A roller coaster at Hersheypark — Photo courtesy of Visit Hershey Harrisburg
There's a chance that if you told the kids about a chocolate-centric town complete with a zoo, theme park, camping and more--they may not believe you. Hershey, PA sounds too sweet to be true, but it is. The now-resort area was originally built by Milton S. Hershey as a place for his chocolate factory employees to live, play and work and the Hershey factory is still there producing delights. If that's not enough reason to visit Hershey, PA with the kids, here are more:
1. Chocolate is everywhere
From gigantic souvenir chocolate bars to fancy desserts, chocolate is available en masse and extends beyond the edible. Streets are named after candy bars and lit by Hershey kiss-shaped lamps. You can smell sweet fumes of cocoa in the air and see your favorite candy logos around. The list goes on.
2. Thrills await at Hersheypark
One of the nation's most popular theme parks, Hersheypark, includes over 60 rides. This is a must-see for kids.
3. Young kids love Dutch Wonderland
Here, over 30 rides, a water park and shows are specifically geared toward ages 12 and under. This top-rated theme park is about 30 minutes away from Hershey.
4. Visit ZooAmerica
Located next door to Hersheypark, this walk-through zoo is home to over 200 animals from five regions of North America.
5. Learn how chocolate is made
Watch a 3D show, shop, learn history, eat chocolate and more at Hershey's Chocolate World.
Hershey's Chocolate World — Photo courtesy of prayitno
6. Hershey resorts provide VIP privileges
The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Highmeadow Campground offer complimentary shuttle service and VIP perks to surrounding attractions.
7. Camp year-round
Pitch a tent, pull up an RV or rent a cabin at Hershey Highmeadow Campground. Amenities include WiFi, two swimming pools, a game room and sports facilities.
8. Take a historic day trip
Choose between Harrisburg, Gettysburg or Lancaster.
9. Enjoy date night
Hotel kid's clubs are perks to any family vacation. If you'd like to schedule a chocolate spa treatment or date night, stay at The Hotel Hershey and leave the kids at the Cocoa Clubhouse.
10. Participate in elaborate seasonal activities
One might expect a chocolate town to go all out for holidays like Halloween and Christmas. Hershey does not disappoint.
As you can see, it's easy to burn off a sugar high in Hershey!
