Winter vacation features chocolate, caverns, and holiday lights in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Hershey, Pennsylvania, renowned predominantly for its chocolate legacy, offers a diverse array of attractions beyond its famed candy brands. Founded by Milton Hershey in 1894, the town provides a perfect destination for a leisurely winter weekend getaway, conveniently located under two hours from Philadelphia. Visitors can indulge in upscale accommodations, explore intriguing local breweries, and witness breathtaking natural wonders throughout the year, especially adorned for the holiday season.

A noteworthy feature in Hershey is the luxurious Hotel Hershey. This iconic establishment, designed in a Spanish Colonial style and inaugurated in 1933, not only offers historical significance but also top-notch amenities. With its impressive spa services, which occasionally include cocoa-infused treatments, and family-friendly villa options complete with fireplaces and rain showers, the hotel serves as an ideal base for guests.

Before arriving in Hershey, travelers will pass through Palmyra, home to Rising Sun Bar & Kitchen. Established in 2018 and part of the Funck Restaurant Group, this family-run restaurant is celebrated for its hearty breakfast offerings. Locals and tourists alike frequent the establishment for its flavorful dishes, including sourdough French toast and carne asada omelets.

Adjacent to Hershey, visitors can delve into a natural wonder at Indian Echo Caverns, where a consistent interior temperature of 52 degrees creates an inviting environment year-round. Open to the public since 1929, these caverns reveal stunning stalactites and unique drip formations, representing a captivating blend of geology and history.

For those inclined to shop, Black Swan Antiques in Palmyra showcases over 20,000 square feet of treasures offered by 60 independent dealers. Visitors can sift through an array of items, from fine oil paintings to handmade Amish woodwork, making this destination a perfect spot for unique finds.

Hersheypark transforms during the winter season, hosting Christmas Candylane, an enchanting event featuring festive lights and holiday festivities. This popular winter attraction is complemented by Hershey Sweet Lights, a drive-through display nestled amongst beautifully wooded trails.

Culinary experiences in Hershey are abundant, with Tröegs Independent Brewing renowned for its innovative craft beers. Guests can savor seasonal dishes while indulging in the celebrated Mad Elf, a spiced cherry ale acclaimed for its holiday charm.

Finally, rounding off a delightful day, Desserts Etc. bakery invites visitors to enjoy cookie flights combined with unique flavored hot chocolates, enhancing the town’s reputation as a destination for sweet treats—not just from chocolate wrappers, but from local artisans as well.

As a holiday getaway, Hershey stands out not merely for its chocolate history but for the wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered, making it a coveted location for families and couples alike.