is the hershey factory tour free

Hershey's Chocolate World

Unwrap your Chocolate Adventure with Chocolate World’s FREE Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, one-of-a-kind Create Your Own Candy Bar Attraction, Hershey-branded gifts and souvenirs, world-famous milkshakes and bakery treats and the World’s Largest Hershey’s Store. Chocolate World is open year round and located next to Hersheypark .

Open Year-Round

Things to do.

Food Options

The Chocolatier

The official resorts.

Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction

Discover all things chocolatey and fun at Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction! Embark on a journey to learn and see how chocolate is made on a free tour ride, share and savor delicious Hershey's -inspired drinks and treats, shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts, and have a chocolate-inspired adventure to remember!

Featured Activities

Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction is full of sweet, fun ways to explore, taste, create, and enjoy everything chocolate.

FREE Hershey's Chocolate Tour Ride

Take a trip on the Hershey's Chocolate Tour Ride for free! Learn and see how chocolate is made and get a complimentary Hershey's product!

Create Your Own Candy Bar

Experience the Create Your Own Candy Bar attraction where you get to choose your own ingredients, design your own wrapper, and discover your inner-chocolatier!

Hershey's Unwrapped

Experience an immersive and delicious fun-filled tasting journey hosted by two of Hershey's most dynamic Tasting authorities!

Hershey Trolley Works

Embark on the Hershey Trolley Tour to learn all about Milton S. Hershey, the town he built, and Hershey's Chocolate!

Hershey's Great Candy Expedition

All aboard a train-themed journey to colorful candy world, featuring an authentic train station and immersive theatre with epic screens and speical effects.

Reese's Stuff Your Cup

Customize a one-of-a-kind, over-the-top, one-pound REESE'S Peanut Butter, fresh from the factory down the road.

Upcoming Events

Alongside everyday fun, enjoy chocolate-themed seasonal events like character meet and greets and holiday experiences - many of which are FREE!

Sweets & Eats

It's dessert anytime with decadent milkshakes, s'mores and bakery treats! You'll also enjoy a full menu of savory items, plus Hershey's-inspired cocktails for ages 21+.

Contact Hershey's Chocolate World

• Hours View Hours
• Map 101 Chocolate World Way Hershey, PA 17033
• Phone Number 717-534-4900

Special Offers & Updates

Join the Hershey's Chocolate World email list to be the first to know about exclusive savings and special events.

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HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour

Take a delicious journey from tropical cocoa bean to wrapped candy bar in this free chocolate factory tour ride. Delight your tastebuds with a sweet product sample at the end!

Taste the Love

Feel the warmth of roasting cocoa beans, smell rich milk chocolate and watch thousands of candies twist and turn on conveyor belts. We'll take your photo if you'd like to bring the memory home!

Free Admission: HERSHEY'S Chocolate Tour

Tours run continuously during operating hours. This attraction tends to be busier on weekends and holidays. Insider tip: Best times to ride are the first and last two hours of the day.

  30 MINS   WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the severity of the allergy, most guests are able to experience all of our attractions, including HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour, HERSHEY’S Unwrapped, Create Your Own Candy Bar, HERSHEY'S Great Candy Expedition and Hershey Trolley Works. However, people allergic to peanuts, tree nuts, milk, soy, and/or wheat should NOT consume the products or samples given out at the attractions. Most attractions have alternative products available for guests with these allergies. See ingredients for HERSHEY'S Unwrapped , Create Your Own Candy Bar , HERSHEY'S Great Candy Expedition and REESE'S Stuff Your Cup .  Please talk with our Central Ticketing staff or call 717- 534-4900 when purchasing tickets to determine the available options.

Yes. Boarding the HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour ride requires crossing a moving turntable. Guests in motorized wheelchairs or specialized strollers will need to transfer to a manual wheelchair for the duration of the ride.

Happenings at HERSHEY’S CHOCOLATE WORLD

Create new memories with your favorite HERSHEY'S Characters!

Join us to celebrate summer with a DJ playing your favorite hits, plus Happy Hour food specials! July 12, 19 & 26

Make your own REESE'S and HERSHEY'S creations, candy mixes, personalized wrappers and more.

More Sweet Experiences

Explore hershey's chocolate world.

Plan your chocolate-filled day with our interactive tour and attraction map.

Let's Keep in Touch

Be the first to hear about our sweet events, news, and special offers.

The Complete Guide To Hershey's Chocolate World

Hershey's Chocolate World is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, so what better time to go and get your chocolate on? Hershey's Chocolate World opened in 1973 as a visitors center for the Hershey's chocolate factory. Now, it is part of a series of attractions, including Hershey Park and Hershey's Chocolate Town.

Walking into Hershey's Chocolate World is as close as we will ever get to walking into Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. It is filled with candy and adventures of its own that are thankfully much safer than that of Wonka's. You may wonder what Hershey's Chocolate World can offer, especially with Hershey Park right outside the door, but rest assured, it is a magical experience in itself and, perhaps just as importantly, is completely free to enter. If you are looking to take a trip to the sweetest place on earth, read this first. We're giving you the full rundown of everything Hershey's Chocolate World has to offer so you can take full advantage of your time there.

Tickets and pricing

While it is completely free to enter Hershey's Chocolate World and there are free activities inside, there are also individual attractions that cost money. Tickets for different attractions can be purchased on the Hershey's Chocolate World website. We will discuss the individual ticket prices of each attraction, but the tickets generally range from $19 to $30. Tickets also come with a designated time for each event, so be mindful of this when you plan out your day.

If you know you want to try more than one event, Hershey's offers three ticket bundles that can save you between $8 and $18 on attractions, depending on which bundle you choose. These bundles are $5 cheaper when purchased online ahead of time, so if you want to save some additional money, plan ahead. In addition, most attractions are free for children under the age of three when paired with a paying adult.

Unlike other attractions in Hershey, Hershey's Chocolate World is open year-round. However, hours do vary based on the day and season.

Hershey's Chocolate Tour

We are going to start this guide with the Hershey's Chocolate Tour, a ride that takes you through the process of making Hershey's Milk Chocolate. Each passenger hops into one of the chocolate-themed carts, which pulls you on a track through a chocolate factory display.

The adventure starts at the farm, complete with animatronic cattle, and explains the steps involved in making Hershey's milk chocolate. It combines animatronics and holographic images to build a chocolate factory without being in a chocolate factory. This attraction is slow and easy to ride, making it appropriate for children of any age. In fact, it will likely appeal to the youngest members of your group. Best of all, it is completely free. Plus, at the end, each rider is given a complimentary mini bar of Hershey's Milk chocolate.

The Hershey's Chocolate Tour is under 10 minutes to ride; that said, the line can take around 30 minutes to get through. In our experience, though, you will not have wait that long.

Hershey's Great Candy Expedition

Hershey's Great Candy Expedition is the newest attraction in Hershey's Chocolate World. This is a cinematic experience, but Hershey's does a great job of making it feel as real as possible. The experience is based on a classic Art Deco-inspired train ride that takes you through several different candy worlds: Kisses Valley, Jolly Rancher Junction, Reese's Ridge, Almond Joy and Mounds Cove, Kit Kat Timbers, and Twizzlers Forest.

Upon entering the train station, each guest is given a cup of fresh Reese's peanut butter to try while they admire the details of the station. Guests are then led to Platform 73, where they "board" the Hersheyland Express, which is the main theater.

