Hershey Happenings

Spending the Holidays Near Family in Central Pennsylvania, Without Staying in Their Spare Room

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 14:51:07 GMT

Spending the Holidays With Family in Central Pennsylvania (Without Staying in Their Spare Room)

Coming to Central Pennsylvania to spend the holidays with family? You don’t have to choose between a quick visit and several weeks in someone else’s house.

Having your own place nearby lets you stay for more of it: the preparations, Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas morning, the afternoon hangs that turn into late nights, and the days after everyone else has packed up. You can spend time together without sharing every bathroom, bedtime, and square foot.

For multi-week a furnished suite gives you somewhere to settle in while keeping family at the center of the trip.

More time together. Enough space apart.

Maybe your adult children live in the Hershey area, and you want more time with the grandkids than a holiday weekend allows. Maybe you’re bringing your own family back to Pennsylvania, but the house you grew up in can’t comfortably sleep everyone anymore.

A separate place to stay makes a longer visit possible without turning your relatives’ home into overflow accommodation.

You can arrive before the holiday rush, help with preparations, and stay into the new year. Your family keeps their bedrooms and everyday routines. You get a comfortable place to sleep, unpack, and spend the hours between visits.

Nobody has to give up an office for three weeks or putting the sofa bed away every morning.

Christmas dinner at their house. Breakfast at yours.

Not every meal needs to be a family production. A full kitchen lets you handle breakfast, keep groceries on hand, and feed the kids before heading out. If you’re contributing to family dinners, you have somewhere to prepare your dish without competing for space in an already busy kitchen.

It’s useful on the quieter days, too. Make coffee before anyone else is awake. Have lunch in instead of going out again. Keep leftovers for the evening when you’d rather put your feet up.

At Suites on Chocolate, furnished suites have full kitchens and living spaces, so your accommodation works for the whole visit, not just the nights.

Bring the family without squeezing everyone into one room

When you’re staying several weeks, sleeping arrangements matter beyond the number of people a listing says it can hold.
Parents may want somewhere to spend the evening after the kids go to bed. Couples may prefer a smaller space of their own. Anyone working during part of the visit needs to think about where they’ll take calls and how the layout fits their schedule.

Suites on Chocolate offers different layouts to explore. Some examples -- Suites 2 and 3 are options for family stays, while Suite 4, the Park Suite, is a lofted one-bedroom option for a solo guest or couple.

Stay longer without taking on all the upkeep

Suites on Chocolate provides weekly cleaning service and on-site support, along with an on-site laundry facility. You can pack for a manageable stretch, wash clothes during the visit, and have a local point of contact for property questions.

Private, off-street parking in front of each suite also makes the repeated trips easier: groceries, presents, dinner at your relatives’ house, and the drive back afterward.

Make Hershey attractions part of the visit

Your relatives may still have work, school, and other commitments during part of your stay. Having your own accommodation gives you the freedom to enjoy the area while they’re busy. Plan a visit to Chocolate World, spend time in downtown Hershey, or choose an operating date for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

Check attraction schedules and holiday hours before making plans. Then build outings around the family time you came for, rather than trying to fit everything into one crowded weekend.

Booking for Christmas through New Year’s?

Suites on Chocolate has a 15-night minimum, so it’s suited to an extended holiday visit rather than a few nights around Christmas. If you’re planning to come early and stay into January, start with your full arrival and departure dates. Then consider:

How many adults and children need accommodation
Which sleeping arrangements and layout will work best
Whether anyone needs to avoid stairs
Whether you’ll be working during part of the visit
What the booking terms allow if your plans change

Stay for the traditions, the extra dinners, and more time with the people you’re coming to see. Then come back to your own kitchen, your own living space, and a bed that doesn’t need to become someone’s sofa in the morning.

Planning 15 nights or longer in Hershey this holiday season? Check current availability and reach out if you have any questions or need to discuss the right suite.

The Hershey Holiday Season, Week by Week: Halloween to New Year's

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 17:33:07 GMT

The Hershey Holiday Season, Week by Week: Halloween to New Year's

Most people plan a Hershey holiday trip like it's one weekend. It isn't. From the end of October into the first days of January , the town runs one long holiday season, and each stretch of it has a different feel, different crowds, and different people in town. Here's how it breaks down, so you can pick the window that fits your trip (or stay for more than one)..

Halloween and late October: the warm-up act

Who's in town: Families in costume, couples on fall getaways, and people who figured out that Hershey doesn't wait for Thanksgiving to get festive.

What it feels like: Spooky-sweet, not scary. Pumpkins, candy, and fall color, with smaller crowds than December and no Candylane lines yet.

What to do:

Hersheypark Dark Nights and Treatville. Dark Nights is the haunted-attractions side for older kids and adults, and Treatville is the costumes-and-candy side for younger ones. Hersheypark Halloween runs Friday through Sunday through November 1.
Trick-or-Treat Trail at Hershey's Chocolate World. Kids 12 and under collect candy at sweet stops in the World's Largest Hershey's Store, with more stops next door in Treatville. Trick-or-treating in a town built around candy is hard to beat.
Pumpkin Palooza at Hershey Gardens. Runs October 17, 18, 24, and 25. Kids can come in costume, trick-or-treat at four candy stations, and wander among 300+ hand-painted pumpkins.
Pumpkin spice spa treatments. The Spa at The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey run seasonal treatments through November 30.
Harrisburg for a grown-up night. Costume events and Halloween film screenings pop up in the Harrisburg area all month.

Good to know: Halloween lands on a Saturday this year, so that weekend will be busy. The Halloween events at Hersheypark and Chocolate World are weekend-only, so a Friday night or a Sunday is the easier way to do it. Use weekdays for everything else (Chocolate World, Hershey Gardens, the spa). And if you're coming for Halloween, staying through Thanksgiving week or into early December means you catch the whole season without rebooking.

Thanksgiving week: the season kicks off

Who's in town: Families hosting dinner, people visiting relatives in the area, and road-trippers who'd rather drive in than deal with holiday airports.

What it feels like: Busy around the holiday itself, but the season is just getting started, so Candylane hasn't hit peak December crowds yet.

What to do:

Run it off. Local Thanksgiving morning races are a tradition for a lot of families in the area.
Get an early look at Candylane. Thanksgiving week is one of the best times to see the 5 million-plus lights before the December rush.
Black Friday at Tanger Outlets Hershey. Ten minutes away and a lot calmer than a mall.
Cook the meal yourself. If you're hosting or bringing the sides, a full kitchen beats trying to make Thanksgiving happen out of a hotel room.

Good to know: If you're coming in for Thanksgiving and want to see the Christmas stuff too, a stay that runs from Thanksgiving week into early December catches both without the peak-season crowds.

Early December: the sweet spot

Who's in town: Couples, remote workers, people in town for work or medical appointments, and anyone who planned ahead.

What it feels like: This is the most underrated stretch of the season. Everything is lit up, but it's noticeably quieter than the run-up to Christmas.

What to do:

Candylane before the rush. Early in the season it's open on select dates, so check the Hersheypark calendar and grab a weeknight if one's available. The difference from a mid-December Saturday is huge.
Chocolate World on a weekday. Saturdays are the busiest days there. Go midweek to see the Holiday Chocolate House (decorated entirely in Hershey's candy) without the crowds.
Day trip to Lancaster. Lancaster Central Market (open Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday) and the downtown shops are great for holiday gifts, and Lititz's main street is worth the extra 15 minutes.
Harrisburg for an afternoon. Midtown, Broad Street Market (Wednesday through Saturday), and the Capitol are about 20 minutes away.

Good to know: If your dates are flexible, this is the window to aim for.

The week before Christmas: peak family season

Who's in town: Families with kids out of school, and everyone else who waited until December.

What it feels like: Full holiday mode. Busy, festive, and worth it, especially with kids.

What to do:

Candylane and Chocolate World. The classics. Go at opening or on weekday evenings to skip the worst of the lines. New this year at Candylane: the Fire & Ice Experience and a bigger TREEville.
Holiday lights around town. Candylane is the big show, and the neighborhood displays around Hershey are worth a slow evening drive.
Downtown Hershey. Chocolate Avenue's streetlights are shaped like Hershey's Kisses. Your kids will notice.

Logistics that make or break this week: Grocery runs before the weekend rush, a place to wrap gifts, and laundry so you're not packing for two weeks. It sounds small. It's the difference between a vacation and a grind.

Christmas through New Year's: the slow week

Who's in town: Extended families, people staying through the holidays for work or medical care, and travelers who want to wind down instead of rush around.

What it feels like: Quieter and cozier. Plenty of places close or cut hours on Christmas Day, so it's a week for home-cooked meals and low-key days.

What to do:

Christmas morning at "home." Easier when you have a living room and a kitchen instead of a hotel room.
Candylane in its last stretch. The season wraps on January 3.
New Year's Eve. Hershey keeps it low-key and family-friendly (Chocolate World hosts a New Year's Eve party). Harrisburg has more going on if you want a night out.

Good to know: Check holiday hours before you plan Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Plenty of spots close or open late.

Where to stay if you're here for more than a weekend

If you're staying two weeks or more, a hotel room gets old fast. Suites on Chocolate has nine furnished suites on a quiet residential street in Hershey, about 4 miles from Hersheypark. Each one has a full kitchen and laundry access, and there's a 15-night minimum, so your neighbors are other longer-stay guests and not weekend crowds.

Suites 2 & 3 are our family picks. Suite 2 has two bedrooms across three floors plus a daybed area. Suite 3 is our biggest lofted suite, with two bedrooms on the loft level (including twin bunks the kids will fight over). Both have kitchens big enough for holiday meals.
Suite 4 (the Park Suite) is a lofted one-bedroom, a great fit for couples, remote workers, and smaller groups, with the bedroom and office space up in the loft.

