Planning a fall stay? We can't wait to welcome you to enjoy our hospitality and sweet chocolate details around every corner.

Here's a guide to everything you need to know before you go to help prepare for a sweet autumn visit in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth starting with check-in. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at Hershey Lodge begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 11 a.m.

Kids' Check-In
Children can experience their very own check-in on select weekend dates at our Kids' Check-In desk in the lobby, where they are welcome to sign the kids' guest book, participate in a Hershey's candy guessing game and receive a chocolate surprise. Please view our activities schedule for availability.

Housekeeping
For your comfort, we will only enter your guest room to provide housekeeping service upon your request.
To request a refresh cleaning of your guest room simply dial extension 1099 or text 717-282-1153 before 10 p.m. for service on the next day. Our team stands ready to assist with any guest room amenities upon request.

Amenities
Hershey Lodge rooms are equipped with everything you need to feel right at home. Please view our guest room amenities and services here.

Download the HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Lodge, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices.

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

During the fall season, Hershey Lodge offers fun family-friendly activities for guests on weekends ranging from s'mores roasts, chocolate bingo, Hershey Character appearances, fall crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

Guests can also take advantage of recreation amenities on property on weekends, such as basketball, tennis and pickleball, weather permitting.

MAKE A SPLASH AT HERSHEY'S WATER WORKS

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Families won't want to miss Hershey's Water Works, an exclusive and complimentary amenity for our overnight guests. Rain or shine, guests can enjoy some sweet indoor fun at our year-round indoor pool complex, featuring interactive water features, such as Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk, zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, basketball hoops and more. The complex also features an indoor arcade and fitness center as well as Cocoa Cabana snack bar.

Exclusive Hersheypark Benefits

If you're planning a visit to Hersheypark during your stay, take advantage of all of the perks that come with being a guest of one of the Official Resorts of Hersheypark! All guests of Hershey Lodge receive the below FREE Resort Benefits:

• Extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan
  • Preview Plan: Resort guests enjoy up to 2.5 extra evening hours the night before their full-day visit. Simply, present your ticket at the main entrance and enjoy a fun-filled evening.
• FREE front gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark
• Best price on Hersheypark tickets

Hersheypark transforms for its seasonal Hersheypark Halloween event and the fifth anniversary of the Dark Nights immersive haunt experience every weekend from Sept. 12 through Nov. 1. View hours here.

As part of Hersheypark Halloween and the fifth-annual Dark Nights, guests can experience five walk-through haunted houses, five scare zones including the brand new Reese's Depot of Doom scare zone, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail and more - all included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket. The eight-weekend event will also feature exclusive culinary creations, including the return of the popular Dark Nights Tasting Pass, with themed food and drink offerings, pop-up retail and live entertainment.

MORE FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Save some time in your itinerary for a visit to some other area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hershey Lodge receive additional FREE Resort Benefits, including access to 2 award-winning golf courses at Hershey Country Club, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as bears, wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. On weekends from Oct. 16 - Nov. 1 from 6 - 9 p.m., grab your flashlight and explore the Zoo to discover nocturnal animals during Creatures of the Night.
  • Note: Entrance to ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark only when entered via the Hersheypark bridge during park hours.
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden with 11 themed gardens, beautiful fall foliage and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. During your visit, check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which includes a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring 600 butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.
• The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests to learn all about the life and legacy of our founder Milton S. Hershey, the town he created, and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where you can try your hand at chocolate pouring and decorating.

DINING

Hershey Lodge offers a variety of delicious dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Visit HersheyLodge.com/Dining for hours and more info. Options include:

• STACKS: A breakfast and lunch restaurant serving dishes stacked high with flavor, ranging from stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles to Double Decker BLTs.
• Fire & Grain: An innovative menu of re-mastered comfort foods and flavorful cocktails for breakfast, dinner and happy hour.
• The Bears’ Den: A sports-themed restaurant with a hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after our hometown team, the Hershey Bears.
• Revelry: Classic and contemporary chophouse fare with premium cuts and the largest wine & spirits list in the house.
• Cocoa Beanery: An all-day coffee shop, serving up eats, ice cream, drinks and treats.
• Cocoa Cabana: An indoor poolside cafe offering a selection of starters, salads, sandwiches and ice cream while guests enjoy Hershey’s Water Works.
• Room Service: Guests can order popular dishes from Fire & Grain, Revelry, and Stacks right to their room from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Dining choices in town include the new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant, bar and patio open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. Note: A Hersheypark ticket is not required.

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

During your getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at MeltSpa by Hershey, our day spa in downtown Hershey. Nothing will get you in the autumn mood quite like the Pumpkin Spice Collection, featuring a Pumpkin Spice Massage, Immersion, Manicure and Pedicure available through Nov. 30. As always, signature Hershey's chocolate treatments and exclusive dark chocolate treatments are available as well. Plan your spa day by calling 855-500-2366 or booking online on our website.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, you will want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. Hershey Lodge has everything you need inside Sweet Memories gift shop for souvenirs, such as Hershey's chocolate, giftware, apparel, accessories, seasonal items and more. Gift bags, baskets, and shipping are available for in-store purchase.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

While you're here, share your sweet fall photos with us on social and use #HersheyPA on Facebook, Instagram and X!

Spanning nearly 25 days and including Halloween night, a single ticket grants guests access to more than 50 rides and dark coaster experiences, Hershey’s Trick Or Treat Trail, live entertainment, five haunted houses and five scare zones. Visitors can also indulge in exclusive seasonal food and beverage offerings—including themed menu items along the Avenue Of The Afterlife path—or opt for the fan-favorite Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass.

Hersheypark Halloween is recognized as one of the top Halloween events in the country. The seasonal experience was just nominated for the USA TODAY 10Best Theme Park Halloween Event for 2026, with daily voting open through Sept. 21 at noon. 

Hersheypark Halloween event hours are 5-10 p.m. on Fridays (beginning Sept. 18), 12-10 p.m. on Saturdays and 12-9 p.m. on Sundays. Dark Nights begins each night at 6 p.m. and extends one hour after the Park closes, running Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. and Sundays until 10 p.m.

Dark Nights Presented by Reese’s and Kit Kat®

Dark Nights at Hersheypark Halloween returns for its fifth year of spine-tingling haunts nightly at 6 p.m. Dark Nights features five haunted houses with evolved stories.

• Kill ‘N Fill Garage: The lights are back on at the Kill ‘N Fill Garage, but it’s not for a tune-up. The group of killers has returned, trading grease for blood and bringing reinforcements. Navigate the wreckage of the body shop and a gore-soaked car wash as the cries of bending metal drown out the screams. They aren't fixing cars anymore; they're stripping you for parts.
• Estate of Evil: A long-forgotten room has been discovered, and there’s a reason it has been sealed away for generations. Enter with caution; a collection of never-before-seen horrors awaits you, and it will leave you questioning what monster would curate these malevolent mementos.
• Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir: Auntie Mortem has a new partner and now features prime beef, but the secret to the specialty sausage is how it blends old family flavors with the fresh stock entering the back room. The blades are sharper, the floor is slicker, and the meat is fresher than ever.
• Twisted Carnevil: The Hypnotist presides over the never-ending hall of illusions where greasepaint drips like blood. Punchlines echo through the dark, but with a jagged edge as he stitches together his most sinister act yet.
• Haunted Coal Mine: Drip… drip…. drip. Something dark is flooding the mine. Something new is crawling out of the black water. The mud is moving, and the mine is hungry for more than just oxygen. Escape before the murky waters drag you further down.

Also, as part of Dark Nights, midways will transform into five scare zones - more than ever before - each evening for guests to come face to face with the creatures that haunt their nightmares.

• NEW Reese’s Depot Of Doom: Follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom, but beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?
• Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse: The whispers have come to a roaring bubble. It’s true: the coven has grown. Prepare for all-new rituals and spells, but heed this warning: the newest converts hold an unimaginable darkness.
• Fallout Zone: The green fog has yet to be contained. Chaos continues to rise, and the peak of destruction is still on the hazy horizon. Fight through the dense smog to unearth the souls that were left to survive the wreckage.
• Midway Of Misery: The Midway Of Misery remains under The Decayed Brigade’s regime. Escape beyond the fiery arches but stay alert, the creatures that lurk within are faster, fiercer and each spark and scrape brings louder screams.
• Darkstone’s Hollow: Darkstone’s victory was a delusion. Jezebeth has returned to reclaim her throne, igniting a brutal battle in the shadows. Traitorous secrets are spilling, and the creatures are clashing. Choose your side wisely. The real war begins now.

Hersheypark Halloween

For more than 40 years, the fall season has meant sweet Halloween fun at Hersheypark. Guests of all ages can experience Hersheypark Halloween as they play by day and fright by night with the following family-friendly offerings:

• Thrills on more than 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting)
• Dark rides on select coasters during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation, plus lights-out rides on Laff Trakk indoor coaster during all Hersheypark Halloween operating hours
• Trick-or-treating with 14 stops (10 in Treatville region and four at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction) for guests 12 and under
• Meet and greets with select Hershey Characters dressed in their Halloween costumes at Hershey’s Hangout and Reese’s Cuphouse during the day
• NEW Monster Meet & Shriek show offered nightly in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue to meet featured creatures from the haunted houses and scare zones
• Avenue of the Afterlife to dance, dine and celebrate the season with Hershey Characters (new location) and a crew of family-friendly creatures

The original Creatures Of The Night flashlight tour will also return to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park for three weekends starting Oct. 16. The Halloween-themed, after-hours experience features a special nighttime flashlight tour and new themed activities included with admission.

Limited-Time Culinary Creations and Retail

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights will feature an elevated food and beverage scene with more than 60 scary good eats and spell-binding drinks. Guests can taste five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts and drinks with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass. New items include Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets, Brisket Cuban Sandwich, Tres Leches Cake and Pumpkin Horchata. Stay tuned to the Hersheypark social media channels for official reveals in early September.

Located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio will bring back Spirit’s Rooftop Bar, a rooftop rendezvous available during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days. The all-new menu features 10 savory items, including an Auntie Mortem’s Butcher Block with wagyu brisket pastrami, duck breast prosciutto, smoked chive liver pâté, spicy soppressata, crostini and dips. Back by popular demand is the Carnevil Wheel, with new items including Diesel Smoked Wings, Marksman’s Empanadas and Burnt Rubber Elote Dip, to name a few.

Guests ages 21 and older can also enjoy theatrical cocktail presentations, such as drinks served through a vintage TV screen, in beakers and syringes, inside decanters brimming with heavy fog and illuminated by black light, or in a retro cooler with red party cups. Select beverages feature dramatic touches like theater-style kettle corn, a flaming sugar cube, or swirling silver luster dust designed to mirror the look of a flickering television set.

Visitors can bring home a ghostly keepsake from Dark Nights with new, event-exclusive branded merchandise to be unveiled as the season approaches.

Ticketing Information

Hersheypark Halloween admission includes access to the Dark Nights haunted houses and scare zones, more than 50 rides and attractions, Hersheypark Halloween entertainment and ZooAmerica when guests enter through Hersheypark during Park hours. Hersheypark Halloween pre-sale tickets are available now, starting at $36.99 when you pick your day on Hersheypark.com. One-Day Any Day Halloween tickets are also available for $54.99, giving guests the flexibility to visit on any Hersheypark Halloween public operating day. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Guests can get to the scares faster with Fast Track program, enhance their experience with Halloween Cabanas and enjoy limited-time food and beverages with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass - all available for purchase now.

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

During the Halloween season, guests can extend their stay in Hershey, Pennsylvania, at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, including The Villas at The Hotel Hershey experience, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. All guests receive Free Resort Benefits like free front gate shuttle service and Preview Plan hours. Overnight guests of Hershey Lodge receive exclusive access to Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey Lodge indoor pool complex. Hersheypark Halloween One-Day and Two-Day packages, and a Dark Nights Two-Night package are now available.

Check out our top recommended attractions and signature Hershey activities for a visit over the long holiday weekend.

Spend a Full Day at Hersheypark Amusement Park

Open Daily; Hours Vary

The sun is setting on the summer season at Hersheypark, as Labor Day weekend marks the end of daily operations. Pennsylvania's largest amusement park offers non-stop excitement with more than 70 rides and attractions, an entire water park and one-of-a-kind sweet treats. Don't miss out on your last chance to see the Sweet Land of Liberty live stage show inside the climate-controlled Chevrolet Music Box Theatre, take a final plunge on Tidal Force or get your loops in on sooperdooperLooper before it temporarily closes for a new station.

Guests can save on their visit with $49.99 summer tickets available for purchase online.

Please note that Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 7) is the last operating day of the 2026 season for The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park.

See Wildlife Up Close at ZooAmerica

Open Daily; Hours Vary

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily through Sept. 6 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It's the last chance for animal lovers to participate in free daily activities, including keeper talks, animal encounters and feeding and training sessions. For a more personal experience, premium animal feedings allow visitors to feed favorite foods to gray wolves, a black bear or a river otter.

Access to the 11-acre zoo is included with a Hersheypark admission ticket. Those interested in visiting ZooAmerica in the morning before Hersheypark opens must purchase separate Zoo admission tickets online or at the Zoo Admissions Building.

Stay Overnight and Save with Summer Resort Packages

Availability Varies

Turn your trip into an extended long weekend getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! All resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free front gate shuttle service to and from Hersheypark, extra hours at the Park, resort activities for the whole family, free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum Experience, and plenty more perks.

Make the most of your time in Hershey with a 2-Day Stay And Play Package offered at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites. The package includes 2-Day Hersheypark admission for each guest, deluxe accommodations and daily breakfast. Outdoor enthusiasts can book the Summer Camping Package at Hersheypark Camping Resort for top savings on Hersheypark tickets.

Take a Dip in the Outdoor Resort Pools

Open Daily; Hours Vary

Labor Day weekend calls for one last dip in the outdoor pools at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort before they close for the summer. Guests of The Hotel Hershey will enjoy an infinity-edge adult pool (18+) and family pool with zero-grade entry, while guests of Hershey Lodge can look forward to a spray fountain and lounge area. Two swimming pools and a kiddie pool are located at Hersheypark Camping Resort, along with plenty of other outdoor activities for guests of all ages.

Relax with Seasonal Spa Treatments

Availability Varies

Take time to unwind over the long weekend with an appointment at one of Hershey's award-winning spas! Both The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa in downtown Hershey offer an array of signature chocolate treatments and seasonal services. 

Ready to dive right into fall? Embrace autumn early with pumpkin spice facials, body scrubs and massages starting Aug. 25 or indulge in classic Hershey's Chocolate Treatments—ranging from soothing massages and facials to salon treatments and body wraps.

Savor Local Dining Across Hershey

Operating Days and Hours Vary

Hershey features an incredible array of dining choices to suit every taste, ranging from relaxed, casual spots to refined culinary experiences. Downtown Hershey offers a vibrant atmosphere with interactive dart games alongside craft culinary creations at the new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. Guests can even choose to enjoy prime seafood and steaks in a sophisticated setting at Devon Seafood + Steak.

Visitors of The Hotel Hershey can start their day off with fresh coffee and breakfast at Chef's Market, enjoy Italian classics at Trevi 5, or savor American classics and bold flavors at The Circular and 1933 Restaurant & Tavern. Hershey Lodge also offers all-day dining options, from over-the-top creations at Stacks to indulgent meals at The Bears' Den, Fire & Grain or Revelry; the choices are endless.

Hungry after a day of coaster rides at Hersheypark? Don't miss out on a fun-to-table meal at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio. From a unique Ferris Wheel appetizer to delicious handhelds and more, The Chocolatier has something for everyone in the family. Reservations at all properties are strongly encouraged.

Tour the Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

Open Friday, Sept. 4, and Saturday, Sept. 5; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Milton Hershey School (MHS) Founders Hall Visitors Center is open for visitors to explore more than 110 years of MHS history. The free tour explores the story of the School's past, present and future. Founder's Hall is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, PA 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Ln. and East Governor Rd. (Rte. 322).

Discover the Botanical Wonders of Hershey Gardens

Open Daily; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Spend part of the long weekend immersed in nature at Hershey Gardens. Spanning 23 scenic acres, the destination features 13 distinct themed grounds along with a tropical indoor Butterfly Atrium.

Guests visiting Sept. 4 to Sept. 6 can also view the fabulous works of art at the “Blooming Art” display inside the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory as part of the Hershey Area Art Association Show & Sale. Entry to the art exhibition is included with standard admission.

Learn about Milton S. Hershey's Legacy at The Hershey Story

Open Daily; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Hershey Story Museum honors and preserves the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. While exploring the museum's exhibits, visitors can grab tickets for the interactive Chocolate Lab to try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating, and Chocolate Tastings to experience a flight of warm drinking chocolates from around the world. 

We look forward to welcoming you to The Sweetest Place On Earth. Start planning your long weekend getaway today, and don't forget to tag your favorite moments on social media with #HersheyPA.

1. Spend The Day at Hersheypark

Open Daily; Hours Vary

Coasters, delicious eats and more are calling at Hersheypark amusement park! The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania features three parks in one this summer, all accessible via a single admission ticket. Guests can enjoy more than 70 rides, including the most coasters in the Northeast, a full water park and an 11-acre zoo.

2. Cool Off at The Boardwalk

Open Daily, Weather Permitting; Hours Vary

Enjoy the last splashes of summer at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park! Experience two new water play areas, The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier, or get drenched by the massive East Coast Waterworks and its 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. Plus, take a thrill ride on Whitecap Racer and Breaker’s Edge Water Coaster, or relax on the 1,360-foot Intercoastal Waterway lazy river. Access to The Boardwalk is included with general Hersheypark admission through Labor Day, weather permitting.

3. Visit ZooAmerica

Open Daily; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open every day in August for guests to explore a variety of habitats housing North American animals, including a river otter, Canada lynx, gray wolves and a black bear. The 11-acre zoo offers daily summer activities, such as special animal enrichment and training sessions for guests to watch.

Hersheypark tickets include entry to ZooAmerica only by accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Those interested in visiting ZooAmerica in the morning before Hersheypark opens must purchase separate Zoo admission tickets online or at the Zoo Admissions Building.

4. Jazz On The Veranda at The Hotel Hershey

Aug. 7, 8 & 14; 7 to 10 p.m.

Unwind on the veranda at The Hotel Hershey with live music, sweet views, cocktails and light shareables available for walk-up service. Seating is first-come, first-served. The Veranda offers the sweetest viewing area for the fireworks presented by HERSHEY's on Aug. 8!

5. Fireworks Display at Hersheypark

Aug. 8; 10:15 p.m.

Spend the day riding coasters and close it out by enjoying a patriotic fireworks show! Saturday, Aug. 8, marks the final fireworks display presented by HERSHEY's in celebration of America's 250th. Hersheypark guests can stay inside the amusement park or the parking lots to watch the fireworks.

6. Celebrate S'mores Week at Hersheypark

Aug. 10-16; Hours Vary

National S'mores Day is celebrated on Aug. 10, and Hersheypark will once again mark the occasion with a weeklong lineup of delectable s'mores treats. From a S'mores King Size Shake to a S'mores burger and other themed baked goods, the sweetest amusement park has something to satisfy your cravings.

7. See A Live Show

Dates and Times Vary

Concert season is still heating up across the destination, with popular acts making their way to Hersheypark Stadium presented by Penn State Health and Hershey Theatre this month.

• Aug. 1: Guns N' Roses at Hersheypark Stadium
• Aug. 14: Tyler Childers at Hersheypark Stadium
• Aug. 15: Kesha at Hersheypark Stadium
• Aug. 18: Dogstar at Hershey Theatre
• Aug. 19: The Wiggles at Hershey Theatre
• Aug. 21: Killers of Kill Tony at Hershey Theatre
• Aug. 22: Pitbull at Hersheypark Stadium

8. Music in The Gardens at Hershey Gardens

Aug. 13, 20 & 27; 6 to 8 p.m.

Grab your favorite snacks and beverages to enjoy three nights of live music at Hershey Gardens. Performances include Generations Big Band on Aug. 13, The Best of Broadway on Aug. 20 (rescheduled to Sept. 9 from 5 to 7 p.m.) and Rhythmic Groove ft. Rose Hudson on Aug. 27.

9. Enjoy Outdoor Dining

Daily; Reservations Available at Select Locations

On nice weather days in Central Pennsylvania, join us for sweet outdoor dining (weather permitting) at the locations below across the destination:

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio in Hershey's Chocolatetown
• Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar in downtown Hershey
• Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey
• Trevi 5 Italian Restaurant at The Hotel Hershey
• 1933 Restaurant & Tavern at The Hotel Hershey
• Revelry Chophouse, Bar & Patio at Hershey Lodge
• STACKS all-day breakfast and lunch restaurant at Hershey Lodge

10. Relax With A Summer Spa Treatment

Daily; Appointments Highly Encouraged

Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey or MeltSpa by Hershey this month! Summer spa packages at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey include the Vacation For A Day Package, or indulge in the Summer Strawberry Collection at MeltSpa by Hershey with treatments like the Summer Strawberry Immersion, Scrub, Manicure and Pedicure.

