hershey is a town with something for everyone, from chocolate lovers to history buffs. Several attractions, including Hersheypark, Hershey’s Chocolate World, and the Hershey Gardens, charge an entry fee, but visitors can explore the town’s outdoor attractions, such as the Hersheypark Stadium and the town's public parks, for free.
Hersheypark: Hersheypark is the main attraction in Hershey, with over 70 rides and attractions, including 14 roller coasters. The park is open from spring to fall, with a special holiday event during the winter season.
Hershey’s Chocolate World: A visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World is a must for anyone visiting the town. Here, you can learn about the history of Hershey’s chocolate, take a ride through a simulated chocolate factory, and even create your own custom candy bar.
Hershey Gardens: Hershey Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden that spans over 23 acres and features a wide variety of plants, flowers, and themed gardens. The gardens are open year-round, with peak blooms occurring in the spring and summer.
The Hershey Museum: For history enthusiasts, the Hershey Museum offers a deeper look into the life of Milton Hershey and the history of the town. The museum features exhibits about Hershey’s philanthropic work and his impact on the candy industry.
The history of Hershey is deeply intertwined with Milton Hershey, the founder of The Hershey Company. Milton Hershey’s vision was to create a company town that would provide a high standard of living for his employees, and this vision was realized with the founding of Hershey in 1903. The town was designed with well-planned streets, parks, schools, and houses for the workers of the Hershey Company.
Architecturally, Hershey reflects the charm of early 20th-century planning with beautiful buildings such as the Hershey Theatre, a Spanish-style building that opened in 1933, and the Milton Hershey School, an orphanage founded by Milton Hershey to provide an education to underprivileged children. Today, the school remains an iconic part of Hershey’s philanthropic legacy.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Hershey, from visiting amusement parks to exploring local history and enjoying the sweet treats the town is famous for.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
