Hershey, PA
- About the City
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Climate and Weather
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions and Services
Hershey, PA, is the unincorporated community founded by Milton S. Hershey, famously known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," home to Hersheypark and a chocolate-scented avenue.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The community is officially named Hershey . It is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) . Despite its fame, it has no legal status as an incorporated municipality and does not have a mayor; all its municipal services are provided by Derry Township . It is located in Dauphin County in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, USA . Hershey is part of the Harrisburg metropolitan area, situated about 14 miles (23 km) east of the state capital, Harrisburg .
Historical Names and Nicknames
The town was originally known as Derry Church . The name was changed to Hershey in 1906 after the success of Milton S. Hershey's chocolate company . Its official motto, and most famous nickname, is "The Sweetest Place on Earth" . This nickname is a direct result of being the headquarters of The Hershey Company and the pervasive chocolate theme throughout the community.
Date of Founding and Age
The town was officially founded by candy magnate Milton S. Hershey in 1903, and construction was completed in 1905 . As of 2026, the town is 121 years old. Hershey established the town to be a model community for his factory workers, complete with modern amenities and recreational opportunities .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
Hershey is located in south-central Pennsylvania at coordinates 40°16′42″N 76°39′4″W . The community is nestled in a region of rolling hills and valleys, and is described as being surrounded by mountains and lush greenery . The center of town sits at an elevation of 411 feet (125 meters) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Hershey is a unique hybrid, functioning primarily as a company town and a major tourism and entertainment center. Its economy is almost entirely built around The Hershey Company and its related attractions. It is home to North America's largest chocolate producer, with factories operating 24/7 . The tourism sector, anchored by Hersheypark, welcomes millions of visitors annually . The town also has a significant philanthropic and educational component, being the home of the Milton Hershey School, a private school for children from lower-income families, which holds a majority voting interest in The Hershey Company .
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 census, the population of the Hershey CDP was 13,858 people . Based on this number, it is classified as a small town. The community's identity and workforce have historically been shaped by the presence of the Hershey chocolate factory and its related industries .
City's "Calling Card" (Briefly)
Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a one-of-a-kind destination where the aroma of chocolate hangs in the air and streetlights are shaped like Hershey's Kisses. Known universally as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," this town offers an immersive experience into America's chocolate legacy, from the thrilling rides of Hersheypark to creating your own candy bar at Hershey's Chocolate World, all built upon the philanthropic vision of its founder, Milton S. Hershey .
Landmarks and Attractions
Hershey's Chocolate World
The most popular starting point for any visit is Hershey's Chocolate World, a visitor center that is not a working factory but a comprehensive chocolate-themed attraction . Its most famous offering is the free Chocolate Tour, an immersive ride that takes you through a simulated chocolate-making process, complete with a free sample at the end . Visitors can also create their own candy bar by choosing ingredients and designing the wrapper . The complex also features a massive chocolate store and a 3D movie experience .
Hersheypark
This 121-acre theme park is a major draw, featuring over 70 rides and attractions, including 15 thrilling roller coasters like the Candymonium and the classic wooden Comet, which has been operating since 1946 . It also includes The Boardwalk, a water park with slides and wave pools, and ZooAmerica, an 11-acre North American wildlife park that can be visited separately or with park admission . The park hosts seasonal events like Hersheypark In The Dark for Halloween and Christmas Candylane .
The Hotel Hershey & Chocolate Spa
Opened in May 1933 as part of Milton Hershey's Great Building Campaign, The Hotel Hershey is a luxury resort offering stunning views . It is home to a unique Chocolate Spa, which offers chocolate-themed treatments such as a chocolate fondue wrap, whipped cocoa baths, and cocoa facials . The hotel's Iberian Lounge is famous for its chocolate martinis .
The Hershey Story Museum
This museum, located on Chocolate Avenue, is dedicated to the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey . Through interactive exhibits, it tells the story of his rags-to-riches journey, his creation of the model town, and his extensive philanthropy. The museum's Chocolate Lab offers hands-on experiences where visitors can learn about chocolate's origins and create their own chocolate treats .
Hershey Gardens
Originally a 3.5-acre rose garden created by Milton Hershey for his wife Catherine in 1937, Hershey Gardens has expanded to 23 acres of botanical beauty . It features themed gardens, including a historic rose garden with 3,000 roses, a Japanese garden, and a Butterfly Atrium that is home to hundreds of live butterflies .
Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum
This Smithsonian-affiliated museum is one of the top automotive museums in the country, featuring over 130 vehicles from the 1890s through the 1980s . It boasts the world's largest collection of Tucker automobiles, known as "The Car of Tomorrow," and even displays the antique bus used in the movie "Forrest Gump" .