11. Explore Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

Open Monday - Saturday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Milton Hershey School (MHS) Founders Hall Visitors Center is open to visitors, offering an opportunity to explore more than 110 years of MHS history. The free tour explores the story of the School's past, present and future. Founders Hall is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, Pa., 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Lane and East Governor Road. (Rte. 322).

12. Book an End-Of-Summer Getaway

Extend your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth with an overnight getaway to one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! Save with popular summer packages, including the guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. With this package, kids under 17 can enjoy deluxe accommodations, free breakfast and free Hersheypark tickets.

Additional packages and offers at these properties include:

• Hersheypark 1-Night Package
• 2-Day Stay & Play Package
• Ultimate Summer Fun Package

Safety and Fun Go Hand-in-Hand in Hershey

We strive to ensure our guests have fun and stay safe at all of our water attractions. If you are planning a visit this summer, keep these five water safety tips in mind:

1. Learn to swim.

   The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. This includes both adults and children.

2. Parents are the first line of defense.

   If your child is in the water, you should be too! Make sure an adult is constantly watching young children swimming, playing or bathing in water. Do not participate in any distracting activities while supervising children around the water.

3. Wear a life jacket.

   Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should also always wear a life jacket when in and around the water. Inflatable toys can be fun but are not a substitute for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. At Hersheypark, guests of the Miniatures, Kisses and Reese's height categories must wear a life vest on certain water attractions. Guests may bring their own life jacket, as long as it is Coast Guard approved. Life jackets are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Outside wave boards, inner tubes, inflatable toys, or other inflatables, including water wings or swimmies are not permitted in The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park.

4. Look for lifeguards.

   Be sure the area is well supervised by lifeguards before you or others in your group enter the water.

5. Never swim alone or in unsupervised places.

   Teach your children to always swim with a buddy.

Hersheypark also encourages guests to wear proper foot protection in queues and on all walking surfaces as they may become hot in the sun. Aqua shoes are not permitted on the body slides. There are complimentary shoe drops available to guests. Furthermore, only appropriate swimwear is allowed on the attractions. Revealing bathing suits, shorts with rivets, snaps, zippers, metal ornamentation, cutoffs and jeans are not permitted.

Award-Winning Certified and Trained Lifeguard Staff

The lifeguard staff is well-trained to keep all guests safe as they take a break from coaster riding and beat the heat in the water park. Currently, there are 19 Certified Lifeguard Instructors who are certified to train lifeguards and one Lifeguard Instructor Trainer who is qualified to train the Lifeguard Instructors on the Hersheypark Team. All Hersheypark lifeguards are trained and certified through Jeff Ellis & Associates, a leader in water park safety.

Every Hersheypark lifeguard completes a 24-hour class, followed by a minimum of four hours of continued in-service education per month to maintain test-ready skills. Lifeguard certifications are valid for one year only, which ensures that seasonal team members receive updated training every year.

In 2025, Hersheypark was awarded the prestigious "Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award.” Earning this award demonstrates that The Boardwalk consistently exceeds industry standards in risk management and epitomizes aquatic safety excellence. International Aquatic Safety Awards are conferred to deserving aquatic facilities by Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. - International Aquatic Safety and Risk Management Consultants. Hersheypark has received a total of ten Platinum Awards, four Gold Awards and one Silver Award.

International Aquatic Safety Awards are presented annually to participants in E&A's Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program (CARMP) and are based on the results of multiple random Unannounced Aquatic Facility Operational Safety Audits throughout the year. These audits include undercover video surveillance of individual lifeguards while they protect their Zone of Protection areas in order to accurately evaluate their professional diligence. Additionally, individual and team basic life support and rescue skills are evaluated, along with simulated emergencies that measure the effectiveness of established Emergency Action Plans. The audit concludes with administrative, supervisory and facility evaluations.

International Safety Awards are presented only to E&A's most elite clients. Presented in three levels - Silver, Gold, and Platinum - only the top 10% of E&A clients in the world receive a Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award each year.

1. Ride chocolate-themed attractions all day long

On World Chocolate Day, Hersheypark stands out as the premier spot for both thrill-seekers and chocolate enthusiasts. Spanning 121 acres, Pennsylvania's largest amusement park boasts more than 70 attractions, featuring chocolate-inspired rides such as the Candymonium hypercoaster, Reese’s Cupfusion indoor gaming ride, Cocoa Cruiser kiddie coaster and the Hershey Triple Tower drop towers.

Guests who prefer to skip the roller coaster thrills can check out Hershey’s Chocolatetown, which is all decked out in red, white and blue to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. The aptly-named chocolate region features the 107-year-old Carrousel with a special America's 250th horse, a 10,000-foot flagship store, an ice cream parlor (with chocolate ice cream, of course), a confectionery kitchen and a full-service restaurant, among other experiences. 

2. Meet a Life-Size Hershey Character

Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world where guests can snap a selfie with a life-size chocolate bar! Throughout the day, guests can enjoy meet and greet opportunities with a rotating cast of Hershey Characters at various locations throughout the amusement park, as listed in the Hersheypark app. This summer, Hershey Bar, Reese, and Miss Kiss are sporting patriotic attire to add a festive touch to visits during the nation's semiquincentennial. 

3. Grab a Chocolate Treat at Hersheypark

You'll find plenty of treats throughout Hersheypark where chocolate is the star! Guests should plan to visit Simply Chocolate dessert shop in the Founder's Way region to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the King Sized Shake. This 28 oz. milkshake topped with baked goods comes in chocolate and peanut butter varieties this summer. Guests can also stop by Founder's Way Funnel Cake by Shorty's for chocolatey funnel cake creations, including a Reese's Peanut Butter Funnel Cake and S'mores Funnel Cake. 

4. Enjoy Chocolate-Infused Dining Around Town

The best way to celebrate something sweet like chocolate is by savoring it. And there is no shortage of great eats at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio and Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. At these places, you’ll find sweet dishes that capture the true essence of Hershey’s chocolate roots.

The Chocolatier menu features family favorites with a chocolate twist. Guests can enjoy Cocoa-Dusted Beef Short Ribs, the Chocolatetown Burger, Mac & Cheese with Hershey’s Chocolate Barbecue Sauce and Cacao Nib Gremolata, and more. And be sure to save room for our signature desserts like The Chocolatier Cake, Hershey's Chocolate Cheesecake, and an Over-The-Top Hershey's Chocolate Milkshake.

For a new way to experience the chocolate taste of town, Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar pairs local cuisine with handmade cocktails in a modern, welcoming setting. 

Chocolate-forward items include Hershey Social Wings tossed in Spiced Cocoa Dry Rub and Hershey's Chocolate Barbecue Sauce, Reese's Take5 Smash Burger, and the Social Braised Short Ribs. Pair your meal with a signature chocolate cocktail like a Chocolate S'mores Bourbon, Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme White Russian, or Hershey's Kisses Signature Chocolate Martini. And no meal is complete without dessert. Try from our selection of warm chocolate goodness, like Warm Chocolate Cobbler, Brookie Sundae, or the Whoppers Chocolate-Malted Affogato.

5. Relax With a Chocolate Spa Treatment

If you need a break from riding coasters all day long, you can always unwind at two luxury spas - The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey is famous for its signature chocolate treatments and services that pay homage to Cuba, where Milton S. Hershey owned sugar mills from 1916 to 1946. Everything Chocolate Treatments include Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap, Cocoa Massage and more. View our summer spa guide here.

MeltSpa by Hershey is a luxurious day spa in downtown Hershey where guests can melt into sweet relaxation with exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Treatments like the Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Sugar Scrub. This treatment includes a full-body exfoliation with a rich blend of organic cocoa butter, vitamin E oil and organic Sucanat sugar, followed by a relaxing application of cocoa-infused body lotion to reveal soft, silky smooth, deeply hydrated skin.

6. Sip on a Signature Chocolate Martini

For guests 21 and older, Hershey is known for its signature chocolate martinis served at various dining locations around town, including The Chocolatier, Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey, as well as restaurants at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge. Options include the Hershey’s Kisses Signature Chocolate Martini, Hershey’s Chocolate Caramel Martini and the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Martini. 

7. Indulge in Chocolate Around Every Corner at a Resort

There’s no need to visit Hershey for just one day. Guests should consider extending their stay at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark.

At The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites, guests start their visit with a full-size chocolate bar at check-in. How sweet is that? Chocolate is also infused throughout the stay, with chocolate bath amenities in the guest rooms. The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge also offer chocolate-inspired dining options at on-property restaurants and chocolate-themed resort activities, such as chocolate bingo.

In addition to the above reasons to visit Hershey, there are other chocolatey adventures around town. History buffs can learn about the history of Hershey’s chocolate (and the man who created it) and even taste chocolate from around the world at The Hershey Story Museum. Or, visitors can take a free chocolate tour ride at Hershey's Chocolate World to see how chocolate is made. 

As you can see, Hershey has something for every chocolate lover. We hope you have a sweet visit! 

Hersheypark Happy

Take A Plunge on the Water Rides at Hersheypark

Included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark is The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, an 11-acre water park with more than one million gallons of water and 16 water attractions for guests to cool off on during a hot summer day. 

New this year, guests can get to the water quicker with The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier. This zero-depth water play area features 45 interactive aquatic elements and an open concept design with shaded canopies.

Thrill-seekers can plummet through the Breakers Edge Water Coaster, the first hydromagnetic coaster at Hersheypark, or race against their friends on Whitecap Racer, one of the longest mat-racing slides in the world. Those looking to relax can enjoy a 1,360-foot, slow, winding lazy river ride. Plus, guests of all ages can catch a wave at the 378,000-gallon wave pool or make a splash at Shoreline Sprayground and East Coast Waterworks, which offers more than 600 interactive water features alone. 

Stay Hydrated

The best way to keep your body cool is to drink water – and lots of it. Each visitor is allowed to bring an empty reusable water bottle or one sealed water bottle into Hersheypark. Free water and ice can be dispensed at all Pepsi Fast Fill locations without needing to scan a Hersheypark Souvenir Cup. There are also bottle fillers in multiple locations throughout the Park. Complimentary cups of water are available upon request at all Hersheypark-owned food and beverage locations (download the Hersheypark app for any participating All-Day Drink Deal location). 

We recommend taking advantage of the All-Day Drink Deal for $24.98 to save with free refills on fountain drinks all day long. 

Journey Through The American Songbook

Celebrate the anthems that shaped American history at Hersheypark with our all-new live stage show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, inside the air-conditioned Chevrolet Music Box Theatre daily. Be sure to stick around after the show for an encore featuring a surprise bonus song!

Explore Indoor Animal Exhibits

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park features two indoor buildings where guests can see animals like turtles, snakes and a dwarf caiman in an air-conditioned environment. Animal lovers should make it a point to stop by the Zoovenirs gift shop, featuring exclusive Zoo attire, stuffed animals and more. 

Access to ZooAmerica is included with your Hersheypark admission when you enter via the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours.

Grab a Bite to Eat Indoors

There are a variety of dining locations for guests seeking air conditioning or shade while eating lunch or dinner. 

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

Located in Hershey's Chocolatetown just outside the Hersheypark front gate, The Chocolatier is a full-service restaurant, bar and patio filled with delicious food, signature desserts and hand-crafted cocktails. The space features nods to past and present elements from the Hersheypark ride collection, one-of-a-kind views of neighboring attractions and two bars, including a second-story patio with a bar that provides panoramic views of Hersheypark. Reservations are strongly recommended and accepted for indoor dining. 

Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor

Inspired by Mr. Hershey’s early ventures in sweetness, Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor pays homage to all that came before his famous chocolate factory. Expert Ice Creamologists will craft custom creations from 100% local dairy house-made ice cream, Hershey’s candy toppings, decadent sauces and savory shareables. 

The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen

The Sweeterie is a confectionery kitchen with a curated collection of mouth-watering confections, including chocolate-dipped treats, decadent desserts, signature hand-crafted fudge and more. 

Overlook Food Court

Located in the Kissing Tower Hill region, guests can enjoy burgers, handcrafted salads, made-to-order wraps, grilled chicken sandwiches and much more! Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-friendly options are also available at Overlook Food Court.

Go Shopping

A visit to Hersheypark is not complete without a sweet souvenir to remember all of the #HersheyparkHappy memories made. Many of our shops inside the Park are air-conditioned, including East Coast Surf Co., the retail store designed to beat the heat. Located next to The Boardwalk, East Coast Surf Co. is your one-stop shop for all of your summertime needs. Retail items include bathing suits, hats, water tumblers, sunscreen and more. Or, don’t forget to stop by some of our other favorite retail shops in Hershey’s Chocolatetown on your way out – Hersheypark Supply Co. and HP Collections.

Be Prepared for the Fun

The safety of our team members and guests visiting any of the attractions across our sweet destination of Hershey, Pennsylvania, is always our top priority. Guests are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light clothing and sunscreen, and take breaks under shade or indoors whenever possible during the warm summer months.

When packing for a hot day at Hersheypark, there are a few important items to add to your packing list. Visitors should consider wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing. Small bags and backpacks are allowed, so it doesn’t hurt to bring a poncho in case of a passing storm. Guests planning to visit The Boardwalk at Hersheypark should also pack a bathing suit and towel. Most importantly, don’t forget the sunscreen! The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone spending time in the sun apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays), SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. Discuss any planned visit with your healthcare provider to ensure the best plan for your specific needs.

More Ways to Cool Off Around Town

Hang Out At The Swimming Pools At The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

A stay at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark comes with many sweet benefits, including complimentary access to all of the resort pool complexes. 

The Hotel Hershey

Guests can cool off at the outdoor pool complex at The Hotel Hershey, which features a family pool with zero-grade entry, two large waterslides, a kiddie spray deck plus an infinity pool for guests ages 18 and up. Guests can also enjoy a refreshing drink or meal from Poolside, the resort's pool-side café. 

Hershey Lodge

The outdoor pool complex at Hershey Lodge features a zero-entry pool, spray fountain and lounge area available daily through Labor Day. If you're looking for some sweet indoor fun, the Lodge's indoor pool complex, Hershey's Water Works, has interactive water features, such as a zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, lighthouse tipping bucket, basketball hoops, Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk and more. 

Hershey Inn & Suites

Hershey Inn & Suites is the newest addition to The Official Resorts Of Hersheypark and boasts an indoor pool located off the main lobby. This indoor pool is open all-year round.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

The pool complex at Hersheypark Camping Resort has two swimming pools and a kiddie pool, making it the perfect place to cool off after an afternoon at Hersheypark. The pool complex is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. 

Visit The Hershey Spas

What better way to beat the heat this summer than with a day of complete relaxation at one of Hershey’s decadent spas? The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey offer one-of-a-kind signature chocolate treatments and seasonal treatment collections that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed on even the hottest summer days. 

Additional Attractions

The Hershey Story Museum

Visitors to The Hershey Story Museum can learn the story of our founder and chocolate pioneer, Milton S. Hershey, his wife Catherine, and the town of Hershey through exhibits, artifacts and interactive experiences. Guests can also make and decorate chocolate in the Chocolate Lab for an additional fee or sip chocolates from around the world during Chocolate Tastings. 

Open daily, The Hershey Story tickets are included with a stay at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites and are discounted with a stay at Hershey Camping Resort. Tickets may also be purchased at the Museum's main entrance.

HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE WORLD

Hershey’s Chocolate World is open daily this summer (view hours here). During a visit, families can experience HERSHEY'S Great Candy Expedition. This one-of-a-kind train-themed adventure will take passengers on a fantastical journey through colorful lands inspired by all the favorite Hershey candies. To sweeten the experience, guests get to help choose the train's path for a fun, interactive element! Visitors should not forget to make their candy dreams a reality at the Create Your Own Candy Bar experience or indulge in some of the delicious food and drink offerings Hershey's Chocolate World has to offer.

We hope you enjoy your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth! Stay cool! 

Head to Hersheypark Amusement Park, Open Daily This Summer

Hersheypark, a world-class 121-acre amusement park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is open daily for the summer season through Sept. 7. Summer tickets include three parks in one with more than 70 rides, an 11-acre water park and access to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park when entering from within Hersheypark.

The summer ride lineup features 15 mild-to-wild coasters (the most in the Northeast), various family-friendly attractions and more than 20 kiddie rides spread throughout the Park- 

Given the incredible value included with a Hersheypark ticket, guests often choose to spend multiple days at Hersheypark to ensure enough time to experience all of the summer fun. As a reminder, The Official Resorts of Hersheypark guests receive the best price on Hersheypark tickets.

New Splashes at Water Park

Hersheypark is home to The Boardwalk, an 11-acre water park with one million gallons of water among 16 water attractions. The water park is located inside the amusement park, making it easy to cool off between coaster rides. 

New for 2026, Guests can look forward to a brand-new interactive water play experience at The Boardwalk within Bayside Pier, featuring 45 fun-filled aquatic elements designated for all ages. 

• The Inlet at Bayside Pier introduces a shaded splash area complete with playful dolphin and fish water features, along with whimsical spray elements perfect for cooling off on warm summer days. 

• Nearby, The Island at Bayside Pier features towering 10-foot palm trees with tipping water buckets that deliver refreshing surprises. 

Both new spaces include comfortable rubberized decking and shaded canopy areas, creating inviting spots for guests to splash, relax and enjoy everything The Boardwalk at Hersheypark has to offer.

All-American Summer Celebration

Hersheypark celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with patriotic events and activations all summer long, including the following: 

• Multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S on July 3, July 4 and Aug. 8 at 10:15 p.m.
• ALL-NEW live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue through Sept. 7
• Select Americana-themed attractions, like Star-Spangled Laff Trakk
• Red, white and blue ride light packages and decor
• Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best
• Limited-time food and drink, including a Star-Spangled King Size Shake (only available in July)

Visit North American Animals at ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is an 11-acre, walk-through zoo that cares for more than 60 species from five regions of North America. Guests can see a black bear, wolves, Canada lynx, elk and other animals native to this continent.

ZooAmerica is open daily this summer from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Sept. 7. To enhance a summer visit, guests can enjoy daily activities, like special animal enrichments, animal encounters and keeper chats, included with admission. 

Regular admission to ZooAmerica is $16.50 plus taxes and fees. Juniors ages 3-8 and seniors ages 62+ are $14.50 plus taxes and fees. Children 2 and under are free. Hersheypark tickets include ZooAmerica only when accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. The Zoo is the perfect place for families visiting Hersheypark to take a quick break from the thrills.

Enjoy Live Entertainment

A sweet summer season of outdoor live entertainment is underway at Hersheypark Stadium with something for every music lover. Few places offer guests the opportunity to enjoy coasters all day and see shows outdoors at night under the Central Pennsylvania sky! 

• Chris Stapleton, June 24
• Santana & The Doobie Brothers, June 26
• Tim McGraw, July 11
• Thomas Rhett & Niall Horan, July 18
• Five Finger Death Punch, July 25
• Guns N’ Roses, August 1
• Tyler Childers, August 14
• Kesha, August 15
• Pitbull, August 22
• Iron Maiden, September 15 

Downtown, the Hershey Theatre has a robust lineup of shows throughout the summer.

• Chicago, June 23
• A Beautiful Noise - The Neil Diamond Musical, June 30- July 5
• Vine Gill, July 10
• Alison Krauss & Union Station, July 14
• Bluey’s Big Play, July 25- July 26
• Tori Amos, July 27
• Derek Hough, July 31
• Dogstar, August 18
• The Wiggles, August 19
• Killers of Kill Tony, August 21
   

GIANT Center also welcomes three more must-see summer shows with James Taylor, Dude Perfect, and “Weird Al” Yankovic, followed by five shows in the remainder of 2026. 

Dine Al Fresco at Hershey Social Bar + Restaurant 

Summer means outdoor dining in Hershey is in full swing. Visitors to Hershey can head downtown and enjoy the views of the Hershey’s Kisses-shaped street lights from the patio of the new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. With a wide array of food and drink offerings, Hershey Social has something for everyone after a long day at Hersheypark, before a show, or just because. Plus, daily happy hour specials are available from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Eat on the Patio at The Chocolatier

With fun indoor booth seating themed around Comet and Tilt-A-Whirl to an outdoor patio offering one-of-a-kind views of Candymonium and our 107-year-old Carrousel, The Chocolatier is a visual experience like no other. An open kitchen serves up classic family fare with a fun Hershey twist. Diners can indulge in a Reese’s Take5 Chicken Sandwich, Heath Bar Crusted Salmon or Cocoa-Dusted Beef Short Ribs along with over-the-top Hershey's candy-inspired milkshakes, sundaes and desserts. One thing is for certain: a trip to The Chocolatier is sure to be as fun as it is delicious.

New for this summer, before Hersheypark Stadium shows, guests can enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat buffet on the patio starting three hours before concerts begin, featuring elevated summer barbecue favorites with themed cocktails to celebrate the artists performing that evening.  

Reservations are strongly encouraged for indoor table service, but not available for outdoor patio dining. Guests interested in re-entering Hersheypark after enjoying the patio will need to get their hands stamped. 