FAQ

When does Hersheypark Christmas Candylane start?

Candylane runs on select dates from November 13, 2026 through January 3, 2027. Check Hersheypark's calendar for exact open days and hours.

What is there to do in Hershey for Halloween?

Hersheypark Dark Nights and Treatville, the Trick-or-Treat Trail at Chocolate World, and Pumpkin Palooza at Hershey Gardens are the big ones. Check each venue's site for this year's dates.

Does Hershey Sweet Lights still run?

No. After 20 seasons, Hershey Sweet Lights is not returning in 2026. Hersheypark is putting that energy into a bigger Christmas Candylane instead.

Is Hershey worth visiting at Christmas?

Yes. Between Candylane, Chocolate World, and the downtown lights, it's one of the most festive small towns on the East Coast. Plus Lancaster and Harrisburg are close by.

What's open on Christmas Day in Hershey?

Less than usual. Many restaurants and attractions close or cut hours, so plan to cook or make reservations ahead.

What's the best week to visit Hershey with kids for the holidays?

The week before Christmas has the most going on. Halloween and Thanksgiving week are good alternatives with fewer crowds.

Where should I stay in Hershey for two weeks or more over the holidays?

Look for a furnished extended-stay suite with a full kitchen and laundry. Suites on Chocolate offers 15+ night stays in a quiet neighborhood close to everything in Hershey.

Suites on Chocolate · 9 furnished suites · 15-night minimum · Quiet residential neighborhood in Hershey, PA · ~4 miles from Hersheypark · Full kitchens · suitesonchocolate.com

Life Happens. Here's Why People Often End Up Staying With Us (and How to Pick the Right Suite)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 18:06:14 GMT

Life Happens. Here's Why People Often End Up Staying With Us (and How to Pick the Right Suite)

Insurance displacement, divorce, renovation chaos, or just needing a reset? Here's how guests in the middle of life's curveballs find the right extended-stay suite in Hershey, PA.

Your home isn't livable right now (insurance displacement)

A pipe bursts. A tree comes through the roof. A kitchen fire. A storm rips siding off and the adjuster says six to eight weeks. Suddenly you're looking for somewhere to live tonight, and the only options Google gives you are highway hotels and corporate extended-stay chains with fluorescent hallways. Insurance displacement is one of the most common reasons guests find us. Here's what matters when you're in this situation:

You need a kitchen. You're not on a business trip. You're living your regular life in a temporary place. Cooking dinner, packing lunches, making coffee at 6 AM. Every suite at Suites On Chocolate has a full kitchen: stove, oven, cookware, dishes. Not a microwave on a mini-fridge.

You need normalcy, not a lobby. Our suites sit on a quiet residential street in Hershey, less than 2 miles from downtown. No highway overpass. No vending machines down the hall. Just a neighborhood.

Your insurance may cover it. Many homeowner and renter policies include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage for temporary housing during displacement. We've worked with guests navigating insurance claims before and can provide the documentation your adjuster needs: itemized invoices, nightly rate breakdowns, and occupancy confirmation. Ask your adjuster about ALE coverage and what documentation they require, then reach out to us.

Best-fit suites for insurance displacement:

Solo or couple: any of our Lofted Suites (#3-#8), each around 500-700 sq ft with a full kitchen, living space, and bedroom loft.
Family: The Hershey House (#2) gives you 1,800 sq ft across 3 floors with 2 bedrooms, or The Annville Cottage (#10) offers 1,800+ sq ft with 2-3 bedrooms and full privacy.

You're going through a divorce or separation

This one doesn't get talked about much in the hospitality world, but it should. When a relationship ends and one person needs to leave the shared home, the options are bleak: crash with a friend (awkward after week two), sign a lease under emotional duress (bad decisions made fast), or live in a hotel room that makes you feel worse.

What you actually need is stability without commitment. A place that feels like a home, not a holding cell. Somewhere you can close the door, cook a meal, sit on a couch, and process what just happened without a checkout date breathing down your neck.

Our suites are built for exactly this kind of in-between. Fully furnished, flexible terms (15+ nights, no long-term lease), and a setting that doesn't remind you of a business trip every time you walk in the door.

Best-fit suites for separation or divorce:

The Studio (#9) is compact and affordable at roughly 300 sq ft, ideal if it's just you and you want to keep costs low during an expensive time.
The School (#3) or The Theatre (#5) are character-filled lofts with more space if you want room to breathe.
If you have kids part-time, The Hershey House (#2) gives you the extra bedrooms and living space.

Your renovation turned into a nightmare

The contractor said four weeks. It's been ten. The kitchen is gutted. There's plastic sheeting where your bathroom used to be. You've been eating takeout for a month and sleeping with drywall dust in your lungs.

Living through a renovation is one of those things that sounds manageable until you're actually doing it. At some point, most people hit a wall and realize they need to just leave the house and come back when it's done.

That's what our suites are for. Full kitchen so you stop hemorrhaging money on takeout. Washer and dryer so you're not hauling laundry bags to a friend's house. A quiet place to sleep without contractors showing up at 7 AM on the other side of the wall.

And because our stays start at 15 nights with no long-term lease, you're not locked in if the contractor (miraculously) finishes early.

Best-fit suites for renovation displacement:

Couple: The Factory (#6) or The Club (#7), both lofted suites with full kitchens, Wi-Fi, and a workspace-friendly layout.
Family: The Hershey House (#2) or The Annville Cottage (#10) for the space and extra bedrooms.

You're between homes

You sold. The buyers closed. But your new place isn't ready yet. Maybe the closing got pushed back. Maybe the new build is three weeks behind schedule. Maybe you're waiting on an inspection resolution.

Whatever the reason, you're technically homeless for 3-6 weeks and nobody warned you how stressful that gap would be.

This is different from relocating for a new job (we wrote a whole guide for that). This is about the logistical gap that happens when two real estate timelines don't line up, and you need somewhere to put your family, your dog, and your sanity for a month.

Our suites handle this cleanly. Move in with a suitcase, cook your own meals, keep your routines, and move out when the new place is ready. No lease. No hotel points. Just a bridge.

Best-fit suites for the between-homes gap:

The Annville Cottage (#10) is the closest thing to living in a house: 1,800+ sq ft, 2-3 bedrooms, full privacy. If you're a family waiting on a home purchase, this is the one.
The Hershey House (#2) is similar in size with a different layout, 3 floors and a more in-town feel.
Solo or couple: any Lofted Suite (#3-#8) keeps it simple and affordable.

You're caring for a loved one nearby

Extended medical situations, rehab stays, elder care transitions. When someone you love is going through something at Penn State Hershey Medical Center or a care facility in the area, you need to be close. But "close" doesn't have to mean the hospital cafeteria and a hotel room with blackout curtains that don't work.

Our suites are about 4 miles from Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Close enough to be there in minutes. Far enough to actually decompress at the end of the day. A kitchen means you eat real food. A living space means you can sit somewhere that isn't a waiting room.

If you're here for weeks or months supporting a family member, the difference between a hotel room and a furnished suite isn't a luxury. It's a survival mechanism.

Best-fit suites for caregiving stays:

Solo caregiver: The Studio (#9) is the most affordable option for long stays.
Caregiver + family: The Hershey House (#2) or The Annville Cottage (#10) let multiple family members rotate in and out without stepping on each other.
The Zoo (#8) is worth a look if you have younger kids with you. Playful décor, full kitchen, and enough space to keep them comfortable during a hard time.

FAQ

Can insurance cover an extended stay at Suites On Chocolate?

In many cases, yes. Homeowner and renter policies often include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage for temporary housing during displacement events like fire, flood, or storm damage. We can provide itemized invoices and occupancy documentation for your adjuster. Check your policy or ask your insurance company about ALE coverage before booking.

What's included that a hotel wouldn't have?

Full kitchen (stove, oven, cookware, dishes), washer/dryer access, a living space that isn't your bed, a residential neighborhood setting, and flexible stays of 15+ nights. The difference becomes obvious around day five.

Which suite works best for families in transition?

The Hershey House (#2) is our largest in-town option at 1,800 sq ft with 2 bedrooms across 3 floors. The Annville Cottage (#10) is similar in size with more privacy, just outside Hershey. Both sleep 4-6 comfortably.

How long can I stay?

Minimum stay is 15 nights. Maximum depends on availability. We've had guests stay 30, 60, 90+ days. No long-term lease required.

Is a suite better than a short-term rental during a life change?

For stays under 90 days, usually yes. Short-term rentals often require you to bring your own linens, supplies, and figure out utilities. Our suites are fully furnished and ready on day one. You show up with a suitcase. Everything else is here.

Day Trips From Hershey: The Best Surrounding Areas to Explore During a Longer Stay

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 23:36:16 GMT

Day Trips From Hershey

The Best Surrounding Areas to Explore

One of the underrated perks of staying 15+ nights in Hershey is what's around it. Within an hour's drive, you've got Civil War history, Amish country, underground caverns, river trails, and a state capital with a legit food scene. Here are the best day trips to build into a longer stay, no matter why you're here.

Why Day Trips Work Better on a Longer Stay

When you're only in town for a weekend, you spend all your time in Hershey itself. When you're here for 15, 30, or 45+ nights? You have weekdays with nothing scheduled. Rest days between work. Open Saturdays where you want to do something but not something big.

That's when day trips hit different. You don't have to rush back. You don't have to optimize every hour. You just pick a direction, drive 20-60 minutes, spend a half day somewhere new, and come home to your own kitchen for dinner.

Hershey sits in the middle of central Pennsylvania's best destinations. Everything listed below is under an hour away.

Lancaster County and Amish Country

Who it's great for: Families, couples, anyone who wants a slower-paced day out. Remote workers looking for a change of scenery on a free weekday.

