Hershey Gardens
A 23-acre botanical paradise featuring vibrant themed gardens, a captivating butterfly atrium, and a fun children's garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tulips and blossoms abound
Hershey Gardens
Best Time
Tulips and blossoms abound
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 23-acre botanical paradise featuring vibrant themed gardens, a captivating butterfly atrium, and a fun children's garden.
"Thousands of blooming rose bushes create an unbelievably gorgeous spectacle, especially in mid-September."
🦋 Butterfly Magic
Don't miss the Butterfly Atrium; it's a magical experience for all ages!
🌹 Rose Lover's Dream
Visit in late summer/early fall for thousands of stunning roses in full bloom.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Butterfly Atrium
Entrance area
Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies fluttering around you.
Rose Garden
Main garden area
Thousands of blooming rose bushes create a breathtaking spectacle of color and fragrance, especially in late summer and early fall.
Children's Garden
Designated area
A creative and fun space designed for kids of all ages, encouraging exploration and play amidst nature.
Japanese Garden
Secluded area
Discover peaceful meditation spaces and serene landscapes offering a tranquil escape within the gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Bugs
Resort Perks for Gardens Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦋 Butterfly Magic
Don't miss the Butterfly Atrium; it's a magical experience for all ages!
🌹 Rose Lover's Dream
Visit in late summer/early fall for thousands of stunning roses in full bloom.
☀️ Beat the Sun
Bring water and snacks; there's limited shade. Visit early or late to avoid heat.
🎟️ Resort Perks
Staying at a Hershey Resort might mean free garden tickets!
Tips
from all over the internet
🦋 Butterfly Magic
Don't miss the Butterfly Atrium; it's a magical experience for all ages!
🌹 Rose Lover's Dream
Visit in late summer/early fall for thousands of stunning roses in full bloom.
☀️ Beat the Sun
Bring water and snacks; there's limited shade. Visit early or late to avoid heat.
🎟️ Resort Perks
Staying at a Hershey Resort might mean free garden tickets!
👟 Explore Every Path
Winding paths reveal hidden gems; allow ample time to explore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hershey Gardens for its stunning beauty, particularly the vibrant rose displays and the enchanting Butterfly Atrium. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the well-maintained grounds, making it a relaxing escape. Some note the potential for bugs and heat, recommending preparedness with bug spray and water.
"What a marvelous afternoon! I definitely will plan a longer visit, so much to see and experience. Lots of easy parking leading up to the Gardens. Butterfly exhibition, year-round! Great gift shop with local products and souvenirs. Thousands of blooming rose bushes when I came, mid-September. Unbelievably gorgeous. I didn’t get to the Children’s Garden or anything beyond the rose bushes, I was always over-stimulated and hot (bring water & snacks!), but so happy I came here. Plan ahead and enjoy!!"
Verena Aibel
"We had a wonderful time at Hershey Gardens! The roses were stunning and still in full bloom, even in late summer. The Japanese Garden was a highlight—especially the meditation spaces, which provided such a peaceful atmosphere. While we didn’t have any young children with us, we still really enjoyed exploring the Children’s Garden—it’s creative and fun for all ages. Overall, a beautiful and relaxing experience. We’re looking forward to coming back with our grandchildren in the future."
Robert M. Longo, AIA
"A peaceful botanical garden with a space to meet and greet butterflies at the start. This garden is right next to the hotel Hershey. A beautifully curated garden with lots of nooks to sit and read a book or walk and talk through. It may seem small but the winding paths take longer than you think. This is a great way to decompress after Hershey park or go for a walk after your spa experience."
Jonathan Yatsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hershey Gardens is conveniently located near The Hotel Hershey and Hersheypark. Ample parking is available on-site.
Public transport options to Hershey Gardens are limited. Driving or using ride-sharing services is generally recommended.
Hershey Gardens is within walking distance of Hersheypark, making it a great addition to your theme park visit.
There is easy and plentiful parking available directly leading up to the Gardens.
Yes, Hershey Gardens is close to Hersheypark, Hershey's Chocolate World, and The Hershey Story Museum, offering a full day of activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, but check the official Hershey Gardens website for current pricing. Staying at a Hershey Resort may offer free admission.
Look for package deals if you're staying at a Hershey Resort, as they often include free entry.
Hershey Gardens is open year-round, but hours can vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
While not always necessary, purchasing tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons. Check their website for online booking options.
The Butterfly Atrium is typically included with general admission to Hershey Gardens, offering a delightful experience as part of your visit.
🎫 🌸 Onsite Experience
Explore themed gardens like the Rose Garden and Japanese Garden, marvel at the Butterfly Atrium, and let kids play in the Children's Garden.
Absolutely! The Children's Garden is a highlight, and the Butterfly Atrium is captivating for all ages.
The flower archways, the rose bushes, and the serene Japanese Garden offer stunning backdrops for photos.
Yes, an educational walk is offered daily and is free for all guests, providing insights into the gardens.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially during warmer months, as shade can be limited.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be limited concessions, it's recommended to bring your own snacks and water, or plan to dine at nearby Hershey establishments.
Yes, bringing your own water and snacks is a good idea, especially to stay hydrated and energized during your visit.
The Hotel Hershey offers dining options, and nearby Hersheypark and Chocolate World have numerous food choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Check with the gardens directly.
The Butterfly Atrium, the vibrant rose gardens, and the tranquil Japanese Garden are particularly picturesque.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in public gardens to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Please check their specific policies.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and close-ups. A macro lens can be useful for capturing butterfly details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as shade can be limited and little ones need fuel. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds. The educational aspects of the gardens, like the daily walks, can also be engaging for curious young minds.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best natural light. The Japanese Garden offers serene compositions, while the flower archways and vibrant flower beds provide colorful backdrops. Consider bringing a macro lens for detailed shots of flowers and butterflies.
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers
Visiting on a weekday afternoon can offer a more serene experience with fewer visitors. The gardens provide a beautiful and calming environment to decompress after the excitement of Hersheypark or simply enjoy a moment of quiet amidst nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Butterfly Atrium
Visitors often describe the atrium as magical and enchanting. It's a fantastic spot for photography, with the vibrant colors of the butterflies against the green foliage. Remember to move slowly and gently to avoid disturbing them. The staff are usually on hand to answer questions about the different species and their life cycles, adding an educational element to the visit.
While it's a highlight for many, some visitors note that it can get quite warm and humid inside the atrium. It's a good idea to visit this area earlier in your trip or when you need a break from the outdoor elements. The sheer beauty and tranquility of the space make it a must-see for anyone visiting Hershey Gardens.
Seasonal Beauty and Events
Beyond the natural seasonal changes, Hershey Gardens occasionally hosts special events. These can range from holiday-themed decorations to educational workshops. Checking their event calendar before your visit can help you plan around any special activities or exhibits that might be happening.
The gardens are also a popular venue for events like weddings, adding a touch of natural elegance to celebrations.
This means that while the gardens are generally open to the public, certain areas might be temporarily reserved for private functions. It's always a good idea to check the schedule if you're planning a visit on a weekend. The Children's Garden Experience
This area often includes features like a "musical garden" with instruments made from natural materials, a "sensory garden" with plants of different textures and scents, and a "water garden" for cooling off. It's a space where kids can learn about plants and the environment in a fun, hands-on way, encouraging curiosity and a love for the outdoors.
Even if you don't have young children, the Children's Garden is worth a stroll. Its creative design and charming atmosphere appeal to visitors of all ages, offering a delightful contrast to the more formal garden areas. It’s a testament to how gardens can be enjoyed by everyone.
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