Relax at the Spa

Visitors can indulge in summer relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa with signature chocolate treatments and seasonal treatment collections. Summer packages at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey include the Vacation For A Day Package, Citrus Sensation Package and Sweet Summer Sampler. MeltSpa by Hershey is excited to bring back a guest favorite, the Summer Strawberry Collection, featuring a Summer Strawberry Body Scrub, Immersion, Manicure, Pedicure and more. These seasonal summer packages and treatments are available through Aug. 31.

Looking to have a spa day the Hershey way? Guests can revel in one-of-a-kind chocolate spa treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey with the Chocolate Fondue Wrap, Cocoa Massage and Whipped Cocoa Bath. Or they can head to MeltSpa for their exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Treatments, infused with Hershey’s dark chocolate, that will leave spa visitors feeling refreshed and smelling sweet

Where to Stay in Hershey

As you can see, there is so much to do during a visit to Hershey that many guests spend the night (or two or three or more). Really, what could be better than spending the night in The Sweetest Place On Earth? Booking a sweet getaway at one of the four Official Resorts of Hersheypark is the perfect way to kick off the summer! Guests can save on a stay with popular summer packages, including the guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat Free Package at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites or the Hersheypark Summer Camping Package at Hersheypark Camping Resort. 

The sweetest part about choosing to stay at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark is the FREE Resort Benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Sweet Start available through Sept. 7 and Preview Plan, and free front-gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark.

Hershey Inn and Suites

Located at 1300 West End Avenue in Hummelstown, the recently opened four-story, 130-room property marks the company's first brand-new hotel in nearly 60 years. Hershey Inn & Suites offers a first-of-its-kind family suite with bunk beds, a complimentary hot breakfast (a first for an Official Resort of Hersheypark), a lobby bar, a 24/7 arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round.

The Hotel Hershey

Opened by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey in 1933, The Hotel Hershey is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is a recipient of the AAA Four-Diamond Award. The Hotel is right across the street from Hersheypark and situated high atop the town of Hershey. Guests at the hotel can enjoy delicious dining, sweet relaxation at the Chocolate Spa, and experience a variety of recreational activities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a sports complex and miles of hiking trails.

Swing by The Hotel Hershey on select Fridays this summer from 7 - 10 PM for Jazz On The Veranda. Make a reservation at your favorite restaurant before the music starts to enjoy a delicious dinner, and then stay for the music! Reservations not accepted for the jazz. 

Dates: 

• Saturday July 4 (includes Fourth of July fireworks and a special menu)

• Wednesday, July 8

• Friday, July 10

• Friday, July 17

• Friday, August 7

• Friday, August 14

For more information about this beautiful and historic property, check out The Hotel Hershey summer guide.

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey

Those interested in the ultimate luxurious stay should consider The Villas at The Hotel Hershey. Twelve Villas feature 48 reimagined rooms with refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities, including an all-new exclusive concierge lounge with food, drinks and activities, daily Hersheypark tickets and One-Day Fast Track. Seven more Villas will open throughout the summer. This historic expansion will double the size of The Villas, offering even more luxury as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and the most premium Hersheypark experiences.

Take a look inside The Villas and explore the daily schedule of exclusive activities and offerings for guests.

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming, and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge provides convenience and comfort for families and guests of all ages with sweet hospitality and chocolate around every corner. A guest favorite, Hershey's Water Works indoor water complex features a Reese's Water Walk, Twizzlers Twists water slides and a zero-entry pool for unlimited family fun. Families will also enjoy recreational amenities and activities like miniature golf and chocolate bingo. 

To learn more about this kid-friendly property, check out our Hershey Lodge summer guide.

Hersheypark Camping Resort 

Hershey is also home to Hersheypark Camping Resort for guests looking to stay in a log or deluxe cabin, park an RV at a partial or full hook-up site or pitch a tent along the creek. The campground offers more than 300 open and shaded sites situated among 55 acres of emerald hills, including two tiny homes - perfect for campers looking for a modern and trendy experience. During the summer, campers can enjoy splashes at two pools and a kiddie pool, as well as fun-filled activities like outdoor movies, crafts and animal encounters hosted by ZooAmerica. 

To learn more about camping in Hershey, check out the Hersheypark Camping Resort summer guide. 

Explore Other Hershey Must-See Attractions

When you aren't riding coaster, relaxing at our resorts, or enjoying a show, there's even more sweet inspired fun to be had throughout Hershey. 

Hershey Gardens

Guests can embrace the summer season by visiting 23 acres of beautiful blooming plant life at Hershey Gardens. Open daily, Hershey Gardens is home to 11 themed gardens, seasonal displays, and an assortment of flowers, shrubs and trees for guests of all ages to enjoy. Kids can immerse themselves in the Children’s Garden and Butterfly Atrium or get up close and personal with crawling creatures inside the Conservatory’s Zoology Zone. 

Tickets to Hershey Gardens are included with a stay at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites and are discounted with a stay at Hersheypark Camping Resort. Visitors can also purchase general admission tickets.

The Hershey Story Museum 

Visitors to The Hershey Story Museum can learn the story of our founder and chocolate pioneer, Milton S. Hershey, his wife Catherine, and the town of Hershey through exhibits, artifacts and interactive experiences. Guests can also make and decorate chocolate in the Chocolate Lab for an additional fee or sip chocolates from around the world during Chocolate Tastings. 

Open daily, The Hershey Story tickets are included with a stay at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites and are discounted with a stay at Hershey Camping Resort. Tickets may also be purchased at the Museum's main entrance.

Hershey’s Chocolate World 

Hershey’s Chocolate World is open daily this summer (view hours here). During a visit, families can experience HERSHEY'S Great Candy Expedition. This one-of-a-kind train-themed adventure will take passengers on a fantastical journey through colorful lands inspired by all the favorite Hershey candies. To sweeten the experience, guests get to help choose the train's path for a fun, interactive element! Visitors should not forget to make their candy dreams a reality at the Create Your Own Candy Bar experience or indulge in some of the delicious food and drink offerings Hershey's Chocolate World has to offer. 

Join out team this summer

Visit our Careers site to explore current opportunities to join our team! 

If you have little ones and are considering a summer getaway to The Sweetest Place On Earth, we’ve got you covered with our complete guide to Hershey for kids. 

Plus, for a limited time this summer, families can save with our Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE resort package and sweet Hersheypark ticket offers. Keep reading for all of the details!

Where to Stay

The first step in planning a family vacation is figuring out where to stay with the kids. Lucky for visitors to Hershey, there are plenty of kid-friendly hotel accommodations in close proximity to all of the attractions. 

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

From the Hershey’s chocolate bar received upon check-in to meet-and-greets with Hershey Characters in the lobby*, families will love The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and their many sweet amenities. Guests can choose from accommodations at The Hotel Hershey luxury AAA Four Diamond property, the warm and welcoming Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort year-round campground or Hershey Inn & Suites, the newest hotel to join the portfolio that also includes FREE hot breakfast.

*Available at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites

Those interested in even more luxury should consider The Villas at The Hotel Hershey, an elevated luxury accommodation experience with exclusive amenities, including daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person. 

The Villas offer 4-and 6-bedroom options that are perfect for large families. Guests can book an entire Villa and gain access to a Great Room featuring vaulted ceilings, a wet bar and a private fireplace, perfect for evening wine for the adults while the toddlers play nearby.

Villas guests can start and end their day in the exclusive Villas Concierge Lounge with continental breakfast, grab & go snacks, fountain soda, s'mores roasts around the Villas Concierge Fire Pit, exclusive Hershey Character weekend meet and greets and a dedicated concierge team member to help make reservations and handle requests. 

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offer many kid-friendly experiences to sweeten any stay.

Kids’ Check-In: Offered seasonally and on select weekends at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, kids can start their getaway with their very own check-in at our Kids’ Check-In desk in the lobby. This sweet experience allows kids to sign the kids’ guest book, participate in a Hershey’s candy guessing game and receive a chocolate surprise.

Kid-Friendly Resort Activities: Throughout the summer, kid-friendly recreation and activities are available at all four resorts. At The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, guests can enjoy family fun, such as chocolate bingo, s’mores roasts, mini golf or glow putting, Hershey Character appearances and more. A new arcade in The Hotel Hershey plaza is now open, where guests can win prizes and play classic games like pinball, skeeball, video games and more from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, kids can play at the playgrounds and indoor game room and participate in activities ranging from educational animal programs to comedy magic shows. At Hershey Inn & Suites, kids can enjoy the 24/7 arcade.

Splashes At The Pool: Don’t forget to pack the swimsuits! Kids won’t want to miss out on the splashing good times to be had at the resort’s pool complexes. Weather permitting, the outdoor pools at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort are open for the summer season from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. 

• Perfect for families, the outdoor pool complex at The Hotel Hershey features a family pool with zero-grade entry, two large slides and a kiddie spray deck, as well as an infinity-edge adult pool and whirlpool.
• The Villas guests enjoy 30 minutes of early access to the outdoor pool complex at The Hotel Hershey.
• In addition to an outdoor pool, guests of Hershey Lodge can enjoy a sweet indoor pool complex year-round called Hershey’s Water Works, complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese’s Water Walk, a zero-entry pool, a sand castle spray zone, a lighthouse tipping bucket, basketball hoops and more.
• Campers at Hersheypark Camping Resort can cool off in two outdoor pools and a kiddie pool.
• Hershey Inn & Suites offers access to an indoor pool year-round. 

Packages and Benefits: Families can save on a getaway to The Official Resorts of Hersheypark with sweet overnight packages, including the guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package - back for a limited time. Available on select Hersheypark operating dates through Sept. 7 at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites, this package includes free accommodations, free Hersheypark tickets and free breakfast each day of stay for kids 17 and younger. 

Plus, all resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, free front gate shuttle service to and from the Park, extra hours at the Park, free or discounted admission to area attractions and more.

What to Do

There is plenty to see and do with kids in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Families can spend the day at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, learn about North American animals at an 11-acre zoo, attend a family-friendly show, create their own candy bar, see dozens of rare butterflies, explore the history of Hershey at a museum and so much more.

Ride all day at Hersheypark

For 120 years, Hersheypark has been known as a clean and green destination for family fun. The 121-acre amusement park is open daily through Sept. 7 (Labor Day) for coaster rides, King Size Shakes, Hershey Character selfies and water park splashes.

A sweet value, Hersheypark tickets include three parks in one—more than 70 attractions with the most coasters in the Northeast, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park.

All-American Summer Celebration: Hersheypark also offers patriotic activations and special summer events highlighting America’s 250th anniversary, including the following: 

• Multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S on July 3, July 4 and Aug. 8 at 10:15 p.m.
• ALL-NEW live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue from May 29 through Sept. 7
• Select Americana-themed attractions, like Star-Spangled Laff Trakk
• Red, white and blue ride light packages and decor
• Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best
• Limited-time food and drink, including a Star-Spangled King Size Shake (only available in July) and a Birthday King Size Shake available all summer long

Fun For All Ages: The extensive lineup of more than 70 rides offers something for everyone. Guests can explore rides on the Hersheypark app or website by Hershey’s candy height categories. Hersheypark has more than 20 kiddie rides, plus family favorites like the Carrousel with all 66 original horses and the Kissing Tower for an aerial view of the Park. Hersheypark is also home to the most coasters in the Northeast, from Cocoa Cruiser for the smallest thrill seekers to sooperdooperLooper as the first upside-down coaster for many young guests. For the older kids of 48 inches or taller, Wildcat’s Revenge hybrid coaster offers the ultimate thrills.

Families Can Ride Together: Hersheypark features a unique layout with 121 acres of outdoor attractions surrounded by shady trees, ample green spaces and fresh Pennsylvania air. Unlike other parks, Hersheypark was specifically designed with thrill rides in the same area as kiddie rides, so families don’t have to split up throughout the Park. One exception is Carrousel Circle, with many rides for the youngest guests. 

Kiddie Swap: Ideal for families, Hersheypark offers a Kiddie Swap program where one parent may ride while the other stays with the child and then, at the conclusion of the initial ride, the parents may "swap" places. Similarly, if one parent has two children who meet the height restriction but must be accompanied by a responsible rider, or who do not wish to ride alone, the parent may ride with one child while the other child waits in an appropriate ride area. At the conclusion of the initial ride, the parent may remain on the ride while the children "swap" places. 

Character Photo Opportunities: In addition to the rides, a beloved family tradition is taking a photo of children next to the Hershey Character-themed height categories in Hershey’s Chocolatetown as they grow each year. And, of course, Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world where guests can snap a selfie with a Hershey Character. In celebration of the nation's semiquincentennial, Hersh, Miss Kiss and Reese are dressed in their patriotic attire this summer!

Sweet Treats: It wouldn’t be a trip to Hershey without treats kids love, from award-winning King Size Shakes (celebrating 10 years) to funnel cakes with Hershey's candies. For the ultimate sweetness, guests should visit Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. Inspired by Mr. Hershey's early ventures in sweetness that came before his famous chocolate factory, expert Ice Creamologists craft custom creations from 100% local dairy house-made ice cream, Hershey's candy toppings, decadent sauces and more. Right next door to Milton's is The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen with chocolate-dipped treats, decadent desserts and signature hand-crafted fudge. 

The best part? Hersheypark offers various ticket options throughout the year, so families can choose the best option to fit their travel needs. 

Plus, general admission tickets include a free Preview Plan, allowing guests to enter Hersheypark for two hours on a night before their full-day visit by presenting their tickets at the main entrance to enjoy a fun-filled evening. Resort guests can enter three hours before closing.

Cool Off At The Water Park

After working up a sweat riding coasters this summer, park-goers can cool off at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, an 11-acre water park located inside Hersheypark that is included with admission from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The Boardwalk has one million gallons of water among 16 water attractions, including two new water play areas, water slides, a water coaster, a lazy river and more. 

New for Summer 2026: Hersheypark recently debuted an enhancement to its water park, which is located within the amusement park and accessible via a single admission. The existing Bayside Pier kiddie wave pool with a zero-depth entry ramp and rolling waves now features two new water play areas boasting 45 aquatic elements for summer 2026. 

• A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, features water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features.
• The Island at Bayside Pier debuts towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. 

Both new areas feature rubberized decking for additional guest comfort, allowing guests to sit and splash under shaded canopies. The new open design also allows families to seamlessly flow between other water attractions and cool off faster with access to the abundant water features. 

In addition to The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier, The Boardwalk has other kid-friendly water attractions. Shoreline Sprayground is an all-ages water fun playground with misters, bubblers, dancing fountains, spraying jets, water curtains and a drenching tipping bucket. The Boardwalk is also home to East Coast Waterworks, an attraction that boasts more than 600 interactive water features. The biggest splash comes from a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket for those looking to get drenched on a hot summer day.

See Dozens of North American Animals At The Zoo

ZooAmerica is an 11-acre walk-through zoo that cares for animals representing more than 60 species from five regions of North America. Guests can see gray wolves, a black bear, Canada lynx, a river otter, elk and other animals native to this continent.

Families with young animal lovers should consider elevating their zoo experience with a behind-the-scenes tour. ZooAmerica offers two special tours that guide participants through non-public areas, get them close to the animals and leave them with a deeper understanding of the animal world. Premium feeding experiences are also available, which includes admission to ZooAmerica.

ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only when accessing the Zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours. Regular admission to ZooAmerica is $16.50 plus taxes and fees. Juniors ages 3-8 and seniors ages 62+ are $14.50 plus taxes and fees. Children 2 and under are free.

Create Your Own Candy Bar

Conveniently located just across the plaza from Hersheypark, Hershey's Chocolate World is the official visitors center of The Hershey Company with many fun activities for families. 

Guests can learn how tropical cocoa beans become Hershey’s Chocolate on a free chocolate factory tour ride and participate in various paid experiences, including Create Your Own Candy Bar, Hershey’s Unwrapped: A Chocolate Tasting Journey, Reese’s Stuff Your Cup and Hershey Trolley Works. Plus, sip milkshakes and embrace the feeling of being a kid in a candy store as you browse their selection of Hershey’s exclusive chocolates and retail.

Pay a Visit to the Museum

The Hershey Story in downtown Hershey provides an interactive museum experience for children and adults alike, making it an excellent stop for the whole family. Guests can learn all about the life and legacy of our founder Milton S. Hershey, the town he created, and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where guests can try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating.  

Note: All guests of The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites receive free admission, and guests of Hersheypark Camping Resort receive discounted admission.

See Hundreds of Butterflies From Around The World

Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens, including thousands of roses in the summer and a Children’s Garden with interactive play areas, a performance space and a place for students to learn how to grow food. During a visit, guests can check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which includes a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring hundreds of colorful butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.

Note: All guests of The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites receive free admission, and guests of Hersheypark Camping Resort receive discounted admission.

Where to Eat

Hershey is home to more than a dozen deliciously unique and award-winning restaurants, including some sweet dining options for families with children. 

Eat Breakfast At Fire & Grain

Families should start the day with a family breakfast at Fire & Grain. Located inside Hershey Lodge, the restaurant offers breakfast daily either as a buffet or a la carte menu based on availability. Children’s menus and buffet pricing are available, and kids receive their beverage served in a Hershey’s kid’s cup. Dinner and happy hour are also available daily at Fire & Grain.

Grab Lunch at The Chocolatier

Families looking for a fun lunch or dinner spot should consider making a reservation at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio located in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. The full-service restaurant, bar and patio is open daily this summer and features nods to past and present elements from the Hersheypark ride collection, one-of-a-kind views of neighboring attractions and two bars. An open kitchen serves up classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. Families can sit in a Tilt-A-Whirl booth at The Chocolatier to enjoy a Ferris Wheel sampler, popular burgers and a signature dessert menu filled with Hershey's chocolate-inspired treats like over-the-top milkshakes. 

Eat Dinner at Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar

Hershey Social, downtown Hershey's newest restaurant and bar experience, is open daily lunch and dinner. The space serves bold flavors and signature cocktails to sip, savor and socialize, plus fun, interactive darts for the whole family.

Cheer On Your Team At The Bears' Den

For families, sports fans and guests of all ages, The Bears' Den offers a fun hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after the hometown team, the Hershey Bears. Located inside Hershey Lodge, guests can enjoy classic American fare for lunch or dinner daily while taking in a game on one of 39 HD televisions and an enormous 7' x 12' HD video wall tuned in to all the sports action. 

If your family visits us this summer, be sure to snap some photos to remember your #HersheyparkHappy memories and tag us on social media at @TheSweetestPlaceOnEarth on Instagram.

Meet The Official Resorts of Hersheypark:

The Hotel Hershey

Recently named #1 Best Theme Park Hotel by USA TODAY 10BEST readers, The Hotel Hershey is a Historic Hotel of America opened by Milton S. Hershey in 1933. This luxury hotel is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is the home of the Forbes Four-Star awarded Chocolate Spa. For the most luxurious accommodations, guests are encouraged to book the four or six-bedroom Villas. Nestled in a secluded setting with views of Blue Mountain, Villas guests have access to the exclusive Villas Concierge Lounge with complimentary food and exclusive activities, and perks including daily Hersheypark tickets on Park operating days and a One-Day Fast Track pass.

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge is the perfect resort for families and guests of all ages. Overnight guests also receive exclusive access to Hershey's Water Works, the resort's 30,000 sq. ft. Hershey-themed indoor pool complex complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese's Water Walk, zero entry pool and sand castle spray zone.

Hershey Inn & Suites

Located at 1300 West End Avenue in Hummelstown, the recently opened four-story, 130-room property marks the company's first brand-new hotel in nearly 60 years. Hershey Inn & Suites offers a first-of-its-kind family suite with bunk beds, a complimentary hot breakfast (a first for an Official Resort of Hersheypark), a lobby bar, a 24/7 arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Hersheypark Camping Resort is a year-round camping facility in Hershey, Pa., that has been welcoming guests since 1963. The campground offers something for everyone with more than 300 open and shaded sites, including 50 cabins and two Tiny Homes with heat, air conditioning and additional amenities; full hook-up sites with electric, water, sewer and cable; partial sites with electric, water and cable; and no hook-up tent sites. The campground is complete with onsite amenities and recreation such as an outdoor pool, evening s’mores and multiple playgrounds.

FREE Resort Benefits With Every Stay

The Official Resort of Hersheypark offer guests unmatched free resort benefits, including:

• Best price on Hersheypark tickets
• Complimentary roundtrip front gate shuttle service
• Early admission via Hersheypark’s Sweet Start program
• Free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum Experience
• And of course, chocolate at check-in for the whole party

Summer packages are available now including the popular Kids, Stay, Play & Eat Free for select dates now through Sept. 7. Kids 17 and under stay for free, receive free Hersheypark tickets and eat breakfast for free.

Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth starting with check-in. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at Hershey Lodge begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 11 a.m. 

Kids' Check-In
Children can also experience their very own check-in at our Kids' Check-In desk in the lobby, where they are welcome to sign the kids' guest book, participate in a Hershey's candy guessing game and receive a chocolate surprise. Please view our activities schedule for availability.

