Things To Do In Hershey Pa With Kids: A Family Guide To Parks, Trails,
Planning a family trip to Hershey, PA can feel like you’re navigating a river of chocolate and roller coasters. It’s exciting, for sure, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the crowds, the costs, and the constant sugar rush, especially if your family thrives on fresh air and open spaces.
We promise this guide is different. As outdoor adventurers, we know the immense value of balancing thrilling attractions with the quiet calm of nature. This isn’t just a list; it’s a field-tested plan to help you experience the best of Hershey’s iconic fun while discovering the beautiful, accessible wilderness that surrounds it.
In this comprehensive things to do in hershey pa with kids guide, we’ll cover pro strategies for conquering the theme parks, reveal our favorite nearby trails and parks for a much-needed nature break, and share practical logistics for families camping or RVing in the area. Let’s get you ready for a truly memorable adventure.
Beyond the Roller Coasters: Your Essential Hershey PA with Kids Guide
Hershey, Pennsylvania, famously known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” offers a unique blend of industrial history, world-class amusement, and surprisingly beautiful landscapes. For adventurous families, the key is to treat the town not just as a destination, but as a basecamp.
The benefits of things to do in hershey pa with kids are maximized when you create a balanced itinerary. A day of thrilling coasters followed by a morning hike, or a chocolate tour followed by an afternoon picnic by a lake, prevents burnout and creates a richer, more varied experience for everyone.
This approach helps manage one of the common problems with things to do in hershey pa with kids: overstimulation and exhaustion. By intentionally scheduling downtime and nature time, you ensure the trip is restorative, not just draining.
The Sweet Stuff: Conquering Hersheypark & Chocolate World Like a Pro
Let’s face it: the theme park and Chocolate World are likely the main draw. Approaching them with a smart strategy is key to enjoying the experience without getting overwhelmed. Here’s how to tackle the main attractions efficiently.
Hersheypark Pro-Level Strategy
Hersheypark is massive. Going in without a plan is a recipe for long lines and tired feet. We recommend treating it like a day hike—you need the right gear and a good route.
- Gear Up: Wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or trail runners, like a pair of Merrell Moabs or Altra Lone Peaks. Pack a lightweight daypack (an Osprey Daylite is perfect) with reusable water bottles, sunscreen, hats, and a portable charger.
- Arrive Early: Be at the gates at least 30 minutes before opening. This gives you a critical head start on the most popular rides before the crowds build.
- Go Deep First: Most visitors stop at the first rides they see. Head to the back of the park, to The Boardwalk (in summer) or the big coasters in the Kissing Tower Hill area, and work your way forward. You’ll be moving against the main flow of traffic.
- Hydrate and Snack Smart: The park allows you to bring in one sealed water bottle per person. We recommend bringing your own empty reusable bottles, like a Nalgene or Hydro Flask, and filling them at water fountains throughout the day to save money and reduce plastic waste.
Navigating Hershey’s Chocolate World
Right outside the main park gates, Chocolate World is a destination in itself. It’s free to enter, making it a great option for a shorter activity or a rainy afternoon.
- The Chocolate Tour Ride: This is the classic, free attraction that everyone should do once. It’s a charming, dark ride that explains the chocolate-making process. Expect a line, but it moves steadily.
- Paid Attractions: Activities like Create-Your-Own-Candy-Bar and the 4D Chocolate Movie are fun but can add up quickly. Our tip: let each kid pick just one paid experience to manage both time and budget.
ZooAmerica: A Quieter Escape
Included with your Hersheypark admission, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is a fantastic, shaded, 11-acre walkthrough zoo. It’s the perfect place to decompress when the noise and crowds of the main park become too much. It offers a welcome change of pace and a chance to learn about native wildlife.
Escape the Crowds: Outdoor Adventures & Nature Near Hershey
Here’s where you turn a standard theme park vacation into a true OutwardLab adventure. The area around Hershey is dotted with fantastic green spaces perfect for hiking, paddling, and reconnecting with nature. This is one of the best things to do in hershey pa with kids tips we can offer.
Hike to the Views at Governor Dick Park
Just a 20-minute drive from Hershey, Governor Dick Park offers over 1,100 acres of wooded land and 14 miles of trails. The main draw is the 1.2-mile trail to the observation tower, which provides a stunning 360-degree view of five counties.
It’s a moderate climb but manageable for most school-aged kids. Pack some trail mix, check your map at the trailhead, and enjoy a rewarding view that feels a world away from the park.
