Planning a fall stay at this beautiful resort? We can't wait to welcome you! Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at The Hotel Hershey, 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 note for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
What better way to start your sweet stay than with chocolate at check-in! You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway the Hershey way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 12 p.m.

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 Hotel, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices.

Activities & Recreation

Once you're checked in, take advantage of the activities and recreation available across the resort. During the weekend, The Hotel Hershey offers a schedule of family-friendly activities for guests including s'mores roasts, Hershey Character appearances, glow putting 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 enjoy recreation on property, including an indoor pool complex, hiking trails to view the fall foliage, daily fitness classes, disc golf, and an outdoor sports complex.

Arcade at The Hotel Hershey

Test your luck and win prizes in the arcade at The Hotel Hershey, located in The Plaza next to 1933 Restaurant & Tavern! Bring the whole family to play video games, pinball, skee-ball and more. The arcade is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily for visitors, but is open 24 hours for guests using their key card.

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 The Hotel Hershey 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.

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey

The Villas offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities. In summer 2025, The Villas doubled in size bringing guests a total of 19 Villas and 98 sleeping rooms. Amenities include access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person. 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

View a full schedule for the Villas Concierge Lounge.

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 The Hotel Hershey 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

Guests of The Hotel Hershey can find a variety of restaurants on property ranging from grab-and-go to fine dining. Reservations are accepted at select locations.

1933 Restaurant & Tavern

Make sure to check out The Hotel Hershey's newest restaurant, 1933 Restaurant & Tavern. Here, guests can feast on an approachable steakhouse menu and elevated pub fare with bold flavors. Plus, enjoy unique signature cocktails and curated draught beers on tap, as well as a brunch menu that’s served every Sunday. View menu.

Other dining options at The Hotel Hershey include:

• The Circular, The Hotel Hershey's flagship restaurant
• Trevi 5, a modern Italian grill
• Iberian Lounge, serving lite fare and signature chocolate cocktails
• Chef's Market, an all-day café serving coffee, chef-prepared food and decadent chocolate treats on the go

Want to enjoy a delicious meal from the comfort of your room? Guests can order room service from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and choose from a diverse menu of options. To place your order, dial extension 8080.

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.

Schedule A Spa Treatment

During your fall getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, the spa is famous for its signature chocolate treatments, such as a Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap and Cocoa Massage. This fall, guests can also indulge in a collection of decadent pumpkin-inspired treatments perfect for the season. Celebrate the excitement of the fall season with specialty treatments like the Pumpkin Spice Massage, Pumpkin Souffle Hydrating Body Wrap, The Great Pumpkin Facial and more, through Nov. 30. Call 844-330-1797 to book your appointment, or book online on our website.

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 The Shops At The Hotel Hershey for souvenirs, such as Hershey's chocolate, giftware, apparel, accessories and more. For that extra retail therapy, shop name brands like lululemon, Vuori and more at the Chic Boutique and HH Studio. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are available for in-store purchase.

Share Your Photos

While you're here, share your 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.

From world-class resorts to a thrilling amusement park and concerts, there are endless opportunities to explore and have fun while visiting The Sweetest Place On Earth. In fact, there's so much to do that you'll need at least two days to enjoy it all. Explore this 2-day itinerary to help you prepare for your trip and experience all our destination has to offer.

Here are a few quick tips before diving into the day-by-day suggestions of things to do:

1. Save on your 2-day Hersheypark tickets by purchasing in advance online.
   • Discount offers are only available online. Tickets are full price in person.
2. Stay at one of  the four Official Resorts of Hersheypark to enjoy a variety of FREE Resort Benefits like the best price on Hersheypark tickets, free shuttle service to and from Hersheypark, and extra hours at Hersheypark.
   • Save with sweet packages, including our guest-favorite Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Package.   
   • Also, make sure to save some time to enjoy recreation on property, including swimming pools, family-friendly resort activities and more.
3. Book a treatment in advance at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey or MeltSpa by Hershey for the ultimate relaxation as summer availability is limited.
4. Purchase tickets for The Hershey Story or Hershey Gardens.
   • Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free or discounted admission at check-in.
5. If you’re interested in any of the Hershey’s Chocolate World indoor attractions, purchase a ticket online ahead of time.
6. Check the Hershey Entertainment schedule for any events, shows or concerts at Hersheypark Stadium, Hershey Theatre or GIANT Center.

Spend Two Days at Hersheypark

When you purchase a ticket to the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, you get access to three experiences in one including 15 iconic coasters, an expansive water park, and our 11-acre zoo! With more than 70 summer attractions, make the most of your trip with a 2-Day Any Day Ticket, starting at just $45 a day.

If you're looking to explore more of this one-of-a-kind destination, then this is the itinerary for you!

Day One

Morning

You can’t begin your day without a good breakfast! 

• If you stay at The Hotel Hershey, The Circular offers breakfast daily from 7-10:30 a.m. The Belgian Kiss Waffles are a staple while visiting Hershey, as they have a Hershey’s Kisses shape in the center.
• If you stay at Hershey Lodge, head to Fire & Grain for breakfast, offered daily from 7-11 a.m. either as a buffet or a la carte menu based on availability. A la carte dishes range from fabulous French Toast with Hershey’s Chocolate Chips to a Smoked Salmon Benedict or even Steak & Eggs. Or, enjoy a breakfast and lunch menu at STACKS, an eatery serving dishes stacked high with flavor, such as stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles with sweet toppings or savory options like the Crispy Chicken Biscuit Benedict or Meat Lovers Breakfast Bowl. Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.
• Our newest resort property, Hershey Inn & Suites, offers free hot breakfast each morning.