Housekeeping
For your comfort, we will only enter your guest room to provide housekeeping service upon your request.
To request a refresh cleaning of your guest room simply dial extension 1099 or text 717-282-1153 before 10 p.m. for service on the next day. Our team stands ready to assist with any guest room amenities upon request.

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services here. 

Download the HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Lodge, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Hershey Lodge offers a daily schedule of family-friendly activities for guests ranging from s'mores roasts to chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

Guests can also take advantage of recreation on the property, such as mini golf, basketball, pickleball, and tennis. 

MAKE A SPLASH AT HERSHEY'S WATER WORKS

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Families won't want to miss Hershey's Water Works, an exclusive and complimentary amenity for our overnight guests. Rain or shine, guests can enjoy sweet indoor fun at our year-round indoor pool complex, complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, the Reese's Water Walk, zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, lighthouse tipping buckets and basketball hoops. The complex also features an indoor arcade and fitness center as well as Cocoa Cabana snack bar, open on select dates.

A zero-entry outdoor pool, spray fountain and lounge area is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting. 

EXCLUSIVE HERSHEYPARK BENEFITS

If you're planning a visit to Hersheypark during your stay, be sure to take advantage of all of the perks that come with being a guest of one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! All guests of Hershey Lodge receive the below FREE Resort Benefits:

• Extra hours at Hersheypark with Sweet Start and Preview Plan
  • Sweet Start: Resort guests and Season Pass Holders enjoy 1-hour early access to select rides during the daily summer season (available May 21 through Sept. 7, 2026).
  • Preview Plan: Resort guests enjoy up to 3 extra evening hours the night before their full-day visit. Simply, present your ticket at the main entrance and enjoy a fun-filled evening.
• FREE front gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark
• Best price on Hersheypark tickets

Hersheypark is open daily from May 21 through Sept. 7. View hours here.  Included in admission, guests can enjoy The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park open from May 23 through Sept. 7. 

MORE FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary for a visit to some other area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hershey Lodge receive additional FREE Resort Benefits, including  access to 2 award-winning golf courses at Hershey Country Club, preferred pricing to  ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as big cats, otters and many more. Note: Entrance to ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark only when entered via the Hersheypark bridge during Park hours.
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden with more than 5,000 roses in the summer and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented flora.  During your visit, be sure to check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring 600 butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.
• The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests to learn all about the life and legacy of our founder Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where you can try your hand at chocolate pouring and decorating.

For more things to do in Hershey, visit HersheyPA.com.

DINING

Hershey Lodge offers a variety of delicious summer dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Options include: 

• STACKS: A breakfast and lunch restaurant serving dishes stacked high with flavor, ranging from stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles to Double Decker BLTs.
• Fire & Grain: An innovative menu of re-mastered comfort foods and flavorful cocktails for breakfast, dinner and happy hour.
• The Bears’ Den: A sports-themed restaurant with a hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after our hometown team, the Hershey Bears. Open for lunch and dinner.
• Revelry: Classic and contemporary chophouse fare with premium cuts and the largest wine & spirits list in the house. Open for dinner daily.
• Cocoa Beanery: An all-day coffee shop, serving up eats, ice cream, drinks and treats.
• Cocoa Cabana: A poolside cafe offering a selection of starters, salads, sandwiches and ice cream located inside Hershey’s Water Works.

Other options around town include the all-new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant, bar and patio open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate and is now accepting reservations. Note: A Hersheypark ticket is not required. 

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

Summertime calls for a spa day to refresh and rejuvenate.  During your getaway, make time for sweet relaxation at MeltSpa by Hershey, our day spa in downtown Hershey. Nothing says summer quite like treatments from the  Summer Strawberry Collection, featuring a Summer Strawberry Body Scrub, Immersion, Manicure and Pedicure available June 1 through Aug. 31. Of course, signature Hershey's chocolate treatments and exclusive dark chocolate treatments are also available. Book your treatment today.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. Stop by the Sweet Memories gift shop for souvenirs, such as Hershey's chocolate, giftware, apparel, accessories and more. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are available for in-store purchases.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

While you're here, share your sweet summer photos with us on social by tagging us on Facebook, Instagram and X!

Fire & Grain

Fire & Grain brings guests innovative menus filled with re-mastered comfort foods and cocktails perfect for breakfast with your family, dinner with friends or cocktails with co-workers. Attire is resort casual. Happy hour deals are also available on select appetizers and cocktails from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

STACKS

STACKS serves all-day breakfast and lunch dishes stacked high with flavor and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. From 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy a variety of specialty cocktails and mocktails, hot chocolates and espresso drinks while munching on eats from a menu as iconic as the Hershey Smokestacks.

Revelry 

Revelry Chophouse, Bar + Patio is one of Hershey's premier restaurants, offering classic and contemporary chophouse fare, and is the perfect setting for a nice dinner out. An outdoor patio overlooks the main entrance of Hershey Lodge, where guests can enjoy the warm weather with a craft cocktail, premium chops and summer dishes like the Herb Crusted Halibut or Strawberry Short Cake.

The Bears’ Den

The Bears' Den offers classic American fare for lunch and dinner and brings a fun, hockey-rink-like atmosphere modeled after our favorite hometown team, the Hershey Bears. Guests can catch all the sports action on over 27 HD TVs and try new dishes like the Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese, Pickle Burger and Smoked Sausage Hoagie.

Cocoa Beanery

Before you head to Hersheypark for the day, stop by Cocoa Beanery for coffee and speciality espresso drinks. The all-day cafe also has snacks, grab-and-go meals, Ultimate Milkshakes and rotating ice cream flavors with your favorite Hershey's candy toppings. 

Meet The New Executive Chef

Hershey Lodge is excited to introduce their new Executive Chef, Mike Cappelli! Chef Mike has worked with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts for more than 48 years in various culinary roles. Most recently, he served as Executive Sous Chef for Hershey Lodge prior to being named Executive Chef. 

A graduate of Hershey High School and the U.S. Army National Guard NCO Academy, Mike brings a strong foundation of discipline and leadership to his role. In 2003, he was honored with the Legacy of Excellence Award, the highest level of recognition given within the company. Outside of the kitchen, Mike enjoys cooking for his family, riding his motorcycle, growing heirloom tomatoes and watching the Philadelphia Flyers.

Unsure of the best outdoor dining spots in Hershey, Pennsylvania? Keep reading to explore the best outdoor dining options for this 2026 season.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region at Hersheypark for guests with or without a Park ticket. Head to their second-story patio to experience the all-new Blossom Bar, serving a selection of exclusive cocktails available during all Hersheypark Spring Weekends. Seating is first-come, first-served. 

Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor

Also located in Hershey's Chocolatetown is Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor. Milton's features 100% local dairy house-made ice cream and Hershey's candy toppings and decadent sauces. Plus, their selection of hot items like the Italian, Cheeseburger or Chicken Bacon Ranch Boli makes it a solid lunch option. While it has an old-fashioned feel inside, the restaurant has a large section of outdoor seating.

Trevi 5

Featuring a contemporary twist on traditional Italian cuisine, Trevi 5 is a casual dining experience located at The Hotel Hershey. Whether you’re grabbing a casual lunch or lingering over cocktails on the terrace, it’s the ultimate spot for patio season.

1933 Restaurant & Tavern

1933 Restaurant & Tavern offers an approachable steakhouse menu and elevated pub fare. Guests can relish in the warm weather at several outdoor tables overlooking the putting green at The Hotel Hershey. Or, kick back by the firepit outside while enjoying a cocktail inspired by the Prohibition era. 

STACKS 

STACKS at Hershey Lodge serves all-day breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Sit under the covered patio and enjoy a variety of specialty cocktails and mocktails, hot chocolates, espresso drinks and brunch dishes stacked high with flavor. 

Revelry Chophouse, Bar + Patio

Revelry Chophouse, Bar + Patio is one of Hershey's premier restaurants, serving classic and contemporary chophouse fare and the largest in-house wine and spirits list at Hershey Lodge. Indulge in a nice dinner on the outdoor patio with twinkling lights overlooking the main entrance of the resort. 

Lobby Bar Patio 

Guests of Hershey Lodge can step out onto the Lobby Bar patio to relax in the sun during the day with a coffee from Cocoa Beanery, or cozy up around a fire at night while sipping a Hershey's Signature Martini from the Lobby Bar.

Devon Seafood + Steak

Devon Seafood + Steak is a downtown Hershey staple, serving seafood and steak all cooked over an open wood fire. Sit on the outdoor patio and enjoy the finest cuts and catches of the day for dinner and take in the gorgeous views of the Hershey smokestacks, all while hearing the roar of Hersheypark.

Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar

Hershey Social Restaurant & Bar is the newest restaurant on Chocolate Avenue to sip, savor and socialize. Unwind on the outdoor patio with shareable appetizers, Long Island Iced Tea pitchers and over-the-top desserts for lunch and dinner daily.

Counter-Service Options

Along with the various outdoor sit-down dining options listed above, check out these “bonus” counter-service options inside Hersheypark. 

Note: A Hersheypark admission ticket is needed to dine at 1906 Grill and Overlook Food Court.

1906 Grill

1906 Grill is located inside Hersheypark and features char-grilled burgers, fries, chicken fingers, cheese curds and more. 1906 Grill is a guest-favorite location inside the Park to take a break from the thrills and grab a quick bite.

Overlook Food Court

Overlook Food Court, located in the Kissing Tower Hill area of Hersheypark, offers nine concession options. From grilled burgers to hand-crafted salads and allergen-friendly fare, Overlook is an easy dining experience in the Park with outdoor seating and front-row views of Twizzlers Twisted Gravity.

Pioneer Frontier Area

Park-goers can find a variety of outdoor dining options in the Pioneer Frontier area of Hersheypark. Grab a picnic table and munch on food from places like Chickie's & Pete's, Philly Cheesesteak Co., Flying Fare (open during the summer season) or Subway.

Gather your friends, grab some drinks and find a spot outside. Remember to tag us on social media with #HersheyPA! Please note that all patio locations are weather permitting

Just a quick, 90-minute drive from Philadelphia on Interstate 76, Hershey offers a summer escape packed with epic thrills, unique chocolate experiences and the perfect dose of family fun—all while keeping the patriotic spirit alive during a historic summer ahead.

Road Trip from Philly to Hersheypark in 90 Minutes

Forget the hassle of lengthy travel. Hershey is conveniently located right off major highways, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from Philadelphia and other major metropolitan areas such as Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C. and New York City. After cheering on your favorite team or soaking in the history of Independence Hall, you can trade the city hustle for coaster thrills and chocolate relaxation in no time.

Hershey is a small town rooted in the world's love of chocolate and the philanthropy of our founder, Milton S. Hershey. Our world-class destination offers a sweet blend of historical roots and modern-day appeal while giving back to children in need, making it a must-visit place to experience and celebrate the nation's 250th birthday.

At the heart of the celebration is Hersheypark, the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, marking its 120th operating year. Hersheypark offers three parks included in the one-price admission for added value:

• The amusement park with more than 70 rides and attractions, including 15 thrilling coasters - the most in the Northeast
• The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park (open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day) inside Hersheypark, with one million gallons of water among 17 water attractions
• ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo included with admission only by entering through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours

New Splashes at Water Park

New for 2026, Hersheypark will debut a new water park enhancement during this landmark year, providing guests with even more ways to get to the thrills faster and cool off. Two all-new water play areas, boasting 45 aquatic elements, open in the existing Bayside Pier on May 23 as part of a larger summer celebration at Hersheypark over Memorial Day Weekend. 

• A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, will feature water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features.
• Also new, The Island at Bayside Pier will debut towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. 

In addition to these unique offerings, Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world focused on fun and chocolate, as evidenced by the life-size, chocolate-inspired characters throughout the Park, rides inspired by iconic Hershey Company brands, incredible chocolate treats and even ride height categories as candy brands.

All-American Fun in Hershey

Hersheypark is gearing up to host patriotic events and activations all summer long in celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial. Visitors can look forward to multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S, an all-new star-spangled show, limited-time food and drink, select Americana-themed rides and Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best with more summer surprises to come during the Park’s 120th operating year.

Hersheypark Overlaid with Patriotic Spirit

Guests entering the 121-acre amusement park this summer will immediately notice patriotic decor, photo opportunities with life-size candy brands in special costumes and new red, white and blue ride and light packages as they enjoy the 70 rides and attractions at Hersheypark. 

Fireworks Displays to Kick Off Memorial Day Weekend

Daily summer operations at Hersheypark begin on May 21, with the first of several fireworks displays presented by HERSHEY’S on May 23. Guests visiting on May 23, July 3, July 4 and Aug. 8 can end their evening with fireworks.

New In-Park Theatre Show

Hersheypark will debut an unforgettable live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the air-conditioned Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue from May 29 through Labor Day. The only-in-Hershey show will take guests on a journey through the Rock, Pop, Country and Soul anthems that shaped this country’s history. 

Limited-Time Food and Beverage

Guest-favorite Hersheypark treats are decked out in red, white and blue this summer, including a Star-Spangled King Size Shake at Simply Chocolate dessert shop, available only in July in celebration of the 10th birthday of the award-winning, iconic treat. Other exclusive food and beverage offerings include apple pie and red, white and blue donuts at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor, red, white and blue specialty fudge at The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen, and a Stars & Stripes Martini Flight and Firecracker Mocktail at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest Qualifier

The world’s top hot dog eaters and rising challengers will return to Hersheypark on June 19 to compete in the final qualifying event for the legendary Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July contest. Guests can watch the classic American tradition at 2 p.m. in the water park. 

Live Entertainment in Hershey

Located on the same complex as the amusement park, Hersheypark Stadium will again host the Summer Concert Series with acts from Guns N' Roses and Chris Stapleton to Forrest Frank and Pitbull. The historic Stadium is also one of five stops on the Commonwealth Concert Series, featuring a free ticketed concert by The Avett Brothers and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts in Hershey on June 13. 

New for summer 2026, an additional Premium Deck will allow guests premium seating, access to exclusive food and beverage options, a dedicated restroom and designated parking and entrance. 

Beyond the Park: Chocolate Relaxation and Hospitality

Hershey’s sweet appeal extends far beyond the amusement park gates, making it an overnight destination. The Official Resorts of Hersheypark include The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, Hersheypark Camping Resort and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. Guests at these properties enjoy free resort benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at Hersheypark, complimentary front gate shuttle service and other perks. 

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offer accommodations for any type of traveler:

All-New Hershey Inn & Suites

Located at 1300 West End Avenue in Hummelstown, this recently opened four-story, 130-room property marks the company's first brand-new hotel in nearly 60 years. The hotel offers a first-of-its-kind family suite with bunk beds, a complimentary hot breakfast (a first for an Official Resort of Hersheypark), a lobby bar, a 24/7 arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round.

The Hotel Hershey

Voted #1 Best Theme Park Hotel by USA TODAY 10Best readers in 2026, The Hotel Hershey is a Historic Hotel of America opened by Milton S. Hershey in 1933. This luxury hotel is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is home to the Forbes Four-Star awarded Chocolate Spa. For the most luxurious accommodations, guests are encouraged to book the secluded Villas. A stay at the Villas comes with exclusive access to the Villas Concierge Lounge, Hersheypark tickets for the duration of a stay and a one-day Fast Track per person. 

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge is the perfect resort for families and guests of all ages. Overnight guests also receive exclusive access to Hershey's Water Works, the resort's 30,000 sq. ft. Hershey-themed indoor pool complex complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese's Water Walk, zero entry pool and sand castle spray zone.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Offers over 55 acres of scenic grounds with options for RV sites, tent camping, tiny homes, and cozy log cabins, complete with evening s’mores and multiple playgrounds.

Summer packages are available now including the popular Kids, Stay, Play & Eat Free for select dates now through Sept. 7. Book a stay select nights from May 21 through Sept. 7 under the Summer Fun Card or Ultimate Summer Fun Card Package and enjoy perks such as the $99 Summer Fun Card and deluxe accommodations. 

Core Purpose: Every Visit Gives Back

A visit to Hershey isn’t just a chance to make family memories—it’s a way to make a difference in the lives of thousands of students. Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) is proud to help fulfill the dream of our founder by providing value to Milton Hershey School (MHS) in its mission of helping students lead fulfilling and productive lives - just as Mr. Hershey intended. Learn more at mhskids.org. 

This summer, when you’re already in Philadelphia for the biggest events of the year, put Hershey on your destination map. It's the easy, sweet detour that guarantees unforgettable memories with the kind of Happy you can only find here.

Meet Joseph Blessing, General Manager

Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) is thrilled to introduce Joseph Blessing as the General Manager of the soon-to-open Hershey Inn & Suites. Joseph brings 20 years of hotel management experience to the new property having spent the last two decades with Marriott’s most recognized brands.

Joseph brings a wealth of specialized experience to Hershey, specifically in the select-service industry. He spent 10 years in the Virginia Beach market before returning to his home state of Pennsylvania, where he gained first-hand experience in opening new properties from the ground up. Most notably, he led the successful opening of the Fairfield Inn & Suites Expo Center in Lebanon, and most recently served as the leader of the Courtyard by Marriott Hershey Chocolate Avenue (Spring Creek) for the past four years.

His commitment to guest satisfaction and operational precision have not gone unnoticed by the industry. In 2022, Joseph received the prestigious Marriott Diamond General Manager of the Year award, a distinction that celebrates the top-performing hotel teams and individuals across the properties worldwide. Under his leadership, his properties have also consistently earned Platinum Circle Awards for guest service scores, placing them in the top 5%–10% of the brand nationwide.

Meet Keith Burnett, Assistant General Manager

Serving as the Assistant General Manager is a familiar face to the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts family - Keith Burnett. Keith joins the Hershey Inn & Suites team with more than a decade of experience, a Partner of the Year (a prestigious company award) and a passion for guest connection. 

Keith's HE&R journey began in 2014 with a VIP Guest Services Internship. Shortly after, a transition into a full-time role as Housekeeping Floor Supervisor at Hershey Lodge provided an opportunity to see the value of teamwork and lean into the selfless spirit of service. By 2017, a promotion to Assistant Front Office Manager opened doors for mentoring the next generation of interns, emphasizing that proactivity and networking are the keys to success. The following years saw a steady rise through the ranks of the Lodge’s Front Office, serving as PM Operations Manager in 2018 and Guest Services Manager in early 2019. 

Hershey Inn & Suites Overview

With rates starting at $149, the hotel features 130 rooms with seven suites; each space combining comfort and convenience with signature Hershey hospitality. Guests will enjoy convenient on-site amenities such as complimentary hot breakfast, a lobby bar and grab-and-go marketplace, an arcade, a fitness center and a year-round indoor pool. 

Hershey Inn & Suites is designed to give families more ways to stay and play without missing out on the FREE resort benefits. Free perks exclusive to guests include best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra hours (morning and evening) on Hersheypark operating days, front-gate shuttle service to a private drop-off location and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum Experience, adding exceptional built-in value for visitors. 

Visit Hersheypark

Open Friday, May 8, through Sunday, May 10, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

If your mom is a thrill seeker and a foodie, look no further than Hersheypark amusement park! The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania is open for Spring Weekends and offers the largest coaster collection in the Northeast, over-the-top King Size Shakes (celebrating their 10th birthday in 2026!), sweet greets with Hershey Characters and more. 

Guests can save on tickets when purchased online with our current ticket offers.

Stroll Through ZooAmerica

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

If mom is an animal lover, she'll enjoy a walk through ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, featuring animals native to the continent of North America. ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket when entering the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours.

See Melissa Etheridge at Hershey Theatre

Friday, May 8, at 8 p.m.

American singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge will bring “The Rise Tour” to Hershey Theatre in May 2026. Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, Etheridge has remained one of America's favorite female singers for more than two decades. The singer hit commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album, “Yes I Am,” in 1993. The collection featured her massive hits, "I'm the Only One" and "Come to My Window." She has won two Grammy Awards from 15 nominations, an Academy Award for "I Need to Wake Up" and a Juno Award. 

See America at Hershey Theatre

Saturday, May 9, at 7 p.m.

Following a sold-out run of shows for their 55th anniversary, classic rock group America will embark on “The Happy Trails Tour 2026”. Known for their timeless magic and powerful performances, the Grammy Award-winning group will draw on their deep catalog of hits, including their signature song, “Horse With No Name,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972.

Enjoy Delicious Dining

Open daily; hours vary

Treat mom to an indulgent meal at one of our 15 dining properties throughout Hershey, Pa. Highlights include the all-new Hershey Social, located at the intersection of Cocoa and Chocolate Avenue, which serves bold flavors and signature cocktails to sip, savor and socialize. 

1933 Restaurant & Tavern at The Hotel Hershey is open all weekend long and offers brunch every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring Brisket Benedict, Lobster Omelet and more. Other restaurants across Hershey, such as The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, Devon Seafood + Steak, will also be open on Mother’s Day. 

