Sponsored post – Hershey Entertainment and Resorts hosted us at many of these attractions as part of the Sweetest Families program. All opinions are my own.
While Hersheypark is only closed for a few months every year, there is still plenty to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania besides Hersheypark. Typically, the amusement park closes after New Years Day and does not open again until Springtime in the Park at the end of March or early April.
However, there are still many amazing Hershey attractions to fill a trip to the Sweetest Place on Earth! Here’s a list of fun places to visit during the colder, winter months:
Hershey Gardens
While wintertime may not seem like the best time to visit Hershey Gardens, it’s a great time to check out the warm Butterfly Atrium. This beautiful room includes many types of butterflies, giving you an up-close view of their habitat.
The gardens are peaceful to walk through in the winter, especially in the snow. Guided walks are available on certain days, and February brings the annual orchid show.
The Hershey Story
The Hershey Story is an interactive museum located on Chocolate Avenue in downtown Hershey. The museum explores Milton Hershey’s life and the history of his chocolate bar and businesses.
For kids, a scavenger hunt is available upon entering the museum. The scavenger hunt provides a fun way for them to learn more about the history of Hershey while they hunt for particular items throughout the museum.
Hershey Bear’s Games
The Hershey Bears, Hershey’s ice hockey team, play games throughout the winter. Check out their schedule to align your trip with a home game.
The Bears play in the Giant Center, a huge indoor arena featuring many ticket options. Coco the bear, the team’s mascot, is on hand to provide even more fun between the game periods.
The Chocolatier Restaurant
Even when Hersheypark is closed, The Chocolatier Restaurant is still open and easily accessible. It’s located right outside Hersheypark’s gates. This is a great way to get a view of the park in the offseason and have a delicious meal.
The Chocolatier is a sit-down restaurant, with some fan-favorite specials like the ferris wheel sampler and giant milkshakes. A trip to The Chocolatier is great to pair with some attractions at Chocolate World and some Hershey shopping at Hershey Supply Company, which is located below the restaurant.
If you’re looking for a more casual meal or ice cream, visit Milton’s Ice Cream Shoppe located right below the Chocolatier. Note that Milton’s Ice Cream Shoppe is only open on weekends in Hersheypark’s off season, but Chocolatier and the Sweeterie are open daily.
Ice Skating at Giant Center or Hersheypark Arena
Did you know you can skate on the same ice as the Hershey Bears ice hockey team? On select weekends, the Giant Center or Hersheypark Arena are available for open skate session. Skate rentals are also available. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to stake in the historic arena, or on the same ice as your favorite Hershey Bears players!
Check the schedule to see when open skate is offered. The schedule also indicates whether it’s available on a particular weekend at the Giant Center or Hersheypark Arena.
Chocolate World
Of course, Chocolate World is the go to place for Hershey chocolate-related fun, especially when Hersheypark is closed for the season. Chocolate World features many attractions, such as Make Your Own Candy Bar, Trolley Tours, and Chocolate Tasting.
Check out their calendar for the special events that are held throughout the year, like Valentine’s Day and an Easter celebration.
A free option at Chocolate World is the factory tour ride. At the end of the ride, you’ll receive a sample of Hershey chocolate to enjoy while you shop and explore the home of Hershey’s chocolate.
High Point Mansion Tour
This tour gives you an historic look inside Milton Hershey’s home. Note that this tour recommends kids to be at least 8 years old and advanced reservations are also needed. The tours are popular, and often sell out.
The tour guides give an in-depth look at Milton Hershey’s life and the unique and historic features of his home, High Point mansion.
ZooAmerica
ZooAmerica is open year round, giving an up close look at hundreds of North American wildlife species. Note that if you are a Hersheypark season pass holder, ZooAmerica is included with your pass.
Hershey Theatre
The Hershey Theatre has many kid-friendly shows scheduled throughout the winter. Check out their show schedule for more options. In the past, the theatre has hosted a Paw Patrol, Mickey Mouse, and Sesame Street shows.
Hershey Lodge
Whether you are looking for overnight accommodations or a place to eat, Hershey Lodge is a great addition to explore during your Hershey vacation.
There are four restaurants available at the Lodge. For kids, the best bets are The Bear’s Den, which is a hockey-themed restaurant and bar. There’s also Stacks at Hershey Lodge, which has a diner-feel, serving breakfast and lunch.
Choose to stay at Hershey Lodge overnight, and you’ll have access to Water Works. Water Works is Hershey Lodge’s water park, with two twist slides, pools, and kiddie-friendly water fun.
Enjoy these winter-fun activities and attractions in Hershey, the Sweetest Place on Earth!
Sponsored post – Hershey Entertainment and Resorts hosted us at many of these attractions as part of the Sweetest Families program. All opinions are my own.