After finishing your breakfast, head to your appointment at MeltSpa by Hershey day spa for some relaxation right in the heart of downtown Hershey. The exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate treatments are some of our guests’ favorites. Plus, check out the seasonal Summer Strawberry Collection, featuring an immersion, manicure, pedicure and more.

Afternoon

Following your morning spa getaway, visit Hershey’s Chocolate World to take the famous Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, Create Your Own Candy Bar or take on Hershey's Great Candy Expedition, a train-themed adventure that whisks you away to candy-filled worlds. Be sure to stock up on your favorite Hershey’s candies! 

If you find yourself having more time in your afternoon to explore The Sweetest Place On Earth:

• Head over to The Hershey Story to learn more about Milton S. Hershey and the town's history. There is also a Chocolate Lab where you can build your own chocolate creation and learn how chocolate is made.
• For lunch, visit the all-new restaurant, Hershey Social, down the street from MeltSpa. Pro Tip: Hershey Social offers daily happy hour specials from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Evening

To wrap up your day, visit Hersheypark for the last two hours (or three hours if you’re staying at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark) to enjoy a free park preview included with your ticket. Squeeze in a few coaster rides before your full-day visit the next day. Remember to bring your ticket as you will still need to be scanned for entry. 

Need a dinner option that is convenient to the Park?

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region of Hersheypark outside of the front entrance. You do not need a Hersheypark ticket to dine there.
  • The Chocolatier serves up family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate from an open kitchen. The menu features all things from shareables to salads, big plates like Cocoa-Dusted Beef Short Ribs and Heath Bar Crusted Salmon, sweet desserts such as the Chocolate Fun-Due and the S'mores Milkshake and signature cocktails like the Reese's Cupfusion Old Fashioned and Mini Martini Flight. 

Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made in advance on The Chocolatier's website. 

Day Two

Morning

Rise and shine, it’s time for a day at Hersheypark!

• For a quick but tasty breakfast option on your way, stop by the Cocoa Beanery at Hershey Lodge or enjoy the complimentary hot breakfast buffet as a guest at Hershey Inn & Suites for some rich coffee and other yummy eats.
• For our guests at The Hotel Hershey, Chef’s Market is a similar grab-and-go option.

Afternoon

Resort guests and Full and King Size Season Pass Holders have access to Sweet Start (available through Labor Day), which allows them to enter the Park an hour before it opens to enjoy a selection of rides with shorter wait times. 

To all the coaster fanatics out there, we recommend heading straight to one of our 15 mild to wild coasters right when you enter the Park. But, don’t forget that Hersheypark tickets include three parks in one with the rides, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park and The Boardwalk. From the 200 animals in our zoo to the 11 acres of water rides at our water park, there are endless things to experience during your visit to Hersheypark! 

• Please note that ZooAmerica is only included with a Hersheypark ticket by accessing the zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours. In advance of your visit, we suggest downloading the Hersheypark app and checking the hours for the zoo and the water park, as they may differ from the Park. 

Evening

If you get hungry heading into the late afternoon, there are plenty of in-Park dining options to choose from. 

• For a refreshing and healthy food option, Oola Bowls can be found at Kissing Tower Hill and at The Boardwalk! The Great Bear Bowl is a must-try that is inspired by our coaster.
• For all things barbecue, Spring Creek Smokehouse has everything from brisket and pulled pork to mac and cheese and mashed potatoes. 

Before you leave the Park, make sure you stop by HP Collections or Hersheypark Supply Co. to pick up some exclusive merchandise to commemorate your trip to The Sweetest Place On Earth.

We hope this itinerary helps you experience all the unique attractions that make Hershey, Pa., The Sweetest Place On Earth. Maximize your fun with our 2-Day Any Day Ticket and start planning your getaway!

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.

Hersheypark All-American Summer Celebration

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The centerpiece of the holiday celebration is Hersheypark, which commemorates its 120th operating year alongside the nation's semiquincentennial. Tickets include three parks in one with more than 70 rides, a water park and a zoo (open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.).

Visitors to the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania can experience a patriotic transformation across the 121 acres for America's 250th anniversary, featuring decor, Americana-themed ride overlays on attractions like Laff Trakk and Twin Turnpike, and red, white, and blue light packages on coasters. The in-Park entertainment lineup includes Sweet Greets with Hershey Characters dressed in festive patriotic attire and Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook in the air-conditioned Music Box Theatre.

The celebration extends to exclusive culinary offerings available only this summer. Highlights include the Star-Spangled King Size Shake at Simply Chocolate, patriotic-themed donuts at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor and the Stars & Stripes Martini Flight at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio.

Fireworks Presented by HERSHEY’S

Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, at 10:15 p.m.

The highlight of the holiday weekend is the Fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S. Epic displays will light up the iconic Hershey skyline at 10:15 p.m. on both Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4.

Hersheypark offers Fireworks From The Shore, a special add-on to elevate the fireworks viewing experience. It features an unlimited buffet of sweet treats, including ice cream novelties, popcorn, fountain beverages, and a cash bar, while watching the fireworks from The Shore in the water park. Tickets are $24.99 per person.

Star-Spangled Picnic at Hersheypark

Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Parkgoers can upgrade their July 4th holiday experience at Hersheypark with a star-spangled, all-you-care-to-eat picnic buffet. This festive spread features classic holiday favorites, such as hamburgers and hot dogs with rolls, baked fried chicken, and savory sides like brown-sugar baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and house-made chips. Fresh watermelon and ice cream novelties are also included, along with fountain Pepsi products and assorted condiments. 

