24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hershey (Pennsylvania)

Hershey, Pennsylvania is often called the sweetest place on earth thanks to its history and the legacy it forever has in Hershey’s chocolates.

Situated just to the east of Harrisburg, it is a census-designated place and unincorporated community that is a part of Derry Township.

Despite its small size, its proximity to the Harrisburg−Carlisle Metropolitan Statistical Area means it’s relatively bustling, and it promises a lot of excitement for those here on vacation.

The town was originally founded solely for workers with its self-titled candy-making company.

Since then, it has grown and thrived, transforming over time into a delightful and close-knit community united by their love of chocolate and the generosity of the man behind the company.

With so many things to see, it can be tough for you to choose the places you want to check out while you’re in this chocolate-covered town.

Here are our picks for our travel guide of the 24 best and fun things to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

1. Hershey’s Chocolate World

Hershey’s Chocolate World is easily one of the top things to do in Hershey, PA – it’s what the town is known for!

Sights, smells, and flavors of chocolatey goodness await you in all corners.

Expect to see a ton of different activities, ranging from learning about the wonderful development of chocolate from bean to dessert to deeper looks into unique aspects of the sweet treat’s world.

You’ll get to enjoy the Chocolate Tasting Experience, where you’ll be taught the right way to discern different flavors in chocolates by food experts.

You’ll also get to watch a 4D Chocolate Movie where you get to participate in the solving of a chocolate-themed mystery.

There’s also a fascinating Unwrapped tour that shows you how the company produces its candies and how the industry has changed and grown over the years and a historical Chocolate Trolley tour that tells you about the story of the company’s founder.

One of the most popular experiences at Chocolate World is one where you can create your own candy bar, choosing packaging, ingredients, and getting a yummy taste, too.

In addition to all of that, trips into the Chocolate World have no admission charge, making them one of the tastiest free things to do you’ll find in the country!

Each tour ends in further freebies with free delicious samples of sinful goodies.

Address: 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

2. Hersheypark

Hersheypark is a famous tourist attraction in Pennsylvania that dates back to 1907.

Originally, it was merely designed as a park for employees of its self-titled company, serving as a public green space and a “gift” to workers.

Located in Derry, it’s a delightful mix of heart-pumping action and laid-back recreation.

Today, Hersheypark has grown significantly into one of the biggest Hershey attractions, with lots of features that add to its enjoyable nature.

Over 70 different rides and attractions, including roller coasters and a water park, make it an exciting delight for people of all ages.

The Boardwalk is one of the park’s chief draws, with a tidal wave pool, waterslides, an area for kids to play, and even a water-themed attraction reaching seven stories into the sky!

Different themed areas are scattered further throughout the park and there are some venues that even host live song and dance performances.

Check out The Hollow, Midway America, Kissing Tower Hill, and Pioneer Frontier to catch all the different kinds of activities available!

Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

3. Antique Automobile Club of America Museum

The Antique Automobile Club of America Museum is a great spot to get your fill of the beauty of vintage cars.

For any automobile enthusiast, this is one of the best options for what to do while you’re in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

It is even affiliated with the reputable Smithsonian Institution, so you know you can trust it.

Fun for people of all ages, the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum brings you on a journey through almost 100 different vehicles that boast the history of the automobile industry, dating as far back as the 1890s and as recently as the 1980s.

All sorts of different vehicles are proudly on display, including trucks, classic cars, and buses.

Some of the highlights of the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum are the 1906 Cadillac Model E Runabout, the four-hour expert-taught course on Model T driving, and the impressive 1896 Ford Quadricycle.

There are also numerous hands-on exhibits that let you directly interact with displays, like an assembly line, that teach you a bit more about the production of these lovely machines and their evolution.

At the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum, you can opt for behind-the-scenes tours to take in even more of the rich legacy and heritage of the automobiles on display.

This tour will show you a bunch more vehicles that aren’t typically displayed to the public.

There are also numerous workshops and programs that are held throughout the course of the year, especially for children.

Address: 161 Museum Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

4. ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is easily one of the most fun things to do in Hershey, PA.

If you bought a ticket to Hersheypark, you’ll have admission to ZooAmerica included with the package – but even without that, the wildlife park is still worth its own visit.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park spans 11 acres and is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, hosting over two hundred individual animals and lots of plants too, representing five different regions in North America. Bats, lizards, bears, wolves are just a few examples of the animals that call this park their home.

At ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, you can get up close and personal with flora and fauna.

Different habitats, such as Northlands, Southern Swamps, The Great Southwest, Eastern Woodlands, and Big Sky County separate animals into natural environments.

A number of events are also held all year long, ranging from ZooCamp to tours.

Wild Winter Adventure, Animal Tales, and Preschool Palooza are just a few of the most popular.

Address: 201 Park Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

5. Hershey Gardens

If you’re looking for good vacation spots, you cannot go wrong with Hershey Gardens!

The Hershey Gardens are a stunning expanse of botanical gardens stretching across 23 acres, located within the stunning Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory of Pennsylvania.

Packed with things to see, it’s easily the top most beautiful spot in the census-designated unincorporated community.

The gardens are nothing short of marvelous, with multiple themed areas to cater to all flora preferences.

The Butterfly Atrium, one of the only of its kind in the country to be opened all year round, is full of gorgeous fluttering creatures.

The Seasonal Display Garden changes regularly with fresh sights.

The Hoop House is home to a 10,000-honeybee working colony and a sustainable garden.

And of course, the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Children’s Garden, Her Garden, and Ornamental Grass Garden all have something unique to offer, too.

The gardens are decorated with numerous palm trees, elegant presentations of different flora, and stained-glass butterfly decor.

All the founder of the chocolate company sought was a pretty rose garden, but since its opening in 1937, it has become so much more than that!

As you walk around, you’ll get to bask in the tranquility and serenity of the botanical gardens and their rare shrubs, trees, and flowers.

Address: 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

6. The Spa at The Hotel Hershey

The Spa at The Hotel Hershey is a great way to unwind and relax this weekend in the lap of luxury.

It’s so famous in Pennsylvania that it’s become one of its tourist attractions, especially thanks to its chocolate-themed experiences.

Known also as The Chocolate Spa, it is nothing short of tranquil.

An incredibly indulgent experience, The Spa is set against the backdrop of pretty gardens with panoramic views.

It proves many different treatment options, including hydrotherapy, massages, wraps, and facials, with lots of product choices, customizable experiences, and seasonal offerings.

Its waiting room evokes a sense of calm from the start with aromatherapy scents, ensuring that you’re pampered from the start.

Treatments at The Spa are often chocolate-infused.

For example, you can enjoy a Whipped Cocoa Bath or a hot chocolate wrap.

There are also less-chocolatey experiences for those with less of a taste for the dessert, such as a lime, jasmine, raw sugar, and coconut Cuban treatment.

Address: 100 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

7. Giant Center

The Giant Center is the home of the professional ice hockey team known as the Hershey Bears, which is the longest-standing member of the American Hockey League.

With a 10,500-person seating capacity, the Giant Center is one of this Pennsylvania community’s main places to visit for concerts, sporting events, and other forms of entertainment.

If you’re heading over this weekend, its schedule is worth checking out!

The multipurpose arena of the Giant Center first opened in 2002 with a grand event of a concert by Cher.

Since then, it’s not just been home to sporting events, but all sorts of exciting offerings like American Idol Live, Unforgiven by the WWE, and the Harlem Globetrotters.

Concession stands are open during big events to sell all sorts of snacks, including chocolates!

Address: 550 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

8. Hershey Trolley Works

If you’re looking for fun stuff to do to better explore this part of Pennsylvania, Hershey Trolley Works has you covered.

Providing relaxing rides, the company offers trolley tours made by knowledgeable and entertaining conductors that teach you about the settlement’s history.

While riding a Trolley Works tour, you’ll pass by a litany of areas and sites that are famous in the community.

From kiss-shaped street lights to the birthplaces of historical figures, you’ll learn all sorts of facts about this wonderful little town.

It’s a great starting point for your vacation here, giving you an overview of all the great things to enjoy.

Tours last 75 minutes and also double as chocolate tasting tours.

There are all sorts of options available, with some of the best ones being the Trick or Treat Trolley, Chocolate and History Trolley, and the Summer Adventure Trolley, with many more seasonal choices popping up every so often!

Address: 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

9. Hersheypark Stadium

Looking for what to see on an even grander scale than the Giant Center?

Head to the Hersheypark Stadium this weekend and see what will be playing!

The stadium first opened its doors in 1939 and has since grown into a prime venue for sporting events, concerts, and more.

This Pennsylvania stadium has room for 30,000 music concert audience members and 16,000 athletic event audience members.

It boasts impressively high-quality synthetic grass and has been home to multiple historic events.

Some notable ones include the Cavalcade of Bands, the American Hockey League Outdoor Classic, the Tournament of Bands, some other Atlantic Coast Championship competitions, and even one of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s birthday galas.

