Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Here & Transportation

How far is Hershey from Harrisburg?
Hershey and Downtown Harrisburg are about 15 minutes apart.

How far are you from Lancaster? Gettysburg? Philadelphia?
The Hershey Harrisburg Region is approximately 40 min. from Lancaster, 50 min. from Gettysburg, and under 2 hr. from Philadelphia. We’re just a few hours away from many major cities: New York City (3 hr.), Baltimore (1 hr 30 min.), Washington D.C. (2 hr. 20 min.), Pittsburgh (3 hr. 20 min.). Learn more on the Getting Here page.

Do you have a train station? Airport? Bus Station?
While most visitors drive to see us, we are easily accessible by train, plane, and bus. The Harrisburg Amtrak and Greyhound Bus Station are in Downtown Harrisburg. The Harrisburg International Airport is in Middletown. Learn more on the Getting Here page.

If I arrive in Harrisburg without a car, how do I get to Hershey?
The Hershey Harrisburg Region has several options for visitors who arrive without their own vehicle. We have an active and reliable Uber and Lyft network, the Capital Area Transit (CAT) public bus network, and national rental car brands. Learn more on the Getting Around page.

Do you have hotel shuttles to/from the train station or airport?
Yes, several of our region’s hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to/from our transportation hubs. Learn more on the Getting Around page.

Is Hershey walkable?
Yes, Downtown Hershey is a walkable hub of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Learn more about Things to Do in Downtown Hershey.

Hersheypark®

How much does it cost to visit Hersheypark?
Ticket prices at Hersheypark vary by season, time of year, and place of purchase. You can find up-to-date prices, discounts, and ways to save on Hersheypark.com. All guests must also pay to park. View the current season’s parking rates on Hersheypark.com.

When is Hersheypark open?
Hersheypark is open four seasons a year: Springtime In the ParkSM (April), Summer (May-September), Hersheypark In the DarkSM (October), and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane® (November-December). You can view operating hours and dates for Hersheypark, The Boardwalk (water park) and ZooAmerica® North American Wildlife Park on Hersheypark.com.

When is the best time to visit Hersheypark?
If you’re hoping for a less crowded experience, the best time of year to visit Hersheypark is weekends in May and the month of June. Saturdays are almost always busy, so try for a week day, Monday through Thursday. Read more insider tips on the blog.

Can I do Hersheypark in one day?
It’s certainly possible to see and do it all in one day, but we recommend stretching your visit into an overnighter. With the Preview Plan, all summer admission tickets include up to 2 hours of free riding the night before your full day visit. Learn more on Hersheypark.com.

Can I just visit the water park?
No, access to the water park is included with the one-price admission that includes Hersheypark rides, the water park, and ZooAmerica.

Can I bring my dog into Hersheypark?
No, only service animals are allowed inside Hersheypark. If you’ve brought you dog along for the vacation, they can stay in the “Barking Lot” located under the West Stand of Hersheypark® Stadium for a nominal fee. The Barking Lot is open during the summer season (May through September) during Hersheypark hours. Dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations, including a copy of current Rabies vaccination certificate. Learn more on Hersheypark.com.

Can I take food into Hersheypark?
Other than one sealed water bottle per person, Hersheypark does not permit outside food or drinks into the park. You can exit and reenter the park if you’d prefer to enjoy your own food at one of the picnic sites. Learn more on Hersheypark.com.

Can I stay overnight at Hersheypark in my RV/Camper?
While you can bring your camper into the Hersheypark parking lot during the day, no overnight parking is permitted. Learn more about our region’s campgrounds and RV parks, including Hersheypark® Camping Resort.

What’s the phone number for Hersheypark?
717-534-3900

Farm Show Complex

How much is parking at the Farm Show Complex?
Farm Show Parking is $15, and all major credit cards are accepted. For faster service, have your card ready upon entry to the parking lot. There is a free shuttle service that will deliver attendees to the entrances. 

Are wheelchairs available at the Farm Show Complex?
Availability of wheelchairs and electric scooters varies by event. At the Pennsylvania Farm Show, wheelchairs are available free of charge at the security desk in the Cameron Street Lobby on a first-come, first-served basis. At the Great American Outdoor Show, electric scooters are available to rent.