Tickets for the buffet are priced at $21.20 for adults (ages 13+) and $14.84 for children ages 12 and under.

A Beautiful Noise - The Neil Diamond Musical at Hershey Theatre

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, at various times

Hershey Theatre will host five holiday weekend performances of “A Beautiful Noise - The Neil Diamond Musical,” an inspiring musical memoir created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself.

• Friday, July 3: 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Saturday, July 4: 1 p.m.
• Sunday, July 5: 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

“A Beautiful Noise” is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalog of classics like "America," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and "Sweet Caroline," an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond's story was made to shine on Broadway-and head out on the road across America.

Like “Jersey Boys” and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” before it, “A Beautiful Noise” is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir that tells the untold true story of how America's greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.

Jazz on the Veranda at The Hotel Hershey

Saturday, July 4, from 7-10 p.m.

The Hotel Hershey invites both resort guests and the public to celebrate Independence Day on July 4 with Jazz On The Veranda. This sweet evening celebration features live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. Attendees can enjoy a patriotic atmosphere high above the town, making the veranda a premier location to see the fireworks display presented by HERSHEY'S, scheduled to begin at 10:15 p.m.

Patriotic Pampering in Hershey

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, at various times

Both locals and travelers alike can add a touch of sweet, patriotic luxury to their holiday weekend with a relaxing retreat to the award-winning Hershey spas. From vibrant red, white and blue nail art to rejuvenating seasonal body treatments, The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey have availability remaining to feel refreshed over Independence Day weekend.

To book an appointment at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey, call 844-330-1797. For MeltSpa by Hershey, call 855-500-2366 or visit their website. 

Make Yankee Doodle Chocolate Bars at The Hershey Story

Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with special Yankee Doodle Chocolate Bar-themed Chocolate Lab classes over the Fourth of July weekend. During this 45-minute class, guests can try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating as they mold a milk chocolate bar and top it off with red, white and blue candy sprinkles to create their own edible American flag. Guests will discover where and how cocoa beans are grown and processed into their favorite chocolate confections. 

Chocolate Lab tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be purchased at The Hershey Story admissions desk upon arrival. Children must be at least five years old to enter the Lab. 

America’s 250th Celebration at Hershey Gardens

Sunday, July 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hershey Gardens is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors on the Fourth of July can enjoy an America’s 250th Celebration featuring family activities and unique collection highlights. Stationed tour guides throughout the gardens will highlight the Lincoln cultivar rose, the Franklinia alatamata, the American Heritage Chestnut and more! Educational activities in The Children's Garden will focus on community design, animal and plant habitats, and more.

Stay in the Heart of the July 4th Action

Visitors to Hershey can make their holiday weekend even more memorable by staying at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark. Whether guests prefer the historic elegance of The Hotel Hershey, the family-friendly atmosphere of Hershey Lodge, the modern convenience of the newly opened Hershey Inn & Suites, or the scenic setting of Hersheypark Camping Resort, they will be steps away from all the festivities. 

Staying on-site provides exclusive free resort benefits, including free front-gate shuttle service to and from Hersheypark and extended ride hours, ensuring guests make the most of every moment during the patriotic celebration.

Planning a stay at this beautiful resort? We can't wait to welcome you! Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

YOUR ARRIVAL

From the moment you arrive at The Hotel Hershey, 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 The Hotel Hershey 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 12 p.m. 

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 Hotel, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

Get Your Resorts Refillable Cup

Enjoy unlimited fountain refills during your stay with the all-new Resort Refillable Cup. This cup grants you endless refills at both Chef’s Market and the outdoor pool complex, and doubles as a souvenir. Available for purchase at either refill location.

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

Once you're checked in, be sure to take advantage of activities and recreation across the resort. Daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, The Hotel Hershey offers a schedule of family-friendly activities ranging from s'mores roasts and chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances and glow putting. Don't miss other scheduled activities, including outdoor movies, water games, arts and 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 enjoy recreation on property, including hiking trails, daily fitness classes, an 18-hole putting course, disc golf, and an outdoor sports complex. 

The Hotel Hershey Arcade

Beat your high score and win prizes in the arcade at The Hotel Hershey, located next to 1933 Restaurant & Tavern. Have fun with video games, pinball, skee-ball and more. The arcade is open from 9 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Splash at the pool

Don't forget to pack your swimsuits and sunscreen! Weather permitting, our outdoor pool complex is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. View hours here. The complex features an infinity edge adult (18+) pool and whirlpool, a family pool with zero-grade entry, two large slides, a kiddie spray deck and a poolside cafe. For ultimate poolside relaxation, 14 cabanas are available for rental, each featuring a 32-inch flat-screen TV, table and chairs, refrigerator, bottled water and snack basket. An indoor pool complex with a whirlpool and splash pad is also open daily.

A reminder, guests of The Villas at The Hotel Hershey receive 30-minute early access to the outdoor pool complex.

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey

The Villas offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with 98 reimagined rooms, refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities. Amenities include access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge, two complimentary Resorts Refillable Cups, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person. 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 

View a full schedule for the Villas Concierge Lounge.

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 The Hotel Hershey 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 May 21 through Labor Day. 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 The Hotel Hershey 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, snakes, 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 11 themed gardens, including more than 5,000 roses in the summer and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented 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

Guests of The Hotel Hershey can find a variety of restaurants on property ranging from grab-and-go to fine dining. Reservations are accepted at select locations.