The theater includes screens on three of the four sides and uses sights, smells, and sounds to create a full sensory immersive experience. In addition, each chair in the cinema is equipped with buttons, allowing viewers to vote on which of the candy worlds they want to experience. In the end, you are given a cute baggie filled with candy from each world to enjoy.

Individual tickets are $19.95 when purchased online. This is one of two experiences that are included in all the ticket bundles.

Create Your Own Candy Bar

If you want the full candy factory experience, then the Create Your Own Candy Bar attraction is definitely up your alley. Before entering, each guest is given a hair net and a spiffy Hershey's apron to help keep the area clean. Your ticket contains a QR code that will be scanned at different points in the creation process. This allows you to choose from one of the three chocolate bases: dark, milk, and white; choose from a selection of fillings; and even design the wrapper you like.

Once all of your selections are set, the fully-automated system sets to work, pulling your chosen base, adding your fillings, and topping it with more velvety smooth chocolate (and sprinkles if you so choose). Finally, the bars are cooled, wrapped in a box, and laser labeled with the date and your name before being placed in a protective metal case.

This activity is fun to do after the Hershey's Chocolate tour and pairs really well with Hershey Unwrapped, where you learn about different chocolate flavors. You can apply your knowledge from there to create the bar of your dreams.

Create Your Own Candy Bar is the most expensive of the attractions. Individual tickets for this attraction cost $29.95 online, and those without tickets cannot participate as they will not have a QR code to scan through the process. The chocolate bars created here are Kosher certified.

Hershey's Unwrapped

If you came to Hershey's to eat chocolate, then this is the place to start. Hershey's Unwrapped Gives you a taste of the products made by Hershey's and teaches you how to do it. This is no boring class, though. On the contrary, the whole experience is designed to entertain as well as educate. A clumsy, yet endearing, tasteologist leads you through an explanation of the five senses and the six tastes invoked when eating chocolate. You are then sent into a mad chocolate laboratory to experiment with flavors.

If all of this makes you hungry, you are in luck! The show comes with a metal kit filled with different types of Hershey's candy to be eaten throughout the show. If this isn't enough, at the end of the show, you receive your MFA in chocolate tasting from the Hershey's Chocolate Academy, which comes with a surprise: a full-sized bar of Hershey's milk chocolate.

The show is definitely family oriented, meant to appeal to the younger members of the crowd. Tickets for Hershey's Unwrapped are $18.95 for those three and older. They are also available as part of the larger two-bundle options, which also include Create Your Own Candy Bar and Hershey's Great Candy Expedition.

Hershey Trolley Works

Hershey Trolley Works is the only attraction at Hershey's Chocolate World that takes you outside the main building. It begins on a retrofitted old-school trolly that is stationed right outside the entrance. In case of bad weather, there is a covered space to wait under until it is time to board.

There are four trolley rides available. The Historical Trolley Tour, which is a 75-minute tour that shuttles you around the town of Hershey, is available all year long; it lets you take in important sights and learn about the history of the town and candy company. The Original Trolley Show, which is more family-friendly and is 45 minutes long, includes characters and songs. This show runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Also offered are special occasion trolleys, including the Halloween-themed Trick-Or-Treat Trolley, which runs specific days in September and October and is 40 minutes long, and a Christmas-themed Holly Jolly Trolley, which runs specific days from November through New Year's Day and is 45 minutes long.

Each of these shows comes with chocolate throughout the ride and an engaging conductor dressed in period clothing. Tickets are $22.95 for chocolate adventurers three and up, or they can be purchased as part of the largest ticket bundle and is paired with Hershey's Great Candy Expedition, Create Your Own Candy Bar, and Hershey's Unwrapped.

Stuff Your Cup

Have you ever had a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup and thought to yourself, "This is good, but what if it were obscenely large?" Well, then, Stuff Your Cup is for you. Stuff Your Cup allows you to design your own mammoth-sized Reese's cup.

It starts with a large chocolate shell. From there, you get to pick four mix-ins, which include chocolate chips, bacon bits, potato chips, marshmallows, and so much more. This gets mixed with an immense amount of Reese's peanut butter, smooshed together, and placed into the shell. Then, as if this is not enough, you get to choose two of three syrups — chocolate, peanut butter, or caramel — to layer on before the final chocolate shell is placed on top.

When we say large, we mean it. We weighed our final creation, and it was nearly 2 pounds of chocolate peanut butter goodness. You may wonder how to eat this, and we have some suggestions. First, remove the top disc and break it into pieces. Use this to start scooping out your peanut butter filling as if it were a dip. Then, when you run out of the chocolate top disc, move on to the shell.

This attraction does not require a ticket but does cost $19.95 per Reese's cup, paid for at the register at the end of the process. Honestly, though, for the price you get a lot of peanut butter cups and they're custom-made to your specifications. So, if you are a Reese's fan, leave moderation at the door, do yourself a favor, and Stuff Your Cup.

Dining options

Of course, with all this candy and adventuring, you may want to take a break and grab some food or drink — and the Hershey's Chocolate World Food Hall has you covered. Different stations throughout the hall allow you to savor foods such as vegetarian chili, pizza, macaroni and cheese, and salad. Do not make the mistake of thinking this is where the chocolate stops, though. The chicken salad includes cocoa-dusted chicken and the beef sliders are made with a Hershey's Yuengling chocolate porter.

In addition to fountain drinks and milk, adults are free to enjoy a wide range of adult beverages, including Hershey's Yuengling chocolate porter, Twizzlers peach hard lemonade, and Jolly Ranchers margaritas.

Of course, there are sweet treats, too, including delicious ice cream sundaes and milkshakes, stunning hot chocolate that would put Ned Flanders to shame, a s'mores station, and a full bakery serving up cakes, cookies, and more. This is just a tidbit of the delectable foods available at Hershey's Chocolate World. And don't worry: There is also coffee to help keep you going.

Food can be purchased individually or added as part of a Meal Deal to ticket bundles. Adult meals come with an entree, snack, cookie, and drink, and children's meals include a souvenir lunchbox, pizza or mac and cheese, apple sauce, bottled water, and a mini Hershey's chocolate bar.

Candy store

Hershey's Chocolate World is home to the largest Hershey's Chocolate store in the world. Here you will find everything a Hershey's lover could want and more! This is not just any candy store; it is an experience unto itself. You could spend hours going through all the products available, spread throughout the vast landscape that is Hershey's Chocolate World. Here you can find swag, such as shirts, stuffed animals, Hershey Factory building blocks, and Hershey's branded board games. There are build-your-own candy containers, direct-from-factory flavors, jars of Reese's peanut butter, Hershey's Kisses flavors from all over the world, hard-to-find candy bars, such as Skor, 5th Avenue, and Zagnut, and Hershey's Chocolate World exclusive flavors. There are more than 500 types of candies from 40 different brands, and you are sure to leave with a sugar rush.

We recommend reserving your shopping for after your other experiences, as it will be hard not to walk out with bags of goodies that you won't want to lug around with you all day. And don't worry, this Hershey's shop definitely won't run out of chocolatey goodness for your to grab to take home.

Hershey's Chocolate World Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to all your Chocolate World questions!

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Hershey’s Chocolate World Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to frequently asked questions about Hershey’s Chocolate World , and other things to do in Hershey, PA to help you plan a magical trip!