Enjoy A Day At The Chocolate Spa

Open Daily

Nothing says “I love you, Mom” quite like a day of pure, chocolate-infused bliss. This Mother’s Day, treat her to some well-deserved pampering at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, where she can dive into decadent treatments like a cocoa massage, a whipped cocoa bath, or a chocolate fondue body wrap.

In between services, she can retreat to one of four relaxation lounges or soak up the view from the Quiet Room balcony overlooking The Hotel Hershey's formal gardens. The spa still has some openings on the Friday and Monday of Mother’s Day weekend, give the reservations team a call at 844-330-1797 to make an appointment. 

Plan a Weekend Staycation

Booking a weekend stay at one of The Official Resorts at Hersheypark ensures that you and mom will have plenty of time to enjoy all of the excitement that the town built on chocolate has to offer. Resort activities are available at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort for the whole family to enjoy, including kids' check-in, s'mores roasts, chocolate bingo and arts & crafts.

All guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, including guests of the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites select service hotel, also receive FREE Resort Benefits, such as discounted Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at Hersheypark with the Preview Plan and more!

Visit Hershey Gardens 

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hershey Gardens offers moms free admission to the 23-acre walk-through botanical garden on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10. Guests who visit on Mother's Day weekend can see bounties of spring flowers on display and hundreds of butterflies from around the world in the Butterfly Atrium. Also in the Butterfly Atrium is the Zoology Zone, where visitors can get up close and personal with creatures from Asia, Australia and South America, as well as cool bugs from our own backyard.

Hershey Gardens is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For ticketing information, please visit HersheyGardens.org.

Visit The Hershey Story Museum

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Moms can also enjoy free admission to The Hershey Story's Museum Experience on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10. Visitors to the museum will learn about the life and history of chocolate pioneer Milton S. Hershey, his wife, Catherine and the town of Hershey, Pa., through exhibits, artifacts and interactive experiences. To make a visit extra sweet, consider purchasing tickets to decorate chocolate in the Chocolate Lab and sip on chocolates from around the world during Chocolate Tastings.

The Hershey Story is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Tickets can be purchased at the museum admissions desk for entry.

Experience Hershey’s Chocolate World

Open daily; hours vary

Give Mom the sweet opportunity to become a chocolatier for the day at Hershey’s Chocolate World! She can create her own candy bar, learn how chocolate is made on a free chocolate tour ride, or learn more about what makes our town's history so sweet with a trolley tour throughout Hershey, Pa.

Mom can also be a kid in a candy store and explore aisles of unique gifts, chocolate-themed apparel, sweet souvenirs and, of course, candy at the World's Largest HERSHEY'S Store.

Chocolate World is open all Mother's Day weekend long; hours vary by day:

• Friday, May 8, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday, May 9, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Sunday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Tickets for attractions may be purchased online in advance.

We hope you have a Happy Mother's Day in The Sweetest Place On Earth!

The limited-time offer is the ultimate key to unlocking a summer full of nonstop thrills on more than 70 rides and coasters, splashes at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park (open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend), and visits to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park. 

Hersheypark is open for Spring Weekends through May 17, with daily operations starting May 21. Hours vary by day.

This summer, Hersheypark will offer multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S, an all-new star-spangled show, limited-time food and drink, select Americana-themed rides and Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best with more summer surprises to come in celebration of America’s 250th  birthday.

The 121-acre amusement park will also open two all-new water play areas, boasting 45 aquatic elements within the existing Bayside Pier, to get to the water faster this summer. A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, will feature water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features. Also new, The Island at Bayside Pier will debut towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. 

Summer Fun Card Resort Packages

Summer Fun Card packages are also available at select Official Resorts of Hersheypark for those planning an extended stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Guests can save on a Hershey vacation at The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge family resort and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites select-service property. 

These resort packages combine the unlimited park access of the Summer Fun Card with comfortable accommodations in the heart of the Hershey action, top-tier amenities and valuable benefits. To sweeten the savings, resort guests receive complimentary front gate shuttle service, 1-hour Hersheypark Sweet Start access, complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, and more.

Check out these three ways to save on a resort getaway this summer.

The best part? You have a choice of everything from a deluxe vacation to a smart budget. We’ve rounded up our three favorite ways to save this summer at The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge resort and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites select-service property debuting May 1.

Check out these sweet deals and start packing your bags!

Kids Stay, Play & Eat Free

Our most popular resorts package is back! This package, available April 24-Sept. 7, is the ultimate hack for a budget-friendly family getaway. Kids Stay, Play & Eat Free package includes for kids 17 and under:

• FREE accommodations for kids
• FREE Hersheypark tickets for kids
• FREE breakfast each day for the kids

Summer Fun Package

For families who want to live at the Park all summer long, starting May 21, enjoy three nights of deluxe accommodations and the popular Hersheypark Summer Fun Card. Summer Fun Package includes:

• Three nights of deluxe accommodations
• The $99 Summer Fun Card, which grants unlimited visits to Hersheypark throughout the summer

Ultimate Summer Fun Package

Stay three nights and get the ultimate ticket to summer with the Hersheypark Summer Fun Card. Beginning May 21, this resorts package includes:

• Three nights of deluxe accommodations
• The $99 Summer Fun Card, which grants unlimited admission to Hersheypark throughout the summer
• Breakfast every morning
• An All-Day Hersheypark Drink Plan

Note: 3-night minimum applies to Summer Fun and Ultimate Summer Fun packages.

FREE Resort Benefits

Every stay at an Official Resort of Hersheypark comes with exclusive perks for guests to enjoy:

• Best price on Hersheypark tickets
• FREE front gate shuttle service to an exclusive resort drop-off location - just steps away from the front gate of Hersheypark - on all Park operating days
• Up to three extra evening hours with Preview Plan
• 1-hour early access with Sweet Start during Summer Season
• FREE admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum Experience
• FREE chocolate at check-in for the whole family
• Access to two award-winning golf courses at Hershey Country Club
• Preferred pricing to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park 

Plus, outdoor fun is back at the resorts! Enjoy a variety of recreation and activities:

• Hershey Lodge: S’mores roasts, Hershey's Water Works indoor pool complex, outdoor pool (opening May 22), mini golf, basketball, pickleball, tennis
• The Hotel Hershey: Hiking trails, glow putting, s’mores roasts, indoor pool, outdoor pool complex (opening May 22) and an outdoor sports complex
• Hershey Inn & Suites: Lobby bar with outdoor patio and firepits, indoor pool and arcade

Ready to make this the sweetest summer ever? Space fills up fast, and these deals are only available during select Hersheypark operating dates.

• Friday, April 3 (Good Friday) from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday, April 4, and Saturday, April 11, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturdays from April 18 through May 16 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sundays from April 5 through May 17 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

If you plan a springtime visit to Hersheypark, this ultimate Spring Weekends 2026 Guide covers all the details on things to do, where to eat and stay, and insider tips to maximize your time in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

THINGS TO DO

Whether you’re looking for coaster rides, family-friendly thrills, character entertainment or strolls through the zoo, there are so many uniquely Hershey experiences to enjoy this spring.

Coasters and Family-Friendly Rides

Hersheypark Spring Weekends signal the return of the coaster-riding season after a cold and snowy winter in Central Pennsylvania. For dedicated thrill-seekers and casual parkgoers alike, this is the first opportunity of the year to experience the largest coaster collection in the Northeast. Hersheypark offers a truly unmatched lineup of attractions that cater to every level of adrenaline, ensuring plenty of thrills from mild to wild. 

Visitors during the spring season will find more than 50 attractions to explore, weather and maintenance permitting. Hersheypark is thoughtfully designed to welcome guests of all ages, including the youngest thrill-seekers, with nearly 20 kiddie rides that offer a first taste of amusement park fun. Families can enjoy mild thrills together, like the Kissing Tower, Ferris Wheel and Dry Gulch Railroad, which offer the most scenic views of the amusement park’s expansive 121-acre landscape. Dry Gulch Railroad, along with other select attractions, will celebrate a milestone anniversary in 2026, highlighting the rich history and enduring legacy of Hersheypark as a premier family destination.

While it’s not uncommon to see some hotter days in Central Pennsylvania during the spring season, The Boardwalk At Hersheypark will remain closed for Spring Weekends. The 11-acre water park will open daily from May 23 through Sept. 7 and will debut two new water park enhancements in summer 2026.

Hersheypark is open rain or shine, and while we can’t control the weather, we can control the fun with our Rainy Day Promise! If inclement weather causes the majority of major rides to close for more than 60 minutes, visitors can head to Guest Services to claim a FREE Return Visit Voucher, valid on any public operating day through Jan. 3, 2027. Please note that Return Visit Vouchers are issued in the day for the day based on the posted weather policy. We are unable to predict daily weather conditions or their impact on available attractions, and therefore cannot determine in advance when these vouchers will be issued.

Insider Tip: Download the Hersheypark app for real-time ride availability and wait times.

Hershey Characters

For over 50 years, the iconic Hershey Characters have been a beloved staple of the Hersheypark experience, bringing joy and excitement to guests of all ages. Hersheypark is the only amusement park in the world where visitors can meet and greet with their favorite Hershey brands brought to life. During Spring Weekends, guests can snap selfies with two of the most popular Characters, Hersh and Reese, at Hersh's Hangout located in Hershey's Chocolatetown.

Insider Tip: In the event of inclement weather, the characters will be located outside the main entrance to the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. To ensure guests don’t miss a photo opportunity, the official Hersheypark app is the go-to resource for appearance times and locations on the day of the guest’s visit.

Our Friends From The Sea Show

Located in the Aquatheatre inside Hersheypark is the Our Friends From The Sea show, presented in partnership with Ocean Connections throughout the Hersheypark operating year. This entertaining and educational show features animal care specialists interacting with California sea lions and Atlantic harbor seals to teach guests about marine life, conservation and the environment. 

Our Friends From The Sea is offered every operating day this spring at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Starting May 8, showtimes will change to 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. The educational show is included with a Hersheypark ticket. Animal lovers can elevate their visit with feeding and photo opportunities following each show for an additional fee.

Insider Tip: Guests interested in a VIP experience should consider the Flippered Friends & Family program, which includes a feeding and training session. The program is offered at noon on all Spring Weekends operating days. Registration is required in advance.

ZooAmerica Visits

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park provides a break from the hustle and bustle of the Hersheypark midways with a quieter adventure. The 11-acre zoo offers a unique look at dozens of North American animals, including gray wolves, a black bear, river otters, Canada lynx and more. The best part? ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only by accessing the Zoo through the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. This means that during Spring Weekends, guests of Hersheypark will be able to access ZooAmerica through the bridge from Park opening until 4:30 p.m., as ZooAmerica is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through May 22. It takes about one hour to walk through the whole Zoo, but guests are encouraged to observe the animal behavior and take as much time as they need to explore!
 

Insider Tip: ZooAmerica hosts behind-the-scenes tours during the spring season. These tours bring participants through non-public spaces and offer an up-close look at the North American animals. 

WHERE TO EAT

When guests visit Hersheypark during Spring Weekends, they will discover that the fun doesn’t stop at the thrilling rides and attractions - it extends to the incredible food offerings available throughout the Park. Hersheypark offers dozens of places to get a taste of spring, ranging from quick-service counters to a full-service dining experience. Check out our Spring Weekends Foodie Guide for all the delicious details!

In-Park Food and Beverage Updates

Whether you are craving a classic park staple, a gourmet meal or a signature Hershey’s dessert, Spring Weekends provide the perfect opportunity to indulge. Here is a taste of what is new or changed for food and beverage offerings this spring at Hersheypark.

• Exciting news for sweet treat enthusiasts: Simply Chocolate is gearing up to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the King Size Shake. To mark a decade of decadent indulgence, Simply Chocolate will offer a limited-time Birthday Shake topped with rainbow cake and a cookie candle. Beyond the celebratory concoction, guests can enjoy fresh takes on the Chocolate Overload and Reese’s Peanut Butter varieties.

• A second Rita’s location will be added next to the Chick-fil-A patio in the Founder’s Way region, providing guests with another convenient option for a cool-down treat.

• Milton's Ice Cream Parlor will be open and ready to serve custom ice cream creations during Park operating hours for those craving a sweet treat. 

• Overlook Food Court will continue to offer allergen, vegan and gluten-friendly options, including wraps, salads, pizzas, chicken tenders, and vegan and gluten-friendly snacks.

Insider Tip: When available, guests can utilize the mobile ordering system at select locations around the Park through the Hersheypark app. New this year, guests can utilize their All-Day Dining Deal and Season Pass Dining Plans via mobile ordering. Season Pass Holders can also use their Season Pass discount.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

Those seeking  a full-service option during their visit should look no further than The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio. This signature dining location is open daily in Hershey's Chocolatetown. The restaurant offers a delightful menu of family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate, one-of-a-kind views and a second-story patio and bar open this spring, weather permitting.

The Chocolatier will debut a new menu later this spring, so stay tuned to their Facebook page and @thechocolatierrestaurant Instagram for details!

Insider Tip: Reservations are strongly encouraged at The Chocolatier. Seating at the Carrousel Bar and the patio is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

WHERE TO SHOP

Nearly a dozen gift and souvenir shops are open during Spring Weekends inside Hersheypark.

Guests looking to give the gift of Hersheypark Happy or take a piece of it home with them will find the largest selection of apparel, gifts, toys and more at Hersheypark Supply Co., the premier, 10,000-square-foot flagship store in Hershey's Chocolatetown. New this spring, Hersheypark Supply Co. features 2026-branded clothing, hats and drinkware for parkgoers of all ages, as well as a new and returning line of Season Pass Holder swag.

New Spring Retail Offerings

Other new retail offerings this spring include the following: 

• A new Destination Hershey store (across from Fahrenheit roller coaster in the former Coaster Collectables location) features apparel and souvenirs celebrating the iconic town of Hershey, Pa., and highlighting the many landmarks that make it The Sweetest Place On Earth.

• A new location for the Coaster Collectables store in Founder’s Way (formerly Surfside Styles) features new and returning apparel and gifts celebrating the iconic coasters and rides of Hersheypark. 

Insider Tip: Check out our 2026 Hersheypark Retail Guide for a full breakdown of all the latest swag. 

New Ways To Play

Get your game on at Hersheypark with two arcade locations featuring video games, crane machines and arcade classics including skee-ball! Located in the Pioneer Frontier location, the Play Dome Arcade features two new video games: Hot Wheels Ultimate Speedway and Icee Slush Rush. These interactive, multiplayer games offer a unique new way to win tickets and redeem great prizes. In the Overlook Arcade, guests can enjoy the all-new Top Gun Maverick game, which combines simulator thrills and target-based gameplay for the ultimate gaming experience! 

WHERE TO STAY

Visitors looking to extend their stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book a springtime getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground, or the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites select service hotel debuting soon. Popular packages available on select dates starting April 3 include the Hersheypark 1-Night Package and 2-Day Stay and Play Package, with the Best Price Of Summer available through March 31.

All guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free Resort Benefits, including discounted Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan, free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, and more.

The Hotel Hershey

Opened by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey in 1933, The Hotel Hershey is a one-of-a-kind destination with a rich history. Situated high atop the town of Hershey, the resort is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and has received the AAA Four-Diamond Award.

The Villas at The Hotel Hershey offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with 48 reimagined rooms, refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities, including access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person.

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge provides convenience and comfort for families and guests of all ages. The property is home to Hershey’s Water Works indoor pool complex featuring two pools, Twizzlers Twists Slides, Reese’s Water Walk, a sand castle water play structure, a whirlpool and an outdoor splash pad. 

Insider Tip: Check out the Hershey Lodge Spring Guide for more information on this family-friendly resort.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Hersheypark Camping Resort is a year-round camping facility in Hershey, Pa., that has welcomed guests since 1963 with its 55 acres of emerald hills. The campground offers more than 300 open and shaded sites, including 50 cabins and two tiny homes with heat, air conditioning and additional amenities; full hook-up sites with electric, water, sewer and cable; partial hook-up sites with electric, water, and cable; and no-hook-up tent sites.

Hershey Inn & Suites

Hershey Inn & Suites is the first select-service property as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offering comfort and convenience. The new four-story hotel features 130 rooms, seven family suites with bunk beds, an indoor pool, an arcade and a fitness center. This all-new way to stay is now accepting reservations for visits after May 1`.

HOW TO SAVE

Planning your visit to Hersheypark for Spring Weekends starts with choosing the right admission option for your needs. The Park offers a variety of ticket types and resort packages, ensuring flexibility for every type of guest, from single-day thrill-seekers to dedicated Season Pass Holders. By exploring the different admission tiers and leveraging available discounts, you can maximize your fun while minimizing the cost of your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Admission Tickets

Guests can save more than 45 percent on 1-Day Any Day Tickets to Hersheypark when purchased online by March 31, 2026, with the current Best Price Of Summer offer. Tickets purchased during the sale are valid on any 2026 public operating day, including Spring Weekends, through Jan. 3, 2027. If you plan to visit Hersheypark twice in 2026, a 2-Day Any Day Ticket is the best value. Plus, it does not need to be used on consecutive days, so you can visit once during spring and again at any other point throughout the operating year. 

Insider Tip: A free Preview Plan is included with every ticket. Guests can present their ticket at the main entrance before their full-day visit (if the Park is open the preceding day) to enjoy two free extra hours of fun. For a 2-day ticket, Preview Plan must be experienced prior to a guest's first full day visit. Guests at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark can enjoy three hours of riding the night before their full day. The Hersheypark calendar lists the Preview Plan start time by date.

2026 Season Passes

The 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass program features four tiers with unlimited visits and sweet perks to fit every family’s lifestyle - all for less than the cost of three visits. 

All 2026 Season Passes include unlimited visits throughout the 2026 operating year for all four seasons at Hersheypark, including Spring Weekends, Summer, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Depending on the Pass type, Season Pass Holders can also enjoy free parking, a free Pre-K Pass, other sweet perks, exclusive Season Pass Holder events and great discounts around town. 

Now is the time to buy a Season Passes to save with the Best Price Of The Year through March 31.

Insider Tip: Please note that Spring Weekends do not include Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access, which begins on May 21 for 2026 Hersheypark Full Size, King Size, Giant Size and Pre-K Season Pass Holders and Resort guests.

Parking

Guests are encouraged to purchase a parking voucher online in advance of their visit to save money. General parking is $25 plus taxes and fees online.

For planning, the entire Hersheypark Entertainment Complex is completely cashless, including the parking booths. Hersheypark accept all major credit cards, Hersheypark gift cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay and Google Pay.

Insider Tip: Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free front-gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location. Hersheypark Full Size, King Size and Giant Season Size Pass Holders receive free parking. 

Drink and Dining Add-Ons

Hersheypark offers ticket add-ons that allow guests to save on experiences around the Park, including drink and dining plans.

• All Day Drink Deal ($24.98 plus taxes and fees): The All-Day Drink Deal includes a 2026 Souvenir Cup for free fountain drink and Slush refills every 10 minutes on the day of redemption. Plus, you get $1 refills on future visits.
• All-Day Dining Deal ($39.99 plus taxes and fees): The All-Day Dining Deal includes one entrée and one side at more than 15 locations throughout Hersheypark for one low price! You must wait 90 minutes between uses. View the locations and menu.
• Single-Use Meal Deal ($19.99 plus taxes and fees): The Single-Use Meal Deal includes one entrée, one side and one drink from one of 15 participating locations. Guests must present their Meal Deal voucher at any of the participating locations for use. Vouchers are valid for one use only.

Fast Track

Guests can get to the thrills faster with Fast Track and Fast Track Unlimited.

• Regular Fast Track (starting at $30 plus taxes and fees): Regular Fast Track allows guests to skip the regular line on participating attractions once per day during a visit.

• Fast Track Unlimited (starting at $55 plus taxes and fees): Fast Track Unlimited allows guests to skip the regular line on participating attractions all day long.

• All-Year Fast Track Unlimited ($1,050 plus taxes and fees): This option is only available only as a Season Pass add-on.

The following attractions are available with Fast Track this spring: Candymonium, Carrousel, Comet, Fahrenheit, Great Bear, Hershey Triple Tower, Jolly Rancher Remix, Laff Trakk, Lightning Racer, Reese’s Cupfusion, Skyrush, sooperdooperLooper, Storm Runner, Trailblazer, Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, Wild Mouse and Wildcat’s Revenge. Please note height restrictions for Fast Track-eligible attractions, as they are primarily high-thrill rides. Attraction availability is subject to change. Please note that Hersheypark admission is not included with Fast Track and must be purchased separately.

We can’t wait to welcome you for another season of coaster rides, character hugs and, of course, Hersheypark Happy! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your best moments from seasons past, and as you continue to create even more sweet memories in the upcoming year!

Thanks to HE&R's initiatives, the company successfully conserved the following resources in 2025:

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH US IN HERSHEY, PA

PARTY FOR THE PLANET AT ZOOAMERICA

In honor of Earth Day, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park will host a Party for the Planet on April 18, 2026!