Can I stay overnight at the Farm Show Complex in my RV/Camper?
Availability of overnight RV/camper parking varies by event. General information about on-site camper hookups is can be made by calling the complex directly.  

Where can I stay if I’m going to an event at the Farm Show Complex?
The closest hotel to the Farm Show Complex is Staybridge Suites Harrisburg-Hershey. Check out more hotels in Harrisburg.

Other Attractions & Things To Do

Can I tour the Hershey’s Chocolate factory?
No, the Hershey’s Chocolate factory does not offer tours. You can learn how Hershey’s chocolate is made on the free Chocolate Ride tour at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction or about the history of Milton S. Hershey at The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue.

What’s the difference between Hersheypark® and Hershey’s Chocolate World?
We get this question all the time! While the two attractions are located next door to one another, they are not the same thing. Hersheypark® is an amusement park that’s open seasonally with 70+ rides, coasters, a water park, and zoo. Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction is open daily, year-round for chocolate-inspired activities like a Chocolate Tour ride, Create Your Own Candy Bar, and a Chocolate Tasting Experience.

When is Chocolate World open?
Hershey’s Chocolate World is open daily, year-round (except some holidays). View current hours on Hersheys.com

Can I tour the Capitol? Is it free? Where do I park?
Yes, you can take a free guided tour of the State Capitol Building in Harrisburg. Tours are offered daily (except some holidays). Metered street parking is available around the Capitol. Learn more about the State Capitol Building.

When is City Island open?
City Island is accessible year-round, but it’s most active in the spring and summer when the Harrisburg Senators play (April to September) and when The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat is running (May to October). Learn more about City Island.

What else is there to do besides Hersheypark?
Hey, some people just aren’t into amusement parks. The Hershey Harrisburg Region has a ton of Things to Do that don’t involve roller coasters, including events, museums, kids activities, tours, breweries, and vineyards.

What tours do you offer?
We have a variety of indoor and outdoor tours. Learn more on our Tours page.

What kid activities are there in Harrisburg?
We have a number of year-round and seasonal activities and events in Harrisburg for kids and families. Learn more on our Kids Activities in Harrisburg page.

When and where can I see fireworks in Harrisburg?
Occasionally, the Harrisburg Senators have fireworks after their games, so check their schedule for more information. 

Do you have a casino?
Yes, the Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course in Grantville is open 24/7 and features 50 table games, more than 2,000 hot slots, Sportsbook and online wagering, golf simulator suite, live and simulcast thoroughbred horse racing, and several dining and restaurant options.

Coupons & Discounts

What are free things to do in the area?
From family-friendly attractions to self-guided tours and hikes, we offer dozens of free things to do.

Do you have any coupons?
Yes! Visit the Deals page includes restaurant discounts, overnight packages, BOGO admission deals, and complimentary offers.

Accommodations

Can I bring an RV, motorhome, or camper?
Absolutely! View our campgrounds page for more information on where to stay, amenities, and more.

Do you have any resorts?
Yes, we have two resort properties in Hershey – The Hotel Hershey® and Hershey LodgeSM – with a number of on-site restaurants and amenities.

Do you have an indoor water park?
Yes, Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey LodgeSM features water slides, a water walk, zero entry pool, sandcastle spray zone, lighthouse tipping bucket, and basketball hoops

Do you have any bed and breakfasts in Harrisburg or Hershey?
Yes, we have several cozy, welcoming, and often historic, bed and breakfasts. Learn more about our bed and breakfast locations.

Restaurants & Food

Do you have any kid-friendly restaurants?
As a family-friendly destination, we’re proud of have lots of kid-approved restaurants. Check out our family dining page for locations.

Do you restaurants that can accommodate large groups?
Whether it’s a family reunion or a hockey team of hungry champions, we have several group-friendly restaurants in Hershey and Harrisburg. It’s always a good idea to call ahead before you arrive!

Where can I eat a picnic lunch?
We have several scenic lunch spots around the Hershey Harrisburg Region. In Harrisburg, stop by Fort Hunter Mansion & Park or City Island. In Hershey, Bullfrog Valley Park and Indian Echo Caverns make great options.