Is Hershey’s Chocolate World free to visit?

Yes, you can visit Hershey’s Chocolate World for free.

The “Chocolate Tour” is free, but there are a lot of other activities you can add on that will all cost extra (more on that below) .

Do you have to pay for parking at Hershey’s Chocolate World?

You can park for free at Chocolate World.

However, according to their website, in order to keep the parking lot from filling up, the free parking is limited by time:

1-3 hours-FREE

3-5 hours-$15

5+ hours-$40

But, if you book a bundle with all 4 of the extra activities, you will get free parking.

Buuuut (once again), when we visited in May 2021, there was free parking all day (maybe because they have less visitors right now…?) .

Are Chocolate World and Hershey Park the same thing?

No, Chocolate World and Hershey Park are not the same thing. They are right next to each other though.

Chocolate World is an interactive factory tour experience, cafe and store.

Hershey Park is an amusement park & water park.

A view of some of Hershey Park’s many roller coasters.

Can you walk from Hershey’s Chocolate World to Hershey Park?

Yes, you can walk from Chocolate World to Hershey Park. They are right next to each other and share a parking lot.

How long should I spend at Chocolate World?

That depends on how many extra activities you add.

If you are just coming for the free chocolate tour, you could probably spend up to an hour on the tour and exploring all the shops, depending on how long the line for the tour is.

We did everything except “Hershey’s Unwrapped.” We also ate lunch (and desserts!) and perused the gift shop. We spent a total of 5 hours here.

If you are booking any tours, they all have a specific time slot, so that will help you gauge how long you will spend here.

Can you take pictures at Chocolate World?

Yes, you are welcome to take pictures at Chocolate World.

The lobby as you walk in.

Do you need a ticket for the chocolate tour?

No, you do not need a ticket for the free chocolate tour at Hershey’s Chocolate World.

What other activities are there besides the chocolate tour?

There are five paid activities you can try out at Hershey’s Chocolate World. They are:

Hershey’s Unwrapped

Make Your Own Candy Bar

Hershey Trolley Works

Great Candy Expedition

Reese’s Stuff Your Cup

Are the other activities worth it?

When we visited Hershey’s Chocolate World, they only had three of these extra activities, as well as another activity that no longer exists. I have written reviews of those activities, but I would say the two activities I would definitely recommend are the trolley tour and the make your own candy bar experience.

If you have kids, I think any of the activities would be great. But some (like Hershey’s Unwrapped) is worth skipping if you don’t have kids. Anything that involves making your own candy (so the Reese’s Stuff Your Cup) I would say is worth it!

Hershey’s Unwrapped:

This is the one activity that we did not personally try. It is a theatrical show about chocolate. Based on the online description and our experience with the 4D Chocolate Movie, I would say it’s probably great for families with small kids, but worth skipping otherwise.

Make Your Own Candy Bar:

I definitely think this one was worth it! We got to pick up to 3 different mix-ins, and choose the kind of chocolate we wanted, and whether we wanted sprinkles on top. Then our candy bar was coated in even more chocolate! We got to watch the whole process, and then design a wrapper to go with it. You leave with a good sized candy bar, and a commemorative container to boot!

This was actually my favorite part of our day at Hershey. We got a tour around the town, and the surrounding areas, and learned so much fascinating history about Milton Hershey and his company that made me love Hershey so much more and want to buy more chocolate (that’s how they get you!). I would 100% recommend this tour (plus it came with a whole goody bag of free candy)!

The famous Hershey Kiss street lamps.

My candy bar being coated in chocolate!

What kind of food do they have in the cafe at Chocolate World?

They do serve “real” food at the cafe in Chocolate World (not just chocolate!). However, the options are rather limited. These are the different food sections they had available in the cafe when we visited:

Baked Potato Bar

Mac n Cheese Bar

Beer & Pretzel Bar

I will say that all of these options were pretty pricey, and, to be honest, not that great. Basically, the food is the quality you would expect from a generic tourist attraction cafe.

They do also have a couple “grab and go” stations with “lighter” fare: pre-packaged salads and sandwiches.

They also have several dessert bars:

S’mores Bar

Ice Cream/Milkshake Bar

I would definitely say that the desserts outshine the lunch options (as it should be). I think the milkshakes and the s’mores are your best bet.

Other Things to do in Hershey, PA

Hershey Park:

Milton Hershey built Hershey Park for his employees to relax on their time off—how cool is that? I wish my employer would build me an amusement park…

They have 15 roller coasters, lots of kiddie rides, and a water park!

The Hershey Story Museum:

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Hershey Chocolate Company (and chocolate!), check out the Hershey Story Museum on Chocolate Ave.

You can also book a tour through them to High Point Mansion , the beautiful home that Milton and his wife Kitty built together.

Please note, tickets for this tour are very limited!

The Hershey Theater

See a show in the Hershey Theater , the beautiful downtown community center and theater that Milton Hershey had built in 1933 as part of his building campaign during the Great Depression (he was seriously the best boss ever).

Other Things to do Nearby:

The turkey hill experience:.

If you’re into tours about sugary foods, this is the place to be! The Turkey Hill Experience is a great place to take the kids. They have a lot of interactive games and activities, as well as unlimited ice cream & iced tea samples (because apparently they also make tea…).

You can also make your own ice cream flavor, which you know I’m all about!

Make your own ice cream flavor: Before

Make your own ice cream flavor: After

Visit a Snack Factory:

York County is known as the “Snack Factory Capital of the World!” There are several snack factories offering tours (usually free!) to the public. Here are just a few:

Snyder’s of Hanover -pretzel factory tour

Revonah Pretzel -pretzel factory tour

Martin’s Snacks -potato chip factory tour

Utz -potato chip factory tour

Any more questions?

If you have any other questions about visiting Hershey’s Chocolate World, don’t hesitate to email me or ask in the comments below!

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HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour

Take a delicious journey from tropical cocoa bean to wrapped candy bar in this free chocolate factory tour ride. Delight your tastebuds with a sweet product sample at the end!

Taste the Love

Feel the warmth of roasting cocoa beans, smell rich milk chocolate and watch thousands of candies twist and turn on conveyor belts. We'll take your photo if you'd like to bring the memory home!

Free Admission: HERSHEY'S Chocolate Tour

Tours run continuously during operating hours. This attraction tends to be busier on weekends and holidays. Insider tip: Best times to ride are the first and last two hours of the day.

  30 MINS   WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

Happenings at HERSHEY’S CHOCOLATE WORLD

Ring in the season with a little Hershey's heartwarming at this festive, interactive show!

Bring the entire family and create a new holiday tradition in the World's Largest HERSHEY'S Candy Store!

Each year, the sweetest house in town is decorated entirely with HERSHEY'S chocolate and candy.

More Sweet Experiences

Explore HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE WORLD

Plan your chocolate-filled day with our interactive tour and attraction map.

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the severity of the allergy, most guests are able to experience all of our attractions, including HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour, 4D Chocolate Mystery, HERSHEY’S Unwrapped, Create Your Own Candy Bar and Hershey Trolley Works. However, people allergic to peanuts, tree nuts, milk, soy, and/or wheat should NOT consume the products or samples given out at the attractions. Most attractions have alternative products available for guests with these allergies. Please talk with our Central Ticketing staff or call 717- 534-4900 when purchasing tickets to determine the available options.