ZooAmerica will be open on April 18, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with Party for the Planet activities running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a unique opportunity for guests of all ages to visit an AZA-accredited zoo, experience animal encounters, celebrate the Earth's biodiversity and learn how to help protect planet Earth!

Milton Hershey School Earth Day Celebration

Join us at the Milton Hershey School Earth Day Celebration! Located at the Horticultural Center (260 Ivanhoe Lane, Hershey Pa.) We will have various activities to celebrate our planet including: 

• Games
• Crafts
• Shopping at Project Market
• And More!

A New Home for MeltSpa by Hershey at Hershey Lodge

In summer 2027, MeltSpa by Hershey day spa will move to a new and expanded location in a brand-new, 14,000-square-foot standalone building near the Lodge’s outdoor swimming pool along West Chocolate Avenue. The new spa building will offer more treatment rooms and popular services, with convenient walking access for Lodge guests and a dedicated parking lot for all spa guests. MeltSpa opened on Chocolate Avenue in September 2017 and features exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Treatments and packages in a day spa setting. 

Expanded Meeting Space

As a premier destination for meetings and conventions, Hershey continues to attract more conferences and corporate events. The planned 2027 expansion addresses increased demand with a 17,000-square-foot addition at Hershey Lodge dedicated as conference space. The new, two-story addition includes convention space on both levels with supporting public restrooms, pre-function spaces and an elevator. The expansion of the existing Cocoa Wing convention area will provide more flexible space, giving meeting planners additional options. 

Enhancements to the Hershey Lodge outdoor pool and expansion of the miniature golf course are also part of the 2027 project.

Hershey Lodge Overview

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge provides convenience and comfort for families and guests of all ages. As one of Pennsylvania’s largest convention resorts, Hershey Lodge offers more than 100,000 square feet of space throughout 35 function rooms and boasts 665 guest rooms, including 18 suites. The property is home to four full-service restaurants, an all-day coffee shop, an indoor pool complex and a poolside cafe.  

Continued Resorts Growth 

The 2027 Hershey Lodge expansion project continues the momentum of resort growth throughout The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: 

New Resort to Open this May

Hershey Inn & Suites, a new select service hotel, opens May 1, joining The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge family resort and Hersheypark Camping Resort campground as unique lodging options for guests in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

The new four-story property will feature 130 rooms, including seven suites, and amenities like complimentary hot breakfast, a lobby bar, an arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round. Family suites accommodate a group of six and feature a first-of-its-kind room type for a Hersheypark property with bunk beds, one queen bed, and a full sleeper sofa.

Just minutes away from the world-class amusement park, Hershey Inn & Suites will feature a modern design for families, couples and business travelers visiting Hershey, Pa., with unique perks exclusive to resort guests. Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive Free Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra morning and evening hours at Hersheypark, front gate shuttle service to an exclusive resort drop-off location, destination activities and more. 

Historic Luxury Expansion at The Hotel Hershey

In late summer 2025, The Hotel Hershey also completed a historic expansion of luxury accommodations at The Villas at The Hotel Hershey as 19 Villas now offer guests 98 new luxury rooms. Representing the second-largest investment in the historic 90-year history of The Hotel Hershey, The Villas at The Hotel Hershey offers even more luxury as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and the most premium Hersheypark experiences. During a stay at The Villas, guests are welcomed into a private luxury experience. Nestled in a secluded setting with views of Blue Mountain, Villas guests have access to the exclusive Villas Concierge Lounge with complimentary food and exclusive activities, and perks including daily Hersheypark tickets on Park operating days and a One-Day Fast Track pass.

Homeschool Day at ZooAmerica

Thursday, April 2; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily in April (including Easter Sunday) from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On April 2, the Zoo will host a dedicated Homeschool Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., designed to provide an interactive educational experience for homeschooling students and their families. The theme for the day is "Animal Families," offering a curriculum-supplementing adventure focused on the different classes of the animal kingdom. 

The event will feature a variety of hands-on educational activities, engaging crafts and special animal enrichment to complement the lessons homeschooling students are currently learning. Numerous tables will be set up around the 11-acre zoo, each corresponding to reptiles, invertebrates, amphibians, mammals and birds. To help attendees navigate and make the most of the learning stations, complimentary educational booklets will be available for pickup at the Admissions Building. These booklets are designed for students to utilize at each station, providing additional information to support their learning journey.

The Fab Four at Hershey Theatre

Thursday, April 2; 7:30 p.m.

Hershey Theatre recently reopened to the public following its year-long historic renovation. A night at the theatre is a great way to celebrate the holiday weekend. The Fab Four – The Ultimate Tribute brings their all-new show to the Hershey Theatre stage on April 2, celebrating The Beatles’ second film, ‘HELP!,’ with performances from the movie soundtrack and the Beatles’ greatest hits of every era.

The Emmy Award-winning Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles Tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ classics such as “Help!,” “Yesterday,” “A Day In The Life,” “Twist And Shout,” “Here Comes The Sun” and “Hey Jude,” the Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing.

Reester Bunny at Hershey’s Chocolate World

Thursday, April 2, through Sunday, April 5; Times vary

The Reester Bunny, a charming character inspired by the beloved Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, is still in town at Hershey's Chocolate World throughout the holiday weekend! Chocolate and peanut butter fans of all ages are encouraged to bring their cameras and their sweetest smiles to pose for a special photo-op with the Reester Bunny at the following times: 

• Thursday, April 2: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Friday, April 3: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, April 4: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sunday, April 5: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Other activities include riding the free Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, creating your own candy bar, shopping for exclusive treats and finding the perfect Easter basket fillers.

Chocolate Lab Classes at The Hershey Story

Thursday, April 2, through Sunday, April 5; Times vary

Celebrate spring in the Chocolate Lab by making a sweet chocolate treat over Easter weekend! Located inside The Hershey Story Museum, the Chocolate Lab offers a hands-on experience where guests learn about the chocolate-making process and then make their own chocolate creation. Spring-themed classes include Butterfly Bark, Egg-citing Chocolate Bark, Marshmallow Bunny Tails and Spring Bar. Classes are 45 minutes long; children must be at least five years old to enter the lab. 

Hersheypark Spring Weekends

Friday, April 3, through Sunday, April 5; Times vary

Easter weekend marks the return to coaster riding at Hersheypark. The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania kicks off its 120th operating year on Friday, April 3, for the seven fun-filled Spring Weekends event. Guests can enjoy coaster rides and family attractions, new sweet treats, photos with the Hershey Characters, visits to ZooAmerica and endless Hersheypark Happy. 

Hersheypark Easter Weekend Hours:

• Friday, April 3: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday, April 4: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Sunday, April 5: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Those looking to visit the amusement park over Easter weekend should purchase tickets before March 31 to save more than 45 percent with the Best Price Of Summer ticket offer. Tickets purchased online during this sale are valid on any 2026 public operating day through Jan. 3, 2027.

Collective Soul at Hershey Theatre

Friday, April 3; 8 p.m.

American rock group Collective Soul will visit Hershey Theatre on Friday, April 3, at 8 p.m. Hailing from Atlanta, Ga., Collective Soul celebrated their 30th anniversary last year with the release of their highly anticipated and critically acclaimed 12th studio album “Here To Eternity.” With eight No. 1 hits under their belt, Collective Soul continues to both record and play together at an uncompromised level of high quality. The five fiery rockers are only just getting started with the next phase of their thriving career, which has sold millions of records and wowed fans across the globe. 

Before seeing the show, enjoy dinner and drinks at the all-new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar. Located right across the street from the Theatre, the full-service restaurant and bar serves chef-crafted entrees, iconic smash burgers, wings with signature Hershey’s sauces, over-the-top desserts and more.

Easter Brunch at Hershey Lodge

Sunday, April 5; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Locals and travelers alike can make their Easter celebration stress-free by letting the talented culinary team at Hershey Lodge handle the cooking! 

The family-friendly resort hosts an Easter Buffet on Sunday, April 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Chocolate Ballroom. Guests can expect a sprawling selection of holiday favorites, including carving stations, soups and salads, a seafood bar, a mezza bar, breakfast, delectable desserts and more. It's the perfect setting for a memorable family meal, with none of the kitchen prep or cleanup.

The Easter Buffet costs $78 for adults (13+), $38 for children (9-12), and $28 for children (3-8). Children two and under are free. For reservations, please contact lodgebanquetholidays@hersheypa.com or 717-534-8604. 

Book an Easter Getaway

Easter weekend in Hershey presents the perfect opportunity for a chocolate-filled getaway at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! Whether you prefer the historic elegance of The Hotel Hershey, the family-friendly amenities of Hershey Lodge or the rustic charm at Hersheypark Camping Resort, each resort currently has room availability to welcome guests. To sweeten an overnight stay, the resorts offer Easter-themed activities for the whole family, including egg hunts, Easter bunny sightings, crafts and more.

Through the end of March, guests can save up to 40 percent on a resort stay with the Best Price Of Summer! Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark also receive FREE Resort Benefits, such as a free shuttle to Hersheypark and extra preview hours for more coaster riding time.

Christine Johns, Administration

The Hotel Hershey 

Christine's nominator said “Since joining the team, Christine has set the standard for dedication. Whether she’s streamlining our ordering or tracking down answers to the toughest questions, she never misses a beat. Her expertise is matched only by her kindness, bringing a smile and a solution to every interaction.”

Cain Aldinger, Maintenance

Hershey Lodge

Cain’s nominator said, “Devoted, selfless, and team-focused—three things to describe Cain. He always goes above and beyond for our convention guests, blowing them and his fellow team members away. Group contacts are consistently impressed by his diligence and selfless spirit of service. Cain’s ability to tackle time-consuming tasks with a respectful attitude makes him a standout member of our team. Congratulations, Cain!”

Kelly Stoner, Guest Experience

Hersheypark Entertainment Complex

Kelly’s nominator said, “Kelly embodies the spirit of HE&R, advocating for both guests and teammates with unmatched accountability. She actively works to connect to her team both professionally and personally, showing genuine care for their well-being and their families. The full-time team relies on her ability to lead and manage events and are grateful for her trusted leadership and flexibility."

Dwayne Yeakley, Maintenance

Hershey Country Club

Dwayne's nominator said, “Dwayne led the project of demolishing and rebuilding the staircases on Hole 3 green and Hole 15 tee on the West Course. These staircases were 12 years old and in constant need of repair each year. This job is not a regular task for our team, but Dwayne decided to take on the project, providing a safer and sturdier pathway for our players on the course.  Dwayne is a consistently strong contributor within the Turf Management team."

For information on available employment opportunities, visit HersheyJobs.com. 

This year, 40 team members were nominated by 80 of their peers for this distinguished award. HE&R is delighted to announce Scott Green as this year’s recipient of the 2025 Legacy of Excellence Award.

Scott, Fire & Grain culinary team member at Hershey Lodge, was nominated by his teammate Andrew Parys. Here are a few highlights from his nomination:

• Scott shows up every shift with pride in the work he does and respect for the standards that came before him. He takes ownership of his role, does things the right way even when no one is watching, and treats the kitchen like something worth protecting. His consistency, integrity, and genuine care for doing a good job reflect the kind of dedication our founder would be proud of.
• Scott genuinely cares about the guest experience, his coworkers, and the energy of the workplace. He’s always willing to help, step in, or go the extra mile without being asked. He brings positivity into the kitchen every day, and his singing and humor lift everyone’s mood, which absolutely carries through to better service for our guests.

Scott and his fellow nominees were recently recognized and celebrated at an event at The Hotel Hershey. Learn more about the award, Scott and the other nominees in this video. 

To all of our nominees, thank you for everything you do to carry out the legacy of our founder, and thank you to the team members who took the time to nominate your peers. Congratulations to all!

Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at Hershey Lodge begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 11 a.m. 

Kids' Check-In
Children can also experience their very own check-in at our Kids' Check-In desk in the lobby, where they are welcome to sign the kids' guest book, participate in a Hershey's candy guessing game and receive a chocolate surprise. View our activities schedule for availability.

Housekeeping
For your comfort, we will only enter your guest room to provide housekeeping service upon your request. To request a refresh cleaning of your guest room, dial extension 1099 or text 717-282-1153 before 10 p.m. for service the next day. Our team is ready to assist with any guest room amenities upon request.

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services.

Download the HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Lodge, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

During spring weekends, Hershey Lodge offers a variety of family-friendly activities ranging from s'mores roasts and chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

Guests can also take advantage of recreation on property on spring weekends, such as mini golf, basketball, pickleball and tennis. 

MAKE A SPLASH AT HERSHEY'S WATER WORKS

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Hershey's Water Works is our 30,000 sq. ft. indoor pool complex open year-round and is an exclusive amenity for our overnight guests. Rain or shine, guests can enjoy sweet indoor fun and interactive water features such as the Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk, zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, lighthouse tipping bucket and basketball hoops. The complex also features an indoor arcade, fitness center and Cocoa Cabana snack bar.

EXCLUSIVE HERSHEYPARK BENEFITS

This year, Hersheypark is open for seven fun-filled spring weekends starting April 3 through May 17. If you're planning a visit to the Park during your stay, take advantage of all of the perks that come with being a guest of one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! All guests of Hershey Lodge receive these FREE Resort Benefits:

• Extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan
  • Resort guests enjoy up to three extra evening hours the night before their full-day visit. Simply present your ticket at the main entrance and enjoy a fun-filled evening.
• FREE front gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark
• Best price on Hersheypark tickets

MORE FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Be sure to set aside some time in your itinerary to explore other attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hershey Lodge receive access to two award-winning golf courses at Hershey Country Club, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more.
  • Note: Entrance to ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during Park hours.
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens, including thousands of spring tulips and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora.  During your visit, check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which includes a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring 600 butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.
  • Visit the Hershey Gardens website before your visit to see what's in bloom.
• The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests to learn all about the life and legacy of our founder Milton S. Hershey, the town he created, and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where you can try your hand at chocolate pouring and decorating. 

For more things to do in Hershey, visit HersheyPA.com.

DINING

Hershey Lodge offers a variety of delicious dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner this season. Visit HersheyLodge.com/Dining for hours, reservations and more info. Options include: 

• STACKS: A breakfast and lunch restaurant serving dishes stacked high with flavor, ranging from stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles to Double Decker BLTs.
• Fire & Grain: An innovative menu of re-mastered comfort foods and flavorful cocktails for breakfast, dinner and happy hour.
• The Bears’ Den: A sports-themed restaurant with a newly renovated hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after our hometown team, the Hershey Bears. Open for lunch and dinner.
• Revelry: Classic and contemporary chophouse fare with premium cuts and the largest wine and spirits list in-house.
• Cocoa Beanery: An all-day coffee shop serving up eats, ice cream, drinks and treats.
• Cocoa Cabana: A poolside café offering a selection of starters, salads, sandwiches and ice cream while guests enjoy Hershey’s Water Works.

Other options around town include the all-new Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey, and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant, bar and patio open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun-to-Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. The restaurant accepts reservations, and a Hersheypark ticket is not required.

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

Springtime calls for a spa day to refresh and rejuvenate that dry winter skin. During your getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at MeltSpa by Hershey, our day spa in downtown Hershey. Nothing says spring quite like the Spring Rejuvenation Collection, available March 1 through May 31. This seasonal collection features an array of treatments filled with the aromas of rosemary, cajeput, lavender and sage. Of course, signature Hershey's chocolate treatments and exclusive dark chocolate treatments are also available. Book your treatment today.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. So, don't forget to stop inside Sweet Memories gift shop for souvenirs, such as Hershey's chocolate, giftware, apparel, accessories and more. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are available for in-store purchase.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

While you're here, share your sweet spring photos with us by tagging us on Facebook, Instagram and X! 

Meet The Resorts

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark offer four distinct ways to experience The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Situatied high atop the town of Hershey, The Hotel Hershey is a Historic Hotel of America opened by Milton S. Hershey in 1933. This luxury hotel is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is the home of the Forbes Four- Star awarded Chocolate Spa. 

Hershey Lodge provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere with its chocolate-themed decor, three full-service restaurants and popular Hershey’s Water Works indoor pool complex. 

For those seeking an outdoor adventure, Hersheypark Camping Resort offers over 55 acres of scenic grounds with options for RV sites, tent camping, tiny homes, and cozy log cabins, complete with evening s’mores and multiple playgrounds.

Coming to the destination this May is the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. This four-story property will be the first select service hotel as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, offering family suites, free hot breakfast, an indoor pool and arcade. 

For The Thrill Seeker

For those visiting The Sweetest Place On Earth for adrenaline-filled days and coaster thrills, our Hersheypark packages are for you. These packages are available at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge on select dates April 3 through Sept. 7, 2026, and Hershey Inn & Suites on select dates May 1 through Sept. 7, 2026.

• Hersheypark 1-Night Package**

  • Accommodations, breakfast and Hersheypark tickets for each guest

• Hersheypark 2 Night Package**

  • Accommodations, 2-Day Hersheypark admission for each guest, daily breakfast

• Hersheypark 3-Night Package**

  • Accommodations, 3-Day Hersheypark tickets for each guest, Hersheypark drink package, daily breakfast

• Hersheypark Summer Camping Package*

  • Cabin or tent site accommodations plus Hersheypark tickets.

*only available at Hersheypark Camping Resort | **only available at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge

For The Savvy Traveler

For the guest who appreciates a seamless experience, these curated packages are available year-round and prioritize convenience without compromising value. 

• NEW! Morning JumpStart Package 

  •  Accommodations plus a fresh breakfast item and drink for each guest delivered straight to your room

• The Hotel Hershey Signature Package*

  • Accommodations plus dinner at your choice of restaurant at The Hotel Hershey and daily breakfast
    • Not available on Saturday nights

• Bed and Breakfast Package**

  • Accommodations and delicious breakfast included each day

*only available at The Hotel Hershey

**Only available at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge

For The Romantic

Love is sweet, but it’s even better wrapped in chocolate. Whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply stealing a weekend away, our romantic retreats can be booked year-round at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites, and are designed to pamper you from head to toe. 

• Romance In Hershey Package

  • Accommodations, rose petal turndown, champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, daily breakfast

• Spa Wellness Getaways

  • Accommodations and a $300 spa credit to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey

For The Luxury Traveler

If you're someone who enjoys the finer things in life, pay a visit to The Hotel Hershey's newest, most luxurious accommodations, The Villas. Here, guests will experience elevated luxury accommodations with private rooms, refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities. Amenities include access to the exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person during park operating season. The Concierge Lounge can be accessed with a Villa room key from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and includes: 

• Continental breakfast
• Snacks and fountain drinks
• Evening hors d’oeuvres with beer and wine plus desserts
• Exclusive Hershey Character appearances and s’mores roasts

FREE Resort Benefits

On top of the resort packages, all stays at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark come with sweet benefits, including: 

• Complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum*
• Preferred pricing on tickets to ZooAmerica (free admission is included in your Hersheypark ticket when you visit through the entrance inside the Park during operating hours)
• Complimentary shuttle service to and from Hersheypark
• Extra hours at Hersheypark
• Access to two award-winning golf courses at Hershey Country Club

*Complimentary admission for The Hotel Hershey,Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites guests only. Preferred pricing available for guests of Hersheypark Camping Resort. 

Best Price Of Summer

For a limited time, you can save up to 40 percent on overnight stays at any of our resorts with the Best Price Of Summer! Book by March 31 to get the sweetest deals, and we'll see you soon in The Sweetest Place On Earth!

Hershey's Chocolatetown

Guests can enjoy many unique chocolate-inspired dishes in the Hershey's Chocolatetown region of Hersheypark. Chocolatetown is open year-round and does not require a Hersheypark ticket. 

The Chocolatier Restaurant Bar + Patio

Open daily, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio serves up family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate in both sweet and savory menu items and an array of cocktails. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Sweet

• Chocolate Fun-due
• The Chocolatier Cake
• Chocolate Covered Strawberry Kiss*
• Over-The-Top Hershey's Chocolate Milkshake
• Cookies N Cream Milkshake
• Coco Tracks Milkshake**

Savory

• Chocolatier Cobb Salad
• Winter Citrus Salad
• Margherita Flatbread
• Rinkside Chicken Flatbread**
• Hershey's Chocolate Barbecue Chicken Wings**
• Slow-Smoked Pulled Pork with Hershey's Barbecue Sauce
• Reese's Take 5 Chicken Sandwich
• Cocoa Dusted Beef Short-Rib
• Chocolatetown Burger
• Heath Bar Crusted Salmon
• “Loaded” Mac & Cheese with Hershey's Chocolate Barbecue Sauce
• Hershey's Cocoa Spice Rubbed NY Strip Steak
• Coffee & Hershey's Cocoa Rubbed Bow Creek Farm Coulotte Steak*

Cocktails, Mocktails & Crafted-For-Kids

• The Chocolatier Martini
• Reese's Cupfusion Old Fashioned
• Mini Hot Chocolate Flight
• Overtime Old Fashioned**
• Raspberry Truffle*
• Chocolate Covered Strawberry*
• Heart Throb Manhattan*
• S'mores Chocolate Milk

*Item is available exclusively as part of The Chocolatier February Specials menu through February 2026.
**Hershey's Chocolate Barbecue Chicken Wings are available as an exclusive Hershey Bears Menu Item. This menu is served every Hershey Bears home game day and during Dine With Coco every Thursday during the Hershey Bears season.