Drive time: ~40 minutes from Hershey.

Kitchen Kettle Village (Intercourse, PA) — A walkable village of 40+ shops, local food, and PA Dutch culture. Not touristy-tacky; genuinely charming. Great for a slow morning of browsing and eating.

Buggy rides and farm tours — Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides in Strasburg is one of the best-reviewed. You ride through working Amish farmland. It's quiet, scenic, and surprisingly grounding.

Strasburg Railroad — A real steam train through Lancaster farmland. Great with kids, but honestly enjoyable for anyone.

Covered bridges — Lancaster County has 29 historic covered bridges. Pick up a driving map and hit 4-5 in an afternoon on back roads through rolling farmland.

PA Dutch food — Shoofly pie, chicken pot pie, family-style smorgasbords. Hershey Farm Smorgasbord in Strasburg and Good 'N Plenty in Smoketown are the classics.

Gettysburg

Who it's great for: History people (obviously), but also anyone who wants a full-day outing with a mix of walking, driving, and eating. Great solo day trip.

Drive time: ~1 hour from Hershey.

Gettysburg National Military Park — The battlefield itself. You can drive the auto tour (free), hire a licensed guide, or walk the key sites. Plan 2-4 hours depending on depth.

Gettysburg Heritage Center — Self-guided interactive museum with an award-winning animated map of the battle. Good starting point before the battlefield.

Downtown Gettysburg — Walkable streets with independent restaurants, coffee shops, and bookstores. Presidents Coffee and Ragged Edge are local favorites for a morning start.

Eisenhower National Historic Site — The Eisenhower farm, adjacent to the battlefield. Shuttle from the visitor center.

Seminary Ridge Museum — Inside the building used as a Confederate field hospital. Intense and well-done.

Harrisburg

Who it's great for: Everyone. Quick, easy, and you can make it as short as a coffee run or as long as a full day. Great for a weekday break.

Drive time: ~20 minutes from Hershey.

Pennsylvania State Capitol — Free guided tours. Teddy Roosevelt called it "the handsomest building I ever saw." It lives up to it.

Riverfront Park and City Island — Walk or bike along the Susquehanna River. City Island has a minor-league ballpark, walking trails, and river views.

National Civil War Museum — Different from Gettysburg's focus. This covers the full war, both sides, with extensive artifacts. Worth 2-3 hours.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania — Natural history, art, archaeology, and a planetarium. Free admission.

Restaurant Row (2nd Street) — Harrisburg's food scene has grown significantly. Midtown is walkable with good coffee, lunch spots, and dinner options.

Broad Street Market — One of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the U.S. Local produce, prepared food, and Amish baked goods.

Indian Echo Caverns

Who it's great for: Families with kids especially, but also anyone who wants a low-effort half-day trip that's genuinely interesting. Good for a cooler day when you want something "indoors."

Drive time: ~15 minutes from Hershey. Open daily 9am–6pm.

Guided cave tour — 72 steps underground into 52-degree limestone caverns with rock formations and underground pools. Tours run about an hour, no reservation needed.

Above ground — Petting zoo (goats, peacocks), gem panning for kids, picnic grounds, and a gift shop.

Fall Festival and Old Fashioned Day (October) — Arts, crafts, food vendors, horse-drawn wagon rides, corn cannon, and pumpkin patch.

Gifford Pinchot State Park

Who it's great for: Anyone who needs a nature reset. Solo runners/walkers, couples looking for a quiet morning, families who want their kids off screens for a day.

Drive time: ~30 minutes from Hershey.

Hike the lakeshore trail — Flat, scenic, and peaceful. Multiple trail lengths available.

Paddle the lake — Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Boat rentals available on-site.

Fish — The lake is stocked. Bring gear or just watch from shore.

Picnic — Shaded areas, grills, and lake views. Pack a lunch from home (this is why having a kitchen matters).

White Cliffs of Conoy

Who it's great for: Solo explorers, couples, anyone who wants a "wow" nature moment without a strenuous hike. Great for photographers.

Drive time: ~45 minutes from Hershey.

Hike the riverside trail from Koser Park (Bainbridge) — Flat, easy walk along the river to the cliffs. Not strenuous. The payoff is the view.

Photography / quiet time — This isn't a tourist spot. It's a hidden gem that most people in the area don't even know about. Minimal crowds even on weekends.

Kings Gap Environmental Education Center

Who it's great for: Hikers, nature lovers, anyone who wants elevation and views without driving to the mountains. Great fall day trip.

Drive time: ~45 minutes from Hershey.

Hike to the mansion — Multiple trails of varying difficulty through forest to a ridge-top clearing with panoramic views of the Cumberland Valley.

Explore the grounds — Gardens, educational exhibits, and quiet forest paths.

Fall foliage — This is one of the best spots for autumn color in the region, especially in mid-to-late October.

Swatara Creek and Local Waterways

Who it's great for: Anyone who wants low-key outdoor time without making a "thing" of it. Morning paddle, home by lunch.

Drive time: 5-20 minutes depending on the spot.

Kayak or paddleboard Swatara Creek — A gentle, no-whitewater creek just minutes from Hershey. Scenic, quiet, and home to 40+ documented bird species.

Wildwood Park (Harrisburg, 20 min) — A 3.1-mile loop trail around a lake. Flat, easy, and gorgeous in fall. Great for birding.

How to Plan Day Trips During a Longer Stay

The beauty of a 15-45+ night stay is you don't have to plan all of this in advance. You wake up on a Tuesday, check the weather, and pick something. Here's a loose rhythm that works:

Week 1: Settle in. Get groceries, find your coffee spot, figure out your routine. Maybe one easy day trip (Harrisburg or Indian Echo Caverns).

Week 2: Go farther. Lancaster one day, Gettysburg another. Space them out.

Week 3+: Fill in the gaps. Gifford Pinchot for a quiet morning. White Cliffs of Conoy on a sunny afternoon. The Fall Foliage Express train if you're here in October.

The point: you have time. You're not cramming. That's the whole advantage.

FAQ

What are the best day trips from Hershey, PA?

Lancaster County / Amish Country (~40 min), Gettysburg (~1 hr), Harrisburg (~20 min), Indian Echo Caverns (~15 min), Gifford Pinchot State Park (~30 min), White Cliffs of Conoy (~45 min), and Kings Gap (~45 min). All are under an hour from Hershey.

Can I do day trips during a work trip or extended stay?

Absolutely. Most of these are half-day trips. If you're working remotely, close the laptop at 3pm and you can be at Indian Echo Caverns in 15 minutes or Harrisburg's Broad Street Market in 20. Weekdays are less crowded, too.

Are these family-friendly?

All of them. Lancaster (buggy rides, train, farms), Indian Echo Caverns (cave + petting zoo), and Gifford Pinchot (lake, paddling) are especially great with kids. Gettysburg works for older kids interested in history.

What about couples or solo travelers?

Gettysburg, White Cliffs of Conoy, Kings Gap, and downtown Harrisburg are all excellent for solo or couples trips. Low-key, scenic, and don't require a group.

Do I need a car?

Yes, for all of these. But driving in central PA is easy: minimal traffic, scenic back roads, and nothing takes more than an hour.

Where should I stay to make day trips easy?

Somewhere central and comfortable enough to come home to after a full day. Suites on Chocolate sits in a quiet residential neighborhood in Hershey with a full kitchen (so you can cook dinner after a day out instead of scrambling for a restaurant), laundry, and a home-base feel. 15-night minimum means your neighbors are fellow longer-stay guests, not weekend tourists.

Suites on Chocolate · 9 furnished suites · 15-night minimum · Quiet residential neighborhood in Hershey, PA · ~4 miles from Hersheypark · Full kitchens · Year-round rates · suitesonchocolate.com

Fall in Hershey: Our Favorite Things to Do, See, and Experience During a Stay

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 17:58:28 GMT

Fall in Hershey: Our Favorite Things to Do, See, and Experience During a Stay

Whether you're here for work, waiting on a home, or choosing a slower pace of travel, fall is the best season to be in Hershey for more than a few days. Here's what's happening, how to pace it, and why a furnished suite makes more sense than a hotel when you're staying two weeks or longer.

What Makes Fall in Hershey Different When You're Staying Longer

Short-trip visitors try to cram everything into a weekend. You don't have to.

Fall in Hershey runs from mid-September through late October, and the town shifts in a way that rewards people who are already settled in. The tourist crowds thin on weekdays. The foliage builds slowly — peaking around the third or fourth week of October. Events are spread across weeks, not stacked into one weekend.

When you're here for 15, 30, or 45+ nights, you get to actually experience the season instead of rushing through it. You have time for the big-ticket events and the low-key Tuesday afternoon at Hershey Gardens when nobody else is there.

That changes everything about how fall here feels.

The Fall Calendar: Events Worth Planning Around

Here are some of our favorite upcoming "happenings" in Hershey and the surrounding area this fall:

September

Hersheypark Halloween opens (Sept 12) — Rides in the dark, Treatville trick-or-treating for kids, and the Dark Nights haunt experience with 5 haunted houses and 5 scare zones. Runs weekends through October.
Bonsai Exhibit at Hershey Gardens (Sept 23 – Oct 10) — A quiet weekday visit here is one of the best-kept-secret experiences in town.
20th Annual Soup Cook-Off (Sept 26) — Local restaurants competing at Chocolate Town Square. Free to attend, 11am–2pm. Very community-feel.

