Best Things to Do, Where to Eat, What to See, Where to Drink, and Where to Stay in Hershey, Pennsylvania Now
It's been quite some time since I had last been to Hershey, Pennsylvania. In the 90s it was specifically for one thing in mind—visiting adventurous Hershey Park with friends and family. Peace and quiet certainly wasn't my calling, the opposite in fact and I'm sure my mom will remind me.
This time brought me back with historic luxury and relaxed elegance on my mind. Growing up, indeed I have. It's the perfect weekend escape from the city—whether you're coming from either NYC or Philadelphia. Even Boston, in my case. At the luxurious and historic, Forbes 4-star Hotel Hershey, you can have the best of both worlds, without ever even leaving the property.
Almost immediately after entering The Hotel Hershey gates, you'll be taken back by the historic Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Spring was in full bloom and it only got more colorful from here on out.
The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, Pennsylvania
The Spanish-tiled lobby at The Hotel Hershey is a great spot to catch up with a book or chat with friends under palm trees—whilst the soothing fountain splashes in the distance. Even more so ideal for an evening cocktail with its plush, oversized seating arrangements. Which I just so happened to discover firsthand later that evening.
As a huge chandelier fan, I had to take a peek at the Gothically neoclassical ballroom located on the mezzanine level overlooking the lobby. What do you think?
The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, Pennsylvania
The circa 1930s hotel was painstakingly built during the Great Depression by chocolate magnate, Milton S. Hershey and as you'll see, both the architecture and interiors were inspired by Mediterranean trips with his wife, Catherine. As one of America's landmark hotels, The Hotel Hershey is a distinguished member of Historic Hotels of America.
The view from my spacious king guest room was nothing short of spectacular. Don't you agree?
After a welcoming check-in, complete with an endless array of Hershey's chocolate, I headed down the hill to Hershey Gardens. No need to retrieve the A5 from valet and leave the property; I love it. But, if walking is an issue, the hotel's valet will eagerly drive you over golf cart-style.
Hershey Gardens in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hershey Gardens opened to the public in 1937 as a simple rose garden occupying a little over 3 acres. On the very 1st day more than 20,000 visitors came to see the rose garden and over the course of 80 years, the gardens have been enlarged to their current size of 23 acres.
You'll discover a Japanese garden, magnolia grove, herb garden, oak grove, ornamental grass collection, perennial garden, conifer collection, substantial rose gardens with 7,000 rose bushes, a seasonal flower garden, and the Children's Garden.
The tropical Butterfly Atrium is home to 600 butterflies from around the world and one of only 25 butterfly atriums in the country. Check out the video below with rare butterflies from South and Central America, Africa and Asia in-flight.
Hershey Gardens in Hershey, Pennsylvania