The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen

Guests of The Sweeterie can experience a curated collection of mouth-watering confections and chocolate-dipped treats. 

• Signature Chocolate Fudge
• Chocolatetown Cheesecake
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Bombe
• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chocolate Cake Pops

The Hotel Hershey

Opened by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey in 1933, The Hotel Hershey is a historic resort located high atop the town. The Hotel currently operates three full-service restaurants, a cocktail lounge and an all-day café featuring a wide variety of chocolate items.

The Circular

The flagship restaurant of The Hotel Hershey, The Circular features the fresh, new flavors of an iconic American dining experience. Try these chocolate dishes on the menu:

• Chocolate Apple Orchard
• Chocolate Soufflé
• Gelato Flight - Dark Chocolate & Hazelnut, Pear & Riesling Sorbet, Orange Creamsicle

1933 Restaurant & Tavern

Visit the Hotel's newest restaurant, 1933 Restaurant & Tavern, for an approachable steakhouse menu, elevated pub fare and iconic desserts and cocktails.

• Chocolate BBQ Chicken Wings
• Smoked St. Louis Pork Ribs with Chocolate Barbecue
• Dark Chocolate Cake and Ice Cream
• The Hotel Hershey Chocolate Cream Pie
• Founder's Chocolate Old Fashioned

Trevi 5

Dine at Trevi 5 to experience authentic Italian cuisine, small appetizers and five-flavor food combinations. Chocolate desserts include: 

• Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake
• Torta Caprese

Chef's Market

Whether you're stopping in for fresh coffee or chef-prepared food on the go, make sure to check out the display case of decadent chocolate treats at Chef's Market made by the Hotel's talented pastry team.

• Jumbo Chocolate Cupcake
• Chocolate Cream Pie

Hershey Lodge

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge is home to four full-service restaurants and an all-day café with chocolate on every menu. 

Revelry Chophouse Bar + Patio

Serving up classic and contemporary chophouse fare, Revelry Chophouse Bar + Patio infuses chocolate in craft cocktails, house-made steak sauce and delicious desserts.

• Molten Chocolate Cake
• White Chocolate Mousse & Brandy Peach Trifle
• House Made Chocolate Stout Steak Sauce

Fire & Grain

Start or end your day in the energetic and engaging atmosphere at Fire & Grain. Satisfy your sweet tooth with these menu items:

• Skillet S'mores Fondue
• Warm Chocolate Chip Almond Cookie Sundae
• Double Chocolate Brownie Sundae
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Mousse Cake

The Bears' Den

Chocolate on a salad? Find that and other chocolate-covered dishes at The Bears' Den, the best place to catch all the latest sports action with its fun, hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after the hometown team, the Hershey Bears. Seating is first-come, first-served. 

• Cocoa Cashew Salad
• Chocolate BBQ Glazed Baby Back Ribs
• Triple Truffle Cake
• Puck Sundae
• S'mores Cheesecake
• Celebration Waffle Sundae

STACKS

Experience a breakfast and lunch menu as iconic as the Hershey Smokestacks at STACKS! This eatery serves up dishes stacked high with flavor from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m daily.

• S'mores Pancakes, Waffles and French Toast
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Pancakes, Waffles and French Toast
• Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Pancakes, Waffles and French Toast
• Hot Chocolates & Hot Chocolate Flights

Cocoa Beanery

An all-day coffee shop, Cocoa Beanery serves up different eats, sweets and chocolate treats in the heart of the Hershey Lodge lobby.

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Ultimate Milkshake
• Chocolate Ice Cream
• Hot Chocolate
• Frozen Hot Chocolate

Downtown Hershey

Downtown Hershey has a variety of chocolate treats right at the intersection of Chocolate and Cocoa Avenue. 

Devon Seafood + Steak

Devon Seafood + Steak provides the perfect atmosphere to enjoy deliciously simple fish dishes, premium steaks, salads and, of course, rich chocolatey desserts.

• Peanut Butter Chocolate Torte
• Hershey's Chocolate Velvet Cake

Hershey's Signature Chocolate Martinis

Hershey's Signature Chocolate Martinis are found throughout the entire destination. Flavors include: 

• Hershey's Kisses Signature Chocolate Martini
• Hershey's Chocolate Caramel Martini
• Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Martini

Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat for two, a fun-filled family staycation or a Galentine’s Day getaway for your closest friends, the charming town built on chocolate offers the perfect backdrop and a delightful mix of activities to create sweet memories.

Here are our top picks of things to do from Feb. 13-16, 2026, ensuring your long weekend is filled with love, laughter and, of course, plenty of chocolate.

Fantastic Fridays at ZooAmerica

Friday, Feb. 13; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Although ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is a wonderful destination any day of the week, visitors will find that Fridays in February offer a particularly sweet incentive to stop by.

The Zoo has rolled out its special Fantastic Fridays ticket promotion, making the end of the Valentine’s Day work week the perfect time for a unique winter visit. This limited-time offer provides guests a 50 percent discount on both regular adult and junior/senior admission tickets. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person at the Admissions Building.

Live Insect Feedings at Hershey Gardens

Friday, Feb. 13; 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Hershey Gardens is open daily in February from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Now through March 31, visitors can enjoy reduced winter pricing. As a bonus, guests who purchase a gift membership in person through Feb. 14 will receive a themed Valentine’s Day gift box and two Gardens tickets. 

On Feb. 13 at noon, guests can stop by the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory to watch insectivores (insect-eating animals) enjoy a special, nutritious snack. During the Live Feedings at the Zoology Zone Interactive Cart, guests will learn about each of the predatory insects, frogs, arachnids and the feeder insects. This special activity is included in general admission. 

BYOB Truffles for Couples at The Hershey Story

Friday, Feb. 13; 5:45 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! The Hershey Story Museum is hosting a new BYOB Truffles for Couples, with availability still remaining for Feb. 13. The special evening full of decadence and fun begins by tasting single-origin warm drinking chocolate from around the world. Participants will then partake in a one-hour Chocolate Lab class where they can hand-roll traditional dark chocolate ganache, coat it in milk or white chocolate, and finish with a sweet array of toppings. Each guest will package their truffles in a charming box and receive a personalized milk chocolate bar and a long-stemmed red rose to take home as a sweet souvenir. Participants will also learn about the courtship and marriage of Milton and Catherine Hershey, as well as how chocolate is grown and processed.

The cost is $65 per couple. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Please note that space is limited to 24 participants per session.

ZooAmerica Animal Attraction Adult Camp

Saturday, Feb. 14; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Adult animal lovers can further spice up their Valentine’s Day with the Animal Attraction Adult Camp on Feb. .14 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Participants will learn all about how animals “woo” each other through an up-close look at ambassador animals, enrichment activities and more! The cost for a single session is $75 per person, with registration available online.

Winter Bird Watch at Hershey Gardens

Saturday, Feb. 14; 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Bird lovers can bring the whole family—and their binoculars—to identify the various birds that call Hershey Gardens home during the winter. On Valentine’s Day, the Winter Bird Watch is called Love is on the Wing: Bird ID and Mate Selection. Participants will walk through Project Feederwatch, go on a unique guided bird walk and learn about identification and feeding. For the youngest birders, additional bird family crafts and activities will be offered in the classroom. 

The experience, offered every Saturday in February in partnership with Quittapahilla Audubon Society, is included with general admission. Registration is required by calling 717-508-5968.

Zoolentine’s Days at ZooAmerica

Saturday, Feb. 14; 1 p.m.

In celebration of the season of love, guests can watch Zoo naturalists give Valentine-themed treats to select animals each Saturday in February, including Valentine's Day, starting at 1 p.m. This sweet Zoolentine’s Days activity is included with ZooAmerica admission.

Public Skating at GIANT Center and Hersheypark Arena

Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15; 2-4 p.m.

Nothing says love like skating into the arms of your significant other at two Hershey Entertainment venues over President’s Day Weekend. Public skating is offered on Valentine’s Day from 2-4 p.m. at GIANT Center, home of the Hershey Bears AHL hockey team, making for a unique outing for active individuals. The fun continues the following day, Feb. 15, at the historic Hersheypark Arena, where the public can lace up their skates for another afternoon session, running from 2-4 p.m.

Pricing starts at $6 per person and varies based on age and group size. Children three and under are free. Please note that skate rental fees are typically separate from admission and are available on-site.

Snoopy Meet & Greet at Hershey’s Chocolate World

Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15; Times vary

Snoopy came to Hershey’s Chocolate World just in time for Valentine's Day to visit with all of his chocolate-loving friends! Guests can meet Snoopy free of charge and snap a photo with him at various times over President’s Day Weekend. 

Other experiences include a free chocolate tour ride to see how cocoa beans become world-famous Hershey’s Chocolate and shopping for endless amounts of chocolate, including limited-edition treats. Tickets can be purchased for optional chocolate-enhanced experiences, including Create Your Own Candy Bar and Reese’s Stuff Your Cup.

Candies & Curiosities Scavenger Hunt at The Hershey Story

Saturday, Feb. 14, through Monday, Feb. 16; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Those visiting The Hershey Story on Feb. 14-16 can participate in a Candies & Curiosities Scavenger Hunt. The sweet activity is included in general admission between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Museum visitors can elevate their experience with Tastings at The Hershey Story, offered daily from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. From fruity African chocolate flavors to Indonesian chocolate with caramel overtones, participants will taste a flight of warm drinking chocolates from around the world that inspired Milton Hershey. 

Decadent Dining Offerings Around Town

Daily; Hours vary

Guests can taste the many flavors of Hershey at more than a dozen unique and award-winning restaurants located at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and around town, many of which feature chocolate-infused dishes, decadent desserts and, of course, the signature Hershey’s chocolate martinis - perfect for toasting to Valentine’s Day. 

The destination’s largest restaurant, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, is celebrating Valentine’s Day all month long with limited-time fare like Meat & Potatoes featuring Hershey’s Cocoa Rubbed Bow Creek Farm Coulotte Steak, the Be Mine Milkshake for dessert and handcrafted cocktails (for guests 21 and up) like the Heart Throb Manhattan.

Chocolate Spa Relaxation

Daily; Times vary

Guests can indulge in total luxury at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey over Valentine’s Day weekend with a Chocolate Covered Strawberry Package, a Sweet Chocolate Relaxation Package, a Hershey Kiss Package and more. 

For some more chocolate bliss, MeltSpa by Hershey day spa located in downtown Hershey also offers Signature Hershey’s Chocolate Treatments, which include a relaxing massage, rejuvenating facial, body scrub, body wrap, and hands and feet treatments. For a deeply satisfying spa experience, guests can book the Exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Treatments.

To schedule an appointment at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, call 844-330-1797. For appointments at MeltSpa, call 855-500-2366 or go online.

Chocolate Lab Classes at The Hershey Story

Daily; Hours vary

Inspired by Milton Hershey’s own candy-making apprenticeship, the Chocolate Lab at The Hershey Story explores the distinctive qualities of chocolate through fun, hands-on experiences and interactive demonstrations. Educational 45-minute classes are offered daily over the long weekend for those interested in rolling up their sleeves and trying their hand at chocolate pouring, decorating and tasting. The February class themes include The Heart of Chocolate, Lovely Bar and Try It with Truffles. 

Chocolate Lab tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be purchased at The Hershey Story admissions desk on the day of the visit. Children must be at least 5 years old to enter the Lab. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Valentine’s Day Resort Getaway

With so much to do over Valentine’s Day/President’s Day weekend, a chocolate-filled staycation or quick getaway is calling your name! The Hotel Hershey, the new luxury Villas at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge offer overnight accommodations with sweet hospitality and iconic chocolate details around every corner, starting with the full-size chocolate bar at check-in. Resort guests will also find chocolate bath amenities in their guest room and can enjoy chocolate-infused dining options at the restaurants on property, chocolate-themed resort activities and more. 

For a limited time, guests can save with resort winter offers, available on select dates throughout the season, including Book One Night, Get One 50% Off and Book Two Nights, Get One Free. The year-round Romance in Hershey Package features rose petal turndown, champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries and daily breakfast.

BONUS: Valentine’s Day Gift Idea

Not sure what to get your Valentine? A Hershey gift card is the sweetest gift, as it allows them to choose from a variety of activities across the destination. When purchasing a gift card, you can even select a fun Valentine's Day design. 

If you're planning the perfect adult weekend getaway, here is your guide to the best attractions, food and drink options and entertainment during your stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Book a Weekend Getaway

Book a stay at one of the Official Resorts of Hersheypark to ensure ample time to experience all the sweet things Hershey has to offer. Guests can save on accommodations with year-round resort packages at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort catered to the offerings throughout the destination each season. Plus, a stay at any of the  Official Resorts of Hersheypark includes FREE Resort Benefits such as free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story's Museum Experience, access to two award-winning golf courses at Hershey Country Club and much more. 

See a Live Concert or Show

Hershey is never short of entertainment, and that extends into all categories! Experience the best in concerts, family entertainment, sporting events and touring Broadway shows at GIANT Center and soon Hershey Theatre, slated to reopen in March after a historic renovation. 

Taste The Many Flavors of Hershey

Hershey boasts 14 unique and award-winning dining options, catering to everything from casual meals with friends to private dinners for two. You're sure to find the perfect ambiance, menu, and flavors to suit your taste.

At The Hotel Hershey, explore options including The Circular, the hotel's flagship restaurant, Trevi 5 Italian Restaurant and 1933 Restaurant & Tavern, which features an approachable steakhouse menu and elevated pub fare. Cap off your evening at the Iberian Lounge, offering craft cocktails, live music on Saturday nights and a selection of whiskeys from around the world.

Over at Hershey Lodge, start your day with a hearty breakfast at STACKS, a brunch eatery open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. For sweet happy hour deals, head to Fire & Grain, or visit Revelry Chophouse, Bar + Patio for contemporary chophouse fare and an extensive wine list. Sports fans should visit The Bears' Den to catch the latest game while enjoying classic American fare.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is located in Hershey's Chocolatetown and offers fun-to-table dishes with chocolate-infused entrees, seasonal cocktails and signature desserts. We highly recommend trying one of their Over The Top Hershey's Milkshakes; it's the perfect sweet ending to any meal. 

Get ready to sip, savor, and socialize at Hershey Social, a new restaurant coming to downtown Hershey this spring serving bold flavors, signature cocktails and over-the-top desserts!

Sip On Signature Chocolate-Inspired Cocktails

The most iconic cocktails at The Sweetest Place On Earth are the Hershey's Signature Martinis. Choose from options like the Hershey’s Kisses Signature Chocolate Martini, Hershey’s Chocolate Caramel Martini and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Martini at any of our full-service dining locations.

Relax With A Spa Day

If you're looking to unwind during your getaway, visit one of Hershey's two spas: The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey. Spa treatments are a popular choice for those seeking a break from their busy schedules.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, also known as the Chocolate Spa, features signature chocolate treatments unique to the destination, such as a Cocoa Massage, Whipped Cocoa Bath, Cocoa Facial and Chocolate Fondue Wrap. During the spa day guests also have access steam rooms, four relaxation spaces, an Indoor Pool Complex, saunas and more.

For a quick pick-me-up, visit MeltSpa by Hershey day spa, the exclusive home to Hershey’s Dark Chocolate treatments, as well as rotating seasonal collections. MeltSpa also has a full-service hair and nail salon and a relaxation lounge where guests can unwind before and after treatments.

We hope you visit The Sweetest Place On Earth soon! Share your photos with us on social using #HersheyPA.

To help visitors secure the most savings and flexibility for their 2026 adventure, Hersheypark is currently running its Best Price Of The Year offer on amusement park tickets valid on any 2026 public operating day and the Best Price Of The Year on Hersheypark Season Passes for unlimited visits. This limited-time promotion also extends to those booking an overnight getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, with the Best Price Of Summer on overnight hotel rates available on stay dates from April 3 through Sept. 7, 2026.

Best Price Of Year on 2026 Hersheypark Tickets

This year promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for theme park lovers of all ages at the intersection of where fun and chocolate meet, Hersheypark! The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania will kick off its 120th operating season on Friday, April 3, 2026, signifying the return to hair-raising thrills on the Northeast's largest coaster collection. 

Looking ahead to summer, Hersheypark will debut two new water play areas boasting 45 aquatic elements in the existing Bayside Pier area in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park. The 11-acre water park is one of three experiences included with a single admission ticket. Guests also have access to more than 70 rides spread across 121 acres, as well as ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park (included with a ticket only by entering through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours).

Guests can save more than 45 percent on 1-Day Any Day Tickets to Hersheypark when purchased online by March 31, 2026, with the current Best Price Of the Year offer. Tickets purchased during the sale will be valid on any 2026 public operating day through Jan. 3, 2027. 

To make a visit even sweeter and get a head start on the happy, every admission ticket includes a complimentary Preview Plan. This special perk grants guests extra evening access to the Park on the night before their scheduled full-day visit. 

Best Price Of The Year on Hersheypark Season Passes

Does this have your mind spinning about the best way to experience all the fun and excitement at Hersheypark in 2026? Look no further than becoming a Season Pass Holder at the best price of the year! A Hersheypark Season Pass offers unparalleled value, essentially paying for itself in less than three visits. Guests can choose from Giant Size, King Size, Full Size, Bite Size and a free Pre-K Pass as an extra perk for a child in a family with a Full, King or Giant Size Pass. 

All 2026 Season Passes come with unlimited visits throughout the 2026 operating year, including Spring Weekends, summer from May through September, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Plus, depending on the Pass type, Season Pass Holders can also enjoy sweet perks like free parking and one-hour early access during daily summer operations, exclusive Season Pass Holder events and great discounts around town. 

2026 Season Passes are on sale now at the Best Price Of The Year, with an 8-month payment plan option.

Best Price Of Summer at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

Now is also the best time to book a summer getaway to The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! Guests interested in extending their stay in the town built on chocolate can save on summer stays through Sept. 7, 2026, at The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge family resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort or the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites.

Located just minutes from the world-class amusement park, Hershey Inn & Suites will open in the spring as the first select-service property in The Official Resorts of Hersheypark portfolio. The new four-story property will feature 130 rooms, including seven suites, and amenities like complimentary hot breakfast, a lobby bar, grab-and-go snacks in the lobby marketplace, an arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round. Family suites accommodate a group of six and feature a first-of-its-kind room type for a Hersheypark property with bunk beds, one queen bed, a full sleeper sofa and a separate living space.

Nightly rates are now available from $299 at The Hotel Hershey, $179 at Hershey Lodge, $149 at Hershey Inn & Suites and $59 at Hersheypark Camping Resort when booked by March 31, 2026. Guests can also enjoy savings with popular summer packages, including the Hersheypark 1-Night Package, 2-Day Stay & Play Package and the 3-Day Sweet Stay Package at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites. 

A stay at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark comes with FREE Resort Benefits, including extra morning and evening hours at Hersheypark, front gate shuttle service to an exclusive resort drop-off location, indoor and outdoor pools, resort recreation and activities, and more.

So, what are you waiting for? Your heart and wallet will thank you. See you soon in our sweet destination!

Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at Hershey Lodge begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 11 a.m. 

Kids' Check-In
On select weekend dates, children can also experience their very own check-in at our Kids' Check-In desk in the lobby. There, they are welcome to sign the kids' guest book and participate in a Hershey's candy guessing game to win a a chocolate surprise. Please view our activities schedule for availability.

Housekeeping
For your comfort, we will only enter your guest room to provide housekeeping service upon your request.
To request a refresh cleaning of your guest room, dial extension 1099 or text 717-282-1153 before 10 p.m. for service the next day. Our team is ready to assist with any guest room amenities upon request.

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services.

Download The HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Lodge, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

During the winter season, Hershey Lodge offers family-friendly activities for guests on weekends ranging from chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

MAKE A SPLASH AT HERSHEY'S WATER WORKS

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Families won't want to miss Hershey's Water Works, an exclusive and complimentary amenity for our overnight guests. Rain, snow or shine, guests can make a splash at our year-round indoor pool complex, featuring interactive water features such as Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk, zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, basketball hoops and more. The complex also features an indoor arcade, fitness center and the Cocoa Cabana snack bar.

*Please note that select areas of Hershey's Water Works will be closed for annual maintenance Jan. 4 - 23. Please check hours for availability on the Hershey Lodge website. 

FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary to visit the area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hershey Lodge receive FREE Resort Benefits, including preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Winter is a great time to visit as there are often fewer crowds and the outdoor animals are more active!
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. Guests can walk the gardens in the winter and witness the changes in nature during our colder months.  Be sure to check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which includes a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring 600 butterflies from around the world.
• The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests to learn all about the life and legacy of our founder Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where you can try your hand at chocolate pouring and decorating.

DINING

Hershey Lodge offers a variety of delicious dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner this season. Visit HersheyLodge.com/Dining for hours, reservations and more info.

