Hershey PA and 5 Exciting Things To Do

Usually the first things that come to mind when people hear Hershey, PA are chocolate and Hershey Park. Honestly that was what I thought until I spent a weekend in Hershey, thanks to a sweet invite for a hosted trip. I experienced 5 exciting things to do in Hershey PA, although I am sure there is even more to explore.

The town of Hershey has so much to offer, especially for families who are looking for long weekend getaways.

What is there to do in Hershey, PA?

There are actually lots of things to see and do for all ages in Hershey, PA, which makes it the perfect day or road trip destination from NYC, Philly, Maryland and even the Boston area.

I was surprised to learn about things like their premier dining options, live theater shows, resort indoor waterpark, beautiful gardens, relaxing spas (where I got a wonderful gel manicure plus chocolate pedicure) and much more.

What is Hershey Pennsylvania famous for?

The Sweetest Place On Earth, Hershey Pennsylvania, isn’t just rich in chocolate, although that is what many Americans know it for. It’s a place that it is also filled with history plus exciting things to do too.

Some of the unique and family friendly activities you need to know about include an exciting trolley ride or Segway tour that’s full of historical gems, cheering on some Bears, visiting a zoo and taking in a show.

Milton Hershey, who was a humanitarian and philanthropist, started all the chocolate-themed fun back in 1905 when he built his famous chocolate company known as Hershey.

Hershey, PA and 5 Exciting Things to Do

1. Visit ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica, which celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2018, is home to over 200 animals including bears, otters, wolves, porcupines and more.

Besides caring for, protecting, and supporting the animals, ZooAmerica also provides education and information. This allows you the opportunity to get the full experience of learning about and connecting with the animals.

The best part about my ZooAmerica visit was that I got to hold a beautiful owl and also feed a bear, thanks to a behind-the-scenes tour.

Check out the 3 unique ZooAmerica tours, which allow you to get up close with the animals, while also giving you a greater appreciation for the animal world. These tours are recommended for ages 3 and older and include same day zoo admission.

2. Cheer On The Hershey Bears

I will be the first to admit that even though I’m a sports fanatic hockey has always been the sport I’ve watched the least. That all changed last month though when I had the pleasure of attending the Hershey Bears second to last home game at the Giant Center in Hershey, PA, and found it to be an incredible experience. I promise that it wasn’t only because our group was fortunate enough to get to watch the Bears win an exciting game from a pretty sweet suite.

There is so much energy, especially from the fans, throughout the game as they cheer on the Bears to “Defend The Den“. I was very impressed with the family friendly atmosphere that is perfect for all ages. A Hershey Bears game would make the perfect family fun night out.

Here is my favorite tip: if you stay until the end of the game your child may get a hockey puck or even one of the player’s sticks to take home.

3. Catch a Show At Hershey Theater

Do you know that Hershey is home to a dazzling, beautiful, iconic and historic theater?

The Hershey Theater offers a stellar lineup of Broadway style shows, musical acts, comedy shows, film screenings and more. Make sure to check out their events schedule and obtain ticket information.

I went on a behind the scenes tour of this stunning theater (which I highly recommend) and received an in-depth look at what once was Mr. Milton Hershey’s Entertainment Showplace. I am excited to bring my family back to visit Hershey, PA and especially this theater to see a show.

4. Take a Ride On Hershey Trolley Works

Hershey Trolley Works offers a one-of-a-kind, entertaining sightseeing experience. Instead of jumping on and off, you stay on the trolley the whole time so you can be sure to hear the inspiring story of Mr. Milton Hershey.

A knowledgeable and friendly tour guide will take you through the town to show you sites such as the original chocolate factory, the birthplace of Mr. Hershey’s, his home Highpoint Mansion, Chocolate Avenue, Hershey Park, Milton Hershey School and more.

They offer seasonal trolley tours like the Trick or Treat Trolley and the Holly Jolly Trolley. They operate year round except for Christmas Day and when there is snow on the ground.

Next time you are in Hershey take a ride for yourself and see why it is quite possibly the best sightseeing experience you will ever have.

Plus they give out the most delicious soft caramels I have ever tasted.

5. Take A Hotel Hershey Segway Tour

Now, this is one thing I didn’t get to experience during my sweet weekend, but I will definitely be taking my family back to participate in.

Tour the historic Hotel Hershey grounds in Segway-style while learning all about their unique story between the months of April and November.

My whole family would have such a blast making memories doing this together, and possibly racing each other.

Have you ever visited Hershey PA?

Start planning your next trip to Hershey now, or at least make sure you have it included as part of your family’s travel bucket list.

After you visit Hershey, PA I have some more family-friendly places you should see next: