Why Go?
Once upon a time, a man named Hershey decided to make a chocolate bar that wouldn’t melt in the sacks of soldiers fighting in World War I, as well as create a town with a residential school for orphans, investing all of his money to do so. His chocolate factory, school and culture led to the town of Hershey’s rise, and millions flock to it to this day. More than just a chocolate and candy hub, the small town near Gettysburg is home to a theme park, attractions, a zoo and hotels that bear his name. Whether visiting Hershey alone or coupling it with nearby Lancaster, Philadelphia or Gettysburg, it’s one of the most popular destinations in the northeast to travel with children.
Where to Go
Hotel Hershey, once the former school, is a grand, iconic resort with a circular dining room Hershey created so no one would have to sit in a corner. It features a delicious chocolate brunch, and the hotel’s luxurious spa even has treatments with chocolate in mind, such as a chocolate mud wrap.
Accommodations have expanded into cottages families can select for more privacy. Down the hill is the Hershey Lodge, a more moderate-priced choice with a large swimming and activity center to enjoy at the end of the day. When you stay at one of the official Hershey hotels, you also receive an extra hour at the theme park and shuttle service.
Large candy characters crown the entrance to Chocolate World in Hershey, home of the Hershey Company.
What to Do
Hersheypark’s rollercoasters will catch the eyes of your kids, and rides are specifically marked for certain age groups by a Hershey candy. Hershey’s Miniatures, for example, are for those under three feet, while Jolly Ranchers are those five feet and taller. Tickets to the amusement park also include access to the Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park and an 11-acre walk-thru zoo.
Kids can live out Charlie and the Chocolate Factory dreams by visiting Hershey’s Chocolate World, which offers free chocolate-making tours, a create your own candy bar section, and more. The Hershey Story Museum also provides a background to Milton Hershey in an interactive, hands-on museum.
Getting Around
Hershey is two hours from Philadelphia, and three hours from New York City and Washington, D.C. If you elect to stay at an official Hershey hotel, your family will have free front-gate shuttle service to the attractions of the town. Otherwise, you will need a car to get around.