Even when the events hosted aren’t as grand, there’s a lot of enjoyment to be had at this stadium.

Football, soccer, concerts, and more allow for a variety of offerings that the whole family can sink their teeth into!

Address: 100 West Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

10. Hershey Theatre

A trip to the Hershey Theatre at night may be one of the most fun and romantic things to do in this humble portion of Pennsylvania.

As far as places to visit go, it’s one of the town’s most elegant and luxurious, and among the nice places in America!

The historically rich theatre first opened in 1933 on East Caracas Avenue, with its chief architect being the talented and skilled C. Emlen Urban from Lancaster.

The building was widely promoted and was a part of the Great Building Campaign that took off from the years 1929 to 1933, during the time of the depression.

Today, the theatre seats 1,904 individuals and has been the stage for many incredible events and performances.

Musical acts, dance shows, Broadway productions… there’s no end to what you can enjoy!

It’s also simply a highly regal and stunning structure, with an Italian floor of polished lava rock, a gorgeous painted ceiling, and many marble accents.

The fact that it’s near to a lot of different restaurants also makes it a convenient date location!

Address: 15 E Caracas Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

11. The Hershey Story Museum

The Hershey Story Museum is a laid-back, quaint little location in the downtown area.

It’s one of the best things to do in Hershey, PA if you’re interested not just in the chocolate side of the town, but the very roots of the company that shares its name – including the life of the man behind it all, Milton Hershey.

As you walk through the Story Museum, you’ll learn all about Mr. Milton, his legacy, and his philanthropy.

He made huge contributions to the world of business and his impact lives on now, and you’ll understand just how much it does when you’re here.

There are also collectibles displayed relating to the brand.

The museum shop sells memorabilia and candies, and there are a couple of cafes to grab a drink or a bite on site.

One of the more popular activities at the Story Museum is the Chocolate Lab, which is an interactive, hands-on experience where you’ll learn how to dip and mold chocolate.

There is also the Tastings room, where you can learn about the locations of the many regions where cocoa beans are grown around the world.

You’ll taste internationally sourced drinking chocolates, bringing you across the planet from this little town!

Address: 63 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

12. Tröegs Independent Brewing

The Tröegs Independent Brewing first opened its doors in 1997 and has grown into one of the few Hershey attractions that aren’t focused on chocolate!

It’s easily among the greatest breweries in this part of Pennsylvania, so it’s worth a visit if you like your drinks.

It’s one of America’s biggest independent brewing companies and is iconic in its offerings.

There are six beers that Tröegs Independent Brewing produces throughout the year and five that it creates on a seasonal basis.

Each one is sold across the entire country.

Some of the most fun and famous are DreamWeaver Wheat, Sunshine Pils, HopBack Amber Ale, and Tröegs Pale Ale.

You’ll get to try them all in a huge tasting room that also provides you with some brews that aren’t available anywhere else.

Tröegs Independent Brewing also has amazing food for you to try and accompany your beer with!

A self-guided tour of the brewery will teach you all about how beer is made, from the small beginnings of fermentation to the steps of filtration, to the barrel-aging process, and even up to kegging and bottling.

Signages along the way provide you with even more information, and the tours are meant to be accessible to all.

Guided tours can also be availed of, which provide even more in-depth knowledge and a souvenir glass to bring home.

Address: 200 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

13. Hershey History Center

The Hershey History Center is one of the top options for what to do in Hershey, devoted to the long and rich history of the Township of Derry and the community that spawned within it.

It is home to a genealogical library and focuses a lot on the lifestyles of those who lived in the “old days” of Derry.

The Hershey History Center is home to over a whopping 50,000 photographs, artifacts, and more that relate to the area’s first few settlers in this little town of Pennsylvania.

The Native Americans who once called this region their home are honored and discussed, and the development of the land into the town it is today can be clearly seen in the exhibits.

Among the Hershey History Center’s coolest exhibits are The Preservation of our Community’s Architectural Legacy, A Pictorial History of Our Community, Then & Now, and The History of Medicine in Derry Township.

There are also occasional events and activities hosted here, including an Annual Skating Party and an Art on Chocolate event.

Address: 40 Northeast Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

14. Adventure Sports Family Entertainment

With a name like Adventure Sports Family Entertainment, you just know that the activities at this amusement park make for some of the most fun things to do in Hershey, PA.

It can be found very close to the Hershey Amusement Park on Elizabethtown Road.

It first opened in 1990 and is a sports complex perfect for people of all ages.