Dining options at The Hotel Hershey include: 

• The Circular: The Hotel Hershey's flagship restaurant
• 1933 Restaurant & Tavern: approachable steakhouse menu with signature cocktails and brunch every Sunday
• Trevi 5: a modern Italian grill
• Iberian Lounge: serving lite fare and signature chocolate cocktails
• Chef's Market: an all-day café serving coffee, chef-prepared food and decadent chocolate treats on the go

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. Note: A Hersheypark ticket is not required. 

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

During your getaway, make time for sweet relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, the spa celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and is famous for its signature chocolate treatments. Guests can indulge in a decadent collection complete with a Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap and even a Cocoa Massage. The Spa also offers seasonal treatments and packages that pay homage to Cuba, where Milton S. Hershey owned sugar mills from 1916 to 1946. To schedule an appointment, visit the Chocolate Spa website or call 844-330-1797. 

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 Shops At The Hotel Hershey for souvenirs, such as Hershey's chocolate, giftware, apparel and accessories. Shipping is available for in-store purchases.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

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

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.

• Top 10 Best Theme Park - Hersheypark (#10)
• No. 1 Best Theme Park Hotel - The Hotel Hershey #(1)
• Top 10 Best Roller Coaster - Wildcat’s Revenge at Hersheypark (#10)
• Top 10 Best Water Coaster - Breakers Edge in The Boardwalk at Hersheypark (#8)
• Top 10 Best Wave Pool - The Shore in The Boardwalk at Hersheypark (#6)

Thank you to all our fans who voted for us!

Top 10 Ranked Hersheypark Open for Spring Weekends

Hersheypark received a top 10 ranking in the Best Theme Park category after competing amongst 19 other theme parks nominated out of more than 400 amusement parks and attractions on the continent.

Centrally located within driving distance of five of the largest metropolitan areas in the Northeast, Hersheypark is open for Spring Weekends on Fridays through Sundays through May 17. Daily operations begin May 21, followed by The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park opening on May 23 with two new water play areas - The Inlet and The Island at Bayside Pier. Hours vary by day. 

The amusement park of every chocolate lover's dreams features 121 acres with more than 70 rides, a water park with 17 water attractions (including the top 10 best water coaster and wave pool) and an 11-acre North American Wildlife Park – all accessible via a single admission. 

Thrill seekers can enjoy the most coasters in the Northeast with a lineup of 15, including Wildcat's Revenge, which claimed a top 10 spot in the Best Roller Coaster contest. Opened in 2023, the first hybrid manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) in Pennsylvania combines the best of wood and steel with unique elements like the World's Largest Underflip for a one-of-a-kind thrilling ride experience found only at Hersheypark. 

In addition to the water park enhancements this summer, Hersheypark will host patriotic events and activations in celebration of the nation's 250th. 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.

The Hotel Hershey Ranked the Country's Best Theme Park Hotel

The Hotel Hershey, one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, claimed the no. 1 spot in the Best Theme Park Hotel category. A member of Historic Hotels of America, the AAA Four-Diamond Hotel 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. 

Guests can take advantage of recreation on property, including 5.5 miles of hiking trails, daily fitness classes, an indoor pool complex, an arcade, an 18-hole putting course, disc golf, and an outdoor sports complex featuring basketball, volleyball, tennis, pickleball, spikeball, bocce ball, cornhole and soccer. On Spring Weekends, The Hotel Hershey also offers family-friendly activities ranging from s'mores roasts and chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, glow putting, scavenger hunts and more. 

For an elevated luxury accommodation experience, The Villas at The Hotel Hershey offer 98 rooms and unmatched amenities, like access to an all-new exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person to use on park operating days. 

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 and more.

Check out The Hotel Hershey Spring Guide 2026 to learn more.

Unlimited Summer Visits for $99

Guests can save on tickets to Hersheypark when purchased online with the current ticket offers.

For endless summer fun, guests should consider the Hersheypark Summer Fun Card, which includes unlimited visits from the date of purchase through Labor Day for $99 plus taxes and fees when purchased on Hersheypark.com.

Visitors looking to extend their stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book a sweet spring or summer getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. Popular resort packages like Kids Stay, Play & Eat Free are available for online booking.

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!

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!

Best Theme Park

USA TODAY 10Best asked a panel of amusement park and family travel experts to nominate their 20 favorite theme parks out of more than 400 amusement parks and attractions on the continent - and Hersheypark made the list again this year. 

Centrally located within driving distance of five of the largest metropolitan areas in the Northeast, Hersheypark will kick off its 120th operating year on April 3. Guests can visit the place Where Fun Meets Chocolate through four distinct seasonal events, including Spring Weekends through May 17, daily summer operations from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

The amusement park of every chocolate lover's dreams offers more than 70 rides and attractions (including 15 thrilling coasters - the most in the Northeast), The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park (open from Memorial Day through Labor Day) and an 11-acre North American Wildlife Park – all accessible via a single admission. 

New for summer 2026, Hersheypark will debut an enhancement to its water park and special summer events highlighting America’s 250th anniversary. 

Best Theme Park Hotel

The Hotel Hershey is a sweet spot for visitors to lay their heads when in town to check out Hersheypark. A member of Historic Hotels of America, the AAA Four-Diamond Hotel 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. 

Guests can take advantage of recreation on the property, including 5.5 miles of hiking trails, daily fitness classes, an indoor pool complex, an arcade, an 18-hole putting course, disc golf, and an outdoor sports complex featuring basketball, volleyball, tennis, pickleball, spikeball, bocce ball, cornhole and soccer. On spring weekends, The Hotel Hershey also offers family-friendly activities ranging from s'mores roasts and chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, glow putting, scavenger hunts and more. Check out The Hotel Hershey Spring Guide 2026 to learn more.

