They don’t call Hershey the sweetest place on earth for nothing.
Famous for its ties to an iconic candy, this town overflows with attractions that satisfy both your sweet tooth and wanderlust.
But, there’s more to Hershey than its luscious candies and kid-friendly diversions.
And, guess what?
We’re helping you make tons of sweet memories here by featuring the best things to do in Hershey, PA.
1. Hershey Gardens
170 Hotel Rd
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-3492
Opened in 1937, this attraction started as a small and serene rose garden.
Today, this 23-acre expanse is one of the most stunning places to visit in Hershey.
Why You Should Go
The Hershey Gardens are sure to impress you.
With its seasonal flowers, manicured themed gardens and rare trees, it’s truly a wondrous place to relax and stroll.
What’s more, it’s home to thousands of gorgeous free-flying butterflies as well as bees.
What to Do
Walk around the Historic Hershey Garden, and admire its fragrant blooms.
You can also take in the tranquil feel of the Japanese Garden and uncover the culinary goodies in the Herb Garden.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Hershey
2. The Hershey Story Museum
63 W Chocolate Ave
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-8939
Set right in the heart of downtown Hershey, this museum pays tribute to the man behind the legendary chocolate brand.
Why You Should Go
Wondering what to do in Hershey when it’s raining or cold?
Then, don’t forget to include this museum to your list of things to see in Hershey.
Through its exhibits, the museum beautifully showcases Hershey’s legacy, life and philanthropic endeavors.
What to Do
The Story Museum will give you a fantastic experience indoors with its hands-on and interactive exhibits.
You’ll also adore the Tastings room, which lets you learn more about the different cocoa beans from around the world.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Hershey
3. Hersheypark
100 Hersheypark Dr
Hershey, PA 17033
(800) 437-7439
Since 1906, this 121-acre theme park has been wowing visitors with its attractions and exhilarating rides.
Why You Should Go
A visit to Hersheypark is, no doubt, one of the top things to do in Hershey with kids.
With an excellent mix of laid-back recreation and heart-pumping action, this theme park will amaze everyone in your gang.
What to Do
Experience any of its 70 different attractions and rides, such as the roller coasters.
And, don’t forget to stop by the Boardwalk where you’ll find waterslides and a tidal wave pool.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bluegreen Vacations Suites at Hershey
4. Antique Automobile Club of America
Hockersville Rd
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-1910
You’ll find around 100 antique vehicles as you explore this Smithsonian Institution affiliate.
Why You Should Go
The AACA is an absolute treat for automobile enthusiasts.
With its interactive displays, this museum covers and highlights the automobile industry between the 1890s and 1980s.
Highlights include the 1905 Cadillac Model E Runabout and 1896 Ford Quadricycle.
What to Do
Take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the rich heritage and legacy of the cars on display.
Meanwhile, antique car buffs may take the 4-hour course on driving a Model T.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Hershey
5. The Spa at The Hotel Hershey
100 Hotel Rd
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 520-5888
Known as the Chocolate Spa, this center has packages that give you a rejuvenating experience.
Why You Should Go
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Hershey for couples, you’ll love this unique spa.
From hydrotherapy and facials to massages, this spa offers an array of indulgent chocolate-inspired treatments.
What to Do
Couples will love their signature collection of chocolate treatments and products.
So, spend a day here enjoying its extremely pleasant spa treatments.
And, while here, sample a mouth-watering and healthy lunch.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Hershey Chocolate Avenue
6. Adventure Sports
3010 Elizabethtown Rd
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 533-7479
Founded in 1990, this entertainment complex on Elizabeth Road offers a world of fun for visitors of all ages.
Why You Should Go
Adventure Sports is action packed.
From outdoor laser tag to miniature golf, this family-friendly complex teems with games and activities for everyone.
There’s also a full snack bar available whenever your stomach starts to grumble.
What to Do
There’s plenty of stuff to do at this entertainment center this weekend.