Adventure Sports Family Entertainment is packed with all sorts of ways to spend your time.

There are bumper boats, video arcades, miniature golf, go-karts, batting cages, a driving range, a picnic pavilion, and even outdoor laser tag.

A full snack bar ensures that you never go hungry.

You can choose how much you spend here, too, as each ride has its separate charge.

When you’re done with all the games, you can take a break at the ice cream parlor or set up a blanket at the picnic pavilion.

Perhaps you’d want to unwind at the clubhouse or explore the 10 acres of land that make up Adventure Sports Family Entertainment, complete with waterfalls and flowers.

However you choose to spend your time here, you’ll be loving it!

You can even opt to host private or corporate parties and meetings here, as the amusement park provides catering!

Address: 3010 Elizabethtown Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

Looking for more thrill? Why not check out Erie and Lancaster? If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in Erie, PA, and some of the best things to do in Lancaster, PA!

15. Segway Tours at The Hotel Hershey

The best way to get around and find all the good things to see is to hop onto Segway Tours at The Hotel Hershey.

After all, what activities could be more fun than riding a segway to tour this Pennsylvania community?

There are two tours offered by the Segway Tours company.

The first is the Off-Road Tour, which brings you through the hotel’s many gardens and grounds, including some peaceful and lonely woodlands backed by gorgeous cascading views.

The second is the Historical Tour, which provides you with a deep-diving tour of the hotel itself, as well as the history of the town’s name and the man behind it all.

The use of self-balancing, battery-powered, and highly modern Segway Personal Transporters ensures your safety as you ride on these state-of-the-art modes of transportation.

People of all ages can engage in these tours, and a short training session beforehand ensures you know some of the ropes for this slightly adventurous trip!

Address: 100 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

16. Cocoa Kayak Rentals of Hershey

Cocoa Kayak Rentals of Hershey is technically outside of town, but it’s so near and thematic that they’re worth the short trip if you’re in Pennsylvania.

It’s a good way to take a break from the general chocolate-focus of the town and have a little time for relaxation, just to yourself.

Swatara Creek is a lovely little waterway that curves on the edge of the township, providing optimal locations and waters for kayaking.

That’s why Cocoa Kayak Rentals saw the opportunity to set up shop here, offering boat rentals to those who want a little time to just hang out on the calm creek.

Reasonably priced and fun, there’s a reason that Cocoa Kayak Rentals of Hershey has become one of few favored tourist attractions.

Kids aged 10 and above can ride their own kayak, while those aged 6 and above can simply ride in tandem with an adult.

Address: 624 Pine Rd, Palmyra, PA 17078, United States

17. The Pennsylvania State Police Museum

The Pennsylvania State Police Museum is one of the more generalized places to visit in town.

Instead of focusing on the community’s roots, it shifts its concentration to the larger state.

Dedicated to the state police, the museum is one of the key places to visit for travelers in the area.

This State Police Museum is home to many exhibits, artifacts, documents, memorials, and memorabilia showcases.

Among them is the PA State Highway Patrol exhibit that lets you view rare documents from the highway patrol.

You’ll also find PA State Police Rodeo to learn about the final rodeo, dating back to 1974, and the Great Anthracite Strike that led to the police’s formation in 1902.

You can even see some of the vehicles used by the state police at the Patrol Vehicles exhibit; one of them is a beautifully restored Plymouth Fury from 1972.

On the property of the State Police Museum, you’ll also view an official memorial dedicated to almost 100 different names.

These names belong to police officers with the state force that passed away in the line of duty.

Address: 187 E Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

18. Tanger Outlets

Looking for places to visit where you can shop to your heart’s content in Pennsylvania?

Check out Tanger Outlets!

This fun outlet mall offers over 50 different stores with all sorts of deals and bargains.

Apparel, accessories, footwear, and more are sold across brands like Ann Taylor, Coach, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger.

Most interestingly, Tanger Outlets is home to the world’s only outlet store for American Girl dolls.

As such, if you’re a collector of them or are a fan of them in general, a trip to Tanger Outlets is practically mandatory!

You can explore all the other shops, too, where you may find some hidden treasures and gems!

Address: 46 Outlet Square, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

19. Founders Hall at the Milton Hershey School

Founders Hall at the Milton Hershey School is dedicated to Milton and his wife Catherine themselves as a way of honoring their contributions to the community.

It’s one of central Pennsylvania’s most majestic and one-of-a-kind architectural works and is among the things to see you shouldn’t miss while in town.

Founders Hall was built over the course of three years towards the tail end of the 1960s as a tribute to Milton and Catherine.

