They don’t call Hershey the Sweetest Place on Earth for nothing. With chocolate galore, Hersheypark and Chocolate World, the cutest town ever, and employees that enjoy their jobs, Hershey, PA is quickly becoming one of my favorite places to visit.
My family and I were already fans of Hersheypark before, but I wasn’t aware how much Hershey, PA had to offer. If you’re looking for an affordable-ish Hersheypark hotel close to all the action with top-notch service, then Hershey Lodge is the place for you and your family. I’ve got 5 reasons why you want to stay Hershey Lodge.
Affordable Rates
With room rates starting at $159 a night ($249 in the summer), Hershey Lodge is the least expensive option out of the two Hershey Hotels on property, but it offers plenty for your money. I stayed in a room with a King Bed, and I’ve also stayed in a room with 2 queen beds. The rooms were pretty large for a hotel room and also has a desk and mini fridge. I prefer staying in the tower.
Little touches of Hershey Kiss accents, Hershey Kiss sheets, and Hershey Kiss soap had me googling where I can buy all that sweetness.
The guest rooms have also been updated since the last time I stayed there.
Hershey’s Water Works
Hershey’s Water Works is not your average hotel pool, and it adds a lot of value to your stay. I’m pretty sure my kids would never leave the pool area. It’s complimentary for overnight guests at Hershey Lodge! You can enjoy 30,000 square feet of splashtastic fun including Twizzlers Twists water slides and Reese’s Water Walk!
Also included is a zero entry pool (which is crucial for my little ones who can’t swim yet), a castle spray zone, lighthouse tipping bucket, and a hot tub!
Hershey Lodge also offers an outdoor pool in the summer!
Location, Location, Location
You know what’s awesome when you go on vacation? Not having to drive. There is complimentary Front Gate Shuttle Service to Hersheypark. So sit back and relax and let someone do the driving for you to the park. It’s a quick trip, so you can start getting your ride on faster.
Official Resort Perks
This leads me to another benefit of staying at Hershey Lodge. You get 1-hour Early Access to select rides at Hersheypark on select dates May-September. Plus as guests of Hershey Lodge you receive admission to Hershey Gardens & The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience. Trust me, it’s worth a visit to both of these locations. Hershey Gardens is beautiful, and they have a Butterfly Atrium where you can walk amongst the butterflies!
Also, characters in the hotel! Holla! Seriously, give me a candy bar character any day, and I’m a happy girl. I mean, my kids will be thrilled.
Amazing Food
Fire & Grain is a fun restaurant at Hershey Lodge. Everything from the inviting and light-filled dining room, to the open kitchen, to the comfort food with a twist, will really make you feel, well, at home.
I was able to sample some dishes and everything I tried really was delicious. A personal favorite was the Mac & Cheese with bacon. Bacon, y’all! Also if you don’t think fig and balsamic vinaigrette don’t belong on pizza, you’re wrong. And don’t even get me started on the S’mores in a Jar, a signature dessert. I want a do-over wedding just so I can serve that to all my guests.
Stacks is the newest restaurant at Hershey Lodge and replaced the Hershey Grill. They have yummy offerings like Chicken and Waffles!
Hershey Lodge – Is it Worth It?
I was really impressed from the moment I walked into the hotel by the employees. Everyone had a smile on their face, and that’s what makes a difference. It feels like home for the time you’re on vacation. My one complaint is that it’s not really accommodating for large families. We could get two rooms, but then the costs start adding up. I know my kids would love Hershey’s Water Works, but the Hersheypark Camping Resort may be the best option for my family of 7.
For a smaller family, then Hershey Lodge is definitely worth it if you’re visiting Hersheypark or need a staycation.
I love themed hotels and being close to it all. Plus any hotel that offers me chocolate when I check-in and every night has me at hello. It’s clean, fun, comfortable, offers great amenities, and gives you a chocolate fix while going back and forth to Hersheypark.
Hershey is located in Central Pennsylvania, just 90 minutes from Baltimore and Philadelphia, 2 hours from Washington, DC and 3 hours from New York City. See you there!
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Andrea Updyke
Thursday 18th of May 2017
Definitely adding a trip north to our vacation bucket list. This looks so fun!
tanialamb
Thursday 18th of May 2017
Yes, it's a great family destination! And when you come let me know, so I can meet you there