Yes. Boarding the HERSHEY’S Chocolate Tour ride requires crossing a moving turntable. Guests in motorized wheelchairs or specialized strollers will need to transfer to a manual wheelchair for the duration of the ride.

Let's Keep in Touch

Be the first to hear about our sweet events, news, and special offers.

Hersheys Chocolate World – 2024 Insider’s Guide

Is there anything more pleasurable than the first bite of your favorite Hershey’s candy bar? Nothing quite compares to the tantalizing taste and fragrant smell of an indulgent chocolate treat.

A deliciously out-of-the-ordinary attraction, Hershey’s Chocolate World provides so much more than candy! Little ones and adults of all ages will be in sweet heaven, as they hop on a chocolate tour ride, create their own candy bar, or yuck it up in the Hershey Photo studio*

Best of all, with locations across the United States and Canada, you can commemorate this tasty holiday no matter where you are.

*attractions and entertainment vary from location to location

Hershey, Pennsylvania

It’s only fitting that we begin our chocolate journey at the ‘sweetest place on earth’ aka Hershey, Pennsylvania. For a day filled with adventure, laughs, and copious amounts of chocolate, there’s no better locale than Hershey Chocolate World Pennsylvania Resorts Company.

Listen up as we spill the inside tips and tricks to having the best day at Hershey’s Chocolate World.

Hershey’s Chocolate World Tickets & Hershey Tour Packages

In case you didn’t know, Hershey’s Chocolate World factory tour is 100% free to enter. However, to sample the many other delectable attractions, rides, and entertainment, you must purchase a ticket. 

We highly recommend purchasing your tickets and/or investing in a ticket package to save valuable time and money.

Depending on your unique cocoa desires and dreams, you might favor one ticket package over another. For example, if you’re keen to participate in the 4-D Chocolate Movie, and make your own candy bar, but are fine to skip the Trolley Works, you can purchase package 2. 

Curious about how to score the best deals on Hersheys Chocolate World tickets? Read our Ultimate Guide to Hershey’s Chocolate World Discount Tickets and Deals !

Think you might be making your sweet sojourn on an extra busy day? Then, take the stress out of your Hershey escapade by reserving your free timed entry pass . This handy pass allows visitors who have not purchased a paid attraction ticket entry at their preferred time.

Can’t Miss Hershey Attractions

Hershey’s chocolate tour.

Who said nothing good is free? The free Hershey Chocolate Tour brings you inside the magic of a (replicated) real-life Chocolate factory. Follow along as the majestic cacao plant makes its journey from humble bean to mouthwatering chocolate bar! 

Kids of all ages will have their senses ignited on this 30-minute educational tour to Hershey nirvana. Enjoy a complimentary candy sample at the end of the tour!

4D Chocolate Movie

Lights, Camera, Action! Grab your favorite Hershey’s snack and settle in for some blockbuster-worthy entertainment with the 4D Chocolate Movie. Children of all ages will be transfixed by the ooey-gooey chocolate Mystery and the stunning digital animation and special effects, all of which make you feel part of the action! 

Already played sweet Sherlock before? The 4D Chocolate Movie has over 100 different possible endings and variations, so you are guaranteed never to see the same show twice at this Chocolate World attraction.

Hershey Trolley Works

No stale and dry historical tours here! Climb aboard the Hershey Trolley Works Tour for an unforgettable live show featuring fun characters, lively singing, and the history of Milton Hershey’s life.

This side-splitting comical Hershey entertainment begins with your conductors guiding you through the Hershey of the past and visiting many of the historical sites that inspired Mr. Hershey himself. Your tour concludes with a stunning view of the ‘sweetest place on earth’ from the famed Hershey hill and a delectable sample of chocolate.

Pro Tip: Seasonal Trolley shows are available, so be sure to check the official Hershey schedule before your visit to participate in these fun-themed events!

Create Your Own Candy Bar

Have you ever dreamed of having your own personalized candy bar? Well, stop dreaming, and head on over to Hershey to make this sweet fantasy a reality. 

Create Your Own Candybar is a fully immersive chocolate adventure that puts you in charge. Design every element of your own Hershey’s chocolate bar, from fillings to the wrapper, in this authentic one-of-a-kind factory experience. 

Hershey’s Unwrapped

Are you ready to taste the love? Join Hershey’s two expert tasting authorities for an enchanting theatrical experience stuffed full of laughs, learning, and of course, chocolate! Hershey’s Unwrapped dares you to open your mind (and your mouth) to discover how they make different types of chocolate.

Pro Tip: Tickets to this attraction include a chocolate tasting of a variety of Hershey treats!

Additional Attractions & Activities available at Hershey’s Chocolate World include

• Reese’s Stuff Your Cup – create your own custom 1 lb Reese’s cup 
• Hershey’s Photo Memories – capture the magic of your visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World
• Sweet Personalization – personalize your favorite Hershey’s product for a tasty souvenir or gift (can be done virtually)

Food & Drink at the Candy Store

What would a day at Hershey’s Chocolate World be without some sinfully sweet eats? Load up on all the chocolate bars, sugar, and Instagram worthy milkshakes you can handle with our top tier, can’t miss foodie highlights:

• Milkshakes – these are famous for a reason! Either go classic with flavors like chocolate or Reese’s peanut butter (with extra candy and whipped cream on top) or go wild with a creative seasonal flavor like Hershey Kisses Fangtastic Strawberry.
• S’mores – way better than your campfire version. These are melty hershey s’mores on steroids, stuffed with your choice of a candy bar.
• Cookie Dough Cups – calling all cookie dough fiends, indulge in your beloved guilty pleasure with the gloriously overflowing chocolate chip cookie dough cups topped with treats like Reeses or Take 5
• Epic Pretzel – for something savory, you can’t go wrong with the massive 1 lb soft pretzel served with a trio of finger-licking good sauces (honey mustard, beer cheese, and chocolate peanut butter ganache)

Hershey Chocolate Factory Location Options

Times square, new york city.

All hail the big apple! Take a chocolatey reprieve from the Times Square madness when you pop into New York City’s very own Hershey Chocolate World.

The Times Square location is just bustling with sweet fun and features:

• Incredible Hershey’s retail
• Amazing Candy Machine
• Hershey’s Kitchens Bakery Treats
• Hershey’s largest s’mores experience – served directly out of the cutest camper van!
• Sweet Personalization – makes a perfect gift or NYC souvenir 
• Say it with a kiss 

Pro Tip: Take advantage of the fact that the epic Hershey’s milkshakes are served here and indulge in a creamy, dreamy, cold treat! 

Related Post: How to Spend a Day in New York City with Kids

Not feeling ice cream for breakfast (or lunch)? Then try a gigantic s’more stuffed with anything from Kit Kat Mint duo to Cookies n’ Creme from the largest Hershey’s s’more experience. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Looking to explore the lighter side of Sin City? Then wander over to Hershey’s Chocolate World Las Vegas to indulge and delight in over 800 Hershey’s products. 

Chocoholics and candy lovers alike will be in a state of pure sugar bliss. While you debate the best Hershey kisses and Jolly Rancher flavors you can also personalize your very own chocolate bar. Meanwhile, be sure to grab a refreshing milkshake. 