October

Choctoberfest (Oct 10) — Live music, local craft beer, food from downtown restaurants, and chocolate. Free, family-friendly, held right on Chocolate Avenue. 11am–6pm.
Pumpkin Palooza at Hershey Gardens (Oct 17, 18, 24, 25) — Included with admission. Great for kids, great for a slow morning if you're solo.
Middletown & Hummelstown Fall Foliage Express — A scenic train ride through peak foliage, about 15 minutes from Hershey. Half-day excursion, no planning required. (Check their site for 2026 fall dates as they're announced seasonally.)
Hershey Bears hockey home opener (Oct 3 vs. Charlotte, 6pm) — The Bears open with 7 straight home games at GIANT Center through Oct 24. Weeknight tickets are easy to get.

All Season

Peak foliage: third and fourth week of October. Best spots nearby: Hershey Gardens , Wildwood Park in Harrisburg (3.1-mile loop trail around a lake), and any drive through the surrounding farmland.
Downtown Chocolate Avenue — New restaurants opening, local coffee shops switching to fall menus, walkable from most of Hershey's residential neighborhoods.

Weekdays vs. Weekends: How to Pace a Longer Stay

Weekdays (your secret weapon):

Hershey Gardens with almost no one there
Chocolate World tours with no line
Coffee and work sessions at local shops downtown
Grocery runs, laundry, and the normal rhythms of life that make a longer stay feel like home

Weekends (when it's worth joining the crowd):

Hersheypark Halloween (Friday–Sunday operation)
Choctoberfest, Soup Cook-Off, and other one-day events
Bears games at GIANT Center
Brunch spots downtown before they fill up

The key: you don't have to pick. You get both. That's the difference between visiting Hershey and living in Hershey for a few weeks.

Rest Days: What to Do When You're Not "Doing" Anything

Outdoors:

Walk or bike at Wildwood Park (Harrisburg, 20 min away) — flat trails, lake views, fall color everywhere
Swatara Creek for kayaking or paddling while it's still warm enough in September
Hershey Gardens on a weekday morning — bench, coffee, leaves changing

Indoors / cozy:

The Hershey Story museum downtown (chocolate history + tasting)
A work-from-suite day with the windows open and fall air coming in
Cook a real dinner with farmers market produce. There's something about making a meal in "your" kitchen that makes a temporary stay feel grounded

For remote workers: A furnished suite with fast Wi-Fi and a dedicated workspace means your workday looks the same as it does at home. Then you close the laptop and you're in Hershey.

FAQ

What should I do in Hershey in the fall?

Hersheypark Halloween (Sept–Oct weekends), Choctoberfest (Oct 10), Pumpkin Palooza at Hershey Gardens, the Soup Cook-Off (Sept 26), fall foliage drives and hikes, Hershey Bears hockey , and the Middletown & Hummelstown Fall Foliage Express train. On quieter days: Chocolate World, The Hershey Story , local coffee shops, and Wildwood Park trails.

Is Hershey good for a 2-week trip in the fall?

It's ideal. Events are spread across weeks (not crammed into one weekend), foliage builds gradually through October, and the weekday-vs-weekend rhythm gives you a mix of activity and rest. Two weeks lets you experience the season instead of rushing through it.

Where should I stay for an extended visit in Hershey?

Look for a furnished suite with a kitchen, laundry, and a quiet location. Suites on Chocolate offers everything you need for extended stays.

Is it family-friendly?

Very. Hersheypark Halloween has dedicated kids' trick-or-treating (Treatville), Hershey Gardens has Pumpkin Palooza, and the neighborhood around Suites on Chocolate is quiet and residential. Larger suites (like The Hershey House: 1,800 sq ft) sleep up to 6.

Is it good for couples or solo travelers?

Absolutely. Our lofted suites are perfect for one or two people who want privacy, a full kitchen, and a home base. Fall is especially good for this: fewer crowds, beautiful weather, and plenty of low-key experiences that don't require a group.

Is it good for remote work?

Yes. Every suite has Wi-Fi, and the lofted layouts give you separation between workspace and living space. Weekday mornings in Hershey are quiet. You work, you close the laptop, and you're 5 minutes from downtown or 4 miles from the park.

You Accepted the Job. You Need a Place to Live. A Relocation Housing Guide for the Hershey-Harrisburg Corridor

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 18:11:48 GMT

You Accepted the Job. You Haven't Found the House. A Relocation Housing Guide for the Hershey-Harrisburg Corridor

Congrats! You're excited about the new role. Whether it's Penn State Health, The Hershey Company, Hershey Entertainment, a state position in Harrisburg, the logistics hit fast: you need somewhere to live in a region you've maybe visited once, and your start date is approaching.

Most people do one of two things. They panic-sign a 12-month lease sight-unseen based on Google Maps and apartment photos. Or they book a hotel and spend six weeks eating microwave meals and pretending a king bed is a home.

Neither works. There's a better playbook.

Why most relocations need a two-stage plan

The smartest relocators treat the move in two phases:

Stage 1 : Land somewhere comfortable (15-60+ nights). A furnished, functional space where you can cook, sleep well, and explore the area on your own timeline. Not permanent, just stable enough to think clearly.

Stage 2 : Commit to a long-term home. After you've driven the commute, walked the neighborhoods, and learned which grocery store you like, you make a housing decision you'll actually be happy with in six months.

Trying to collapse both stages into one decision from 500 miles away is how people end up hating their apartment by month three.

Stage 1: The furnished landing pad

What to look for in transitional housing during a relocation:

A real kitchen. You're not on vacation. You need to cook Tuesday night dinner, make coffee at 6 AM, and pack lunch. Our Lofted Suites come with full kitchens: stove, oven, cookware, dishes. Not just a mini-fridge and a microwave.

A quiet setting . You're adjusting to a new job, possibly a new city, maybe you've got family with you. The last thing you need is a highway overpass outside your window. Our suites sit on a quiet residential street in Hershey, about 4 miles from Hersheypark.

Flexible terms . Most hotels want nightly rates. Most apartments want 12-month leases. The middle ground, 15+ night furnished stays with no long-term commitment, is exactly what relocation demands.

Proximity to major employers . The Hershey-Harrisburg corridor puts you within a reasonable commute of Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey Company headquarters, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, and downtown Harrisburg's government offices.

Stage 2: Finding your permanent home

Here's what happens when you live in the area for 30-60 days before signing a lease:

You learn that Hummelstown is quieter than you expected. You discover that the commute from Palmyra is shorter than Google said at rush hour. You realize you want to be closer to the trails, or the schools, or the restaurants on Chocolate Avenue.

These are things you cannot know from a Zillow search in another state. Living here first turns a blind guess into an informed choice.

The Paceline Properties advantage

Suites On Chocolate is part of Paceline Properties , owned and managed by the same local Hershey family. Paceline manages 92 long-term rentals across the Hershey-Harrisburg region.

That means:

Your temporary housing provider already knows what you're looking for in a permanent home.
One conversation transitions you from Stage 1 to Stage 2.
No gap, no scramble, no starting over with a property manager who's never met you.

Most extended-stay providers wave goodbye and leave you on your own when your booking ends. We hand you options.

The Hershey-Harrisburg corridor: what newcomers need to know

Key neighborhood s: Hershey, Hummelstown, Palmyra, Annville, Elizabethtown, Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, and downtown Harrisburg all offer different vibes, commute times, and price points.

Commutes : The corridor is compact. Most drives between major employers and residential areas are 15-30 minutes.

Cost of living : Significantly lower than Philadelphia, DC, or NYC metros, which is partly why employers here attract relocation candidates from those areas.

Family consideration s: Strong school districts in Derry Township (Hershey), Lower Dauphin (Hummelstown), and Palmyra. Proximity to Hersheypark, state parks, and outdoor recreation.

How to book and what to expect

Stays start at 15 nights. You'll get a fully furnished suite with a kitchen, linens, Wi-Fi, and a comfortable home base while you sort out the rest of your relocation.

Browse available suites and dates at suitesonchocolate.com . Have questions about timing or availability? Reach out directly, we respond fast and we've helped dozens of relocators navigate this exact transition.

FAQ

Where should I live temporarily when relocating to Hershey or Harrisburg?

Look for furnished housing with a kitchen, flexible terms (15+ nights), and a residential setting. Hotels work for a weekend visit, not for 30-60 days of adjusting to a new life.

How long do most people need transitional housing during a relocation?

Typically 30-60 days. Some stay shorter (they already found a place and just need a bridge). Some stay longer (waiting on a home purchase to close). Flexibility matters more than a fixed timeline.

Is there month-to-month furnished housing near Hershey?

Yes. Suites On Chocolate offers stays starting at 15 nights with no long-term lease required. You stay as long as you need, then transition out on your own timeline.

What's the rental market like in the Hershey-Harrisburg area?

Competitive but more affordable than major East Coast metros. Having local knowledge (which neighborhoods, which landlords, which school districts) gives you a significant edge, which is exactly why living here temporarily first makes sense.

Can I transition from a furnished suite to a long-term rental with the same company?

Yes. Suites On Chocolate and Paceline Properties share the same family ownership. One conversation moves you from temporary housing to a long-term rental from a portfolio of 92 units in the region.

Your Hersheypark Trip Doesn't Have to Feel Like a Rollercoaster

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 18:52:08 GMT

Your Hersheypark Trip Doesn't Have To Feel Like A Rollercoaster

You're planning a multi-week family trip to Hershey. Maybe you're combining a Hersheypark pass with remote work, maybe the kids are in a local camp, maybe you just want to explore the Hershey PA area without cramming it into a frantic long weekend. Whatever the reason, spending 15+ nights in a hotel room with four people is a nightmare. Furnished suites in Hershey give you a full kitchen, separate living space, laundry, and room to actually live, not just sleep. Here's what that looks like and why families doing extended Hershey stays are ditching hotels entirely.

What a Furnished Suite Actually Gives You for an Extended Hershey Stay

Suites On Chocolate is a located in Hershey, PA, about 4 miles from Hersheypark. These aren't hotel rooms with a microwave. They're fully furnished homes designed for stays of 15 nights or longer.