The Villas at The Hotel Hershey offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with 98 rooms and unmatched amenities, including access to an all-new exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person.

Best Roller Coaster

Wildcat is back and seeking vengeance. Opened in 2023 as the first hybrid manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) in Pennsylvania, Wildcat's Revenge combines the best of wood and steel by adding a new steel track with unique elements to the wooden framework for a one-of-a-kind thrilling ride experience found only at Hersheypark. 

The 2-minute and 36-second experience begins as riders of Hershey's height category (48-54") and above climb a 140-foot hill on one of three custom trains, plunge into an 82-degree drop and hit a maximum speed of 62 miles per hour along 3,510 feet of red track on a black steel and wood structure. The pursuit continues as riders stalk their prey through four inversions, including the World’s Largest Underflip, which begins with an upward climb, followed by a counterclockwise 270° roll and a dive down towards the side. 

Wildcat's Revenge received the Amusement Today Golden Ticket Award for Best New Roller Coaster of 2023. The 15th coaster at Hersheypark was also named one of the top new attractions of 2023 by USA TODAY 10Best. 

Plan a Visit to Hersheypark

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. But those craving endless fun in 2026 should buy a Season Pass, which pays for itself in less than three visits! 

Visitors looking to extend their stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book a sweet spring 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.

Twenty five years ago, the doors first opened to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Known fondly as the Chocolate Spa, it began a legacy of blending Hershey’s rich, sweet heritage with world-class relaxation.

As we celebrate the Chocolate Spa's 25th anniversary throughout the year, we are proud to honor the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) Legacy team members who are also marking 25 years of service at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. These team members were not only here to celebrate the opening of the property, but they have continued to be the heart of our guest experience, growing their passion for excellence and evolving from colleagues into a true spa family. Read their stories below.

Leading with Heart

Kathy Kramer - Manager of Spa Operations

Starting as a Technician and growing into Spa Manager, Kathy has many fond memories of working at the Spa for the past quarter century. Kathy recalls, “I got a tip from my Aunt that The Hotel Hershey was opening a Spa. I was working as an in-home massage therapist at the time. But I applied, interviewed in a small trailer at the time, since the Spa was under construction, and got hired! I still remember my first day after the Spa opened. We had a staff meeting and then immediately began working with guests. It was so exciting.” 

Kathy also mentioned what has stayed consistent and what has changed over the years. “The positive teamwork and working relationships have always been a driving force here. I think what has changed the most is obviously the growth of the Spa but also the popularity of Hershey destination and guests interested in the history of Milton Hershey.” 

“My journey has been filled with incredible moments, especially guest interactions I have had. From helping a guest with Parkinson’s find physical relief to building long-term friendships with regulars and even treating celebrities. The growth opportunity and the perks that HE&R provides are amazing. I have found that the true heart of this Spa is with the people I work alongside every day.” 

A 25-Year Journey of Friendship 

Selena Auman and Janet Smeltz - Esthetician and Group Sales Agent

For team members Selena and Janet, the journey to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey started at a spa in Harrisburg where they worked together. Janet, who had once visited The Hotel Hershey as a school student, remembered being in absolute awe of its extravagance. When she heard a spa was opening, she knew her and Selena had to be a part of it together.

"I wondered to myself if I could really work somewhere like The Hotel Hershey," Janet recalls. "Just the thought of it made me so excited. I told Selena we had to apply."

For Selena, who was only 17 at the time, the thought of venturing out was intimidating. "I was so young and relatively new to the industry," Selena says. "But Janet mentored me from the start. She helped me with my application and the interview process, and we were both thrilled when we got hired to continue our journey together in Hershey."

For Selena and Janet, the early days were defined by grit and excitement. While the Spa was being finished, they were tasked with building the buzz for Hotel guests. They spent their days at a table in the main lobby, selling gift certificates and telling guests about the excitement that was coming. Janet remembers the deep dive into the Hershey legacy that fueled their early passion. "Our managers took us to Milton Hershey’s homestead to learn the history behind the scenes. They transferred their energy and excitement to us. That same passion I felt on day one still exudes in the Spa today."

Over the last quarter century, their roles have evolved. Janet in the Sales Group office and Selena transitioning from a dedicated hostess to a talented Esthetician, but their bond has remained the constant. Janet describes their connection as that of a "mother hen" or an older sister, always looking out for Selena’s growth. "Watching her thrive and advance herself makes me incredibly proud," Janet says. "We’ve relied heavily on one another, and that mutual support is what got us through the busy years."

For Selena, the sentiment is mutual. "I truly grew up with these ladies, especially Janet. She took me under her wing and taught me everything she knew about operations. They’ve been like sisters to me, guiding and encouraging me every step of the way."

For both women, the true reward of 25 years isn't just the milestone, it’s the people. Janet finds her greatest joy in the personal connections made with guests, some of whom have become like family. "The best feeling in the world is when a group asks me to stop by and say hi while they eat lunch after their treatments, just to share their smiles," Janet says. "When I can book a large group and follow through to ensure they have a perfect experience, that is at the top of my list."

"I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve received here," Selena concludes. "I’m looking forward to many more years at this beautiful resort with the best team." Janet agrees, noting that while 25 years sounds like a long time, it’s gone by in a flash. "It doesn't seem like that long because I enjoy working with people who share the same beliefs. We aren't just coworkers, we are family."