Related Post: 15 of the Best Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gamble

Special attractions and in-store experiences offered at this West coast flagship include:

• Photo Studio
• Bake Shoppe
• Taste Happiness
• Kisses Flavor Wall
• Reese’s Flavor Wall

Pro Tip: Don’t sleep on the top-notch Hershey’s Bake Shoppe located here. We love their mouthwatering goodies like peanut butter brownie sandwiches and decadent chocolate-filled donuts.

Niagara, Ontario

Brr, there might be a slight chill just north of the border. Still, the Niagra outpost of Hershey’s Chocolate World keeps things red hot with an overload of delicious desserts, unique merchandise, memorabilia, and all the chocolate you desire!

Enjoy an afternoon of fudgy fun as you uncover sweets, souvenirs, a photo studio, and bake shoppe at this four-story-high Hershey attraction.

Pro Tip: Satiate your cocoa cravings by picking up some homemade Hershey’s fudge. This is also a specialty of the Niagra location. 

Luscious, decadent, and downright addictive, there’s no denying that chocolate holds the key to our stomachs (and maybe even our hearts). But, there’s just something about the sweet and simple taste of Hershey’s chocolate that brightens even the cloudiest of days.

From the west coast to our Canadian neighbors up north, there are many ways to celebrate this extra-special holiday with Hershey’s Chocolate World.

Whether you are riding that very special Trolley, creating your own candy bar, or getting your hands on some outrageously stuffed s’mores, we hope you say hello to happy and hello to Hershey’s this year!

Have You Been to a Hershey’s Chocolate Factory?

Was it as delicious as you anticipated? Leave us a comment below!

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A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

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9 Reasons You Need To Experience The New Chocolate Tour Ride

Whether it’s your first time or your 100th time in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the newly revamped  Hershey’s Chocolate Tour Ride  is a must see. This innovative, fun, free ride shows you how Hershey’s chocolate is made complete with new singing cows, Hershey’s product characters and a views of simulated factory equipment. And if you’re like me, the tour ride is a go-to when I need an inside activity for the kids! Luckily, it’s the folks at Chocolate World have refreshed it for 2016.

Fun starts before you get inside with a new photo opportunity

A fun new addition to the ride is the photo experience. Pose for a few pictures before you get on the ride.

After the ride is complete, you have the opportunity to purchase your photo in a nice stand-up frame with a selection of superimposed backgrounds behind you. There is this cow, as well as an old version of the factory in black and white, a scene with the Hershey’s characters and one in a giant vat of Hershey’s chocolate.

Learn while you are waiting

New catchy song that will be stuck in your head, guaranteed

This new tune plays throughout the ride and is as catchy as its predecessor.

Singing Cows

This is my kids’ favorite part- they LOVE the cows. The new ride features even more cows in the barnyard scene than in the previous version of the ride. And all six of these new cows have been named by fans of Chocolate World via the website.

In addition to the 7 main cows, there is also a baby cow (so cute!) a pig and a rooster.

Hershey’s Characters

New….Hershey, Reese and Kiss characters all make an appearance in the ride! There are dynamic video versions of the characters that help explain the process of chocolate making (above), as well as moving animatronic versions of the characters interspersed in the sets (below).

NEW video lets you see inside the machinery

It was surprising to me how many steps there are in the chocolate making process. Screening, breaking, mixing, conching…the ride takes you through a total of 15 total steps. The addition of video projection over the factory machinery gives you a clear visual of what is going on inside each machine and brings the process to life in a new way.

It smells like chocolate.

One of the last steps you go through is refining. This one is special because at this stage, you can SMELL the chocolate. Mmmmm!

Taste the love.

The overall theme for the ride is Taste the Love, Share the Love. The words are included in the song that is played and showcased by the Hershey character himself, but the place this theme makes the largest impact is the ride’s final scene where user generated content (aggregated from Twitter and Instagram users using #chocolateworld) is flying around an immersive high definition screen until it is pulled into the top of a Hershey’s Kisses Chocolate. The experience overall is pretty sweet!

Free candy at the end of the ride.

Free candy at the end of the tour is not new, but most certainly worth mentioning! It’s a major draw of the ride for me and my kids. On your walk out of the ride area, everyone is given a free sample of a Hershey’s product. When I rode it was a fun sized Kit Kat Wafer Bar .

The grand opening of the new Hershey’s Chocolate Tour ride is this  Saturday, May 14 starting at 8:30 a.m. , so swing by Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, PA this weekend or any day because they are open 364 days a year (closed on Christmas only). Enjoy the sweet new ride!

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Attraction:

Hershey's Chocolate Factory Tour

Hershey, Pennsylvania

We're sugar-addled enough to admit that enjoying a fake chocolate factory tour is better than lamenting the long-ago loss of an actual factory tour.

Hershey's has been refining its fake chocolate factory tour since it opened in 1973, the same year the real factory tour closed. It's inside Hershey's Chocolate World, a sprawling bazaar of sweet souvenirs and snacks just outside Hershey Park. The tour is free (you can get back in line as many times as you like) and it's on a continuous chain of amusement cars, in the style of a classic World's Fair or Disney ride (think "It's a Small World"). You sit the entire time.

A long ramp leads from Chocolate World to the boarding area, setting the scene along the way with cargo netting, murals, and corrugated tin walls to suggest the commercial docks of a tropical waterfront. Once seated, you're carried through the doors of a barn while a robot puppet bull in overalls leans from the hayloft to tell you of the importance of milk in Hershey's chocolate.

The point is driven home like a chocolate spike in your skull as you round the corner into a simulated barnyard with three sassy, singing, robot puppet cows. Their call-and-response gospel-style song follows you through the rest of the tour:

It's the milk chocolate! (Tasty treat!) Hershey's milk chocolate! (Can't be beat!)

From the barnyard you're immediately propelled into the fake factory. It is what we want a chocolate factory to be -- a cross between reality and Willy Wonka. It's dark, but spot-lit like a vintage tourist cave in rich purples, blues, reds, yellows, and greens. A chatty narrator describes the sorting, cleaning, roasting, milling, grinding, pressing, drying, blending, and refining of the cocoa beans -- and occasionally utters leading lines such as, "Mmmm, mmm! What's that wonderful smell?" Industrial music underscores the action; chocolaty aromas come and go.

The ride carries you past mysterious whirring machinery, endlessly moving conveyor belts, and through a metal tunnel where you feel a brief kiss of personal roasting. Cryptic processes occur in silhouette behind opaque windows; CCTV multi-screens fill in the action with video filmed in a real Hershey's chocolate factory, we guess. Who knows? Flashing strobes and spinning self-destruct-in-30-seconds-style lights add drama, and remind us of countless chase scenes in sci-fi and action films. Is this factory on the moon? Could be; there are no people in it.

The tour ends with a vision of a magical psychedelic America, with Elvis, Dracula, and lots of Hershey's products projected onto the walls. An invisible chorus serenades the tour:

Wherever you go, no matter how far You're always near a Hershey's barrrrr....

The puppet bull reappears to snap your picture and you're disgorged onto the exit ramp. You're left with vague impressions of stuff being mashed together to make chocolate, and that catchy cow song that won't leave your head (People on our tour were clapping along at one point).

You're given a free mini-chocolate-bar as you walk past the Hershey's "Corporate Social Responsibility" bulletin board, with brief mentions of Sustainable Business Practices and Environmental Stewardship and other things that would probably just slow down the factory tour. Then it's back into the maelstrom of Chocolate World, where you can buy a 25-pound crate of peanut butter cups or an XL denim jacket with Hershey's Kisses in rhinestones.

