Best Hershey Family Activities 2025: Sweeten Your Vacation
Hershey, Pennsylvania, isn't just about chocolate โ although that's a significant part of its charm! This delightful destination offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable vacation for everyone, regardless of age. Planning your trip for 2025? This comprehensive guide unveils the best Hershey family activities to make your sweet escape truly unforgettable.
Hersheypark: The Chocolate-Covered Heart of the Fun
No Hershey trip is complete without a visit to Hersheypark, a sprawling amusement park brimming with thrilling rides, captivating shows, and delightful surprises. For 2025, expect continued improvements and potentially new attractions, keeping the excitement fresh.
Thrill Seekers: Older kids and adults will relish the adrenaline rush of roller coasters like Fahrenheit, Storm Runner, and the Great Bear. These exhilarating rides offer breathtaking speeds and inversions, ensuring a heart-pounding experience.
Family Fun: Hersheypark caters to all ages. Younger children will find joy in the gentler rides at Hersheypark in the Dark, the park's Halloween event, and the various family-friendly areas, offering carousel rides, Ferris wheels, and charming character meet-and-greets. Don't miss the ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, a unique addition within the park itself, showcasing native animals.
Seasonal Events: Check the Hersheypark calendar for seasonal events like Hersheypark in the Dark (Halloween) and Christmas Candylane (holiday season). These special events add a unique dimension to your visit, offering themed decorations, shows, and activities.
Pro-Tip: Consider purchasing park tickets in advance online to avoid queues and potentially secure discounts. Utilize the park's mobile app for real-time wait times and show schedules.
Beyond the Rides: Exploring Hershey's Sweet Delights
While Hersheypark is the main attraction, Hershey offers many more engaging experiences.
Hershey's Chocolate World: A Sweet Sensory Overload
Hershey's Chocolate World is an interactive chocolate factory and visitor center. Here, you can indulge in chocolate tasting, create your own candy bar, and witness the magic of chocolate making firsthand. The free chocolate tasting is a must-do for any chocolate lover!
Create Your Own Candy Bar: This is a truly unique and fun experience. Kids (and adults) can design their own personalized candy bars, choosing from a wide array of toppings and fillings. It's a perfect souvenir and a sweet memory to take home.
Chocolate Tour: Witness the chocolate-making process from bean to bar. The interactive tour is both educational and entertaining, revealing the secrets behind Hershey's famous chocolate.
4D Chocolate Movie: Immerse yourselves in a captivating 4D movie experience, adding another layer to your chocolate adventure.
The Hershey Story Museum: A Journey Through Time
For a dose of history and culture, visit The Hershey Story Museum. This museum chronicles the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Hershey empire. Learn about his entrepreneurial spirit, philanthropic endeavors, and the impact he had on the town and its people. Interactive exhibits make the experience engaging for all ages.
ZooAmerica: A Wildlife Encounter
As mentioned, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, located within Hersheypark, offers a unique opportunity to see native North American animals in naturalistic habitats. This is a great option for animal lovers of all ages.
Sweet Treats Beyond the Park: Indulge Your Senses
Hershey is a paradise for chocolate lovers. Beyond the main attractions, explore the town's charming streets and discover hidden gems offering delicious treats.
- Hershey's Ice Cream Shop: Indulge in a refreshing scoop or two of Hershey's ice cream. The classic flavors are always a hit, but you might also find seasonal specialties.
- Local Chocolatiers: Discover small, independent chocolatiers offering unique and artisanal chocolate creations. These often offer a more intimate and personalized experience.
- Hershey's Chocolate Shop: Stock up on your favorite Hershey's products, from classic bars to seasonal treats. This is a perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
Beyond Chocolate: Other Family Activities in Hershey
While chocolate is central to Hershey's identity, the town offers other activities that diversify your vacation.
- Hershey Gardens: Explore beautiful themed gardens, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling amusement park. This is a great place for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
- Giant Center: If you're looking for some retail therapy, the Giant Center offers a wide array of shops and restaurants.
- Surrounding Areas: Explore the charming towns and countryside surrounding Hershey. Consider a day trip to nearby Lancaster County, known for its Amish culture and scenic landscapes.
Planning Your Hershey Family Vacation for 2025: Practical Tips
- Accommodation: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Consider staying at one of the Hershey resort hotels for added convenience and access to amenities.
- Transportation: Hershey is easily accessible by car. However, consider public transport or ride-sharing services if you don't plan on driving.
- Budget: Set a realistic budget, factoring in park tickets, accommodation, food, and souvenirs.
- Packing: Pack comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and rain gear, depending on the weather forecast.
Conclusion: A Sweet Escape for the Whole Family
Hershey offers an abundance of activities to create a truly memorable family vacation in 2025. From the thrill of Hersheypark to the sweet indulgence of Chocolate World and the historical insights at The Hershey Story Museum, there's something for everyone. With careful planning and a little bit of chocolate, your Hershey family adventure is guaranteed to be a sweet success. Remember to check the official websites for updated information on hours, pricing, and special events. Enjoy your trip!