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

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or Hershey?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and Hershey can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and breathtaking national park. Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and Hershey: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shenandoah National Park is better known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, and shopping. Hershey is more touristy than Shenandoah National Park and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Also, Shenandoah National Park is famous for Skyline Drive.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Hershey is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Hershey is not a skiing destination.

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

Hershey is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination 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).

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at respectable restaurants in both Shenandoah National Park and Hershey.

Shenandoah National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

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

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is respectable in both Shenandoah National Park and Hershey.

Shenandoah National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Most people don't head to Hershey specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Hershey is great for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey Better for Hiking?

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

People visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or Hershey?

Hershey is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Hershey has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

Hershey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey Better for Families?

Hershey is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey Better for Couples?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Hershey are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Hershey is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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

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

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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

Hershey is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or Hershey a more walkable city?

Hershey is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

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

How long in Shenandoah National Park or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shenandoah National Park and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than in Hershey. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park. 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 Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park.

One day in Shenandoah National Park or Hershey?

In Shenandoah National Park, you'll find skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and shopping around the playful town of Hershey, there's plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Hershey?

In Shenandoah National Park, you'll find skiing. 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.

With shopping and museums around the fun-filled destination of Hershey, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Hershey?

Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and shopping around the fun-filled town of Hershey. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Shenandoah National Park or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shenandoah National Park. Many people enjoy the skiing when visiting Shenandoah 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.

Hershey is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as Hershey. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hershey in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Shenandoah National Park is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Hershey averages at about 77°F (25°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Hershey. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Hershey and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hershey for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Shenandoah National Park is generally around the same temperature as Hershey. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 56°F (13°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In October, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Hershey. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Hershey and Shenandoah National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hershey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hershey can be very cold. Shenandoah National Park can be very cold during winter. Shenandoah National Park is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 32°F (-0°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hershey. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Hershey. The spring months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Shenandoah National Park is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In April, Shenandoah National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hershey. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hershey and Shenandoah National Park