Hershey's Chocolate World

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Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction Guide with Kids

A visit to Hershey, PA must include a visit to the largest Hershey’s store in the United States. This guide to Hershey’s Chocolate World attractions with kids will help you plan your trip to the sweetest place on earth.

Spending time experiencing all the fun attractions at Hershey’s Chocolate World is a great way to spend your time in Hershey, PA.

With a chocolate movie, free chocolate factory tour, giant size Hershey candy, and more there is something fun for everyone visiting the tourist attraction.

Hershey, Pennsylvania is named the sweetest place on Earth because it is all things Hershey Chocolate. There is a full theme park at Hersheypark and Hershey Chocolate World, as well as ZooAmerica , Hershey Story Museum, and more things to do in Hershey, PA .

In this article we are going to talk about what to do when visiting Chocolate World. Hershey’s Chocolate World is the largest Hershey’s Chocolate store in the world and a great place to visit for families visiting Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Hershey’s Chocolate World is open year-round to guests and offers fun treats, Hershey inspired merchandise, and numerous Hershey’s Chocolate World attractions.

The Hershey company has impacted the entire town of Hershey, PA and it is a wonderful destination for families.

Things to Know When Visiting Hershey Chocolate World

Is hershey chocolate world free.

Hershey Chocolate World is free to enter and visit. It is open year-round.

There are paid experiences like the 4D show, make your own chocolate bar, chocolate making classes, and a bakery. The Hershey Chocolate Factory Tour offers free tours to guests.

How Long Does it Take to Tour Hershey Chocolate World?

Hershey Chocolate World can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an entire day to tour. It all depends on what you would like to do during your visit.

If you plan on doing all the Hershey Chocolate World attractions it will take you more time than if you stop in to explore the gift shop.

I would plan an hour to explore and ride the Hershey Factory Chocolate tour ride. If you have reservations for other attractions this will take longer. The wait times for attractions will also depend on the crowds.

What is the Difference Between Hershey’s Chocolate World and Hersheypark?

When planning a visit it is important to understand the difference between Hershey’s Chocolate World and Hersheypark. They are different destinations but are within the same parking/entertainment complex.

Hershey’s Chocolate World is located in the same complex as Hersheypark. When you visit you are directed at the parking ticket booth to the Hershey’s Chocolate World area or Hersheypark parking.

Hersheypark is an amusement park that you need a ticket to enter. Learn more about planning your visit to Hersheypark .

Hershey’s Chocolate World is a large visitors center that offers paid attractions and a gift shop but does not charge admission.

Hershey’s Chocolate World Parking

Parking can be confusing because of the location of the attractions. If you are visiting Hersheypark you would park in the Hersheypark parking area. From there you can visit Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World.

If you are visiting ONLY Hershey’s Chocolate World, use the Hershey’s Chocolate World parking area.

Parking Prices for Hershey’s Chocolate World

• Short term parking is free.
• All Day Parking: $25.00 during summer months, holiday season, and special events at Hersheypark

What Is There to Do at Hershey Chocolate World?

Hershey’s Chocolate World has around 9 attractions depending on the season you visit. They range from chocolate tastings to a make your own candy bar attraction.

Hershey Chocolate World Special Events

Hersheypark and Hershey Chocolate World has different seasonal events throughout the year. The main events are Halloween at Hersheypark and Holidays at Hershey .

Expect special treats, meet and greets, and more during these times.

Hershey’s Chocolate World Attractions

• Hershey’s Chocolate Tour: free tour takes you on a chocolate adventure from the start of cocoa beans to a Hershey bar. This is fun for all ages. Guests receive a piece of candy at the end of the tour.
• Hershey’s Great Candy Expedition: This brand new interactive experience will have guests traveling on a “cinematic train ride adventure”. This will have projection mapping, special effects, and interactive character experiences.
• Create Your Own Candy Bar: Here you can create your own wrapper and candy bar at this popular Hershey’s Chocolate World attraction.
• Hershey’s Unwrapped: A Chocolate Tasting Journey: Smell and taste the milk chocolate and more at this popular attraction.
• Hershey Trolley Works: The Trolley tours through the town of Hershey and guests will learn about the history and how Milton S. Hershey built the town.
• Resse’s Stuff Your Cup: Stuff a Resse’s cup with your favorite sweet treats.
• Hershey’s Chocolate World Bakery: Purchase special sweet treats and your favorite Hershey chocolate items.
• Seasonal Events: Breakfast with Santa, Trick or Treating

Hershey’s Chocolate World Ticket Prices

The Hershey’s Chocolate World attractions can be purchased individually or bundled based on what attractions you are interested in visiting. The Hershey’s Chocolate Tour is free of charge and open to all guests.

Check the website for the most up to date pricing.

If you are buying your tickets when you arrive, the ticket counter is to your right when entering the building. (The restrooms are on your left! I find it’s always helpful to know where they are!)

I suggest purchasing tickets before you arrive so that you can go directly to the attractions and start your day.

Tips for Visiting Hershey’s Chocolate World PA

We have visited Hershey’s Chocolate World numerous occasions and we always start with a ride on the Hershey Chocolate Tour.

It is free and a fun way to start your visit. At the end they also give out a sweet treat!

Before we ride we make sure we have our tickets and check the showtimes for the attractions we want to experience.

Hershey’s Chocolate World Factory Tour

Our family tradition is to ride the Hershey’s Factory Tour first!! This is a free attraction. You board carts that take you on a tour of a chocolate factory.

My family of five fit on it together. This is not the real chocolate factory but it doesn’t have to be!! The smell of chocolate is piped through the attraction.

In 2016 they added projections and animatronics of Reese, Hershey and Kiss. These were a great addition to the attraction.

At the end of the attraction you get a free sample of chocolate!!! We have had Kit-Kats, Hershey bars, and Kisses in the past.

Honestly we ride this so many times that I usually come home with lots of sample size bars…if they make it home!!

Explore the Gift Shop at Hershey Chocoalte World

Hershey’s Chocoalte World is the largetst Hershey gift store in the World. It is larger than the New York City location and the Las Vegas location.

Take time to walk around and see the unique merchandise. We love seeing the sizes of the largest KitKat bars and more things unique to this store.

Character Meet and Greets

When we visited in November 2015 we were able to meet the characters dressed up for the holidays. We met Twizzler, Hershey, and Reese!

It was really cute and they have photographers there to take the pictures. They also let me take pictures with my camera. There was not a lot of pressure to buy any pictures.

Our August visit didn’t have a place for characters to meet. I think the meet and greet is part of the holiday events but always check during your visit.

In November they didn’t have a schedule out either. We had to ask the employees. The characters high-five and interacted with the kids and the costumes were adorable. It was one of the highlights of our trip!

Where to Eat at Hershey Chocolate World

There is a food court, a bakery and an ice cream parlor to choose from when you visit. So many yummy goodies.

Every time we go we try something different! This time we tried an old fashioned chocolate milk shake.

I wanted to add a quick note about strollers. Stroller parking is located outside the entrance. You are allowed to bring strollers into the center but you are not allowed to take them into/on attractions.

Stroller parking for the attractions is outside, not outside the ride, outside the building. Save yourself some time and park your stroller before entering.

