Are you looking for the best things to do around Hersheypark on your visit?
Hershey, Pennsylvania, known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” is a charming town that offers a lovely mix of chocolate-themed attractions, scenic beauty, and a rich history.
Whether you’re a chocolate lover or simply seeking a memorable experience, Hershey has something for everyone.
You’ll find an exciting blend of chocolate-related attractions, natural beauty, and engaging activities for all ages.
From amusement park thrills to chocolate-inspired experiences, this sweet town offers a truly delightful vacation destination.
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1. Hershey’s Chocolate World
Hershey’s Chocolate World is a vibrant and engaging attraction that brings the world of chocolate to life.
With its interactive experiences, tantalizing treats, and immersive exhibits, it offers a delightful adventure for chocolate enthusiasts of all ages.
Whether you’re learning about the chocolate-making process, creating your own candy bar, or simply indulging in delicious treats, Hershey’s Chocolate World is a sweet haven that will leave you with lasting memories.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
My personal favorite is the Chocolate factory tour where you’ll learn about the chocolate-making process, from the cocoa bean to the finished product.
It’s a fun and educational experience suitable for all ages.
You can also shop for Hershey-themed products like their 20+ pound candy bars and flavors not yet available to the public.
What to Expect at Hershey’s Chocolate World
At the Create Your Own Candy Bar attraction, you can become a chocolatier and design your own custom candy bar.
You’ll have the opportunity to choose the type of chocolate, add ingredients like cookies or caramel, and even design the packaging.
It’s a hands-on activity that lets you create a unique chocolate bar to take home.
For the 50th anniversary of Chocolate World, the brand-new HERSHEY’S Great Candy Expedition show has opened!
Inside the theatre, you’ll feel like you’re right inside the adventure, surrounded by jaw-dropping projection mapping technology, interactive characters, and dazzling special effects.
And, you get to vote alongside your fellow audience members for the three lands you’ll visit!
All this and more await you in Hershey’s Chocolate World, right down the hill from Hersheypark!
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2. Hershey Gardens
Whether you’re a nature lover, a gardening enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, you will love visiting Hershey Gardens. It offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.
With its stunning floral displays, serene gardens, and educational programs, it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and find tranquility in the town.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
Spread across 23 acres of lush greenery, this enchanting garden offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
One of the main attractions at Hershey Gardens is its stunning array of flowers and plants.
The gardens feature various themed sections, including the renowned Rose Garden, where you can marvel at over 5,000 breathtaking roses in bloom.
What to Expect at Hershey Gardens
As you stroll through the tropical world of the Butterfly Atrium you are surrounded by a glass-enclosed conservatory filled with exotic plants and hundreds of butterflies.
You will have the opportunity to witness butterflies in various stages of their life cycle and observe their delicate beauty up close.
The Children’s Garden is a delightful area that encourages exploration and play.
It features interactive exhibits, including a maze, a treehouse, and a whimsical garden filled with child-friendly plants and sculptures.
Plus, it’s a perfect spot for children to discover the wonders of nature in a fun and educational setting.
The Japanese Garden at Hershey Gardens is a beautifully designed space that incorporates traditional elements of Japanese garden design.
It features a koi pond, a teahouse, and meticulously pruned trees and shrubs.
Plus, it’s an oasis of calm where you can relax and appreciate the harmony of nature.
In the Herb Garden, take in the scents and learn about the different uses of these herbs.
From lavender and rosemary to basil and mint, the Herb Garden showcases a diverse collection of plants used for medicinal, culinary, and aromatic purposes.
Located within Hershey Gardens, the Milton and Catherine Hershey Conservatory is a glass-enclosed structure that houses a diverse collection of tropical plants.
It provides a year-round opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of plants from around the world, including exotic orchids, cacti, and tropical trees. The gardens also have seasonal activities that you can come out and enjoy!
3. The Spa at Hotel Hershey
The Spa at Hotel Hershey is a luxurious retreat located in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Situated within the historic Hotel Hershey, this world-class spa offers a range of indulgent treatments and therapies designed to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.
The spa is surrounded by lush gardens and spectacular views creating a serene ambiance for guests.
In addition to the spa treatments, guests at the Spa at Hotel Hershey can also enjoy various amenities such as their fitness center, steam room, sauna, and whirlpool.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
The Spa at Hotel Hershey offers an extensive menu of treatments and therapies. From massages and facials to body wraps, scrubs, and salon services, there are options available to suit individual preferences and needs.
Each treatment is performed by highly skilled therapists using high-quality products.
The signature chocolate treatments are a delightful nod to Hershey’s heritage. These indulgent experiences incorporate cocoa and other natural ingredients to nourish the skin and provide a blissful sensory experience.
What to Expect at The Spa at Hotel Hershey
The Spa at Hotel Hershey also features beautiful spa gardens and an outdoor pool area that visitors love to escape and unwind in.
Guests can dip in the pool, enjoy the sun on lounge chairs, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the carefully landscaped gardens.
Finally, the spa boutique offers a selection of skincare products, candles, bath essentials, and other wellness items. It’s a perfect place to find luxurious souvenirs or take home a piece of the spa experience.
To book an appointment, call 1-844-330-1797, and for more information check here.
4. The Hershey Story Museum
The Hershey Story Museum offers a rich and engaging experience that celebrates the legacy of Milton S. Hershey and the sweet success of the Hershey chocolate brand.
Through its interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and hands-on activities, the museum provides an educational and entertaining exploration of Hershey’s history, the chocolate-making process, and the philanthropic vision of its founder.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
The Chocolate Lab is a popular attraction in the museum where visitors can participate in chocolate-making workshops and demonstrations.
Led by chocolate experts, these interactive sessions allow guests to create their own chocolate treats, learn about the art of chocolate tasting, and explore the science behind chocolate production.
Throughout the museum, you’ll have the opportunity to sample various types of Hershey’s chocolates and discover their unique flavors.
There are often live demonstrations where chocolatiers showcase their skills and explain the intricacies of chocolate creation.
What to Expect at The Hershey Story Museum
The museum features a rotating gallery that showcases community-driven exhibits and art installations.
These exhibits often explore the cultural impact of chocolate and highlight the diverse stories and contributions of individuals within the Hershey community.
It houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts, documents, and memorabilia related to Hershey’s chocolate and the town’s history.
The museum’s archives provide valuable insights into the evolution of the Hershey company, its advertising campaigns, and the impact of Milton Hershey’s philanthropy.
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5. Hershey Tanger Outlets
About 5 to 7 minutes away from the town of Hershey is the Tanger outlets!
Hershey Tanger Outlets provides a shopping experience that combines popular brands with attractive discounts.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
With its diverse selection of stores and convenient amenities, the outlet mall offers an enjoyable and satisfying shopping outing in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
It features a diverse selection of stores, offering a wide range of products across various categories.
What to Expect at The Hershey Tanger Outlets
From clothing, footwear, and accessories to home goods, electronics, and specialty items, you’ll find a ton of options to cater to different tastes and preferences.
You will find lots of brand name selections here as well such as Kate Spade, Disney, and Vera Bradley.
You can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and snack bars that offer a range of culinary choices to suit different preferences.
Throughout the year the outlet mall will occasionally have seasonal events, promotions, and entertainment programs as well. Something I love doing as a Passholder of Hersheypark!
These events may include holiday-themed activities, live performances, or special shopping experiences, adding an extra layer of excitement to the shopping trip.
6. Swatara Creek Park
Swatara Creek is a destination of picturesque and peaceful natural settings. It’s perfect for those who love to enjoy the great outdoors.
Visitors can get outside and enjoy many outdoor activities, explore the surrounding State Park, and appreciate the beauty of Pennsylvania’s landscape.
Swatara Creek was used for transporting goods and powering mills in the past, highlighting its importance in the area’s history.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
Swatara Creek has historical significance as it played a role in the transportation and industrial development of the region.
The park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
Fishing is a popular pastime, with the creek home to a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and catfish.
Canoeing and kayaking are also popular because the creek provides calm and scenic stretches suitable for paddling adventures.
What to Expect at Swatara Creek Park
It features hiking trails that wind through forests and meadows, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Picnic areas, campgrounds, and playgrounds are also available for those wanting to spend a day or more immersed in the outdoors.
They take pride in restoring the environment and conserving it and it definitely shows!
7. Catch a Hershey Bears Hockey Game
The Hershey Bears are a big part of the Hershey community.
With their passionate fan base, commitment to community, and affiliation with the Washington Capitals, the Bears continue to be a beloved and successful hockey team in the AHL.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
The Bears play their home games at the Giant Center, an arena in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
They are one of the oldest and most successful franchises in the AHL, with a strong fan base and a reputation for excellence.
The Hershey Bears were created in 1932 and have a rich history in professional hockey.
What to Expect at a Hershey Bears Hockey Game
The Giant Center is known for its passionate and energetic atmosphere, with fans showing unwavering support for their team.
The Hershey Bears have won the Calder Cup, the championship trophy of the AHL, 11 times. Their championship wins have made them one of the most successful teams in AHL history.
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8. Hershey Antique Auto Museum
The AACA Museum provides a captivating experience for auto enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
You will find a diverse collection of vintage vehicles, interactive exhibits, and educational programs.
The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage and evolution of automobiles in a beautiful setting in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Why This is One of The Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
Visitors can explore a wide range of vehicles, including classic cars from the early 20th century, vintage sports cars, iconic American muscle cars, and even historic race cars.
The museum’s collection showcases the evolution of automotive design and engineering over the years.
What to Expect at The Hershey Antique Auto Museum
The museum features rotating exhibits and displays that highlight different aspects of automotive history and culture.
These exhibits often focus on specific themes or eras, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the impact of automobiles on society and showcasing unique and significant vehicles.
The AACA Museum offers interactive experiences that allow visitors to engage with the exhibits in a hands-on way.
Plus, the museum hosts special events throughout the year where you can come out for car shows, vintage vehicle rallies, and educational programs.
The museum is also home to a restoration center where skilled craftsmen work on restoring and preserving vintage vehicles.
Visitors can observe the restoration process and gain insights into the meticulous work that goes into bringing these historic automobiles back to their original glory.
9. ZooAmerica
ZooAmerica offers an immersive and educational experience.
It is a beautiful place where you can get a chance to connect with North American wildlife that you may not typically be able to.
Plus you leave with a deeper understanding of the animal’s natural habitats and conservation needs.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
With its diverse animal collection, informative programs, and commitment to wildlife preservation, the zoo provides a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
One of the best things about a visit to Hersheypark is that ZooAmerica is included with your admission ticket!
The diverse wildlife native to North America is one of the main focuses of ZooAmerica.
Visitors can explore various exhibits and habitats that highlight the natural habitats and ecosystems found across the continent.
The zoo features a wide range of animal exhibits that provide opportunities to observe and learn about the different species.
From mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians, there are over 200 animals within the zoo. And with more than 75 species, you are sure to see some of your favorites!
Some of the popular animals you may encounter include black bears, river otters, wolves, bald eagles, and American alligators.
What to Expect at a ZooAmerica
ZooAmerica offers various educational programs and presentations throughout the day.
It gives the opportunity to learn about the animals, their conservation status, and the importance of preserving their habitats.
These programs aim to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and inspire a love and appreciation for North American wildlife.
The zoo hosts seasonal and special events throughout the year, such as animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and themed activities.
10. Spring Creek Golf Course
You can find Spring Creek Golf Course situated amidst the beautiful landscape of the Hershey region. It offers players of all skill levels an enjoyable and challenging golfing experience.
The golf course is known for its picturesque setting and natural beauty.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do Near Hersheypark
You’ll see lush fairways lined with mature trees, offering a serene and tranquil environment as golfers make their way through the course.
The presence of Spring Creek adds to the aesthetic appeal, with water views and gentle cascades creating a visually pleasing experience.
What to Expect at Spring Creek Golf Course
It features an 18-hole, par-71 layout that spans over 6,602 yards from the back tees.
The course is thoughtfully designed, incorporating the natural contours of the land and water features, including Spring Creek which winds its way through several holes.
Spring Creek’s layout offers a mix of open fairways, strategic bunkering, and well-placed hazards, providing an interesting and varied round of golf.
The layout provides enough challenges to test experienced players, with well-placed hazards and strategic shot-making opportunities.
At the same time, it offers ample opportunities for beginners and higher handicap players to enjoy the game and improve their skills.
The golf course also offers practice facilities to help golfers refine their skills.
These include a driving range where players can work on their long shots, as well as putting and chipping greens to fine-tune their short game.
Professional instruction is available for those seeking guidance and improvement in their golfing abilities.
The golf course occasionally hosts golf events, tournaments, and outings, providing opportunities for friendly competition and community engagement.
These events may range from charity fundraisers to corporate outings, adding an element of excitement to the golfing experience.
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My Final Thoughts on The Best Things to Do Around Hersheypark
In conclusion, Hershey, Pennsylvania, offers a ton of exciting and enjoyable activities for visitors of all ages.
From indulging in the chocolatey delights of Hershey’s Chocolate World to exploring the beauty of nature at Hershey Gardens, there is something for everyone.
The Spa at Hotel Hershey provides a relaxing escape, while the Hershey Story Museum and ZooAmerica offer educational and entertaining experiences.
For shopping enthusiasts, Hershey Tanger Outlets offers a wide range of brand-name merchandise at discounted prices.
As for sports fans, they can cheer on the Hershey Bears at their thrilling ice hockey games. While golf enthusiasts can tee off at the scenic Spring Creek Golf Course.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of history and culture, Hershey, PA, is sure to delight with all of their attractions.
Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the sweetness and charm of this unique destination!
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Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home. You can find her at Disney Tea with V.
(Original Article Date: September 29, 2023/Updated by Editor on March 28, 2024)