The Master of All Trades

Alisha Schell - Manager of Spa Operations

Alisha was working in a local salon when she heard a tip from a family member that The Hotel Hershey was opening a spa. She didn't hesitate. She knew immediately that she wanted to be part of something this grand.

Alisha still remembers the sheer awe of those early days after being hired. "When I toured the Spa for the first time and stepped out of the locker room onto the main staircase, it literally took my breath away," she recalls.

The excitement of working with world-class, chocolate-based products was electric, though it came with its share of growing pains. "I will never forget my first Whipped Cocoa Bath service. The bubbles came all the way out into the center of the locker room!" she laughs. “But that is where growth comes into play, which has been a constant in my 25 years here.” What makes Alisha’s 25-year tenure so remarkable is her versatility. “Over the past 25 years, I was a Hair Stylist, Nail Technician, Esthetician, performed all body treatments and trained new staff. Eight years ago, I joined the leadership team as Spa Operations Manager.”

For Alisha, the true heart of the Spa is its mission. She finds her greatest motivation in the Core Purpose of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts: supporting Milton Hershey School. "Of course providing a memorable experience for guests who visit us is wonderful" Alisha says "but what keeps me going everyday is how I am so moved by my amazing co-workers who consistently demonstrate a selfless spirit of service." "We have been here to support and motivate each other through it all," Alisha reflects. "We have truly grown up together, and I am so grateful for the opportunities and experiences I’ve received over the past 25 years. I'm looking forward to many more with the best team in the business."

If you enjoyed reading these stories and want to create your own memories as an HE&R team member, view available positions.

Planning a stay at this beautiful resort? We can't wait to welcome you! Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit this spring.

YOUR ARRIVAL

From the moment you arrive at The Hotel Hershey, 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 The Hotel Hershey 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 noon. 

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 Hotel, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

Once checked in, take advantage of the activities and recreation available across the resort. On spring weekends, The Hotel Hershey offers family-friendly activities for guests ranging from s'mores roasts and chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, glow putting, scavenger hunts 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 enjoy recreation on property, including hiking trails, daily fitness classes, an indoor pool complex, an arcade, an 18-hole putting course, disc golf and an outdoor sports complex.

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey

The Villas offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with 98 rooms and unmatched amenities. Amenities include access to an all-new exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person to use on park operating days. 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 

View a full schedule for the Villas Concierge Lounge.

EXCLUSIVE HERSHEYPARK BENEFITS

Hersheypark is open for seven fun-filled weekends of rides, coasters, Hershey characters, delicious eats, sweet treats and so much more from April 3 through May 17! View hours here.

 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 The Hotel Hershey receive the below 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 The Hotel Hershey 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

Guests of The Hotel Hershey can find a variety of restaurants on property ranging from grab-and-go to fine dining. Reservations are accepted at select locations. Visit TheHotelHershey.com/Dining for hours and more info. Options include:

• The Circular, flagship restaurant
• Trevi 5, a modern Italian grill
• Iberian Lounge, serving lite fare and signature chocolate cocktails
• Chef's Market, an all-day café serving coffee, chef-prepared food and decadent chocolate treats on the go
• 1933 Restaurant & Tavern, serving an approachable steakhouse menu and elevated pub fare

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

During your getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, the spa celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and is famous for its signature chocolate treatments. Guests can indulge in a decadent collection complete with treatments like a Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap and Cocoa Massage. The Spa also offers traditional spa treatments, seasonal spring-inspired treatments and services that pay homage to Cuba, where Milton S. Hershey owned sugar mills from 1916 to 1946. Call 844-330-1797 to book your appointment.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, take a piece of Hershey home to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. Stop inside The Shops At The Hotel Hershey 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 photos by tagging us on Facebook, Instagram and X! 

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey

This year, the Chocolate Spa is proud to celebrate 25 years of relaxation! This season, spring spa treatments are a must-try during your visit. Enjoy the views of blooming tulips from our Quiet Room balcony while you await your spa treatment, or sip a cocktail in the springtime sun on The Oasis patio - including the new Toast to Twenty-Five cocktail. All spa appointments include complimentary access to steam rooms, saunas, aromatherapy and relaxation lounges, an indoor pool and whirlpool, fitness classes, and walking trails.

Spring-Inspired Treatments

• Coconut Lime Rasmopolitan Manicure & Pedicure (Available March 1-May 31): Treat your hands and feet to a citrine beach milk bath, cosmopolitan scrub and hydrating coconut-lime moisturizer. | 50 or 60 Minutes
• Milk & Honey Soak: A signature spa experience with skin softening and soothing properties. | 15 Minutes *Must be enjoyed with one additional treatment or service
• Milk & Honey Wrap: A body wrap aimed to soften, moisturize and soothe dry skin using the hydrating and exfoliating properties of milk and honey. | 60 Minutes
• Milk & Honey Hydrating Body Wrap: Relax in a warm cocoon while a gentle face and scalp massage is enjoyed as the hydrating qualities of honey and exfoliating properties of milk enzymes soothe your skin. | 50 Minutes
• Mojito Massage: A classic Swedish massage using our exclusive Mojito massage oil. | 50 or 80 Minutes

• Herbal Meadow Sea Salt Scrub: A gentle exfoliation using crushed herbs, flowers, sea salt and oils; followed with an application of Herbal Meadow Moisturizer. | 30 Minutes *Must be enjoyed with one additional treatment or service
• Geranium & Rose Hydrating Body Treatment: A gentle olive grain exfoliation, a geranium and rose gel, moisturizing oil and softening cream with shea butter. Enjoy a face and scalp massage as the products nourish your skin. | 80 Minutes
• Rose Garden Massage: A massage enriched by traditional aromatherapy massage techniques targeted for stress-related symptoms. | 50 or 80 Minutes
• High Point Garden Manicure & Pedicure: The ultimate manicure and/or pedicure experience includes a soak, exfoliation, intensive moisturizing treatment and relaxing massage. | 50 or 60 Minutes

Signature Spa Packages

Experience an entire day of spring relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey with refreshing spa packages such as the Rose Garden Package, Garden & Meadows Package and Cuban Experience Packages.