The couple was instrumental in the creation of a stronger, better community thanks to their philanthropy.

After all, the school, funded by them and also founded by them, providing career training, housing, healthcare, clothing, meals, and education at no cost for those in need!

At Founders Hall, a Visitor’s Center provides tours of the structure that have no charge, making them one of the few free things to do in the little town.

It’s true to the generosity of Milton and Catherine!

Tours last for approximately an hour and are truly inspiring to listen to.

Address: E Homestead Ln, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

20. Indian Echo Caverns

The Indian Echo Caverns in Pennsylvania are just slightly outside of the community, located in Hummelstown.

The caverns boast tons of historic value and richness of legacy, dating back 440 million years.

As far as places to go, it doesn’t get more cultural than this!

These beautiful spaces of the caverns are packed with stalactites, stalagmites, limestone, and lakes.

All year-round, the temperature sits at a cool 52 degrees, and tours are offered to give you the full legacy-filled experience.

Each tour teaches you about the formation of the caverns and the different names for each.

Other activities at the Indian Echo Caverns sit above ground, and they’re lots of fun for the whole family.

A petting zoo, picnic areas, a gift shop, a spot to pan for gemstones, a playground, and even a mini-golf course await!

Address: 368 Middletown Rd, Hummelstown, PA 17036, United States

21. Hershey Symphony Orchestra

The Hershey Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra with shows that have been among the best things to do in Hershey, PA for a whopping eight decades.

High-quality performances and glorious music provide incredible experiences as you watch their talent live at night!

The symphony orchestra puts on a total of four annual concerts, not including a POPS concert and Shall We Dance, an annual benefit gala.

Its performances encompass many genres, from Broadway numbers to classics.

There is also an educational program for those who want to learn to play string instruments, and special events may be hosted throughout any given year, too.

A spin-off ensemble of the orchestra also plays regularly.

It is known simply as the Hershey Symphony Big Band and typically “headlines” the Hershey Symphony Festival Strings Youth Orchestra, which provides young people with the chance to play music in this environment.

Address: Hershey, PA 17033, United States

Planning a road trip around Pennsylvania? Why not visit Philadelphia, Pittsburg, and Scranton? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Philadelphia, some top things to do in Pittsburg, and some fun things to do in Scranton, PA!

22. Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail

The Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail is a great option among Hershey attractions to go to if you need to work off all the chocolate you’ve been eating.

It measures 13.5 miles in length and is a beautiful way to explore the Pennsylvania countryside.

Near to many more popular tourist hotspots, it’s easy to hop onto and hop out of at your leisure.

Follow the Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail through multiple lovely community parks as you ride a bike or walk the stretch.

It’s relaxing, enriching, and a great way to chill out outdoors for some moderate exercise!

Address: Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail, Hummelstown, PA 17036, United States

23. Hershey Grill

Looking for what to do to satisfy a hungry stomach?

Hershey Grill is a great place in Pennsylvania to head to for some truly delicious meals.

A resort casual establishment, it uses all sorts of unique house-made sauces and serves up a significant selection of specials with unique combinations of tastes.

Naturally, many of the restaurant’s food involves cocoa and chocolate, with chocolate butter and bread starters and sweet chocolatey desserts for later.

But as a good restaurant, it has more than just sinful treats for sweet teeth!

Flavorful dishes with bright seasonings served for all three meals a day make for yummy meals, no matter what you’re craving.

Kids get standard children’s menu classics while grown-ups can enjoy grilled salmon, butternut squash risotto, or chicken fried steak.

Address: 325 University Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

24. Cullari Vineyards and Winery

The Cullari Vineyards and Winery can be found on East Chocolate Avenue and is the community’s only vineyard and winery.

It’s also one of the most fun things to do in Hershey, PA if you love your wine!

Many different wines are produced here, totaling about 25,000 bottles annually.

They range from reds to whites and from sweet wines to pinks.

Its first vineyard opened in 2000 while its second became operational in 2007.

Despite being a relatively small company, Cullari Vineyards and Winery maintains charm in its little boutique fashion.

Operated by Kathi and Salvator Cullari, the latter of whom is descended from a long family history of traditional winemakers, it is a humble but high-quality company that is one of the town’s tourist attractions in its own right.

Address: 1251 E Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Hershey

Hershey is a gorgeous spot full of all sorts of different Hershey attractions that are sure to capture your attention.

Whether you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, find free things to do on a budget, or enjoy life in the lap of luxury, this Pennsylvania town has something for you!

Happy travels.