Full kitchen (Lofted Suites). Stove, oven, cookware, dishes, and a small fridge. Everything you need to cook real meals. Breakfast before the park. Leftovers reheated at night. Groceries from the store down the road. That $750+ dinner budget over 15 nights? Cut it by 60-70%. (Note: The School suite has a kitchenette rather than a full kitchen, ideal for solo professionals or couples who eat simpler meals.)

Separate living space. A living room with a couch, TV, and room to spread out. After a full day, the kids can crash in one area while you decompress in another. Over 15+ nights, having separate spaces isn't a luxury. It's survival.

Laundry. On-site washer and dryer. For a multi-week trip, this changes everything. Pack half the suitcase. Wash the sunscreen-and-chocolate-covered clothes from day one and rewear them day three. Hotels make this impossible or expensive.

A real neighborhood. No hallway noise at midnight. No elevator crowds. No fighting for parking. You pull up to a quiet residential street, unload, and you're home for the next few weeks.

What Families Say After Extended Stays

"The suite was spotless, the kitchen had everything we needed to cook every day, and the neighborhood was relaxing. 5 minutes to the park but felt like our own little rental house. Perfect for an extended stay."

How to Book and What to Expect

Minimum stay: 15 nights. Suites On Chocolate is built for extended stays. This isn't a weekend crash pad. It's a home base for families, professionals, and anyone spending real time in Hershey.

Location: We in Hershey, PA, approximately 4 miles from Hersheypark (~7-10 minute drive). Quiet residential neighborhood.

Check-in: Self check-in with detailed instructions. No front desk, no lobby, no waiting in line after a long drive.

What's included: Fully furnished living space, full kitchen with stove/oven/cookware/dishes/small fridge, linens and towels, Wi-Fi, TV, washer/dryer access, free parking, climate control, and all the basics (dish soap, paper towels, toilet paper, etc.).

Booking: Visit suitesonchocolate.com , check availability for your dates, and book directly. No middleman. No hidden fees.

FAQs

How far is Suites On Chocolate from Hersheypark?

About 4 miles, a 7-10 minute drive. Close enough to pop back for a midday break, far enough to be in a quiet neighborhood where you can actually rest.

What's the minimum stay?

15 nights. Suites On Chocolate is designed for extended stays: relocations, long vacations, work assignments, family situations, and anyone spending real time in Hershey.

Is there parking?

Yes. Free, dedicated parking directly in front of every suite. No parking garage, no valet fee, no circling a lot.

Are the Suites family-friendly?

Absolutely. All of our Suites have separate sleeping areas, full kitchens, and living rooms. Bonus! Quiet residential setting where kids can decompress after big days.

What's included vs. what do I need to bring?

Everything you'd find in a furnished home is included: kitchen equipment (stove, oven, cookware, dishes, small fridge), linens, towels, laundry, basics. Bring your groceries, personal items, and your park tickets. That's it.

Is it cheaper than a hotel for a 15+ night family trip?

Significantly. The nightly rate is lower for extended stays, and having a kitchen saves most families $1,000-1,500+ in restaurant costs over 15 nights. You get more space for less money.

Do all suites have full kitchens?

Our lofted Suites (all except The School) have full kitchens with stove, oven, cookware, and dishes. Fridges are not full-size, so plan grocery runs accordingly. The School has a kitchenette, best suited for solo travelers or couples.

Ready to Make Your Hershey Trip Actually Feel Like a Vacation?

Check availability for your dates at suitesonchocolate.com . 15-night minimum. Full kitchen. Real space. A trip that doesn't leave you needing a vacation from your vacation.

Starting a Residency or Fellowship at Penn State Health / Hershey Medical Center? Housing Guide for New Medical Professionals

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:13:28 GMT

Starting a Residency or Fellowship at Penn State Health / Hershey Medical Center? Housing Guide for New Medical Professionals

You matched. You celebrated. Now you're staring at a map of central Pennsylvania trying to figure out where you're going to live for the next three to seven years.

If you're starting a residency, fellowship, or clinical rotation at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center — or beginning coursework at Penn State College of Medicine — this guide is for you. It covers what you need to know about housing in the Hershey area, what to prioritize when you're working 60-80 hour weeks, and how to set yourself up with a comfortable landing pad while you figure out the long-term plan.

You Matched at Penn State Health. Now What?

Match Day happens in March. Your program starts July 1. That gives you roughly three and a half months to find a place to live in an area you may have only visited once (for your interview) or never at all.

Here's the reality most incoming residents face:

You can't apartment-hunt remotely with confidence. Photos lie. Neighborhoods feel different in person. Commute times depend on shift schedules you haven't received yet. Signing a 12-month lease sight-unseen is a gamble.

You might not know your schedule until weeks before you start. Rotation sites, call schedules, and clinic days shift. Where you want to live depends on where you'll actually be spending your time — and that picture often doesn't clarify until late May or June.

You're probably moving from far away. Penn State Health draws residents nationally. Cross-country moves with a start date that doesn't flex mean you need housing locked down before you arrive, not after.

Your partner or family may be figuring out their own logistics. Jobs, schools, childcare — these take time to sort in a new area. Having a stable home base while everyone gets oriented makes the transition dramatically less stressful.

The result: most new residents need 30 to 90 days of transitional housing. A place to land, unpack, start working, and find your permanent home on your own timeline instead of under pressure.

Why 30-60+ Days of Transitional Housing Makes Sense

A hotel for a week won't cut it. Here's why incoming medical professionals typically need longer:

Apartment hunting takes time when you're already working. Once residency starts, your free hours shrink fast. You need evenings and rare days off to tour apartments, meet landlords, and compare neighborhoods. That process takes 3-6 weeks minimum when you're also adjusting to a new hospital system.

Lease timing rarely aligns with July 1. Most leases in the Hershey-Harrisburg area turn over on the 1st or 15th of a given month. If the right apartment isn't available until August or September, you need somewhere comfortable to bridge the gap.

You're making better decisions when you're not rushed. Choosing where to live for 3+ years deserves more than a panicked weekend of apartment tours. A furnished suite gives you the breathing room to explore neighborhoods, test commute routes during actual shift hours, and talk to co-residents about where they live.

Some residents discover they want to buy, not rent. That process takes even longer. Having a flexible home base means you can take your time with a real estate search without living out of a suitcase.

What to Look for in Temporary Housing Near Hershey Medical Center

Your needs as a medical professional are specific. Not every housing option accounts for them. Here's what actually matters:

A Full Kitchen (Non-Negotiable)

You're going to be exhausted. Eating out every meal is expensive and unsustainable on a resident's salary. A full kitchen — real stove, full-size fridge, cookware, counter space — means you can meal-prep on your day off and eat well all week without thinking about it. This alone saves $500-$1,500+ per month compared to restaurants and delivery.

Quiet for Irregular Hours

You'll be sleeping at odd times. Post-call days mean crashing at 8 AM. Night shifts mean sleeping through the afternoon. Hotel hallways, thin walls, and housekeeping knocks are brutal when your sleep schedule rotates weekly. You need a private, quiet space where nobody's schedule interferes with yours.

Proximity to the Medical Center

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center sits about 4 miles east of downtown Hershey — roughly a 10-minute drive. When you're commuting for a 5:30 AM pre-round or dragging home after a 14-hour shift, every minute counts. Being close enough to get home fast but far enough to mentally separate from the hospital is the sweet spot.

Space to Decompress

A 300-square-foot hotel room is fine for a conference. It's suffocating when it's your entire life for two months. You need room to spread out: a workspace for studying, a living area that isn't your bed, and enough square footage that your home doesn't feel like another call room.

Flexibility on Length of Stay

Most apartments require 12-month leases. Most hotels charge nightly rates that become absurd at 30+ days. What you want is something in between: furnished, flexible on duration (30, 45, 60+ nights), with rates that get better the longer you stay.

The Hershey Area: What to Know as a Newcomer

If you've never lived in central PA, here's the orientation nobody gives you during interview day:

The Geography

Hershey is a small town (population ~15,000) in Dauphin County. It's not a suburb of a big city — it IS the anchor of its own micro-region. Harrisburg (the state capital) is 15 minutes west. Lancaster is 35 minutes southeast. Philadelphia is about 90 minutes east.

The Commute

From downtown Hershey to the medical center: ~10 minutes by car via Chocolate Avenue or Route 322. There's no meaningful traffic. Parking at the hospital is available (though lot assignments vary by year). Some residents bike in good weather.

Neighborhoods to Know

Downtown Hershey (Chocolate Avenue corridor) : Walkable to restaurants, coffee shops, and daily errands. ~10 min to the hospital. This is where most of Hershey's social life happens.

Hummelstown : The next town west, 5-10 minutes from the medical center. Quieter, slightly more affordable, good for families.

Palmyra / Annville : East of Hershey, 15-20 minutes to the hospital. More rural, more space, lower cost of living. Good if you want a yard and don't mind the drive.

Harrisburg (Midtown / Downtown) : 15-20 minutes to the hospital. More urban, more nightlife and restaurants, more apartment options. Popular with residents who want a city feel.

Daily Life

Groceries : Giant Food (closest to downtown Hershey), Hershey Fresh Market (walkable from Chocolate Ave), Pronio's Market (quick stops and deli).

Coffee : Lisa's Cafe on Chocolate is the local go-to. Good Wi-Fi, relaxed, porch seating.

Food : The Hershey Pantry (breakfast institution), Tröegs Independent Brewing (nationally recognized craft brewery with a full restaurant), Fenicci's (Italian, been around since 1935).

Fitness : Shank Park trail network for running/biking, Studio Sol for yoga/Pilates, Adventure Sports for blowing off steam.