Visit The Spa At The Hotel Hershey's website to learn more about spring treatments. To make a reservation, call 844-330-1797. 

MeltSpa by Hershey

MeltSpa by Hershey day spa is perfect for those looking for a quick spa treatment or a full day of relaxation. In the spring, Meltspa looks forward to Spring Rejuvenation collections for a limited time.

Spring Rejuvenation Collection 

Indulge in the scents of lavender, rosemary, sage and cajeput with the Spring Rejuvenation seasonal collection, available March 1 - May 31.

• Spring Rejuvenation Body Scrub: An invigorating body scrub made to refresh and renew your skin. | 30 Minutes
• Spring Rejuvenation Body Wrap: A full-body wrap that softens and renews the skin. | 60 Minutes
• Spring Rejuvenation Facial: Designed to boost skin recovery from the harsh winter months and illuminate your complexion. | 60 Minutes
• Spring Rejuvenation Immersion: Experience both the body scrub and the body wrap in this revitalizing skin treatment. | 90 Minutes
• Spring Rejuvenation Massage:  A Swedish massage and the relaxing scents of rosemary, cajeput, lavender and sage. | 50 or 80 Minutes
• Spring Rejuvenation Manicure & Pedicure: A signature manicure or pedicure with notes of rosemary, cajeput, lavender and sage. | 50 or 60 Minutes

Spring Rejuvenation Packages

• Ultimate Spring Rejuvenation Spa Package: Experience complete rejuvenation with this package. | 4.5 Hours
  • Spring Rejuvenation Body Scrub
  • Spring Rejuvenation Body Wrap
  • 50-Minute Massage
  • Manicure
  • Pedicure
• Spring Renewal Package: Three treatments that will make you leave feeling fresh and revitalized. | 3 Hours
  • 50-Minute Massage
  • Spring Rejuvenation Facial
  • Spring Rejuvenation Pedicure

MeltSpa by Hershey Signature Collections

Spring is also a great time to enjoy MeltSpa's signature collections inspired by the rich history of Milton and Catherine Hershey - the pioneers of our sweet town. Immerse yourself in refreshing Geranium & Rose treatments, or in Cuban Treatments featuring coconut, mojito and ocean therapy inspired services. 

Visit the MeltSpa by Hershey website to learn more about spring offerings. To make an appointment, call 855-500-2366 or go online. 

Be sure to read our guide to MeltSpa by Hershey and our guide to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey to help plan your visit!

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. 

Timeless Design & Historic Influence

The Spa opened in January 2001 as a 17,000-square-foot facility. Due to overwhelming guest demand, the facility underwent a massive expansion just three years later in 2004. This project nearly doubled the spa's size to 40,000 sq. ft., establishing it as one of the largest resort spas in the nation. The expansion not only increased the number of treatment rooms but also introduced The Oasis, an exclusive restaurant for spa guests where dining in a plush robe and sipping on a Hershey’s Signature Martini is the standard. 

At the Chocolate Spa, history meets continuous enhancements.The spa’s timeless architecture pays a beautiful tribute to the Hershey legacy. The interior décor was inspired by High Point Mansion, the elegant home of Milton and Catherine (Kitty) Hershey. The facility overlooks the Hotel’s formal gardens and reflecting pools, offering a European-style atmosphere.

The Chocolate Spa recently completed a series of renovations, while still preserving its historic influence. Significant updates were made to The Quiet Room and Aromatherapy Room, where guests can relax before, in-between and after treatments, while the locker rooms also have all new flooring, showers, infrared saunas and soaking tubs.

What Makes the Experience Unique

The spa is most popular for its signature chocolate treatments that allow guests to indulge in Hershey’s sweet heritage. Key highlights include:

• Whipped Cocoa Bath: A patented treatment where guests bathe in a foaming chocolate milk hydrotherapy bath.
• The Cocoa Facial: Includes an edible Chocolate Facial Mask that is rich in antioxidants, and tastes delicious.
• Cuban Experience Treatments: Unique services like the Mojito Massage and Ocean Therapy Wrap that pay homage to Milton S. Hershey’s history with sugar mills in Cuba from 1916 to 1946.
• Sweet Treats Everywhere: Spa guests will find Hershey’s hot chocolate, fun-size chocolate candies and the infamous double chocolate muffins throughout the spa during their visit.

Other amenities guests can enjoy during their spa day include access to the indoor pool and jacuzzi at The Hotel Hershey, a fitness center featuring state-of-the-art workout equipment and access to The Hotel Hershey’s Outdoor Pool Complex during the summer months when you book three or more treatments.

Anniversary Celebrations

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey is celebrating its anniversary all year long with a new lineup of treatments, packages, service enhancements and even a commemorative cocktail. Available now, the Chocolate Spa recently introduced a 105-minute VENN Super Charged Facial. Beginning Feb. 9, just in time for Valentine's Day, guests can book the Love & Harmony Aromatherapy or Couples Massage. This new massage is designed to ease everyday stress and tension and allow the  body and mind to unwind and experience pure calm and tranquility. 

