Sponsored post – Hershey Entertainment and Resorts hosted us at Hershey Gardens as part of the 2023 Sweetest Families program. All opinions are my own.
Hershey Gardens is located near The Hotel Hershey, and it sits on a hill overlooking Hersheypark. The garden’s address is 170 Hotel Road, which is along Hersheypark Drive.
Hershey Gardens Tickets
Tickets to enter the gardens can be purchased online or upon arrival. Timed tickets are not required, and discounts are available to teachers and veterans, while active duty military personnel are free. There’s also a combo pass available when buying tickets in person for The Hershey Story Museum Experience and Hershey Gardens.
Hershey Gardens Arrival
Unique experiences and displays are available throughout the four seasons at the gardens. They are open year-round to showcase the 23-acres of botanical gardens. When the weather turns colder, there are indoor displays and a butterfly atrium to enjoy.
Upon arriving at the gardens, the main conservatory leads out to Swan Lake, a small body of water with fountain. Above the gardens is The Hotel Hershey, one of Hersheypark’s official resorts.
Rose Garden
At the height of their season, there are over 3,000 roses in bloom. The rose garden is beautiful throughout the summer months, but has peaks around the beginning of June and the beginning of September.
Numerous beds of various colored roses are spread throughout the garden area near Swan Lake.
Children’s Garden
The Children’s Garden at Hershey Gardens is full of blooms, pathways, and hands-on activities. The entrance to the children’s garden is located beside the rose garden.
A tug boat, tree house, and musical instruments provide opportunities for play throughout the children’s garden. There’s also a pretzel maze, caterpillar tunnel, and rose compass.
The Hoop House is an indoor greenhouse where kids can learn gardening techniques to start their own garden at home.
A restroom is located inside the Children’s Garden at the Education Center. The Education Center is also home to children’s programming and a shaded classroom.
Butterfly Atrium at Hershey Gardens
Especially in the winter, the butterfly atrium is a beautiful indoor garden to observe many types of butterflies. Hundreds of butterflies from around the world are featured, along with colorful plants.
After receiving instructions from the attendant at the door, your ushered into a warm climate to view the fluttering butterflies that dance around the room.
Tips for visiting Hershey Gardens
Stays at Hershey Lodge and The Hotel Hershey include tickets to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story.
Don’t skip the gardens in the fall or winter. The butterfly atrium is indoors and many fun programs happen outside the summer months, like the Pumpkin Palooza.
Wear comfy shoes, bring sunscreen, and come with a stroller, if needed. There are several sections of the gardens, so be sure you’re prepared to take in the 23-acre property.
Looking for more fun things to do in Hershey?
Check out Hersheypark, the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania, featuring over 70 rides and attractions. Hersheypark is located across the road from Hershey Gardens.
ZooAmerica is Hersheypark’s wildlife park with over 200 various animals in 11 acres. The zoo is included with your Hersheypark admission or as a separately ticketed visit.
Other Hershey area attractions and activities include Indian Echo Caverns, Where the Wild Things Play, Patriot Park and Derry Township Community Center.
Places to Stay
There are three official resorts of Hersheypark. Each of the resorts offer different amenities and onsite dining options. Check out Hershey Lodge for their indoor water park.
The Hotel Hershey is an upscale option with an amazing outdoor (seasonal) pool. Your family can also get in touch with nature at Hersheypark Camping Resort which features tent camping, RV spots, and cabins.
Sponsored post – Hershey Entertainment and Resorts hosted us at Hershey Gardens as part of the 2023 Sweetest Families program. All opinions are my own.