Unwinding : The Vineyard at Hershey (wine + live music), Book Bar (bookshop + wine bar), Hershey Theatre for shows.

Cost of Living

Central PA is significantly cheaper than most metro areas where medical schools are located. Expect:

1BR apartments: $1,000-$1,500/month
2BR apartments: $1,400-$2,000/month
Groceries, gas, dining: noticeably below national average
No local income tax beyond PA state (3.07% flat rate)

How to Make a Furnished Suite Work as Your Landing Pad

Here's how to use transitional housing effectively during your first weeks:

Before You Arrive

Ship ahead . If your suite has a mailing address, send boxes before you drive in. Arrive to an unpacked space, not a car full of stuff.
Stock the kitchen remotely . Services like Sweet Convenience Co deliver snacks and essentials directly to your suite in Hershey. Arrive to a stocked fridge without needing to hit the grocery store after a long drive.
Get your schedule. Even a rough draft helps you understand which neighborhoods make sense for your commute pattern.

Week 1: Settle and Orient

Unpack fully. Hang things up. Put food in the fridge. Make it feel like home, not a hotel.
Drive your commute to the hospital during the hours you'll actually be doing it. Test the route at 5 AM, not 2 PM.
Find your coffee spot, your grocery store, your go-to takeout place. Small routines stabilize everything.

Weeks 2-4: Start Apartment Hunting (Without Pressure)

Ask co-residents where they live and what they like about it. Insider recommendations beat Zillow listings.
Tour apartments on your days off. You'll have a much better sense of what you want after living in the area for two weeks.
Pay attention to which neighborhoods you naturally gravitate toward on your free time.

Weeks 4-8: Lock Down Your Long-Term Plan

Sign a lease (or make an offer on a house) from a position of knowledge, not desperation.
You've tested commute times, found your favorite spots, and know what matters to you. That's worth the cost of two months of transitional housing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should new residents live near Penn State Hershey Medical Center?

Most residents live in downtown Hershey (walkable, social, 10 min to hospital), Hummelstown (quiet, affordable, 5-10 min), or Harrisburg Midtown (urban, more nightlife, 15-20 min). The right choice depends on your lifestyle, whether you have a family, and how much you value short commute vs. city amenities. Spending your first month or two in furnished housing near the hospital gives you time to figure this out without pressure.

How far is downtown Hershey from the medical center?

About 4 miles, roughly a 10-minute drive via Chocolate Avenue or Route 322. There's almost no traffic. Some residents bike during warmer months.

Is there short-term furnished housing near Hershey Medical Center?

Yes. Suites on Chocolate is a fully furnished extended-stay property on East Chocolate Avenue in downtown Hershey, about 4 miles from the medical center. Every suite has a full kitchen, Wi-Fi, dedicated workspace, and on-site laundry. The 15-night minimum and tiered monthly pricing make it a practical landing pad for incoming residents and fellows who need 30-90 days while finding permanent housing.

What's the best housing setup for residents working irregular hours?

Prioritize quiet (no shared hallways, no hotel-style traffic), blackout capability for daytime sleep, a full kitchen for meal prep on days off, and proximity to the hospital so post-call commutes are short. A private furnished suite beats a hotel or sublet for all four.

Can I bring a pet during my residency transition period?

Small pets are considered in select suites at Suites on Chocolate. Ask when booking and our team will match you to a pet-friendly option if available.

What's the typical resident salary at Penn State Health?

PGY-1 salaries at Penn State Health are in the $60,000-$65,000 range (varies by year and program). Cost of living in central PA stretches that further than it would in most metro areas. A full kitchen during your transitional period saves $500-$1,500/month on food alone.

When should I start looking for permanent housing?

Most incoming residents start searching seriously in May-June (before their July 1 start) or during their first few weeks of orientation. Having a furnished suite as your base means you can take your time and make a good decision rather than panic-signing a lease sight-unseen from across the country.

Ready to Land Comfortably?

Suites on Chocolate is on East Chocolate Avenue in Hershey: 9 fully furnished suites ranging from studios to a 3-floor house. Every suite has a full kitchen, free parking, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a quiet, residential setting 4 miles from Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Rates are tiered by length of stay — the longer you're here, the less you pay per night.

Whether you need 30 days to find an apartment or 90 days while you close on a house, you'll have a real home base from day one of residency.

Check availability: suitesonchocolate.com

Call: (717) 533-6178

Email: team@suitesonchocolate.com

Suites on Chocolate · 1428 E. Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033 · Family-owned, 20+ years in Hershey · 4.7★ on Google

15-30+ Day Summer Stay in Hershey, PA: What to Do, Where to Eat, and How to Make an Extended Visit Feel Easy

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:26:21 GMT

Summer Stay in Hershey, PA: What to Do, Where to Eat, and How to Make an Extended Visit Feel Easy

Planning a multi-week trip to Hershey? This isn't a weekend warrior guide. It's a real itinerary for people staying 15 days to a month or longer: families settling in for the summer, remote workers looking for a change of pace, medical visitors near Penn State Health, or anyone who wants more than a theme park weekend. Here's how to fill weeks without burning out or running out of ideas.

Why a 15-30+ Day Stay in Hershey Is Different Than a Weekend

A weekend in Hershey is about hitting the highlights: Hersheypark, Chocolate World, one nice dinner. A 15-30+ day stay is about building a temporary life.

That distinction matters because it changes what you need. You're not looking for the best Saturday itinerary. You're looking for the grocery store that won't stress you out on a Tuesday. The coffee shop where you can work for three hours without guilt. The rhythm that lets you enjoy attractions and have quiet mornings.

Hershey is unusually well-suited for this. The town is compact, walkable along Chocolate Avenue, and packed with enough variety that a full month won't feel repetitive. It sits at the intersection of small-town calm and big-destination infrastructure: a world-class amusement park, a major medical center (Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, 4 miles from downtown), concert venues pulling national acts, and a restaurant scene that punches above its population.

The key is pacing. Treat Week 1 as settling in. Treat Week 2 as exploring. By Weeks 3 and 4, you're not a tourist anymore. You're a local with a departure date. Build in rest days. Cook most of your meals. You'll leave feeling like you lived here, not like you survived a vacation.

Week 1: Settle In, Find Your Essentials, Build a Routine

The first few days of any extended stay set the tone. Rush them and the whole trip feels frantic. Take your time.

Days 1–2: Arrive and Get Adjusted

Unpack fully. If you're in a furnished suite with a kitchen, put groceries away, set up your workspace, hang things up. This isn't a hotel where you live out of a suitcase.

First grocery run: Giant Food on Fishburn Road is the closest full-service grocery to downtown Hershey. For organic and specialty items, Hershey Fresh Market on Chocolate Avenue is walkable. And for grab-and-go snacks, deli items, and local products without a big-box trip, Pronio's Market is a neighborhood staple worth knowing about early.

Pro tip for suite guests: Sweet Convenience Co offers snack and essentials deliveries straight to your suite door, so you can stock up without leaving the couch after a travel day.

Coffee anchor: Find your morning spot early. Cocoa Beanery on Chocolate Avenue is the local favorite: good Wi-Fi, relaxed vibe, wraparound porch. If you want something quieter, Perking Point has fast internet and less foot traffic.

Days 3–5: Easy Routines + Low-Key Exploration

Morning routine: Coffee, walk along Chocolate Avenue, work or read. Don't schedule attractions yet.

Hershey Gardens: 23 acres of themed gardens. Not a full-day commitment. Go in the morning before it gets hot. Great for families with young kids (the Children's Garden and Butterfly Atrium are standouts).

The Hershey Story Museum: Interactive chocolate history, tasting experiences. Best on a weekday when crowds are thin. Budget 2 hours.

Breakfast or brunch: The Hershey Pantry is a local institution for morning meals. Expect a line on weekends (it's that good), so go on a weekday during your stay. Homestyle breakfasts, baked goods, and a menu that locals swear by.

First dinner out: Chocolate Avenue Grill is walkable from most of downtown, casual but elevated. Known for crab cakes and their patio.

Quick comfort food: Stuff'D Steaks & Hoagies is the move when you want a legit Philly-style cheesesteak or loaded hoagie without sitting down for a full restaurant meal. Perfect post-park fuel.

Set up your workspace (remote workers): most furnished suites have dedicated desk areas and strong Wi-Fi. If you want a change of scenery, Lisa's Cafe works well. For a quieter vibe, Book Bar combines a curated bookshop with a coffee and wine bar. Work with a drink and browse the shelves on your break.

Days 5–7: Find Your Favorites

Market on Chocolate: If you're here on a Saturday, the downtown farmers market has local vendors, live music, fresh produce, and baked goods. Great way to discover what's in season.

Tröegs Independent Brewing: Hershey's craft brewery, nationally recognized. Tasting room, full restaurant, tours. Go for lunch on a weekday.

Shank Park: Locals' walking and biking trail network. Quiet, shaded, and a good way to stay active without needing a gym.

Adventure Sports Hershey: For something more active, Adventure Sports offers go-karts, mini golf, batting cages, and laser tag. Great for families who need a high-energy afternoon that isn't Hersheypark.

Desserts Etc: When the sweet tooth hits (and it will, you're in Hershey), Desserts Etc is a local bakery doing custom cakes, pastries, and treats that go beyond the chocolate factory stuff. Grab something for the suite.

Stock the kitchen: By now you know what you like. Cook simple meals 4–5 nights a week. A full kitchen is the single biggest advantage of an extended stay over a hotel. Pronio's Market is great for quick restocks. And if you don't feel like going out at all, Sweet Convenience Co will deliver snacks and essentials to your door.

Week 2: Attractions, Local Gems, and Rest Days

You're settled. Now explore without the pressure of trying to cram all of your activities into a few days.