While launching as part of the anniversary festivities, both offerings will remain available as permanent additions to the spa’s year-round menu.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey welcomes guests daily for a day of chocolate-covered luxury. Appointments can be made by calling the reservations team at 844-330-1797.

For more information on the treatments and services offered, please visit www.chocolatespa.com. 

Follow us on social media for updates on how we're celebrating the 25th anniversary! 

Book Your Getaway at a Hershey Resort 

To start, book a stay at one of the Hershey Resorts to ensure ample time to experience all the sweet things in Hershey, Pa. 

The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge offer sweet overnight accommodations with iconic chocolate details around every corner, like a full-size chocolate bar at check-in and chocolate-scented bath amenities in the guest rooms. During your stay, you and your girls will also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including indoor pool access, free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story's Museum Experience  and much more.  

Take advantage of the Book One Night, Get One 50% Off Package. Available Select Dates January - March.

Pamper Yourself With Chocolate Spa Treatments

Start your girls' weekend with a day of sweet, chocolate-filled relaxation at one of the Hershey spas.

Please note, demand is high and availability is limited, so we recommend booking as early as you know your plans. Reservations can be made by calling (844) 330-1797. For parties of five or more, call (717) 520-5868.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey

Affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa (celebrating its 25th anniversary) is known for signature chocolate treatments like a Cocoa Massage, Cocoa Facial, Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Immersion and more. Spa packages like the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Package, Sweet Chocolate Relaxation Package and Hershey Kiss Package are also available to indulge in a full day of chocolate bliss. Spa guests can also access complimentary amenities, including an indoor pool and whirlpool, hot showers, steam rooms and saunas.

Before, in between or after treatments, you and your girlfriends can relax the day away in a fluffy spa robe, sip on hot cocoa and retreat to one of the spa's relaxation spaces filled with Hershey’s chocolates, double chocolate chip muffins and an assortment of warm tea.  For an additional charge, indulge in an attended lunch buffet and chocolate cocktails at The Oasis, a restaurant and lounge exclusively for spa guests. Reservations at The Oasis are required and can be made on the day of your appointment - definitely worth a visit!

MeltSpa by Hershey

If you and your galentines are looking for a relaxing day spa experience, MeltSpa by Hershey is the place for you. 

MeltSpa offers exclusive dark chocolate treatments, sweet seasonal collections and convenient evening hours seven days a week.  Here, visitors can use the locker room showers filled with signature MeltSpa products, get comfortable in the spa relaxation lounge before and after treatments and enjoy chocolate refreshments like hot cocoa, chocolate muffins and sweet Hershey candies. 

Dine at one of our Premier Restaurants

Hershey, Pa., wouldn’t be known as The Sweetest Place On Earth without its distinctive dining scene. Guests can taste the unique flavors of Hershey at its many award-winning restaurants located at our resort properties and around town. Many of these restaurants feature chocolate-infused dishes, decadent desserts and, of course, our signature Hershey’s chocolate martinis—perfect for toasting anytime. 

Sweet options include The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, which offers fun-to-table dishes with chocolate-infused entrees, shareables and Over The Top Hershey's Milkshakes. Currently, The Chocolatier is offering a Valentine's Day inspired-lineup of appetizers, entrees, sides, desserts, cocktails and mocktails during February. STACKS at Hershey Lodge offers an unbeatable brunch menu complete with NEW hot chocolate, coffee and mimosa flights, traditional beverages and delicious assortment of pancakes. For dinner, visit The Circular at The Hotel Hershey for fresh new twists on iconic American cuisine and a cocktail menu catered to the seasons.

If you're looking for a good happy hour, Fire & Grain at Hershey Lodge has half-off all small plates, flatbreads and cocktails.

Visit Hershey Gardens

Stroll through 23 acres of botanical beauty when you visit Hershey Gardens. The 13-themed gardens, seasonal displays, and an assortment of flowers and trees make for breathtaking views and fantastic photo ops for you and your friends.  Hershey Gardens is also home to dozens of rare, tropical butterflies in the indoor Butterfly Atrium - one of only 25 indoor butterfly atriums in the country. Check out the Hershey Gardens website to see what will be in bloom during your visit.

Taste and Make Chocolate at The Hershey Story Museum

Take some time to learn about the town's sweet history with a visit to The Hershey Story Museum. Located in downtown Hershey, this museum honors the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, and the town he built on chocolate.  While you're there, grab tickets to the Chocolate Lab to try your hand at chocolate pouring, decorating, and, of course, tasting as you create a take-home chocolate masterpiece. After class, sample a flight of warm drinking chocolates from around the world with a Chocolate Tasting. From fruity African chocolate flavors to Indonesian chocolate with caramel overtones,  you and your girls can hone your skills as a cocoa connoisseur. 

Please note: reservations are required for the Chocolate Lab and Chocolate Tasting.

Visit Hershey's Chocolate World

Become chocolatiers for the day at Hershey’s Chocolate World! Experience sweet attractions like creating your own candy bar, taking a free Hershey’s Chocolate Tour ride, stuffing your Reese's Cup and much more. Hershey's Chocolate World is the world's largest Hershey's store, so be sure to save some time to explore the endless amounts of chocolate and limited-edition treats.

*Reservations for the ticketed attractions at Hershey's Chocolate World are highly recommended.

Don't miss out! Here's a complete list of things to do in Hershey this February. 

We hope you have a sweet girls' getaway with us! Be sure to share your photos by using #HersheyPA on social media!

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.