If you have a little one that need a stroller consider using a baby carrier and a backpack for your things.

Hershey’s Chocolate World is so much fun! It is a great stop for a quick sweet treat or an afternoon of Hershey inspired attractions.

If you are visiting during the holidays be sure to check out Hersheypark in the Dark: Celebrate Halloween at Hersheypark and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane Tips .

Read Next: Overview of the Hersheypark Hotels

Subscribe  to my mailing list  and receive a vacation planning itinerary worksheet to help you plan your next family vacation..

Leah has been traveling with her family of 5 since 2012 and sharing her expertise on planning family vacations and visiting theme parks since 2016. Leah has been featured in Visit Rochester , Undercover Tourist , and Home Publications . She has worked with brands like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Hersheypark, Toyota, and various Tourism boards and destinations. Leah creates family travel itineraries based on real trip experiences with her family. Her guides and tips help others plan great family vacations. Learn more about Leah and Five for the Road .

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5 thoughts on “Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction Guide with Kids”

was the $10 meal ticket add-on worth it?

Hi Alyson- We have never added the meal ticket as an add-on. I don’t think it save you much money and we don’t always eat at Chocolate World… other than a treat from the bakery.

We went through Hershey last month on our way to Gettysburg from Missouri. We just did Chocolate World, and we thought it was cute and fun. We bought our magnet, as we do for every attraction we visit, but we also bought a Christmas ornament. In June! I would love to see Hershey at Christmas. Maybe someday. It sounds like you had a nice visit!

We always get an ornament too! Even in the summer!

Pinning this bc I loved Hershey as a kid and can’t wait to take my family!

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13 Amusement Parks in the U.S. That Are Completely Free to Enter

When you travel in a pack, that's a pretty big deal.

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The only issue? Joy like that does not typically come cheap. Or can it?

Well, at these 13 amusement parks across the U.S., from the Golden to the Garden States, you can save on one very important front: entry. While the vast majority of amusement parks — including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens — require tickets just to walk through the gates, these resorts and parks do not.

Of course, if you want to ride the rides or snack on the snacks, you'll still have to open your wallet. (A good thing can only go so far!) But if you're someone who's more about the vibes than the rides , this is the list for you.

Make sure you scroll to the bottom: There's one very famous park that's about to go "open gate" with its water parks for guests staying on property. (Hint: It's home to a special mouse!)

Where : Elysburg, Pennsylvania

Season : April - November

What's Free : Entry — plus parking, entertainment and picnic facilities

Where : On the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois

Season : Open year-round

What's Free : Entry, as well as select entertainment and fireworks

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, you'll find 3,300 feet of family fun — with a view you can't beat. While some of its beloved attractions (including The Centennial Wheel) are ticketed, there's plenty to enjoy gratis : entry, the summer fireworks (considered some of the best in the country) and Chicago Live!, a performing arts festival featuring music, dance, theatre, spoken word, improv, vocal performance and more.

Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

Where : Wildwood, New Jersey

Season : March - October

What's Free : Entry

The Garden State's contribution to this list, Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks, consists of three separate piers, which collectively hold more than 100 rides and attractions — plus two water parks. While you need a ticket to enter the aquatic areas, the ride sections are pay-per-ride, so they're open to anyone visiting the Wildwood Boardwalk (which is 2.5 miles long and filled with all kinds of classic boardwalk goodness). Pro tip: Plan your visit on a Friday to enjoy the boardwalk's Friday Night Fireworks.

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

Where : Santa Monica, California

Another boardwalk beauty! Santa Monica's famed pier is home to concession stands, biking routes, fishing spots and Pacific Park: Los Angeles's only admission-free amusement park. The model is pay-per-ride, and if you're looking for panoramic views of the Southern California coastline, you'll want to shell out for these two rides: Route 66 West Coaster Roller Coaster, which offers you views from 55 feet up, and the Pacific Wheel, the only solar-powered ferris wheel in the world, which takes you up as high as 130 feet.

Luna Park in Coney Island

Where : Brooklyn, New York

Season : March - October *

NYC's Coney Island is iconic and worth a visit in and of itself. While there, stop by the free-to-enter Luna Park. The bright and bold amusement park with a slightly retro feel — a match to the turn-of-the-century aesthetic of the island — is home to adult favorites Cyclone and Thunderbolt, plus plenty of kid-friendly rides, including Sky Tykes, Tony's Express and Leti's Treasure.

* 2023 saw the park's inaugural Frost Fest, a holiday-themed event from November to January. While it's yet to be confirmed if it'll return for 2024, here's hoping!

Hershey's Chocolate World

Where : Hershey, Pennsylvania

What's Free : Entry and the Hershey's Chocolate Tour

Hershey Park, the resort devoted to the iconic candy company, is a treat — albeit one you do have to pay to enter. But if it's a quick (and possibly educational) trip you're after, stop by Hershey's Chocolate World. Not only is it free to enter, but it also boasts a free attraction: Hershey's Chocolate Tour. The factory tour gives you a chance to see how the chocolate gets made and a free taste at the end. (If you have little Wonka fans at home, this is for them!)

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Where : Santa Cruz, California

What's Free : Entry and entertainment

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk not only has an "open gate" policy, but it has a ton of free entertainment options too. There's something for everyone: Friday night movies on the beach, live music, trivia nights, acrobatic performances and DJ Dance parties are all complimentary for visitors.

Fun Spot America

Where: Orlando, Florida Kissimmee, Florida Fayetteville, Georgia (right outside of Atlanta)

What's Free : Entry and parking

Fun Spot America offers free entry and free parking. The best part? You'll find those perks at all three locations (one of which is a stone's throw from Disney World, if you're already visiting). Now, onto the important things, a.k.a. the best rides in each park: In Orlando, it's the Quad Helix Go Carts. In Kissimmee, it's the Mine Blower, the only wooden coaster in Florida that goes upside down. And in Atlanta, it's the ArieForce One, complete with 3,400 feet of steel track and a 154-foot lift hill. (Gulp!)

DelGrosso's Park & Laguna Splash

Where : Tipton, Pennsylvania

Season : May - September

Pennsylvania is officially the reigning queen of free-entry amusement parks, because this marks its third one on this list — and it's a good one. DelGrosso's, located mid-state in Tipton, has both free entry and free parking. But what makes it especially cool is its theme: Italian, complete with its own Leaning Tower of Pisa. Cute, right? The lazy river also features tipping wine barrels. Plus, there's gourmet Italian food — seriously!

Adventurer's Amusement Park

One more for the Empire State! Located on the Gravesend Bay, Adventurer's Amusement Park is a quaint, almost fair-style park with an open-gate, pay-per-ride policy. All the classics — go-karts, slides, a ferris wheel — are there. Plus, it's only 15 minutes from Luna Park. All the better to go park hopping!

Palace Playland

Where: Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Season: May - September

What's Free: Entry and occasional firework shows

Behold the only beachfront amusement park in New England, where you can get in free and then fill your reloadable card with ride and arcade credits as you wish. Explore the park's assortment of kid-friendly rides, then take older (and taller!) thrill-seekers on the Sea Viper rollercoaster, which boasts views of the shoreline. Don't forget to pop into the arcade—it's home to over 200 games, including several vintage offerings from the 1950s. And if you're lucky, you'll catch a free fireworks show while you're there.