You can spend hours enjoying its batting cages, go-karts, video games and bumper boats.
Likewise, it has a picnic pavilion where you can relax after hours of non-stop fun.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Warehouse Hotel at The Nook
7. Hershey’s Chocolate World
101 Chocolate World Way
Hershey, PA 17033
717-534-4900
Situated next to Hersheypark, this admission-free spot offers a ton of fun for families.
Why You Should Go
Searching for free things to do in Hershey?
Do yourself a favor, and pay a visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World.
For everyone’s favorite price of zero dollars, you can enter this chocolate wonderland, and indulge in several freebies and activities.
What to Do
For some cheap fun, take the complimentary Chocolate Tour ride, and learn how their goodies are crafted.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Hershey Near The Park
8. Giant Center
550 Hersheypark Dr
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-3911
Built in 2002, this multi-purpose, 10,500-sat area is home to the AHL’s Hershey Bears.
Why You Should Go
There’s more to the Giant Center than its exhilarating hockey games.
For years, this arena has been luring visitors with its sporting events, concerts and other modes of entertainment.
In fact, it has hosted the Harlem Globetrotters, American Idol Live and WWE shows.
What to Do
Watch a live hockey game, and feel the excitement and energy of this sport.
You can also check out their schedule, so you can experience any of its upcoming events.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Hershey Chocolate Avenue
9. Segway of Hershey
100 Hotel Rd
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 668-1641
Available daily from April to November, this extraordinary tour lets you see Hershey in a rather adventurous way.
Why You Should Go
Up for some exciting and fun things to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania?
Why not tour the town on a segway?
With its knowledgeable guides, this tour highlights the top attractions in Hershey and a few hidden gems.
Of course, this tour is quite an adventure too.
What to Do
Want to amp up the fun to your tour?
I suggest that you take their Off Road tour.
If, however, you’re not in the mood for thrills, just take the basic tour around Hershey Hotel and its surrounding attractions.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Super 8 by Wyndham Hershey
10. Troegs Brewing Company
200 Hersheypark Dr
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-1297
Founded originally in 1996, this craft-brewery is best known for its seasonal and award-winning beers.
Why You Should Go
Beer lovers will have a blast at Troegs Brewing Company.
As you visit its tasting room, you’ll get to sample several delightful beers, including the Troegs Pale Ale and DreamWeaver Wheat.
Surprisingly, it can be a pretty informative experience too.
What to Do
Take a self-guided tour of the brewery, and discover the secrets to their award-winning creations.
Alternatively, there are guided tours that provide a more in-depth insight of their beers.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Hershey Near the Park
Also See:
What to Do in Philadelphia
Things to Do in Lancaster
11. Tanger Outlets Hershey
46 Outlet Square
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 520-1236
Home to more than 60 stores, this chic mall guarantees to whet your appetite for shopping.
Why You Should Go
In the mood for a little shopping spree?
Trust me, you’re going to adore Tanger Outlets Hershey.
At this notable mall, you’ll have ample opportunities to shop and hunt bargains at shops, like Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren.
And, did we mention that it’s home to the only American Girl dolls outlet store?
What to Do
Shop til you drop, and score great deals for an assortment of items, including footwear, accessories and apparel.
You can also spend time searching for hidden gems and treasures inside the mall.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Tru By Hilton Hershey Chocolate Avenue
12. Cullari Vineyards and Winery
1251 E Chocolate Ave
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 533-8985
Managed by Kathi and Salvatore Cullari, this winery produces around 30 first-rate wine varieties.
Why You Should Go
Cullari Winery is a slice of paradise on earth for vino aficionados.
Every year, this winery produces around 25,000 bottles of wines of varieties like pinks, sweets, whites and reds.
What to Do
For a small fee, you can enjoy the vineyard’s amazing tasting options.
