Hershey History Center
Discover the inspiring story of Milton Hershey and the history of Derry Township, from its chocolate roots to its vibrant community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Hershey History Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the inspiring story of Milton Hershey and the history of Derry Township, from its chocolate roots to its vibrant community.
"A neat place to explore all the history, with brilliant displays that put a smile on your face."
Free Chocolate Tour
Don't miss the FREE Hershey Chocolate Tour ride for a sweet introduction to chocolate making! :chocolate_bar:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique gifts and mission-based items, including locally made products. Members get a discount! :gift:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Milton Hershey's Legacy
Discover the inspiring story of Milton Hershey, his philanthropy, and the creation of a chocolate empire and a town.
Derry Township History
Explore the rich heritage of Derry Township, from its early days to its transformation into a world-renowned chocolate destination.
Hershey Bears Hockey
Learn about the storied history of the beloved Hershey Bears hockey team, a significant part of the town's identity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Chocolate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Chocolate Tour
Don't miss the FREE Hershey Chocolate Tour ride for a sweet introduction to chocolate making! :chocolate_bar:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique gifts and mission-based items, including locally made products. Members get a discount! :gift:
Interactive Discovery Area
Engaging hands-on exhibits make it fun for kids, with a special section on Hershey Bears history. :child:
Knowledgeable Staff
The staff are very helpful and can share detailed history about the exhibits. :bustsinsilhouette:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Chocolate Tour
Don't miss the FREE Hershey Chocolate Tour ride for a sweet introduction to chocolate making! :chocolate_bar:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique gifts and mission-based items, including locally made products. Members get a discount! :gift:
Interactive Discovery Area
Engaging hands-on exhibits make it fun for kids, with a special section on Hershey Bears history. :child:
Knowledgeable Staff
The staff are very helpful and can share detailed history about the exhibits. :bustsinsilhouette:
Check for Events
The center hosts events like Hershey Artfest and Makers Markets. Check their schedule! :calendar: 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Hershey History Center to be a neat and informative place, with a knowledgeable and friendly staff who are happy to share details about the exhibits and local history. The displays, particularly those on Milton Hershey and the Hershey Bears, are often highlighted as engaging. However, some visitors have found the atmosphere to be less accommodating for very young children, citing an instance where a crawling baby was considered disruptive.
"This was an exceptional visit. The lady at the desk was very knowledgeable and took the time to accompany myself and my friend around to explain where everything was from and the history of the museum. In the bathrooms they had pictures of old outhouses as well as some outhouse fixtures on the wall which I thought was really cute. It was very informative and I learned a lot about the dairy Hershey area"
Linda Duncan
"Not child friendly. We thought it would be a good rainy day activity, but while we were there one of the employees came and told me the 1yr old was crawling too loudly. He was not crying, or yelling; he was not behaving badly. It was just the sound of him crawling, and I guess it was a problem for them.
ETA: Yes, of course I was supervising the children. anyone who knows me knows that I do not hesitate to talk to my children and remove them from the situation if they are behaving badly. they were not behaving badly, and they were not harming the displays in any way. No one was telling me to supervise them or keep them from harming things because they were not behaving inappropriately and were nowhere close to harming displays. They were not yelling, laughing, or talking loudly. It was just the sound of the baby crawling. There was no one else there looking at the displays that day, and most people would not have considered a crawling baby to be too much of a disruption."
Eryn
"Small, but worth the price. Kids 3 and under are free. They have an interesting hands on discovery area for kids. Also they have a few interesting items for the Hershey Bears History section."
Olivia Schatt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hershey History Center is located in Derry Township, Pennsylvania. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip here with Hershey's Chocolate World or Hersheypark.
Parking availability can vary depending on events. It's best to check the Hershey History Center's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date parking information.
Public transportation options in Hershey might be limited. Driving is generally the most convenient way to access the center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Hershey History Center is typically open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 AM to 3 PM. Hours can vary, so it's always a good idea to check their official website before your visit.
Admission is generally affordable, with children aged 3 and under often admitted for free. The price is considered worth it for the historical insights provided.
For general admission, advance tickets are usually not required. However, if you plan to attend a special event or workshop, booking in advance is recommended.
Members of the Hershey History Center receive a 10% discount on purchases in the gift shop. Keep an eye out for potential special offers or group rates.
While the center offers an interactive discovery area for kids and covers local history, one reviewer noted an incident where a crawling baby was deemed too loud, suggesting it might not be ideal for very young children seeking active play.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Exhibits focus on the history of Milton Hershey, the development of Derry Township, and the legacy of the Hershey Bears hockey team. You'll find historical artifacts, photographs, and informative displays.
Most visitors spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring the exhibits. You could easily spend longer if you delve into all the details or attend a special event.
Yes, there's an interesting hands-on discovery area designed for children, making it more engaging for younger visitors.
This section highlights the rich history of the beloved Hershey Bears hockey team, featuring memorabilia and stories that resonate with fans.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The center itself may not have a full-service restaurant, but it often hosts events like food tours and markets featuring local vendors.
Hershey offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. You can find places to eat within walking distance or a short drive from the center.
It's advisable to check the center's policy on outside food and beverages. Typically, eating is restricted to designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The historical displays, the train station exhibit, and any special event setups offer great photo opportunities. The gift shop also has unique items.
Personal photography is usually permitted, but always be mindful of any signs indicating 'no photography' areas. Avoid using flash if it might damage artifacts.
The brilliant train station display is a recurring highlight for visitors, often bringing a smile.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the exhibits on Milton Hershey's life and the development of the town can be educational. The free Hershey Chocolate Tour ride, often associated with Chocolate World, is a definite hit with kids and provides a sweet introduction to the chocolate-making process.
History Buffs
The center provides detailed accounts of Derry Township's development, offering insights into its agricultural past and its transformation into a global chocolate hub. The exhibits on the Hershey Bears hockey team also add another layer to the local historical narrative.
Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Visionary: Milton Hershey
The Hershey History Center meticulously chronicles Hershey's journey, from his early business ventures to his ambitious plans for a model industrial town. You can learn about his innovative approaches to business and his deep-seated belief in giving back. This narrative is central to understanding the 'Sweetest Place on Earth.'
His legacy extends beyond chocolate and education. Hershey's vision also encompassed creating a thriving community with amenities for his workers, laying the groundwork for the town of Hershey as we know it today.
Derry Township: A Town Built on Chocolate
+1Visitors can explore the social and economic history of the area, understanding how Milton Hershey's industrial and philanthropic efforts shaped the lives of its residents. This includes insights into the infrastructure, businesses, and community life that flourished around the chocolate factory.
Beyond the chocolate factory, the center also highlights other significant aspects of local heritage, such as the history of the Hershey Bears hockey team, which has a dedicated following and a storied past within the town.
Community Events and Local Artisans
Furthermore, the center frequently partners with local businesses and artisans for Makers Markets. These markets provide a platform for creators to showcase and sell their unique products, ranging from ceramics to apparel, drawing in visitors looking for distinctive souvenirs and local crafts.
+2These events not only enrich the visitor experience but also underscore the center's role in supporting and promoting the vibrant local culture of Hershey and Derry Township. It's a great way to discover local businesses and connect with the community.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit