Philly to Hershey: How Far & What to Expect? [Travel Guide]
Planning a sweet escape from the City of Brotherly Love to the Chocolate Capital? The question on everyone's mind is, of course, how far is Hershey Pennsylvania from Philadelphia. Hershey Park, a renowned amusement park located in Hershey, is a major draw for families. The Pennsylvania Turnpike serves as a popular route for travelers making the journey. Understanding the distance and travel options can significantly impact your journey, especially when considering factors like traffic and tolls, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). By knowing how far is hershey pennsylvania from philadelphia, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Image taken from the YouTube channel This Is Tom's World , from the video titled Exploring Stops On The Road - From Philadelphia To Hershey PA .
Planning Your Trip: Philadelphia to Hershey - A Complete Guide
So, you're thinking of heading from the City of Brotherly Love to the sweetest place on Earth? Excellent choice! Hershey, Pennsylvania, offers a fun getaway with chocolate adventures, exciting rides, and charming scenery. But before you pack your bags, let's explore everything you need to know about the trip, focusing on answering the big question: how far is Hershey, Pennsylvania from Philadelphia?
The Distance Breakdown: Getting Right to the Point
The straightforward answer to "how far is Hershey Pennsylvania from Philadelphia?" is approximately 95 miles (153 kilometers). This measurement is based on the most common and direct driving route.
Driving Distance vs. As-the-Crow-Flies Distance
It's worth noting that the "as-the-crow-flies" distance, or straight-line distance, is shorter, around 80 miles. However, since you'll likely be driving, the road distance of 95 miles is what you should plan for.
Getting from Philly to Hershey: Your Transportation Options
Now that you know the distance, let’s explore the different ways to travel between Philadelphia and Hershey.
Driving: The Most Popular Choice
Most people opt to drive from Philadelphia to Hershey, as it offers the most flexibility.
- Route Options: The most common route is via the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76 W). This is a toll road, so be prepared to pay tolls either with cash or E-ZPass. An alternative, toll-free route involves taking US-322 W, which might add some extra travel time.
- Driving Time: Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, especially around Philadelphia.
- Tips for a Smooth Drive:
- Check traffic conditions before you leave using apps like Google Maps or Waze.
- Consider traveling during off-peak hours to avoid congestion.
- Make sure your car is in good working order before embarking on the trip.
- Bring snacks and drinks, especially if you're traveling with children.
Taking the Bus: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
Several bus companies offer service between Philadelphia and Harrisburg, which is a short taxi or ride-sharing trip away from Hershey.
- Popular Bus Lines: Greyhound and FlixBus are common providers.
- Travel Time: The bus journey typically takes longer than driving, usually around 2-3 hours to Harrisburg, plus the additional travel time to Hershey.
- Cost: Bus tickets are usually more affordable than driving, especially when factoring in tolls and gas.
- Considerations:
- Check bus schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
- Factor in the time and cost to get from Harrisburg to Hershey (around 15-20 minutes by car/taxi).
- Consider the comfort level of a bus journey, especially with children.
Train Travel: A Less Common Option
While there isn't a direct train route from Philadelphia to Hershey, you can take Amtrak to Harrisburg and then use other transportation to reach Hershey.
- Train Route: Take an Amtrak train from Philadelphia's 30th Street Station to Harrisburg Transportation Center.
- Travel Time: The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to Harrisburg.
- Post-Train Transportation: From Harrisburg, you'll need to take a taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or bus (CAT Route 322 East Hanover) to Hershey, which is about a 15-20 minute ride.
- Considerations:
- Check Amtrak schedules and fares in advance.
- Factor in the cost and time to get from Harrisburg to Hershey.
- Compare the overall travel time and cost with driving or taking the bus.
What to Expect Upon Arrival in Hershey
Hershey is a charming town built around the Hershey Company's chocolate factory. It offers a variety of attractions and activities for all ages.
Key Attractions
- Hersheypark: An amusement park with thrilling rides, water park, and live entertainment.
- Hershey's Chocolate World: An interactive chocolate-themed experience with tours, tastings, and activities.
- Hershey Gardens: Beautiful botanical gardens offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
- The Hershey Story Museum: Learn about the life and legacy of Milton Hershey and the history of chocolate making.
Accommodation Options
Hershey offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like The Hotel Hershey to budget-friendly hotels and motels. Consider booking your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
Dining Options
From chocolate-themed treats to diverse cuisine, Hershey offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget.
Video: Philly to Hershey: How Far & What to Expect? [Travel Guide]
Philly to Hershey: Your Travel FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip from Philadelphia to Hershey.
What's the quickest way to get from Philadelphia to Hershey?
Driving is generally the fastest option. The trip typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Bus routes are also available, but the journey can take considerably longer, often around 3 to 4 hours.
How far is Hershey Pennsylvania from Philadelphia?
The distance between Philadelphia and Hershey is approximately 95 miles (153 kilometers). This distance applies whether you're driving or taking a bus. Be aware of potential delays due to weather or heavy traffic conditions, especially during peak travel times.
Are there tolls on the route between Philly and Hershey?
Yes, there are tolls on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), which is often the most direct route. Be prepared to pay tolls electronically or with cash at designated toll booths. Consider using a toll calculator app to estimate costs in advance.
What are some alternative routes if I want to avoid tolls?
If you prefer to avoid tolls, you can take Route 72 or Route 322. These routes may add some travel time to your journey as they involve more local roads and potentially more traffic. However, they offer a scenic drive through smaller towns and countryside.