And, unlike other tasting rooms, Cullari allows visitors to bring their own snacks and food.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bluegreen Vacations Suites at Hershey
Related: Best Restaurants in Hershey
13. Pennsylvania State Police Museum
187 E Hersheypark Dr
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-0565
Pennsylvania State Police Museum shetlers exhibits that detail more than 100 years of history of the country’s first constabulary.
Why You Should Go
There’s nothing quite like the Pennsylvania State Police Museum.
Here, you’ll find a plethora of memorials, exhibits, documents and artifacts that showcase the history of the state’s police force.
There’s even an interactive exhibit that features artifacts of the State Highway Patrol.
What to Do
Browse through the museum, and be captivated by its impressive exhibits.
To me, the must-see exhibits of the museum include the Patrol Vehicles, PA State Highway Patrol and PA State Police.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Hershey Near The Park
Also See:
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14. Founders Hall at the Milton Hershey Center
802 Spartan Ln
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 520-2000
The Founders Hall was founded in 1970 as a tribute to Milton and Catherine Hershey.
Why You Should Go
The Founders Hall dazzles with its one-of-a-kind and majestic architecture.
Once you’re inside, you’ll find displays highlighting the history of the school and the life of the Hersheys.
What to Do
Take a free tour of the structure to uncover some fascinating nuggets of info about the philanthropic couple.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier the Central Hotel & Conference Center
Related: Best Hotels in Hershey
15. Hershey Theatre
15 E Caracas Ave
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-3405
Opened in 1933, this 1,904-seat downtown theater is one of the top things to do in Hershey tonight.
Why You Should Go
The Hershey Theatre, with its elegant interiors and first-rate acoustics, is an excellent place for some night entertainment.
Besides its musical and dance acts, this theater also features touring Broadway shows and productions.
What to Do
Catch any of the theater’s incredible performances and events.
You can also spend time appreciating its regal architecture.
Afterward, satisfy your taste buds at any of the restaurants near the theater.
Our top restaurant pick within the area is Philip Arthur’s Cafe.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hershey-Harrisburg Area, an IHG Hotel
Related: Pennsylvania: Places to Visit
16. Hershey Trolley Works
101 Chocolate World Way
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 533-3000
Situated at Hershey’s Chocolate World, this tour brings the town’s story to life with its cool shows.
Why You Should Go
There’s no better way to explore the town than to take a tour from Hershey Trolley Works.
Not only is it filled with beautiful sights, but it’s also quite entertaining and educational.
Along the way, you’ll get tidbits about the town and Hershey’s Chocolate World.
What to Do
Experience the themed seasonal tour by Hershey Trolley Works.
Our favorite is the Christmas-themed Holly Jolly Trolley Show from November to January 1.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Harrisburg/Grantville/Hershey
Also See:
Wayne, Pennsylvania Things to Do
Things to Do in Chadds Ford, PA
Lebanon, PA Things to Do
17. ZooAmerica
201 Park Ave
Hershey, PA 17033
(717) 534-3391
Established in 1910, this 11-acre zoological park is home to over 200 animals from 75 different species.
Why You Should Go
No list of the best things to do in Hershey, PA is complete without this zoological park.
Perfect for families, this park houses a plethora of charming animals, including lizards, wolves and bears.
Moreover, it hosts several events and tours year-round.
What to Do
Explore the different habitats of the zoo, including the Big Sky County, Eastern Woodlands and Northlands.
You may also partake in any of the zoo’s tours and events.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Lion Hotel Harrisburg Hershey
Map of Things to Do in Hershey, PA
Hershey Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2023
- Hershey Gardens
- The Hershey Story Museum
- Hersheypark
- Antique Automobile Club of America
- The Spa at The Hotel Hershey
- Adventure Sports
- Hershey’s Chocolate World
- Giant Center
- Segway of Hershey
- Troegs Brewing Company
- Tanger Outlets Hershey
- Cullari Vineyards and Winery
- Pennsylvania State Police Museum
- Founders Hall at the Milton Hershey Center
- Hershey Theatre
- Hershey Trolley Works
- ZooAmerica
