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

Should you visit Nags Head or Hershey?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Hershey? 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.

Nags Head

It's also known for nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Nags Head and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Hershey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hershey. Although Nags Head and Hershey are both popular with visitors, Hershey has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hershey is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, and shopping, while Nags Head is known for its food and nightlife. Hershey is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. It is also home to Hersheypark. Nags Head is popular for

How is Nags Head different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Hershey?

Nags Head
Hershey

Hershey is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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).

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nags Head or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nags Head
Hershey

Nags Head is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Nags Head offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

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 Nags Head or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Hershey

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

The people in Nags Head know how to have a good time. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

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 Nags Head or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Nags Head
Hershey

Hershey is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Hershey is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Hershey?

Nags Head
Hershey

Hershey is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hershey. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Hershey Better for Families?

Nags Head
Hershey

Hershey is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hershey is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly . It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Nags Head or Hershey Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Hershey

Hershey is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.


Is Nags Head or Hershey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Hershey

Nags Head is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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

Nags Head
Hershey

Hershey is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head is not a good destination 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 Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Nags Head or Hershey a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Hershey

Nags Head and Hershey are decent when it comes to walkability.

Nags Head is generally not a very walkable . This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

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


Should I spend more time in Hershey or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Hershey. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nags Head 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 Nags Head.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Nags Head or Hershey?

In Nags Head, you'll find nightlife and food. This offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Hershey?

In Nags Head, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and shopping around the playful destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.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.

Five days in Nags Head or Hershey?

Nags Head is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nags Head has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled town of Hershey. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Nags Head or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. In Nags Head, you'll find food and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Nags Head?

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

  • Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
    Hershey Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Hershey $257

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Hershey is $257. 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 Nags Head and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Hershey? 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 Nags Head


Hotels in Hershey


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Hershey $49

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 Nags Head or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $71
    Hershey $105

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.
    Nags Head $14
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65

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
    Nags Head $12
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nags Head and Hershey, we can see that Hershey is more expensive. And not only is Nags Head much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nags Head would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nags Head 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 Nags Head.

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


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Hershey?

Hershey has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head and Hershey, 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 Nags Head or Hershey?

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 Nags Head or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Hershey. The summer months attract visitors to Nags Head because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

Nags Head is around the same temperature as Hershey in the summer. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In the summer, Nags Head often gets less sunshine than Hershey. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun.

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nags Head usually gets more rain in July than Hershey. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Nags Head is a little warmer than Hershey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nags Head in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Hershey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during autumn. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Hershey. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Nags Head during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nags Head for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nags Head. In January, Nags Head is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 41°F (5°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually gets more rain in January than Hershey. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Hershey.

Nags Head is a little warmer than Hershey in the spring. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 59°F (15°C) in April, and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during spring. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nags Head usually receives less rain than Hershey. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Nags Head

Nags Head Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)