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

Should you visit Hershey or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Redwood 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 playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Hershey and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Redwood National Park than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Redwood National Park is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Hershey is more touristy than Redwood National Park and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Redwood National Park is well known for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Also, Redwood National Park is famous for Stout Grove.

How is Hershey different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood 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 Redwood National Park?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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).

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


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

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is a town with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Hershey may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Hershey or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is a town with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Hershey is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Hershey or Redwood National Park Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is well known for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Hershey to choose from. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Hershey or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Hershey or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Redwood National Park?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Hershey to go shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


Is Hershey or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

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

The famous beauty of Redwood National Park is one of the main draws. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hershey or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hershey is very family-friendly. 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.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Hershey or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Hershey and Redwood National Park make for a superb 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.

Redwood National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.


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

Hershey
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Hershey or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Hershey
Redwood National Park

Hershey is a town with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.


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

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

How long in Hershey or Redwood National Park?

In either Hershey or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Hershey because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Redwood 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 Redwood 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.


  • How many days in Hershey or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Hershey or Redwood National Park?

In Hershey, you'll find shopping and museums. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hershey. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town. It offers something for everyone.

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hershey or Redwood National Park?

Hershey is a fun place to experience. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Redwood National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Hershey or Redwood National Park?

You'll find museums and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Hershey. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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 Redwood National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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, Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hershey $257
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $257, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Redwood 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 Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $53

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 Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $56
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
    Redwood National Park $33
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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Redwood National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hershey and Redwood National Park, we can see that Hershey is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood National Park 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 Hershey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hershey than you might in Redwood National Park.

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



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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

Both Redwood National Park and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hershey is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 77°F (25°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during summer. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hershey usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

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

Both Redwood National Park and Hershey during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Hershey because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Hershey is around the same temperature as Redwood National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in October than Redwood National Park. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Redwood National Park. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hershey in the winter. In the winter, Hershey is much colder than Redwood National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during winter. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hershey usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Redwood National Park. Additionally, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hershey is generally a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In the spring, Hershey often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in April than Redwood National Park. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Hershey

Hershey Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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