A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hershey vs. Denali National Park for Families, Backpackers, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Hershey or Denali National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Hershey or Denali National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hershey

Hershey is a fun-filled, playful, and lighthearted town. Visitors also love the shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a spectacular, epic, and vast park. The famous beauty of Denali National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Hershey and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Hershey or Denali National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hershey. Although Hershey and Denali National Park are popular destinations, Hershey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hershey is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Denali National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hershey is more touristy than Denali National Park and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. It is also well known for Hersheypark. Denali National Park is famous for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Hershey different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denali National Park and Hershey. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hershey or Denali National Park?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Hershey is very good for its historical sights. However, Denali National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Hershey offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


Is the Food Better in Hershey or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Both Hershey and Denali National Park offer reasonable local cuisine and restaurants.

Hershey offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Denali National Park. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Hershey or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Hershey is adequate for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Hershey or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Hershey is a great town for its luxury resorts. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Denali National Park has a few great resort options. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.


Is Hershey or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Denali National Park is a good destination for hiking. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Denali National Park?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Hershey is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hershey. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

Is Hershey or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Denali National Park is one of the main draws. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Hershey or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Hershey is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Hershey is one of the most popular family destinations. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is Hershey or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Hershey
Denali National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Hershey and Denali National Park make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Hershey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Denali National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Is Hershey or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is very popular for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Denali National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.


Is Hershey or Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hershey
Denali National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hershey and Denali National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

Public transit is mostly limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Is Hershey or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Hershey
Denali National Park

Hershey is adequate for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Hershey is generally not a very walkable town. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

Denali National Park is not a walkable town. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Hershey or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Denali National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Denali National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hershey, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hershey than Denali National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hershey that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denali National Park than Hershey if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Denali National Park.


  • How many days in Hershey or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Hershey or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Hershey. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Denali National Park, you'll find . This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Hershey or Denali National Park?

Hershey is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Denali National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Denali National Park has to offer.

Five days in Hershey or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Hershey for five days. You'll find museums and shopping around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Denali National Park is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hershey or Denali National Park?

The fun-filled destination of Hershey offers shopping and museums. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Denali National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Denali National Park. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Hershey?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hershey Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hershey $257
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $257, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hershey and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Denali National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hershey


Hotels in Denali National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Hershey change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hershey $105
    Denali National Park $98
Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hershey

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hershey.

  • Hershey Trolley Crawl and Evening Food Tour on a Vintage Trolley: $20
  • Hershey Trolley Food Tour Experience: $99
  • Rise and Dine Food Tour in Vintage Style Trolley: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Denali National Park $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Harrisburg's Historic Downtown Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • Midnight Sun ATV Adventure 2.5 Hour Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • Wilds of Alaska Classic ATV Adventure: $153
  • Winter Side by Side ATV Tour: $160
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Denali National Park $12


When comparing the travel costs between Hershey and Denali National Park, we can see that Denali National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hershey Expensive? and Is Denali National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Hershey or Denali National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hershey or Denali National Park in the Summer?

Both Denali National Park and Hershey during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Denali National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hershey is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hershey in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

Hershey usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Denali National Park. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Denali National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Denali National Park. Many travelers come to Hershey for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Denali National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Denali National Park can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, Hershey is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 56°F (13°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In October, Hershey usually receives around the same amount of rain as Denali National Park. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Denali National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Denali National Park. Many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Denali National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Denali National Park can be very cold during winter. Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. Hershey is much warmer than Denali National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 11°F (-12°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in January than Denali National Park. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Denali National Park in the Spring?

Both Denali National Park and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Denali National Park because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Denali National Park can be very cold. In the spring, Hershey is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hershey in April average around 53°F (12°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 34°F (1°C).

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

Typical Weather for Denali National Park and Hershey

Hershey Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)


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