Days 8–10: The Big Attractions

Hersheypark (full day): The park is open daily through early September for its 120th summer season. 70+ rides including 15 coasters, The Boardwalk water park, and ZooAmerica (an 11-acre North American wildlife park accessible from inside the park). For 2026, they're running special America's 250th anniversary activations. Go on a weekday if possible. Arrive at opening, break midday when it's hottest, return for evening rides.

Chocolate World (half day): Free chocolate tour ride, plus paid experiences like the Chocolate Tasting Adventure and Create Your Own Candy Bar. Separate from Hersheypark, no park admission required.

ZooAmerica (standalone visit): If you didn't cover it inside Hersheypark, you can visit separately. Especially good for families with younger kids who aren't ready for roller coasters.

Days 10–12: Local Gems + Culture

The Vineyard at Hershey: Award-winning local wines, outdoor concert series, slushie wine cocktails. Great for an afternoon or evening.

The Hershey Theatre: One of the most beautiful historic theatres in the country (opened 1933, Italian Renaissance design). Check their schedule for Broadway tours, concerts, comedy, and live performances. If a show lines up with your dates, grab tickets.

Hershey Foundation events: The Hershey Foundation supports cultural programming, community events, and educational activities throughout the area. Check their calendar for anything happening during your stay.

Downtown boutique loop: The Shoppe On Chocolate (home décor, gifts, and locally curated finds), Knock Knock Boutique (women's fashion, locally owned), Three Little Birds. All walkable.

Fenicci's of Hershey: A Hershey institution since 1935. Old-school Italian, family-run. The spaghetti pizza is their signature.

Devon Seafood + Steak: Rotating menu with fresh seafood flown in daily. Best for a business dinner, date night, or celebration.

Iron Hill Brewery: Good for families or groups. Wide menu, house-brewed beers, polished but unpretentious.

Days 12–14: Rest Days

Don't skip this. Multiple weeks without downtime leads to vacation fatigue.

Cook breakfast. Read on the porch. Do laundry. Order a snack delivery from Sweet Convenience Co and don't leave the suite.

Studio Sol Yoga and Pilates: Downtown hot yoga, gentle flows, Pilates, and meditation classes. Walk-in friendly. Great way to reset mid-trip.

Brownstone Station Wellness Center: For something beyond yoga, Brownstone Station offers massage, wellness treatments, and recovery services. If weeks of walking theme parks and downtown has your body feeling it, this is where you go.

Melt Spa or The Spa at Hotel Hershey: If you want the iconic chocolate spa experience (cocoa body wraps, milk and honey facials), book ahead at Hotel Hershey.

Book Bar: Grab a glass of wine or a coffee, browse the shelves, and decompress. It's a bookshop and bar in one, and it's the kind of place where you lose an hour without realizing it.

Weeks 3–4+: Deeper Local Life, Repeat Favorites, and Day Trips

This is where a 15-30+ day stay separates itself from a two-week trip. By Week 3, you know your spots. You have a morning routine. The barista at Cocoa Beanery recognizes you. Now you go deeper.

Days 21–30+: Final Stretch

Hersheypark Stadium concerts: In summer 2026, 13 shows are scheduled at the stadium (now presented by Penn State Health). With a 30+ day stay, you'll likely overlap with at least one. Check the lineup.

Giant Center events: Indoor arena hosting everything from hockey to touring shows year-round.

The Circular at Hotel Hershey: Save your one truly special dinner for the final week. Fine dining with sweeping views, seasonal menu, cocktail attire. Reservations required.

Day Trips Within an Hour

Hershey's central PA location makes it an ideal base for day trips once you've covered the town itself.

Harrisburg (15 min): State capital, riverfront walking trails, Broad Street Market (oldest continuously operating market in the US), restaurant row on Second Street, National Civil War Museum.

Lancaster County (35 min): Amish country, farmland tours, Central Market (another legendary market), Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse for roadside stands and handmade goods.

Gettysburg (45 min): Civil War battlefield, downtown shops and restaurants, historic walking tours. Full-day trip.

Lititz (40 min): Named one of America's coolest small towns. Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, Lititz Springs Park, boutique shopping on Main Street.

Middletown/Harrisburg International Airport area (10 min): If you need to pick someone up from the airport or want access to the Susquehanna River trails.

Settle Into a Rhythm

You're not sightseeing anymore. You're living here temporarily, and that's the point.

Weekday routine: Morning coffee at your regular spot, work or errands, afternoon walk at Shank Park, cook dinner. Dining out becomes a 2–3 times per week treat, not a nightly obligation.

Repeat your favorites: Go back to Tröegs for a weekday lunch. Hit the farmers market again. Revisit Hershey Gardens now that you know which sections you love. Familiarity isn't boring on a long stay. It's comforting.

Try what you skipped: There's always something from Week 1–2 you meant to do. The Hershey Pantry on a Tuesday when there's no line. A second Hersheypark visit (evening rides hit different the second time). A longer session at Book Bar.

Longer Stay Advantages

Weekly farmers market becomes routine: You learn what vendors carry what, buy directly from local farms, and start planning meals around what's in season.

Fitness rhythm: Shank Park for walks, Studio Sol for yoga/Pilates, Adventure Sports for active days with kids. You have time to build a real exercise routine, not squeeze in one gym session.

Community events: The longer you're here, the more likely you catch something seasonal: Hershey Foundation programming, Vineyard concert series, Hersheypark special events, farmers market live music.

Cooking confidence: By Week 3, you know your kitchen, you know the grocery options, and you're cooking real meals. The savings compound: $500–$1,000+ saved per person over a 30-day stay compared to dining out every meal.

Relationships: At 3–4 weeks, you start recognizing people. The staff at your coffee shop. Neighbors at The Suites. This is the intangible value of a long stay that no weekend trip can replicate.

Planning Tips: Transportation, Weather, Downtime, and Cooking

Getting Around

Hershey's core is walkable along Chocolate Avenue. Most restaurants, shops, and cafés are within a 10–15 minute walk of each other. For Hersheypark, The Vineyard, and Penn State Health Medical Center, you'll want a car. Rideshare is available but less reliable than in major cities. Free parking is standard at most accommodations and attractions.

Summer Weather

June through August averages 80–90°F with humidity. Mornings and evenings are comfortable. Plan outdoor activities for before 11am or after 5pm. Afternoons are for indoor attractions, air-conditioned cafés, or the water park.

Cooking vs. Dining Out

A kitchen saves you hundreds (or thousands at 30+ days) on an extended stay. Rough budget math:

Dining out every meal: ~$60–$100/day per person
Cooking most meals, dining out 3–4 times per week: ~$25–$40/day per person
30-day savings for a couple cooking most meals: $1,200–$3,600

Grocery options: Giant Food (full-service), Pronio's Market (quick stops, deli, local items), Hershey Fresh Market (local/specialty), and Weis Markets nearby for basics. Our furnished suites have full-size refrigerators, stovetops, ovens, and cookware. For snacks and essentials delivered without a trip, Sweet Convenience Co drops off to your suite.

Rest Days Are Non-Negotiable

Build in at least 2–3 rest days per week of your stay. That means 4–6 rest days on a 15-day trip, and 8–12 on a 30-day trip. Extended stays fail when people treat them like compressed vacations. The whole point is having time to not rush.

For Remote Workers

Hershey's time zone (Eastern) and reliable Wi-Fi infrastructure make it a solid remote work base. Most furnished suites offer dedicated workspace. Café options: Lisa's Cafe and Book Bar (wine + books + Wi-Fi for a more creative setting). At 30+ days, you'll develop a real work rhythm that feels less like "working on vacation" and more like "living somewhere new."

For Medical Visitors

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is approximately 4 miles from downtown Hershey (about a 10-minute drive). For families supporting someone through extended treatment (which often spans weeks to months), being close enough for daily visits but far enough to decompress matters. A furnished suite with a kitchen means you can eat on your own schedule, keep to routines, and have a real home base. At 30+ days, the cost savings vs. a hotel become substantial.

Where to Stay for Comfort on Longer Trips

The accommodation question changes entirely when you're staying 15-30+ days. Hotels charge nightly rates designed for short stays. You'll pay more and get less space: no kitchen, no separation between sleeping and living, no room to spread out.

What to prioritize for a 15-30+ day stay:

A full kitchen. Non-negotiable. You'll cook most meals. You need a real fridge, stove, and cookware.
Square footage. After Day 3, a 250-square-foot hotel room feels like a cage. Look for 475+ sq ft minimum.
A quiet setting. You're sleeping here for weeks. Traffic noise and thin walls compound over time.
Walkability. Being able to step outside and reach coffee, food, and a park on foot transforms your daily quality of life.
Flexible terms. Many hotels won't discount for 15+ nights. Extended-stay properties typically offer tiered pricing: the longer you stay, the less you pay per night.

Suites on Chocolate is on East Chocolate Avenue in Hershey, Pennsylvania: 9 fully furnished suites ranging from studios (300 sq ft, ideal for solo travelers) to a 3-floor house (1,800 sq ft, sleeps 6, built for families or teams). Every suite has a full kitchen, free parking, Wi-Fi, and a 15-night minimum that keeps the building quiet and guest-focused. It's nearby to downtown restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, the farmers market, and most of what you'll do in Week 1. For stays of 30+ days, tiered pricing makes the per-night cost even more affordable.

For families or groups needing more privacy, The Annville Cottage (2–3 bedrooms, 1,800+ sq ft) sits just outside Hershey with full home comforts and space to spread out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I'm staying in Hershey for 2–4 weeks?

