5 Reasons to Stay at Hershey Lodge

I was invited and hosted by Hershey to a sweet trip and to explore much of what Hershey, PA has to offer. All opinions of how much I consume and love chocolate are my own.

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 had to offer. If you’re looking for an affordable 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 $199 a night, 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. The rooms were pretty large for a hotel room and also has a desk and mini fridge. If you’re looking for the hair dryer, it’s in the drawers under the T.V.

The little touches are what really make it special. Hershey Kiss wallpaper in the bathroom, Hershey Kiss sheets, and Hershey Kiss soap had me googling where I can buy all that sweetness.

Hershey’s Water Works

This is not your average hotel pool. 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!

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 the newest restaurant to open 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.

We had breakfast at Hershey Grill. 3 words – S’mores French Toast. If you have a sweet tooth, consider it taken care of. If you don’t, no worries, they also offer other delicious entrees.

Overall Impression of Hershey Lodge

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.

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!