A Frightfully Sweet Weekend in Hershey

Last weekend we hit the open road for a weekend getaway to Hershey, PA. Not only is Hershey relatively close to our NJ home (less than a 3-hr drive), but it also offers a variety of family fun activities in a centralized location. Furthermore, because there are currently no COVID-19 travel restrictions between NJ and PA, we knew it was a viable option for a quick trip. Based on ambiance, proximity to attractions, budget and amenities, we chose the Hershey Lodge for our stay. The beautiful stone fireplace in the lobby gives the lodge a rustic and cozy feel; perfect for a fall getaway! Also, the rooms are casual and comfortable. Additionally, the lodge is a short 5-10-minute drive to all major area attractions. Plus, with various packages and price points, it’s an economical option to get the true Hershey experience. Still, most appealing of all, are the on site amenities and extra perks. (Can you say FREE Hershey bars?)

​Hershey Lodge offers a variety of dining options from the Cocoa Beanery, an all-day coffee shop, to Fire & Grain, where we enjoyed a delicious table service dinner. (We liked it so much we returned one morning for breakfast!) Also available, is an outdoor 18-hole miniature golf course (free to hotel guests). For additional fun, Hershey Lodge offers several special seasonal events for children. Activities such as; pumpkin painting, candy bingo and campfire s’mores were offered during our stay.

​Nevertheless, of all the amenities offered, I think kids and grownups would agree that Hershey Waterworks takes the cake. This small scale indoor water park was a true highlight. There is a large pool with obstacle course, along with two children’s water play areas. Twizzlers Twists waterslides offers a whirling, swirling adventure for those seeking a bigger thrill.

​Hershey Chocolate Works was another fan favorite. This year round attraction offers some behind the scenes fun into the world of Hershey’s chocolate. Here we took the Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, a family friendly ride that takes you on an immersive journey through Hershey’s chocolate making experience (the kiddos couldn’t decide what they liked more, Cupcake the cow or the free chocolate samples.) For added fun, guests here can purchase tickets to create their own chocolate bar and/or take part in a mystery with Hershey’s 4D Chocolate Movie. Last,
but certainly not least, guests can shop a wide array of specialty Hershey apparel, gifts, souvenirs, and of course candy!!

The main attraction of our trip was Hersheypark. With over 20 rides for little ones, our crew had plenty to experience. And if you have thrill seekers in your group, they won’t be disappointed, as there are 14 coasters to try (the Wild Mouse received our vote for best ride of the day)! Zoo America (which you can enter right through Hersheypark) gave us a chance to take a more leisurely pace. We enjoyed viewing and learning about the numerous animals that call Zoo America home. (The River Otters were so fun to watch!)

Nevertheless, our favorite part of Hersheypark, was the Trick or Treat Trail (available during Hersheypark in the Dark weekends). Here, each child was given a special treat bag and able to visit 13 sweet stops along the path to receive special Hershey’s candy treats. From a pumpkin patch to a potion shop, each stop was decorated in a festive Halloween theme. Between the decorations and the crisp evening air, it truly felt like a magical Autumn night.

All in all, our weekend in Hershey was a fantastic fall getaway. Between the amenities offered at the Hershey Lodge and the variety of attractions offered in the area, it is a great choice for families looking for a quick trip to enjoy some sweet fun. We look forward to visiting again soon!


Things to Know!
-Hershey Park in The Dark (Oct. 2 nd –Nov. 1 st 2020)
-Hershey Christmas Candylane (Nov. 13 th 2020-Jan. 3 rd , 2021)
-Hershey offers a variety of packages when staying at one of their 3 properties (The Hotel
Hershey, Hershey Lodge, and Hersheypark Camping Resort)
-Guests staying at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge receive FREE Parking, Reserved
Admission, Preferred Pricing on tickets to Hersheypark and Zoo America, and Complimentary
Admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience
-Admission to Hershey’s Chocolate World is FREE, however guests must reserve a time to enter
online. Guests will be given a ticket to scan at entrance and must complete a temperature
check. *Face coverings are required.
-Hersheypark requires temperature checks and a reservation to enter. Tickets can be scanned
for contactless entry. *Face coverings are required.

For more information on booking your next getaway to Hershey, or anywhere else, reach out to Kristin Scoza via email at KScoza@StarstuffTravel.com