Hershey, PA

Hershey, Pennsylvania, often referred to as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," has a fascinating and unique history closely tied to the Hershey Chocolate Company.

The town was founded by Milton S. Hershey, a renowned American entrepreneur and philanthropist, in the early 20th century. Born in 1857 in a small Pennsylvania town, Hershey ventured into various industries, including candy-making, before finding his true success in chocolate.

In 1894, Milton S. Hershey founded the Hershey Chocolate Company in the town of Lancaster. However, it was not until 1903 that he expanded his operations and established Hershey, Pennsylvania as the new home for his chocolate factory. The location provided access to dairy farms and ample railroad transportation, making it an ideal spot for manufacturing and distribution.

Hershey's vision for the town extended beyond merely building a factory. He wanted to create a community for his employees—a place filled with good-paying jobs, affordable housing, schools, and recreational facilities. As a result, Hershey developed the model town of Hershey, Pennsylvania.

One of the most iconic features of the town is the Hershey chocolate factory itself. The grand, 800,000 square-foot factory, known as the Hershey Chocolate World, has been a symbol of the town since its establishment. The factory has undergone expansions throughout the years to meet the growing demand for Hershey's chocolate products.

Milton S. Hershey also built various recreational and cultural amenities within the town. These include Hersheypark, originally built as a leisure area for Hershey's employees and their families, featuring amusement rides, shows, and entertainment. In addition, Hershey established the famous Hershey Hotel in 1933, considered one of the premier resorts in the United States.

Aside from his business ventures, Hershey was known for his philanthropy. He used his wealth to support various charitable causes, including schools, orphanages, and a boarding school for underprivileged boys, now known as the Milton Hershey School. Today, the Milton Hershey School is one of the largest and most respected residential schools in the world.

Throughout its history, Hershey has continued to grow, guided by the principles set forth by Milton S. Hershey. The town remains closely tied to the Hershey Chocolate Company, and its successful business operations continue to benefit the community through job creation, economic stability, and support for local initiatives.

Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a testament to one man's vision and philanthropic spirit, leaving a lasting legacy as a town built around chocolate and community.

Hersheypark

A popular amusement park with over 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.

Hershey's Chocolate World

A visitor's center that offers a behind-the-scenes look at how chocolate is made, with attractions like a chocolate factory tour, create-your-own candy bar experience, and a Hershey's Chocolate Tasting Adventure.

The Hershey Story

A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Hershey chocolate company. It showcases the history of chocolate making and the town of Hershey.

Hershey Gardens

A beautiful botanical garden spread across 23 acres, featuring breathtaking displays of roses, themed gardens, a Children's Garden, and a Butterfly House.

Hershey Theatre

A historic theater that hosts a variety of live performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park

An 11-acre zoo that is home to over 200 animals representing more than 75 species native to North America.

Indian Echo Caverns

Just a short drive from Hershey, this natural underground limestone cave system offers guided tours through its stunning chambers and rock formations.

HERSHEYPARK Stadium

A large outdoor stadium that hosts concerts, sporting events, and other live performances throughout the year.

Outlets at Hershey

A shopping destination with over 60 brand-name stores offering discounted prices on clothing, accessories, home goods, and more.

Antique Automobile Club of America Museum

A museum dedicated to vintage automobiles, with exhibits showcasing a large collection of cars, buses, motorcycles, and other transportation vehicles from different eras.

Hershey, Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate. This means that it experiences hot and humid summers and cold winters. The region generally has four distinct seasons.

Summers in Hershey are typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius). July is the warmest month with an average high of around 85°F (29°C), and humidity levels can be high during this time. Thunderstorms and occasional heatwaves are also common during the summer months.

Fall in Hershey brings pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. September and October are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s°F (16-21°C). The weather gradually cools down towards the end of fall, and frost becomes more common.

Winter in Hershey is cold and snowy. December through February are the coldest months, with average high temperatures in the mid-30s to low 40s°F (1-6°C). Snowfall is frequent, and the area typically receives around 30-40 inches (76-102 cm) of snow annually. Winter storms and freezing temperatures can occur during this time.

Spring in Hershey is characterized by gradually warming temperatures and increased rainfall. March and April bring temperatures in the 50s to 60s°F (10-16°C) during the day, with occasional colder spells. May marks the onset of milder weather, with temperatures climbing into the 70s°F (21-26°C).

Overall, Hershey, PA experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, with distinct seasons and notable variations in temperature and precipitation.

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a small town known for its proximity to The Hershey Company, which produces well-known chocolate products. Although Hershey is not a large town, it does have a few distinct neighborhoods that offer different living experiences. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Hershey, PA:

Downtown Hershey

Located in the heart of the town, Downtown Hershey is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood. It offers a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment options. Here, you'll find lovely shops, restaurants, and attractions like Hershey's Chocolate World, Hershey Theatre, and the Hershey Story Museum.

The Avenues

The Avenues is a historic neighborhood in Hershey known for its charming tree-lined streets and beautiful homes. Many of these homes were built by Milton S. Hershey to house his workers and are now sought-after residences. The neighborhood is close to downtown but also offers a quieter atmosphere.

Derry Township

Derry Township is the wider area encompassing Hershey. While it includes the iconic town, it also consists of suburban residential areas. Derry Township offers a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses and apartments, making it an attractive option for families, professionals, and retirees.

Hershey Park

This area is adjacent to Hershey Park, the popular amusement park and major tourist attraction in the region. Some residential options here include condo complexes and townhomes, offering residents easy access to all the fun and excitement of the park.

The Milton Hershey School Campus

The Milton Hershey School is a boarding school and residential campus for underprivileged children. The surrounding area has a unique character and is home to school buildings, faculty housing, and recreational amenities.

Each neighborhood in Hershey has its own charm, and the overall community values the legacy of Milton S. Hershey. Whether you prefer living in a dynamic downtown area, a historical district, or a family-friendly suburban neighborhood, Hershey has options to suit various lifestyles.