A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hershey vs. Napa Valley for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hershey or Napa Valley?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Napa Valley? 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 playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. The famous beauty of Napa Valley is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Napa Valley travel costs.

Hershey and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Hershey or Napa Valley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Napa Valley than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Napa Valley is better known for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its museums and attractions and resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Napa Valley and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. Also, Napa Valley is famous for Louis M. Martini Winery.

How is Hershey different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Hershey is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hershey. 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).

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Hershey or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Napa Valley is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Hershey or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Napa Valley know how to have a good time. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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.

Is Hershey or Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Hershey is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

In Hershey, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Hershey or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Napa Valley?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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.

Is Hershey or Napa Valley More Beautiful?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Napa Valley is one of the main draws. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Hershey or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Hershey is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

Hershey is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Hershey or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is very popular for romance. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Napa Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Hershey is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Is Hershey or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Hershey is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Hershey or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Hershey
Napa Valley

Hershey is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

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

Napa Valley is not a walkable town. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Hershey or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Napa Valley. 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 Napa Valley than Hershey. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Napa Valley that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley.


  • How many days in Hershey or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Hershey or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled town of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Napa Valley, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Hershey or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the lighthearted destination of Hershey. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Napa Valley, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Napa Valley has to offer.


Five days in Hershey or Napa Valley?

The lighthearted town of Hershey offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Hershey. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Napa Valley. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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, Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hershey $257
    Napa Valley $333

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $257, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $333. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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 and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Napa Valley $183

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 Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $108
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
    Napa Valley $28
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 Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • Self-Guided Napa Art Walking Tour: $9.00
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour Around Bodega Head : $9.99
  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley & Sonoma Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Snob Free Sonoma Plaza Walking Experience: $109
  • Safari West Sonoma Adventure Tour: $110
  • Napa Valley Daily Join In Group Wineries Tour Including Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Wine Trolley Castle Tour: $135
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $135
  • Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $135
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Guided Wine Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • ATV Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting: $150
  • ATV Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $156
  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine Tasting & History Tour (Public Tour): $179
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour | 6-8hr Private Fully Customized.*XL SUV: $250


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hershey and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley is more expensive. And not only is Hershey much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hershey would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hershey and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Napa Valley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Napa Valley than you might in Hershey.

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


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey and Napa Valley, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Hershey or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Hershey during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hershey in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hershey is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 77°F (25°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hershey. In the summer, Hershey often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Hershey for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hershey is cooler than Napa Valley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. Hershey usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during autumn. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hershey usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Napa Valley. The winter months attract visitors to Hershey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

The weather in Hershey can be very cold. In the winter, Hershey is much colder than Napa Valley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Hershey often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets less rain in January than Napa Valley. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty.

In April, Hershey is generally cooler than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. Hershey usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during spring. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Hershey

Hershey Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)