The Hotel Hershey: Simple elegance for families at Hersheypark

The Hotel Hershey has been sitting on a hill above Hershey, PA since 1933. It is on the National Registry of Historic Places, and is the epicenter of all things elegant. This is one of my favorite resorts in Hershey, as it’s perfect for families, couples or a girlfriend getaway.

What can you expect at The Hotel Hershey?

  • Impeccable service
  • Luxurious rooms and amenities
  • A top knotch spa
  • Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate
  • Discounts and special Hersheypark perks

Are you ready to dive into this luxury hotel that we love to book whenever we are in Hershey PA, and especially when we want to celebrate Christmas in Hersheypark?

the hotel hershey

The Hotel Hershey

With a signature green roof, Italian style fountains and ornate décor, you see hints of Europe around this beautiful property. This was the Hershey founder, Milton Hershey’s, way of bringing what he loved most during his own travels back home to Pennsylvania.

Arriving at The Hotel Hershey

Upon arrival, a smiling valet greeted us and directed us to the front desk. We arrived around noon, and check-in was a breeze, very quick and informative.

The desk clerk informed me of park hours, shuttle bus times, and discount park tickets that can be purchased as a resort guest. We also received a hotel map, resort guide and their signature gift- full size Hershey bars!

hotel hershey lobby

Sweet Expert Tip: This resort is almost always at capacity, so you probably will not get into your room until late afternoon, especially in the summer months.

The Hershey Hotel guest rooms
The Hershey Hotel guest rooms

Guest Rooms

As we found our way to our room, I noticed that the walls of The Hotel Hershey are lined with historic photos of a by-gone era. There are neat artifacts also throughout the hotel, from the days when Mr. Hershey ran ChocolateTown.

The rooms are well-appointed and large for a historic hotel, with two queen beds, a desk, mini-fridge, in-room safe and a large closet.

There is ample space for a family of four (or larger as some do connect).

courtesy of The Hershey Hotel

The hotel also offers the Woodside Cottages. These are available for larger families or multi-gen travel.

Dining Options at The Hotel Hershey

Offering five onsite restaurants ranging from grab and go to casual and upscale you are sure to find a palate pleaser. You can make reservations at the concierge desk or online before arrival for The Circular, Trevi 5 and Harvest.

The Circular restaurant in The Hotel Hershey in Pennsylvania
The Circular restaurant in The Hotel Hershey in Pennsylvania

The Circular

This upscale restaurant was designed by Mr. Hershey himself and has no corners, he wanted to be sure there was never a bad seat to be had in his dining room.

You can grab small plates and a cocktail at the iconic Circular bar, or a formal dinner overlooking the fountain gardens.

We have enjoyed the breakfast buffet many times during our visits to Hersheypark. Offering fresh fruits, omelets, Kisses waffles and more, it’s the perfect way to start your day.

Dinner is a more elevated experience, but still fine dining without the pretention.

Harvest

Located behind the main hotel building- the Harvest restaurant prides itself on local farm to table cuisine. They serve lunch and dinner daily.

I always order the same thing- the pretzel board and the lobster cobb salad, with a Hershey’s Signature Martini.

Chef’s Market

Located in the main lobby, this fast casual dining spot is great for grab and go options. Open from 7 am – 9 pm, it’s perfect for before and after exploring the parks and resort area.

Iberian Lounge

Adjacent to the Fountain Lobby on the 2nd floor is this beautiful space for small bites and cocktails. Offering over 100 whiskies from around the world- be sure to order their signature Manhattan.

Sweet Expert Tip: You can order the amazing pretzel board here!

Trevi 5

Open for lunch and dinner, Trevi 5 serves rustic Italian fare. Whether you are in the mood for a wood-fired pizza or a pasta- you will not leave hungry.

This is a small venue, so be sure to make a reservation. During the summer months they offer al fresco dining on the patio.

The Spa at Hotel Hershey

Also known as The Chocolate Spa, this world class spa will fill all of your relaxation needs. Open 7 days a week you can pamper yourself at this elegant and luxurious spa.

Chocolate inspires their innovative treatments like the Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Bean Polish, and the Cocoa Facial Experience. What else would you expect from a spa in the Sweetest Place on Earth?

Spa Features

  • Massage, Facial, and Wet Treatment Rooms
  • Soaking Tubs, Hydrotherapy Baths, and Vichy Showers
  • Steam Rooms and Saunas
  • Inhalation Room and Silent Meditation Room
  • Quiet Room
  • Nail and Hair Salon
  • Teen and Bridal Services
  • Spa Boutique

The Oasis Restaurant

Guests can relax at The Oasis while enjoying a buffet all from the comfort of their spa robes. The menu features a fresh salad bar with a selection of seasonal toppings, a tapas bar, variety of platters, soups, and a selection of signature desserts.

Here you can also enjoy a selection of cocktails for an additional charge.

As a spa guest you also have use of many amenities at The Hotel Hershey, including the fitness center where classes are complimentary for spa guests age 16 and older, as well as the indoor pool complex and jacuzzi.

Use of the outdoor pool complex is offered for individual spa guests with three or more fifty minute services and qualifying spa packages.

The best way to enjoy the spa is to book a day package. The Chocolate Escape Package includes a Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Sugar Scrub, Chocolate Fondue Wrap,50-minute Cocoa Massage and lunch in The Oasis. This is one of the best selling packages year round.

Recreation

One thing about this hotel is that it’s deceiving in size, the property is massive and there is never a shortage of fun to be had. You can find year round activities as well as seasonal activities.

Be sure to check the daily schedule for a full list.

Seasonal activities include Christmas cookie decorating, Easter egg hunts, hayrides, and more are all part of the fun.