Paddle and Picnic at Memorial Lake State Park
Memorial Lake State Park is your go-to for a relaxing afternoon on the water. The 85-acre lake is perfect for kayaking or canoeing, with calm waters ideal for beginners. If you travel with an inflatable kayak, like an Intex Challenger, this is the perfect place to use it.
The park has ample picnic tables and two easy, relatively flat trails that loop around the lake, perfect for little legs or a post-lunch stroll.
Walk or Bike the Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail
This paved, 13.5-mile multi-use trail offers a safe and accessible way to stretch your legs. You can hop on at various points in Derry Township for a short walk, a family bike ride, or even a run with a jogging stroller. It’s a fantastic, free way to get some exercise and see the local community beyond the tourist hubs.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Hershey PA with Kids
Traveling responsibly is a core part of the OutwardLab ethos. Even in a highly commercialized area like Hershey, you can make choices that minimize your impact and support the local environment. Exploring sustainable things to do in hershey pa with kids adds another layer of meaning to your trip.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles
This is non-negotiable on the trail, but it’s just as important in the theme park. Pack out everything you pack in, use recycling bins, and stick to durable, reusable items. A few simple swaps make a big difference:
- Reusable Water Bottles: Avoid single-use plastic bottles.
- Reusable Snack Containers: Pack snacks in containers or reusable silicone bags like Stasher bags.
- Digital Maps: Use the Hersheypark app instead of a paper map to reduce paper waste.
Visit Hershey Gardens
More than just a pretty place, the 23-acre Hershey Gardens is a fantastic example of conservation and education. The indoor, year-round Butterfly Atrium is a magical experience for kids and a great lesson in delicate ecosystems. It’s one of the most beautiful and eco-friendly things to do in hershey pa with kids.
Basecamp Logistics: RV Parks, Campgrounds, and Essential Gear
For RV and campervan owners, Hershey is an excellent destination with solid infrastructure. Choosing the right basecamp is crucial for a successful trip. This is your family’s things to do in hershey pa with kids care guide for lodging and gear.
Hersheypark Camping Resort
This is the most convenient, full-service option. It offers everything from tent sites to full-hookup RV pads and deluxe cabins. The biggest perk is the free shuttle service to and from the park, which saves you the hassle and cost of parking. It’s clean and packed with amenities but can be pricey and book up far in advance.
State Park and Private Campground Alternatives
For a more rustic and budget-friendly experience, consider campgrounds a bit further out. Gifford Pinchot State Park (about a 40-minute drive) offers beautiful lakeside camping. Several private campgrounds like the Elizabethtown / Hershey KOA also provide great amenities with a slightly quieter atmosphere.
The Dual-Purpose Packing List
Packing for a trip that combines theme parks and outdoor activities requires smart, versatile gear. Here are some of our things to do in hershey pa with kids best practices for packing:
- A comfortable daypack (18-25L) for carrying essentials.
- Broken-in shoes that work for both pavement and easy trails.
- Layered clothing—a fleece or light jacket is essential for cool mornings and evenings.
- A basic first-aid kit with blister care, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes.
- High-energy, non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, and fruit leather.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Hershey PA with Kids
What is the best time of year to visit Hershey with kids?
The shoulder seasons—late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October)—are ideal. You’ll get pleasant weather, and the crowds are significantly smaller than in the peak summer months of July and August. The holiday season is also magical but can be very busy.
How many days do you really need for a Hershey family trip?
We recommend three full days. This allows for one full day at Hersheypark, one day to explore Chocolate World and other smaller attractions like Hershey Gardens or The Hershey Story Museum, and one day dedicated to an outdoor adventure like hiking or paddling nearby.
Can you bring your own food and drinks into Hersheypark?
Hersheypark’s official policy allows guests to bring one sealed water bottle per person. While outside food is not permitted inside the park gates, there is a designated picnicking area just outside the entrance. We suggest packing a cooler in your car and taking a midday break there to refuel and save money.
Are there any completely free things to do in Hershey?
Yes! Entry to Hershey’s Chocolate World and the Chocolate Tour ride are free. You can also explore the local parks and hiking trails, such as the Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail, at no cost. Simply walking around the beautiful grounds of The Hotel Hershey is also a lovely experience.
A family trip to Hershey, PA, offers a fantastic opportunity to blend high-energy fun with the grounding presence of the outdoors. By planning ahead, packing smart, and intentionally seeking out moments in nature, you can craft an adventure that satisfies everyone’s tastes.
You don’t have to choose between the thrill of a roller coaster and the peace of a forest trail. In Hershey, you can have both. Now get out there, explore confidently, and make some sweet, lasting memories with your family.
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