Tröegs Independent Brewing
For those looking for a break from chocolate, Tröegs Independent Brewing is a family-owned craft brewery known for its innovative beers, including the popular Perpetual IPA . They offer guided production tours, tastings, and have an on-site snack bar, providing a different kind of craft experience in Hershey .
Chocolate Avenue and Streetlights
The main thoroughfare, Chocolate Avenue, is an attraction in itself . Lining this street are 128 streetlights shaped like Hershey's Kisses, creating an iconic and highly photographed scene that embodies the town's sweet identity .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Hershey experiences a humid continental climate, typical of south-central Pennsylvania. This is characterized by four distinct seasons, with warm to hot, humid summers and cool to cold winters .
Average Temperatures by Month
The warmest month in Hershey is July, with average high temperatures reaching 86.5°F (30.3°C) and average lows around 69.1°F (20.6°C) . The coldest month is January, with average high temperatures of 37.8°F (3.2°C) and average lows dropping to 25.1°F (-3.8°C) . Average daily temperatures range from a high of 31°C (88°F) in July to a low of -6°C (21°F) at night in January .
Precipitation and Humidity
Hershey receives an average of 37 inches (942 mm) of rainfall annually, with May typically being the wettest month . The town also receives an average of 4 inches (101 mm) of snowfall per year, most of which falls between December and March . Humidity levels are highest during the summer months .
Best Time for a Visit
The best times to visit Hershey are during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) . During these shoulder seasons, temperatures are mild, ranging from 45°F to 70°F (7°C to 21°C), making it ideal for walking and enjoying the outdoor attractions with smaller crowds . Summer (June-August) is peak season with full access to Hersheypark's water attractions and warm weather averaging 75-85°F (24-29°C), but crowds are largest . Winter (December-February) offers a charming experience with the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane and Sweet Lights display, though many outdoor rides are closed and temperatures are cold, ranging from 20-40°F (-6-4°C) .
Transport
Main Airports
The closest major airport is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located just a 10 to 20-minute drive from Hershey . It is served by major airlines and rental car agencies . For more flight options, Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) is about a 90-minute drive away, and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is roughly a two-hour drive .
Major Highways
Hershey is easily accessible by car via several major highways. It is located just off Interstate 76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike) and Interstate 81 . US Route 422 (Chocolate Avenue) and US Route 322 (Governor Road) are the main thoroughfares through town .
Local Transportation
While having a car offers the most flexibility, several other options exist for getting around . Many of the official Hershey resorts, such as The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, offer complimentary shuttle service to major attractions like Hersheypark and Chocolate World . The Hershey Trolley Works provides narrated historical tours of the town, transporting visitors between key sites .
Train Service
Amtrak provides train service to the nearby city of Harrisburg, which is about 14 miles away . From the Harrisburg train station, visitors can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or arrange for a shuttle from their Hershey hotel (for a fee) to reach Hershey .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Hershey's Chocolate
The identity of Hershey is inseparable from its chocolate. Often called "The Sweetest Place On Earth," the town is the birthplace of the Hershey chocolate bar and home to the largest chocolate manufacturing plant in North America . The story began in 1903 when Milton S. Hershey built his chocolate factory here, and by 1906, the town was officially named Hershey . Today, the aroma of chocolate and cocoa often perfumes the air, creating a unique sensory experience for visitors . The town itself is designed with chocolate in mind, featuring landmarks like "Chocolate Avenue" and "Cocoa Avenue," and streetlamps shaped like Hershey's iconic KISSES chocolates .
- Where to Experience It: The epicenter is Hershey's Chocolate World, a visitor center that offers a free simulated factory tour ride, a chance to create your own candy bar, 4D shows, and a massive retail store with every Hershey product imaginable . For a deeper historical dive, The Hershey Story Museum offers exhibits on Milton Hershey's life and interactive Chocolate Labs .
Chocolate-Infused Savory Dishes
Hershey's culinary scene is unique for its creative incorporation of chocolate into savory dishes, moving far beyond desserts. Several restaurants in town feature menus where chocolate is a key ingredient in everything from appetizers to main courses .
- Notable Dishes: At The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, you can find Hershey's Chocolate Barbecue Chicken Wings, a Cocoa Cuban sandwich, and a Reese's Peanut Butter Crunch Burger . The Bears' Den offers a Cocoa Cashew Salad and Chocolate BBQ St. Louis Ribs, while the Revelry Chophouse serves a House Made Chocolate Stout Steak Sauce . This inventive use of chocolate makes dining in Hershey a one-of-a-kind gastronomic adventure.
The Famous "Hershey's" Chocolate Martini
A signature cocktail found throughout the destination is the Hershey's Signature Chocolate Martini. This drink is a must-try for any visitor and comes in several decadent variations, paying homage to the town's namesake product .