Outdoor Pool

Open daily (Memorial Day-Labor Day) from 10 am-9 pm, it is worth it to spend a day poolside! With water slide, a splash pad, zero entry, adults-only pool and hot tub there is something for every age.

If you plan to spend a full day poolside, you can rent a personal cabana. There is also a bar and a light fare menu available.

Sports Complex

The hotel is home to a full basketball court, two tennis courts, 2 sand volleyball courts,3 shuffleboard courts, 2 horseshoe pits, lawn croquet and 2 bocce courts open until 10 pm daily.

Indoor Pool and Jacuzzi

Open daily from 8 am – 9 pm year round.

9 Hole Disc Golf Course 

Sign out a disc set from the clubhouse and take on your friends and family!

Segway of Hershey

Guided Daily Segway tours are available for an additional fee.

Hotel History Tour

Check with concierge desk, this is a free guided tour.

Walking Trails

If you want to explore the grounds more there are three trails from 1- 2.5 miles. Ask the front desk for a map of the trails. Perfect for runners on vacation.

Family S’mores Roast

Each evening you can join the Cocoa Clubhouse staff and enjoy this fun activity- year round! Mom and Dad can grab a signature cocktail from the bar inside Harvest restaurant to enjoy while their kids build the perfect s’more as well.

18 Hole Putting Course

Open daily from 6 pm-10 pm, enjoy a family friendly competition. For extra fun on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8.30 pm- 10 pm the course it lit up for glow golf (extra fee).

Harvest Plaza

There is also a playground, ping pong tables and corn hole boards in Harvest Plaza just behind the main hotel building.

Cocoa Clubhouse

For an extra charge, kids age 5-12 can go to the kids’ club, which is fully staffed and a great spot for kids to play and meet other friends without mom or dad getting in their way.

As you can see there is no shortage of fun things to do at The Hotel Hershey, and you need more than one night to truly explore all that this resort offers.

The Hotel Hershey Guest Perks

As a guest of The Hotel Hershey, you receive special perks. From early park access to free admission at area attractions, it is worth it to stay in an official resort.

One of my favorite perks is the shuttle direct to the front gate of the park. No trams, no long lines for parking, just in and out of the parking lot and back at the hotel.

  • 1-hour early access with Sweet Start (during the summer season)
  • Free Admission to Hershey Gardens
  • Free Admission to The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience
  • Access to 2 award-winning Golf Courses
  • Preferred pricing to ZooAmerica®
  • Complimentary Front Gate Shuttle Service
  • Complimentary valet and self-parking
  • Hershey Spa products in bathroom
  • Complimentary electric vehicle charging stations
  • Up to 3 extra evening hours with Preview Plan during Hersheypark operating seasons.

The Hotel Hershey is the perfect way to unwind surrounded by simple elegance. A year round destination awaits you in Hershey, PA- book your stay today.

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Christmas lights

Frequently Asked Questions about The Hotel Hershey (FAQ)

What amenities does The Hotel Hershey offer?

The Hotel Hershey provides a range of amenities, including upscale dining options, a spa, recreational facilities, and unique Hershey-themed experiences.

How much does it cost to stay at The Hotel Hershey?

Rates all depend on the size of room you need, what time of year you are visiting, and how long you will be staying. In general, guest rooms start at about $250-$700 per night.

Is The Hotel Hershey family-friendly?

Yes, The Hotel Hershey is very kid-friendly, with several amenities like a kids’ club, mini golf and an outdoor pool they will love.

Are there any special packages or discounts available for stays at The Hotel Hershey?

While you might not be able to find discounts on The Hotel Hershey, the value the hotel brings to families does make the expense worth it.

  • FREE front gate shuttle service to the front gate of Hersheypark.
  • Best Price on Hersheypark® Tickets (Includes ZooAmerica)
  • FREE Chocolate at Check-In for the whole family
  • Family Resort Recreation & Activities
  • Access to indoor and outdoor pools
  • Up to 3 extra evening hours with Preview Plan during Hersheypark operating seasons.
  • Admission to Hershey Gardens
  • Admission to The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience
  • Access to 2 Award-winning Golf Courses
  • Preferred pricing to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park

Can I book spa services at The Hotel Hershey?

Yes! And we highly recommend that you do. If you have the time (and budget) book a full day at the spa so you can get the ultimate chocolate pampering experience.

What dining options are available at The Hotel Hershey?

There are five restaurants and carry-out dining options at The Hotel Hershey, including The Circular, Harvest, Trevi 5, Iberian Lounge, Chef’s Market, and Poolside, which you can read more about above.

Is there parking available at The Hotel Hershey, and is it complimentary?

Yes, there is FREE valet and self-parking, as well as complimentary electric vehicle charging stations

How far is The Hotel Hershey from Hersheypark?

It is a three-minute drive from The Hotel Hershey to Hersheypark. We do not recommend trying to walk there unless you get a safe route from the hotel staff so that you aren’t having to deal with crossing busy roads.

Even better, take the hotel shuttle right to the entrance of Hersheypark, which is free with your stay.

Are there any seasonal events or festivals near The Hotel Hershey?

Christmas is the most festive time to visit The Hotel Hershey, but there are other events like the summer concert series, Easter, Fourth of July, etc. that the hotel may celebrate. Contact the hotel to see if there are any specific offerings while you will be there.

Can I bring pets to The Hotel Hershey?

According to The Hotel Hershey website, “Service animals permitted.” This means your pet can not come, only service animals. Remember to call the hotel to let them know your service dog will be joining you so they can make the appropriate accommodations for you. Some rooms have to stay pet free for allergy purposes.

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