Hummelstown, PA

Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, is a small borough located in Dauphin County. Its history dates back to the early 18th century when it was originally settled by Europeans in the early 1730s.

The land that Hummelstown sits on was originally part of a grant from William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, to the Lenape Native American tribe. However, by the early 1700s, the land was acquired by German immigrants who were known for their farming and agricultural skills. The area was named after Frederick Hummel, one of the early settlers who operated a mill along the Swatara Creek.

Hummelstown continued to grow and develop as an agricultural community throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. The town's location alongside the Swatara Creek made it an ideal location for mills, and several were established in the area, including flour mills, sawmills, and a paper mill. The mills played a crucial role in the local economy and helped to attract more settlers to the area.

In the early 19th century, the construction of the Union Canal further boosted Hummelstown's growth. The canal connected the Susquehanna River to the Schuylkill River and facilitated the transportation of goods and resources, helping to establish Hummelstown as a trade hub.

The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further transformed Hummelstown's economy and brought more opportunities for growth. The Pennsylvania Railroad opened a station in the town, and industries such as brickmaking, cigar manufacturing, and ice harvesting flourished. The railroad also brought an influx of tourists who visited Hummelstown's parks, including Williams Grove and the Peak Amusement Park.

Throughout the 20th century, Hummelstown continued to develop as a residential community. The town's proximity to Hershey, Pennsylvania, the home of the famous Hershey chocolate company, further contributed to its growth as many Hershey employees chose to live in Hummelstown.

Today, Hummelstown maintains its small-town charm while offering access to modern amenities. It is home to a number of cozy shops, restaurants, and local businesses. The town also hosts various annual events and festivals, including the popular "Artisan Porch Walk," where visitors can explore local artisans' creations.

Hummelstown's rich history, scenic beauty, and convenient location make it an attractive place to live, work, and visit in central Pennsylvania.

Hummelstown, PA offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular ones:

Hersheypark

A world-class amusement park featuring over 70 rides, a water park, live entertainment, and Hershey's Chocolate World.

Hershey Gardens

A beautiful 23-acre botanical garden with themed gardens, a butterfly house, and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Indian Echo Caverns

Explore these limestone caves on guided tours, marveling at the rock formations and underground waterways.

Hershey's Chocolate World

Learn about the history and making of chocolate through interactive exhibits, a chocolate-making experience, and a large retail store.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park

Adjacent to Hersheypark, this zoo showcases over 200 animals representing various habitats of North America.

The Hershey Story

A museum dedicated to the legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of Hershey's chocolate, offering exhibits on his life, the chocolate-making process, and interactive activities.

Hershey Trolley Works

Take a historic trolley tour through the town of Hershey, learning about its history and attractions.

Hershey Antique Auto Museum

A remarkable collection of antique cars showcasing the evolution of the automobile industry.

The Outlets at Hershey

A shopping destination featuring various designer and brand-name outlets.

Lower Dauphin Street Historic District

Stroll through the historic district of Hummelstown, known for its charming architecture, unique shops, and dining options.

These attractions offer a mix of family-friendly entertainment, educational experiences, and opportunities to explore the rich history and legacy of Hershey, PA.

Hummelstown, Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate. This means that the area experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers.

During winter, Hummelstown sees cold temperatures with an average high in January around 38°F (3°C) and an average low around 22°F (-6°C). Snowfall is common, and the area receives around 30 inches (76 cm) of snow annually. Winter storms are also not uncommon.

Spring in Hummelstown is mild and gradually warms up. March sees average high temperatures around 48°F (9°C), while May brings average highs around 72°F (22°C). Precipitation is moderate during spring, with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.

Summer in Hummelstown is warm and humid. Average high temperatures in July, the hottest month, reach about 86°F (30°C), while average lows hover around 66°F (19°C). Humidity levels can be quite high, making the heat feel more intense. Summer also brings the most precipitation, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

Autumn in Hummelstown is pleasant, with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. September has average highs around 78°F (25°C), while November sees average highs around 53°F (12°C). The area experiences moderate rainfall during the fall.

Overall, Hummelstown has a diverse climate with distinct seasons. Visitors and residents can enjoy snowy winters, mild springs, hot summers, and colorful autumns.

Hummelstown, Pennsylvania is a small borough located in Dauphin County. Despite its relatively small size, Hummelstown is known for its rich history and charming neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods you'll find in Hummelstown:

Downtown Hummelstown

The heart of the borough, downtown Hummelstown is a vibrant area with a mix of residential and commercial properties. Here, you'll find beautiful historic buildings, boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. The streets are lined with trees, and the atmosphere is welcoming and cozy.

Waltonville

Located to the northwest of downtown Hummelstown, Waltonville is a peaceful and primarily residential neighborhood. It is known for its spacious homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. The area offers a suburban feel and is often preferred by families looking for a peaceful place to live.

Hummel Heights

Situated to the southwest of downtown Hummelstown, Hummel Heights is a well-established residential neighborhood. It features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The area is known for its well-maintained properties, tree-lined streets, and close-knit community.

Stoney Run

Located to the east of the borough, Stoney Run is a newer neighborhood in Hummelstown. It consists mainly of newer construction homes and townhouses. This area offers a more contemporary appeal and attracts families and professionals seeking modern amenities and newer housing options.

Schoolhouse Villas

Situated to the north of downtown Hummelstown, Schoolhouse Villas is a planned community of townhomes. This neighborhood appeals to those seeking low maintenance living with easy access to downtown and nearby amenities. The properties are well-designed, and the community offers a tight-knit neighborhood feel.

Overall, Hummelstown, PA offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit different preferences, whether you're looking for a historic downtown vibe, suburban tranquility, or contemporary living. Each neighborhood has its own unique charm and contributes to the overall appeal and character of the borough.