- Varieties: The classic Hershey's Kisses Signature Chocolate Martini is a staple, but you can also find the Hershey's Chocolate Caramel Martini and the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Martini at various bars and restaurants, including The Chocolatier and Houlihan's . The prevalence of this cocktail theme underscores how deeply chocolate is woven into the fabric of the town's culture.
Chocolate-Inspired Desserts
Given its heritage, Hershey is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. The desserts here are not just an afterthought; they are a central attraction, often featuring the company's iconic candies.
- Signature Sweets: The Textures of Chocolate For Two and Chocolate Soufflé at The Circular restaurant in the historic Hotel Hershey are elegant, high-end options . For a more casual treat, The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen in Hershey's Chocolatetown offers Signature Chocolate Fudge and Chocolate Peanut Butter Bombe . Many restaurants feature their own versions of classic desserts, like the Molten Chocolate Cake at Revelry Chophouse or the Skillet S'mores Fondue at Fire & Grain .
Pennsylvania Dutch Country Staples Nearby
While unique to Hershey itself, the town is located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and nearby areas offer iconic regional foods. A notable example is Lebanon bologna, a distinctive smoked beef sausage with a tangy, smoky flavor .
- Seltzer's Smokehouse Meats: Just a short drive from Hershey in nearby Palmyra, Seltzer's Smokehouse Meats has been crafting Lebanon bologna since 1902 . They offer factory tours where visitors can see the traditional hardwood smoking process and purchase fresh bologna directly from the source, making it a perfect culinary side trip .
Museums
The Hershey Story Museum
This museum, also known as The Hershey Story, is the premier institution dedicated to the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey and the town he built. It was founded in 1933 by Milton Hershey himself as part of his vision to create a culturally rich community . The museum's origins are fascinating, beginning with a collection of Native American artifacts purchased by Hershey, which was later expanded with a substantial collection of Pennsylvania German artifacts .
- Key Exhibits: Today, the museum offers engaging exhibits on Milton Hershey's journey from a struggling entrepreneur to a chocolate magnate and philanthropist . The "Museum Experience" brings his story to life, while the Chocolate Lab provides hands-on demonstrations about the qualities of chocolate . A unique feature is Tastings: Chocolate From Around The World, where visitors can sample and compare the distinct flavors of chocolates sourced from different countries .
AACA Museum, Inc.
A Smithsonian Affiliate, the AACA Museum (Antique Automobile Club of America) is a world-class destination for car enthusiasts, located just minutes from Hershey's main attractions . It showcases a dazzling collection of antique cars, buses, and motorcycles.
- Key Exhibits: The museum's exhibits go beyond just vehicles, often featuring fun, travel-themed displays that appeal to all ages. Its stunning collection and rotating exhibits make it a must-visit, especially for those interested in automotive history and design .
Hershey's Chocolate World
While primarily a visitor center and attraction, Hershey's Chocolate World functions as a living museum of the brand. It offers the most immersive experience into the world of Hershey's chocolate .
- Key Exhibits: The free Hershey's Chocolate Tour is a dark ride that simulates the journey from cocoa bean to chocolate bar, educating and entertaining visitors. The complex also features the Create Your Own Candy Bar experience, allowing guests to become chocolatiers, and a massive retail space that feels like a museum of product packaging and history .
Historical Sites: High Point Mansion & Founders Hall
For those interested in the personal story of the Hershey family and their philanthropy, two sites are particularly significant .
- High Point Mansion: This was the home of Milton and Catherine Hershey. Guided tours of the mansion offer an intimate look at their personal lives and the inspiring stories behind their family and their monumental decision to create a school for orphaned boys .
- Founders Hall Visitors Center: Located on the campus of the Milton Hershey School, this striking memorial is dedicated to the Hersheys' educational vision. The visitor center provides insight into the school's mission and history, which remains a core part of the Hershey legacy .
Sport and Sports Legends
Hersheypark Stadium
This multi-purpose stadium, which opened on May 18, 1939, is a historic venue located within the Hersheypark complex . It has a capacity of 15,641 for sporting events and can hold over 30,000 for concerts .
- Tenants and Events: It is currently the home of Hershey FC of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) . Beyond club sports, the stadium has a rich history of hosting international soccer. It was a venue for the final round of the CONCACAF men's pre-Olympic tournament in 2000 and has hosted the U.S. men's and women's national teams in friendlies against Poland and China . It has also been the site of non-sporting events, such as a birthday celebration for President Dwight D. Eisenhower .
Hersheypark Arena
Known affectionately as "The Old Barn," this indoor arena opened in 1936 and is a true cathedral of American sports history . For 64 years, from 1938 to 2002, it was the hallowed home of the Hershey Bears ice hockey team, the oldest continuously operating professional hockey team in North America . The arena seats 7,286 for hockey games .
- Wilt Chamberlain's 100-Point Game: Hersheypark Arena's most legendary moment came on March 2, 1962. It was on this court that Philadelphia Warriors center Wilt Chamberlain scored an NBA-record 100 points in a single game against the New York Knicks, a record that still stands today . A historical marker commemorates this iconic event.
- Other Events: The arena has hosted a vast array of events, including the Ice Capades, professional wrestling (including a WWF In Your House pay-per-view), and concerts by major acts like Phish, whose 1995 show was released as a live album . Today, it serves as the home rink for the Lebanon Valley College ice hockey team .
The Hershey Bears
The Hershey Bears are the town's beloved American Hockey League (AHL) franchise and a source of immense local pride. They are the oldest continuously operating professional hockey team in North America, having been founded in 1938 . The Bears are one of the most successful teams in AHL history, having won the league's championship trophy, the Calder Cup, numerous times.
- Home Arena: After spending 64 years at Hersheypark Arena, the Bears moved to the newer Giant Center (located adjacent to Hersheypark Stadium) in 2002, where they continue to draw passionate crowds. The team's identity is deeply intertwined with the town's, providing a focal point for community spirit.
Notable Athletes and Events
- Wilt Chamberlain: As mentioned, his 100-point game is the single most famous sports moment associated with Hershey .
- U.S. Soccer: Hersheypark Stadium has been a venue for the U.S. men's and women's national soccer teams, hosting World Cup qualifiers and friendlies .
- North American Youth Games: The Milton Hershey School, through the Hershey Foundation, also承办 (hosts) the annual North American Youth Games, a track and field event for children .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Penn State College of Medicine and Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
The most significant higher education presence in Hershey is the Penn State College of Medicine and its adjacent teaching hospital, the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center . Established in 1963 and opened in 1967, this complex is a major hub for medical education, research, and patient care .
- Academics and Research: The College of Medicine is a graduate-level medical school offering degrees in medicine, nursing, and biomedical research, with a research portfolio exceeding $150 million . It is an integral part of the Pennsylvania State University system, functioning as its primary medical campus .
- Clinical Integration: The medical center is the flagship of Penn State Health, an integrated academic health system serving central Pennsylvania. It includes the Penn State Health Children’s Hospital and the Penn State Cancer Institute, making it a destination for complex and specialized care .
The Milton Hershey School
While not a university, the Milton Hershey School is one of the town's foundational institutions and a living legacy of its founder. Founded in 1909 by Milton and Catherine Hershey as the Hershey Industrial School, it was created to provide a home and quality education for orphaned boys .
- Mission and Scope: Today, it is a private, coeducational, pre-K through 12th-grade school that provides a cost-free home and education for over 2,000 children from families of lower income . It is an extraordinarily well-endowed institution, ranking among the wealthiest schools in the U.S., a result of Milton Hershey's foresight in leaving the majority of his company's voting stock to the Hershey Trust Company, which funds the school . The school's Founders Hall is a major historical landmark open for visits .
Healthcare Institutions and Services
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
As detailed in the previous section, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is the dominant healthcare institution in the region . It is a quaternary care, non-profit academic medical center that serves as the anchor of the Penn State Health system .
- Specialties and Reputation: The Medical Center is renowned for its specialized care across numerous fields. Key institutes include the Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, the Penn State Cancer Institute, the Heart and Vascular Institute, and the Neurosciences Institute . It is also a certified transplant center and a Level I trauma center, providing the highest level of surgical care. Its integration with the Penn State College of Medicine ensures that it is at the forefront of medical research and innovation, offering patients access to cutting-edge clinical trials and treatments .
- Pioneering Research: The Medical Center is a site of groundbreaking research. For example, Dr. Giselle Sholler's pediatric oncology research, supported by funds from the Penn State THON, led to the FDA approval of a new maintenance therapy for children with high-risk neuroblastoma, offering new hope to families .
Penn State Health System
Beyond the main medical center, Hershey serves as the headquarters for the broader Penn State Health integrated system . This non-profit organization oversees a vast network of hospitals and outpatient clinics across 15 counties in central Pennsylvania.
- System Components: The system includes several other hospitals, such as Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center, Holy Spirit Medical Center, and St. Joseph Medical Center, along with more than 2,450 physicians practicing at over 225 outpatient locations . It also jointly operates specialty facilities like the Penn State Health Rehabilitation Hospital. This extensive network ensures that world-class care, coordinated from Hershey, is accessible to a wide geographic area .