Options include: 

• STACKS: A breakfast and lunch restaurant serving dishes stacked high with flavor, ranging from stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles to Double Decker BLTs.
• Fire & Grain: An innovative menu of re-mastered comfort foods and flavorful cocktails for breakfast, dinner and happy hour.
• The Bears’ Den: A sports-themed restaurant with a hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after our hometown team, the Hershey Bears.
• Revelry: Classic and contemporary chophouse fare with premium cuts and the largest wine & spirits list in house.
• Cocoa Beanery: An all-day coffee shop, serving up eats, ice cream, drinks and treats.
• Cocoa Cabana: A poolside cafe offering a selection of starters, salads, sandwiches and ice cream while guests enjoy Hershey’s Water Works.

Other options around town include Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. 

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

During your getaway, make time for sweet relaxation at MeltSpa by Hershey, our day spa in downtown Hershey. Nothing will prepare your skin for the cold winter season quite like the Cranberry Spice Collection. This limited-time collection features a cranberry spice body scrub, massage, body wrap, manicure and pedicure and remains available through Feb. 28. Or, enjoy signature Hershey's chocolate treatments and exclusive dark chocolate treatments year-round.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. So, don't forget to stop inside Sweet Memories gift shop for souvenirs such as Hershey's chocolate, apparel, accessories and seasonal items. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are also available for in-store purchases.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

While you're here, be sure to tag our social channels in your sweet winter photos!

If you have time off before the New Year, Hershey, Pa., is the place to be, with shows, lights, rides and more through to keep you in the holiday spirit. Check out our guide of the top things to do in Hershey, Pa., from Dec. 26, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026.

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

Open daily Dec. 27 through Jan. 4

Hersheypark is open extended hours for Christmas Candylane during Christmas week on Dec. 27-30 and Jan. 1-3 from 12-9 p.m., plus Dec. 31 from 12-4 p.m. and Jan. 4 from 12-8 p.m.

See the park come to life with more than five million lights (the most of any amusement park in the state), including the NOEL light show synchronized to holiday music along Spring Creek. NOEL starts nightly at 5 p.m. and runs every 30 minutes in The Hollow region. Enjoy seven coasters and select family rides, including the holiday debut of Twizzlers Twisted Gravity (weather and maintenance permitting). Beat the chill with the new Twinkling Thru Time holiday show (the first since 2019) inside the heated Chevrolet Music Box Theatre (performances through Dec. 28).

Looking for a holiday photo souvenir? Stop by the NEW location of our 50-foot Kissmas Tree located in Chocolatetown. Or stroll through TREEville Trail at The Boardwalk and view more than 20 decorated trees sharing stories of The Sweetest Place On Earth. 

The reindeer are still here in the themed Mary N. Bright Airfield, back from their famous flight. Then, treat yourself to a warm holiday beverage at the Simply Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bar and Concourse Cocoa inside Terminal C. 

Hershey Sweet Lights

Open nightly Dec. 27 through Jan. 4

Up the road from Hersheypark is the separately ticketed Hershey Sweet Lights presented by PPL drive-through Christmas light attraction. Guests can enjoy more than 500 illuminated, animated light displays along two miles of fields and wooded trails from the comfort of their car. Many displays follow unique themes, such as "The 12 Days of Christmas," an Enchanted Forest, Hersheypark rides and Hershey Bears hockey, as well as a region inspired by the Northern Lights.

Hershey Sweet Lights is open from 5-10 p.m. on Dec. 27-28, and 5-9 p.m. Dec. 29-Jan. 4. Admission pricing varies depending on the date of visit and the type of vehicle. Please buy online for significant savings. Single cars (seats up to 8 people) range from $29.99 to $34.99 when purchased online. Please visit Hersheypark.com and select the date you wish to visit to see ticket pricing. On-site pricing without a pre-purchased ticket is also available for a standard car at the full gate price of $54.15.

Holiday Stay at the Official Resorts of Hersheypark

Whether in deluxe accommodations at The Hotel Hershey, including the all-new private Villas, or Hershey Lodge or in a cozy cabin, tiny home or RV at Hersheypark Camping Resort, the Official Resorts of Hersheypark will put guests in the holiday spirit. Enjoy stunning holiday decor and participate in family-friendly resort activities. 

Holiday packages featuring deluxe accommodations, daily Hersheypark Christmas Candylane tickets and breakfast are available at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge. The all-new Cookies and Candylane Packages also include a special delivery of milk and cookies to your room. Guests can also book the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane camping package with accommodations and Park tickets at Hersheypark Camping Resort. 

All resort guests receive Free Resort Benefits, including free front gate shuttle service to and from the Park and preview hours, complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum.

Check out our holiday guides to The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort to help you prepare for a sweet stay.

Wild Winter Adventure at ZooAmerica

Dec. 26, 27, 28, 29 or 30 | 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Spark your child’s excitement by taking them on a wild winter adventure with ZooAmerica this Christmas. This is a three-hour program designed for children in grades K through 5. During the program, participants will get an interactive learning experience with our North American animals. They will learn about the incredible survival skills animals use in the cold winter months, observe their winter habitats, see animals up-close, participate in an enrichment activity, and enjoy a snack. Plus, participants will be able to visit the reindeer in Hersheypark.

Each person must be pre-registered and prepaid to participate. Purchase tickets.

Enjoy a Day of Relaxation at the Hershey Spas

Take time to relax the holiday week at one of the spas in Hershey! The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa offer a variety of chocolate-inspired and seasonal treatments unique to The Sweetest Place On Earth. The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa is currently offering Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha treatments. MeltSpa by Hershey will offer treatments from their Cranberry Spice seasonal collection. Signature dark chocolate treatments and other classic spa services will also be available. 

To make an appointment at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, call 844-330-1797. For MeltSpa by Hershey appointments, call 855-500-2366 or go online. 

Catch the Excitement of Hershey Bears Hockey

Dec. 28 at 5 p.m.; Jan. 4 at 3 p.m.

Bring on the holiday cheer for the Calder Cup Champions, the Hershey Bears, at a home game before the end of the year. Watch the match against the Charlotte Checkers on Dec. 28, at 5 p.m., for a special promotional game night, Kids Night! There will be fun activities just for kids.

On Sunday, Jan. 4, the Hershey Bears are excited to host their annual GIANT Teddy Bear Toss. Fans are encouraged to bring new or gently used teddy bears and plush toys to the game to be thrown on the ice when the Bears score their first goal. There is no limit on how many teddy bears fans can bring, as each donated stuffed animal is collected and donated to more than 30 local organizations in Central Pennsylvania.

A limited number of tickets for the Teddy Bear Toss Game are currently available, and the game is expected to sell out. For tickets and additional information about the Hershey Bears, please visit HersheyBears.com.

Want to skate yourself? Public skating sessions will be held at GIANT Center and Hersheypark Arena on various dates and times from Dec. 26 - Jan. 3. Whether you’re a figure skater or a first-timer, come skate the holiday season away!

View Schedule

Hershey New Year’s Eve Celebration Ringing in America 250

Dec. 31 from 11 a.m. to midnight

Hershey New Year’s Eve will ring in 2026 with a can’t-miss celebration for all to enjoy on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025. Held in the heart of downtown Hershey, Pa., the event will feature kid-friendly entertainment, main stage music and a unique laser and pyrotechnics display featuring Americana elements to honor the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

Families can look forward to New Year’s countdowns and bubble wrap stomps during the day at The Hershey Story Museum at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. For younger guests who may not make it until midnight, the event will feature a family hour from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., including local music from children’s musician Holly Serio, face painting, vendors and more. The HERSHEY Characters will visit the main stage at 8:30 p.m. for a final bubble wrap stomp and dance party.

Main stage music performances will begin at 9 p.m. Returning to headline this year’s event is Pennsylvania quartet and TikTok sensation Burn the Jukebox, following their crowd-pleasing show in 2024. The group’s set will include pop and rock hits spanning over five decades, along with their own original songs. Opening for Burn the Jukebox is the five-person cover band Fully Stocked, pumping out energy and fun with rock and pop songs from the 1970s to today. 

At midnight, MC Denny Logan (WNNK 104.1) and the HERSHEY Characters will count down to the HERSHEY’S KISS raise, followed by an immersive laser and pyrotechnics display to light up the night.

View the schedule here.

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is open select dates through Jan. 4, 2026, for guests to enjoy twinkling lights, select rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), visits with Santa and all nine of his reindeer, signature hot chocolate and some sweet Christmas tree experiences. 

During the seasonal event, Hersheypark has decked its halls with more than 5 million lights, including a 50-foot Kissmas Tree with a Hershey’s KISS at the top. The tree is located in a brand new spot in Hershey's Chocolatetown where the Kisses Fountain is normally found. You'll get great views of this Christmas icon from the ground and aboard the Candymonium roller coaster.

Admission to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane also includes TREEville, a festive trail of 25 trees that share the stories of The Sweetest Place On Earth. Guests can grab a signature hot chocolate and walk through the path around East Coast Waterworks as they look at trees representing the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, Hershey Bears hockey, Milton Hershey School and more. 

View the TREEville photo guide for more details.

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark - The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort - have decked the halls for the holidays. Guests staying at any of these properties will see beautiful Christmas trees and festive decorations in the lobbies.

The Hotel Hershey

The Hotel Hershey is beautiful all year, but there’s something extra sweet about seeing the property adorned in lights, garland and Christmas trees during the holidays. As you enter the main lobby, you’ll be greeted by a display of poinsettias and miniature trees decorated with classic ornaments that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. But while on the property, there are two additional trees you’ll want to see. 

Just upstairs from the main lobby, a gorgeous tree decorated in red, green and gold overlooks the historic Fountain Lobby, which was designed like a Spanish courtyard to reflect our founder Milton Hershey's travels. This spot is a favorite holiday photo backdrop and a tradition for many guests to visit year after year. After taking a photo, head outside through the formal gardens to 1933 Restaurant & Tavern Plaza, where you'll find another beautiful Christmas tree that our Hershey Characters helped us light during our annual Tree Lighting ceremony earlier this season.

Hershey Lodge

The lobby of Hershey Lodge is at its coziest with holiday decor, including the Lodge’s beautiful Christmas tree. This year, the tree is decorated with snowflakes and ornaments of chocolate brown and gold making for a sweet photo spot - maybe even with one of the Hershey Characters who roam the lobby on select dates and times. Guests can also admire the tree while enjoying a hot chocolate or a Hershey’s Chocolate Martini by the warm, cozy fireplace. 

Hersheypark Camping Resort

There are many trees across the 55 acres of Hersheypark Camping Resort, but a few have been decorated for the holidays this year. You’ll find a Christmas tree and more holiday decorations at the front desk inside Historic Landis Barn, plus festive wreaths and ornaments on the outside.

The Christmas Tree Showcase at Hershey Gardens

The Christmas Tree Showcase at Hershey Gardens is a merry and bright collection of professionally decorated Christmas trees created by local florists. Each tree features a variety of tree decorating styles and themes, while a stunning 14-foot poinsettia tree takes center stage. The Christmas Tree Showcase is on display from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Jan. 1, 2026 (closed Christmas day). It is included in admission and free for members.

Plus, guests can see the Student Tree Showcase of holiday trees, decorated with ornaments by local school students. The Welcome Pavilion and Butterfly Atrium will be decorated for the holidays, too!

Hershey's Chocolate World

Hershey's Chocolate World added even more magic this holiday season with their decorations! Guests can pose in front of a massive Christmas tree right inside the lobby. Visitors can also create a new holiday tradition by having their photo taken with Santa in front of the HERSHEY'S Holiday Chocolate House in a classic HERSHEY'S Chocolate Tour ride car with smaller Christmas trees lining the space! 

Plus, the HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour Ride has its first holiday makeover in nearly a decade, featuring more than 2,000 twinkling lights, a festive soundtrack and 11 cheerful animatronic elves inspired by nostalgic Hershey Characters.

Guests can celebrate the season at Hershey’s Chocolate World with their new Holiday Savings Bundle, available through Jan. 4. For $44.95, guests can enjoy five attractions, receive a bakery voucher and get free parking—a value of over $100.

The Hotel Hershey

Opened by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey in 1933, The Hotel Hershey is a one-of-a-kind destination with rich history. Visitors of The Hotel Hershey will be greeted by a display of poinsettias and Christmas trees decorated with chocolate brown ornaments. Upstairs in the Fountain Lobby, guests can take a holiday photo in front of a beautiful Christmas tree or the iconic fountain that is lined with bright red poinsettias. Make your way to The Plaza and you'll see another beautiful Christmas tree in the Formal Gardens and outside 1933 Restaurant & Tavern.

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey 

As the newest and most luxurious accommodations on property, The Villas at The Hotel Hershey ring in the holidays with style. Guests are invited to cozy up by the fireplace in the exclusive Villas Concierge Lounge, featuring board games, hot cocoa, sweet treats, outdoor s'mores roasts and complimentary beer and wine from 5 to 7 p.m. Plus, Santa makes a stop on weekends and every day Dec. 13-24!

Hershey Lodge 

Warm, welcoming and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge provides convenience and comfort for families and guests of all ages. During the holiday season, garland covered in lights drape the grand staircase, and the fireplace is surrounded by small-lit trees and poinsettias, creating the perfect ambiance to enjoy a hot chocolate or a Hershey's Signature Martini. Near the fireplace stands an enormous Christmas tree decorated in snowflakes, chocolate brown ornaments and Hershey's Kisses. The tree makes for a great photo spot, maybe even with one of our Hershey Characters!

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Hersheypark Camping Resort, a year-round camping facility in Hershey, Pa., has been welcoming guests since 1963 with its 55 acres of emerald hills. From full hook-up RV sites to 2-Bedroom Deluxe Cabins and Tiny Homes, the campground offers cozy accommodations for every camper this time of year. Guests visiting this season will find that Historic Landis Barn has transformed for the holidays with snowflake lights, stockings and a Christmas tree topped with a Hershey's Kiss! Plus, find sweet Christmas presents and stocking stuffers inside the decorated Country Store.

Holiday Resort Packages

On select dates through Jan. 4, The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge are offering holiday packages featuring deluxe accommodations, daily Hersheypark Christmas Candylane tickets and breakfast each day of your stay. The all-new Cookies and Candylane Packages also include a special delivery of milk and cookies to your room. Guests at Hersheypark Camping Resort can enjoy the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane Camping Package with accommodations and Park tickets. 

1. Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

Open Nov. 26-27 from 5-9 p.m., Nov. 28-29 from 12-9 p.m. and Nov. 30 from 12-8 p.m.

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane will be open for extended hours over the holiday weekend, including on Thanksgiving, offering the sweetest way to get into the spirit of the season. 

The USA TODAY 10Best-nominated event features five million lights decking the 121-acre amusement park, seven coasters and select family rides (weather and maintenance permitting) plus the holiday debut of Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, Santa and all nine of his reindeer for guests to see up close in the themed Mary N. Bright Airfield, a NEW holiday stage show inside the heated Chevrolet Music Box Theatre, and Holly Jolly Sweet Greets with the Hershey Characters donning their coziest winter apparel—all included with a ticket. 

Additionally, starting Nov. 26, guests can stroll through TREEville Trail, located around East Coast Waterworks attraction in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark, to see more than 20 uniquely decorated trees sharing stories of The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Great Christmas Candylane ticket offers, including a Black Friday Holiday Deal, are available on Hersheypark.com. Tickets include a sweet sneak peek with a Preview Plan, which allows guests to present their tickets at the main entrance 1.5 hours before closing on the night before their full-day visit to enjoy a fun-filled evening during public operating hours. Preview for resort guests is 2.5 hours before the Park closes.

2. Hershey Sweet Lights Presented by PPL

Open Nightly (including Thanksgiving); Times Vary 

Families who prefer to see lights from the comfort of their cars can visit Hershey Sweet Lights presented by PPL, located up the road from Hersheypark. The separately ticketed drive-through attraction features two miles of fields and wooded trails decorated with more than 500 illuminated, animated displays. Many displays follow unique themes, such as "The 12 Days of Christmas," an Enchanted Forest, Hersheypark rides and Hershey Bears hockey, as well as a region inspired by the Northern Lights. Guests can download the Hersheypark app to enjoy holiday music, powered by iHeart, while viewing the lights.

Hershey Sweet Lights admission pricing varies depending on the date of visit and the type of vehicle. Please buy online for significant savings. Single cars (seats up to 8 people) range from $29.99 to $34.99 when purchased online. Vans (seats 9-15 people) are $59.15. Please visit Hersheypark.com and select the date you wish to visit to see ticket pricing. On-site pricing without a pre-purchased ticket is also available for a standard car at the full gate price of $54.15.
 

3. ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park

Nov. 24-26 and 28-30 (closed on Thanksgiving Day); 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

It’s a sweet month to visit ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, as many North American animals in the outdoor habitats, such as the gray wolves, river otters and Canada Lynx, are more active when the temperature drops. ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only when accessed through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours. Please note that the Zoo naturalists care for the reindeer at Hersheypark, so a Christmas Candylane ticket is required to view them.

4. Hershey Bears Hockey Games

Nov. 26 at 7 p.m., Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 30 at 5 p.m.

Join in on the family fun and the excitement of Hershey Bears hockey at GIANT Center for the holiday weekend. The 13-time Calder Cup Champions are at home for three games over Thanksgiving week, including the team’s annual Thanksgiving Eve game on Wednesday, Nov. 26, versus the rival Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at 7 p.m. After the game, all fans are welcome to take part in the Canteen Vending Turkey Shoot for a chance to win great prizes! 

The game on Nov. 30 is also a special one as it is Hockey Fights Cancer Night. All fans will receive a Hockey Fights Cancer light-up bracelet, courtesy of Penn State Health.

A sweet holiday offer: Buy two tickets and receive the original Take Home Coco plush (available while supplies last). 

5. Matt Rife at GIANT Center

Nov. 28; 8 p.m.

Hugely popular comedian Matt Rife brings his “Stay Golden Tour” to GIANT Center for a show on Black Friday. Produced by Live Nation, the brand-new tour follows Rife’s wildly successful “ProbleMATTic World Tour,” which saw the comedian sell over 600,000 tickets across 250+ shows in less than 48 hours following the announcement in June 2023. The multi-year tour included shows across North America, Europe, the U.K. and Australia.

Please note that this show is sold out. 

6. Breakfast With Santa at The Chocolatier

Nov. 28-30 (closed on Thanksgiving Day); Reservation times vary between 8-10:45 a.m.

Santa Claus has come to Hershey's Chocolatetown and is stopping for breakfast at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio! Families can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet with hints of chocolate, kids' activities and lots of holiday fun alongside Santa. Reservations are required. 

7. Seasonal Spa Treatments

Select dates and times (open on Thanksgiving Day)

What better way to enjoy the holiday weekend than with some rest and relaxation? The Spa At The Hotel Hershey has availability on Thanksgiving Day. Plus, it's the last chance to book seasonal pumpkin-inspired treatments before peppermint and mocha returns in December. 

8. The Christmas Tree Showcase at Hershey Gardens

Nov. 24-26 and 28-30 (closed on Thanksgiving Day); 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hershey Gardens welcomes the holiday season with a festive exhibit of beautifully decorated Christmas trees at its annual Christmas Tree Showcase. The seasonal event will feature even decorated trees on display in an indoor winter landscape, each tree decorated by a local artist. Guests can also enjoy sparkling lights and a 14-foot white poinsettia tree, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, children's crafts and more throughout Thanksgiving weekend. 

9. Special Events at Hershey's Chocolate World

Nov. 24-26 and 28-30 (closed on Thanksgiving Day); Times vary

Guests can celebrate the season at Hershey's Chocolate World with their new Holiday Savings Bundle, available Nov. 24 through Jan. 4. For $44.95, guests can enjoy five attractions, receive a bakery voucher and get free parking—a value of over $100. It’s the perfect way for families to experience holiday fun and create sweet memories.

Adding even more magic, the HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour Ride has its first holiday makeover in nearly a decade, featuring more than 2,000 twinkling lights, a festive soundtrack and 11 cheerful animatronic elves inspired by nostalgic Hershey Characters. Guests can also indulge in new and exclusive Toffee Truffles and the limited-time Toffee Truffle Milkshake for a decadent seasonal treat.

Plus, visitors can create memories with their favorite Hershey Characters, dressed up in their festive best, as well as Dr. Seuss's The Grinch and Max, on select dates! 

Book a Holiday Stay at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

With all of these things to do, you'll want to book an overnight getaway at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark to experience it all. Whether in deluxe accommodations at The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge or in a cozy cabin or RV at Hersheypark Camping Resort, a stay at a Hershey resort will put guests in the holiday spirit this Thanksgiving. Guests can take in the beauty of the resorts’ stunning holiday decor, enjoy Thanksgiving buffets and menu specials at restaurants on property (advance reservations highly recommended), and participate in family-friendly resort activities such as Hershey Character appearances, chocolate bingo and s’mores roasts at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge and Thanksgiving crafts and coloring pages at Hersheypark Camping Resort.