Family Kingdom Amusement Park

Where: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Season: March-September

What's Free: Entry

No Myrtle Beach vacation itinerary is complete without a trip to Family Kingdom. The oceanfront park is home to both historic attractions—including a carousel that dates back to 1923 and the Swamp Fox, a wooden coaster complete with stunning ocean views—and modern offerings like the Slingshot, which propels riders 300 feet in the air at 120 miles per hour.

And One More to Look Forward to...

Recognize that duck? Surprise! Yes, Walt Disney World is getting added to this list — but in a very specific way. Starting in 2025, all guests staying on property at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida can enter one of its two water parks, Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon, at zero cost! The only restriction? Free entry only applies the day you check in. But hey, if you're arriving during Florida's scorching summer, you won't want to wait.

Rose Marie Walano is a freelance editor and children's author. (And a Cosmo alum!) Among the many things she loves are high tea, period dramas, Central Park, K-pop, and her adorable mini-doodle, Colette. You can follow her on Instagram at @rosiewalano.

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Visit Us in Hershey, PA

While Hersheyland is your digital dessert destination for recipes and celebration ideas, Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a delicious real-world place to explore! Experience a chocolate lover's dream, filled with family fun, thrilling rides and a sweet history.

Sweet Ways to Experience Hershey

Is Hersheyland a place you can visit? Not quite, but there are plenty of ways you and the family can savor Hershey goodness in person at one of our attractions in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA.

Hershey's Chocolate World

Hersheypark

The Hershey Story Museum

HERSHEY'S Great Candy Expedition

All aboard! Take an immersive cinematic train-themed adventure on the HERSHEYLAND EXPRESS through epic candy worlds. Experience this new attraction at HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE WORLD in Hershey, PA.

Shop Hershey's near you

Play at Hersheypark®

A summer visit to Hersheypark® is fun for the whole family! Every ticket is packed with thrilling coasters, an ENTIRE water park, ZooAmerica® North American Wildlife Park, and so much more!

Discover at The Hershey Story Museum

Head to Chocolate Avenue in Hershey for interactive exhibits and a hands-on chocolate lab. Learn the sweet history of Milton S. Hershey, the man behind the chocolate bar.

Experience Hershey at Home

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Tours in Hershey & Harrisburg

To understand a product, see how it's made. To know the significance of a building, discover its nooks and crannies. A behind-the-scenes, under-the-hood experience is one that can’t be told in passing. Our region offers a variety of indoor and outdoor tours in Hershey and Harrisburg for visitors to discover.

Indoor Tours

There’s a lot to uncover about our region year-round on an indoor tour where you can learn how things are made or what life was like centuries ago.

Some of you may remember a time when you could tour the actual Hershey’s Chocolate factory. Today, all generations can enjoy a free simulated factory tour ride inside Hershey’s Chocolate World . You’ll learn how the sweet stuff is made, from cocoa bean to candy bar wrapper. If your idea of a treat comes in a pint glass, you’ve got to take a guided or self-guided production tour at Tröegs Independent Brewing . From fermentation to bottling, you’ll discover what makes their processes unique and sip a few samples along the way.

The Pennsylvania State Capitol offers free guided tours daily filled with fascinating facts about this palace of art and a building President Teddy Roosevelt observed as “the handsomest building I ever saw.” See inside the House and Senate Chambers as well as the Supreme Court, the highest court in Pennsylvania. Turn the clocks back a few decades when you visit two of Harrisburg’s mansions-turned-museums: Fort Hunter Mansion & Park and John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion . These historic homes housed several prominent Pennsylvanians and played pivotal parts in shaping Harrisburg’s history. Mansion tours are offered seasonally.

When we said indoors, we also meant underground! Echo Dell – Indian Echo Caverns is a natural geologic wonder millions of years in the making. The Caverns’ “wow” factor comes from their impressive rock formations, echoing rooms, an underground lake, fascinating history, and consistent 52-degree temperature year-round! Head underground on a guided tour to uncover what attracts millions of visitors all over the East Coast.

Unique Experiences & Hidden Gems

Where else can you explore underground caverns, ride a vintage trolley, or feed a bear? These unique experiences, plus a few hidden gems, will leave you saying, “I didn’t know they offered that!”

Think of Hershey, Pennsylvania. You’re thinking of chocolate and coasters, right? Indeed, many visitors don’t make time to explore the rest of Hershey! The town of Hershey has a sweet history, and the knowledgeable and witty tour guides of Hershey Trolley Works are eager to share it with you. Climb aboard for fun facts, jokes, audience participation, and chocolate samples! In addition to browsing the sweet vintage rides at AACA Museum, Inc. , gearheads can upgrade their visit with a Behind-the-Scenes tour of the Museum’s 15,000-square-foot collection storage garage. Tours are offered daily Memorial Day to Labor Day plus some spring/fall weekends and feature 50-70 additional cars not currently on display.

Did you know? You can go behind the scenes at ZooAmerica ® North American Wildlife Park on an exclusive guided tour. Set your alarm for the Early Bird tour or stay late After Hours to get up close to the bears, give an otter a snack, hold a bird of prey, or stroke a reptile! Bonus: ZooAmerica is open daily, year-round and accessible from Downtown Hershey. (Tours are available on select dates for an added cost. Registration is required.)

Outdoor Tours

There are lots of ways to tour the Hershey Harrisburg Region – by bus, by boat– just to name a few.

Let’s start with an art walk! Add Murals & More – A Walk of Art to your phone and let us be your audio tour guide for discovering beautiful murals, historic architecture, and towering monuments in Harrisburg. You can follow one of two suggested routes or mix & match based on your preferred starting point.

Do a little fresh air sight-cycling in Harrisburg along the 20-mile Capital Area Greenbelt . It’s free to schedule a guided tour (four-rider minimum) that highlights nature, trail history, local history, and more.

Enjoy 360-degree views of Harrisburg aboard The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat on a daily sightseeing cruise. The Pride is one of the last remaining authentic paddlewheel vessels left in the country, and it’s so uniquely constructed that they couldn’t rebuild it even if they tried. The Pride sails daily in the summer and weekends in the spring and fall.

Take a walk, or ride, on the wild side on a safari tour of Lake Tobias Wildlife Park. Their fleet of open-air buses gets you up close and personal to more than 500 freely roaming elk, bison, deer, antelope, and exotic animals. Listen in as your tour guide shares fun facts about the animals’ habitats and behaviors. Lake Tobias is open May through October.

Top Tour-Taking Tips

• Reserve your seat. While most of our region’s tour options can be booked on a whim, it’s a good idea to research and plan. During our peak season (May-August), tours often fill up fast! Consider buying your tickets ahead of time to ensure availability. Additionally, some tours are only offered seasonally and are weather dependent.
• Arrive early. In addition to booking in advance, it’s a good idea to arrive early to get a good seat on public tours. Most tours have strict start times, so you’ll want to make sure you’re on time, or you might get left behind.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Most tours involve a little, or a lot, of walking, so opt for sneakers over stilettos and dress in layers to adjust to changing indoor/outdoor conditions.
• Have your camera at the ready. Our tours are cool because you get to see unique sights and spaces! Snap a few photos to show everyone at home what you learned.
• Ask questions. Our expert tour guides love answering questions. If something is intriguing, find out more. Don’t be shy!

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Visit Hershey Harrisburg 3211 North Front Street, Suite 301-A, Harrisburg, PA 17110

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