Split your time: spend Week 1 settling in and building routines (groceries, coffee spots, walks, workspace). Spend Week 2 doing attractions and exploring restaurants. Weeks 3–4 are for deeper local life: repeat favorites, day trips, community events, and actually relaxing. Build in 2–3 rest days per week. Cook most meals. You'll enjoy the trip more if you don't try to do everything in the first 48 hours.

Is Hershey walkable?

Yes, along the Chocolate Avenue corridor. Restaurants, cafés, shops, the farmers market, and most downtown attractions are within a 10–15 minute walk. For Hersheypark, The Vineyard at Hershey, and Penn State Health Medical Center, you'll need a car or rideshare.

Is a suite better than a hotel for 15-30+ days?

Significantly. A hotel room works for a weekend. At 15+ days, you need a kitchen (saves $500–$3,000+ depending on length), living space separate from your bed, a workspace if you're remote, and enough square footage to not feel cramped. A furnished suite with a full kitchen, 475+ sq ft, and tiered nightly rates designed for longer stays will cost less and feel dramatically better.

What's a good home base for families?

Look for a property that's walkable to daily essentials (grocery, coffee, parks), has at least 2 bedrooms, includes a full kitchen, and sits in a quiet residential-style setting. Proximity to Hersheypark for repeat visits without planning a big outing each time is a bonus.

What about remote work during the stay?

Hershey works well for remote workers. Eastern time zone, strong Wi-Fi in most accommodations, and a slow enough pace that you won't burn out. Set up a morning work routine, explore evenings, and use cafés when your suite starts feeling stale. At 30+ days, you stop feeling like you're "working on vacation" and start feeling like you just live somewhere great.

How far is Penn State Health Medical Center from downtown Hershey?

About 4 miles, roughly a 10-minute drive. Staying downtown gives you easy hospital access while keeping you in a comfortable, restaurant-rich environment for your off-hours.

What's the weather like in Hershey during summer?

June through August averages 80–90°F with moderate to high humidity. Mornings and evenings are pleasant. Plan outdoor activities early or late, save indoor attractions for hot afternoons.

Can I get groceries and snacks delivered to my suite?

Yes. Sweet Convenience Co offers snack and essentials deliveries directly to your suite, which is especially handy on arrival days or rest days when you don't want to leave.

Are there good day trips from Hershey?

Plenty. Harrisburg is 15 minutes away, Lancaster County (Amish country) is 35 minutes, Gettysburg is 45 minutes, and Lititz is 40 minutes. All make excellent single-day outings once you've explored Hershey itself.

Suites on Chocolate · 1428 E. Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033 · suitesonchocolate.com · Family-owned, 20+ years in Hershey

Corporate Stays in the Hershey Area

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:27:06 GMT

Booking Housing for Your Team in Hershey PA?

If you're the person responsible for arranging multi-week housing in Hershey, PA for employees, contractors, or visiting staff, skip the hotel block. A furnished suite with direct billing, a full kitchen, and a real workspace keeps your people comfortable and your accounting clean. Here's how to match the right suite to the right stay.

The Real Problem With Booking Hotels for Extended Corporate Stays

You've got three consultants arriving Monday for a six-week engagement. Or an intern cohort starting in June. Or a new hire who needs somewhere to land while they find permanent housing. The default move is a hotel block.

Here's what actually happens:

Expense reports pile up. Every meal, every incidental, every minibar accident becomes a line item.
Your team burns out faster. A 350 sq ft room with no kitchen and thin walls is fine for a conference. It's miserable for week three.
You lose visibility. Who's charging what? Did someone extend? Did someone leave early? Now you're chasing receipts.
Productivity dips. Your people are eating out every meal, sleeping poorly, and working from the edge of a hotel bed.

None of this is a failure of planning. It's a failure of format. Hotels weren't built for this use case. You need housing that works like temporary housing, not like tourism infrastructure.

What a Corporate Extended Stay Actually Looks Like (Walk-Through)

Forget the generic stock photo of a hotel lobby. Here's what your team member sees when they walk into The Factory (Suite #6) at Suites on Chocolate:

A loft-style suite, roughly 500 sq ft, with a full kitchen on the main level (stove, oven, full-size fridge, microwave, cookware, dishes for four). A dedicated workspace with high-speed Wi-Fi. A separate lofted sleeping area above the living space, so the bed isn't three feet from the "office." A bistro dining setup. Quiet, residential surroundings. No hallway traffic. No elevator dings at midnight.

They cook breakfast. They take a video call at the desk without repositioning furniture. They do laundry on-site. They have a routine by day three.

That's the difference between "housing your team" and "putting your team in a hotel."

Suite Recommendations by Corporate Scenario

Not every corporate stay looks the same. Here's how to match suitesonchocolate.com suites to your specific situation:

The Solo Contractor or Consultant (1 person, 15-45 nights)

Best fit: The Factory (Suite #6) or The Theatre (Suite #5)

Both are one-bedroom loft suites, roughly 500 sq ft, with a separated sleeping loft above the workspace and kitchen. The Factory in particular was designed with working professionals in mind. Full kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, dedicated desk, zero distractions. Your contractor shows up, settles in, and focuses on the work they're here to do.

The Small Team (2-3 people, separate suites)

Best fit: The Club (#7), and The Zoo (#8)

Put your team in adjacent one-bedroom lofts. Each person gets their own full suite (kitchen, workspace, private sleeping area) while staying in the same property. They can collaborate during the day and decompress separately at night. No "sharing a hotel room" awkwardness.

The Project Team That Needs Shared Space (3-4 people)

Best fit: The Hershey House (Suite #2)

Three floors, 1,800 sq ft, two bedrooms, full kitchen, and a living area that can double as a war room. This is where you put the team that's running a build-out, an installation, or a training rollout. Enough space to spread out project materials, cook together, and still have privacy when the workday ends.

The Intern Cohort or Visiting Fellows

Best fit: The School (Suite #3) + individual loft suites

The School is a 700 sq ft two-bedroom loft with ADA compliance. Pair it with one or two of the individual loft suites on the property for larger groups. This setup gives your interns real living space, full kitchens, and a professional environment that helps them take the placement seriously.

The Relocating Employee (with family)

Best fit: The Annville Cottage (Suite #10)

A private 2-3 bedroom cottage, 1,800+ sq ft, just outside Hershey. Full home comforts. Your employee's family isn't cramped into a hotel suite with a pullout sofa. They have a real kitchen, real bedrooms, and a real yard. This makes the difference between a stressed employee and one who's actually focused on ramping up in their new role.

Direct Billing: How It Works (And Why Your Finance Team Will Thank You)

The single biggest friction point in corporate travel housing is the money trail. Here's how it works with us:

One invoice. One contact. Zero employee expense reports.

Your company is billed directly for the full stay duration. No individual credit card holds. No per-diem tracking. Just easy, seamless billing w/The Suites.

The process:

You tell us who's coming, when, and what they need (solo? team? family?).
We recommend the right suite(s) and confirm preferred corporate pricing (15+ night rates).
You get one invoice with one line item per suite.
Your employee gets check-in instructions directly. No front desk. No lobby. They walk into a furnished home.

What we need from you:

Company name and billing contact
Guest name(s), arrival date, departure date
Any accessibility or proximity requirements
Preferred communication channel for the guest

We've set this up for healthcare systems, construction firms, consulting agencies, and educational institutions. It takes one email to start.

The Hidden ROI of Better Corporate Housing

This isn't just a comfort upgrade. There are real numbers behind putting people in the right environment:

Meal cost reduction. A full kitchen saves $40-80/day per person vs. eating out for every meal. Over a 30-day stay for a 3-person team, that's $3,600-$7,200 back in your budget.

Retention and morale. Employees remember how you treated them during a relocation or extended assignment. The difference between "they put me in a Marriott for six weeks" and "they gave me an actual apartment" shows up in engagement surveys and turnover rates.

Productivity. A rested, well-fed employee with a real workspace produces better work than someone who slept poorly in a noisy hotel and ate gas station breakfast. This isn't soft science. It's obvious.

Consistent pricing. Hotel rates in Hershey spike during Hersheypark season, Giant Center events, and medical center rotations. Our rates are the same year-round. You can budget accurately months in advance.

Location: Who Sends Teams to Hershey (And Why)

If you're reading this, chances are your team is working with one of these:

Penn State Health / Hershey Medical Center (4 miles away): Traveling nurses, specialists on rotation, researchers, administrative staff during system transitions
Hershey Entertainment & Resorts : Seasonal management, event production crews, corporate training groups
Construction and trades : Crews on multi-week builds, renovations, or installations in the Hershey-Harrisburg corridor
Consulting and professional services : Firms with clients in the region who need 30-90 day on-site presence
Government and education : Staff on assignment to Harrisburg (15-20 minutes away), Penn State campuses, or regional school districts

Suites on Chocolate sits on East Chocolate Avenue in Hershey with direct access to Routes 322 and 422. Your team is central to everything in the corridor without being in a commercial strip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer direct billing for corporate stays?

Yes. We invoice the company directly. No individual credit cards, no expense reports, no reimbursement workflows. One invoice per suite, per stay.

What's the minimum stay for corporate rates?

15 nights. Rates improve at 30+ and 45+ night thresholds. The longer the commitment, the lower the per-night cost.

Can you accommodate an entire team at once?

Yes. We have nine suites ranging from an efficient studio to a three-floor house. We can place team members in separate suites for privacy or group them into multi-bedroom configurations depending on preference.

Which suite is best for a remote worker or solo consultant?

The Factory (Suite #6) and The Theatre (Suite #5) are the most popular with working professionals. Lofted bedroom above, full kitchen and workspace below, ~500 sq ft. Designed for people who are here to work, not vacation.

Is it quiet enough for people who need to focus?

Very. It's a residential setting with no shared hallways, no lobby, no elevator noise, and no housekeeping interruptions unless requested. Multiple guests have specifically cited the quiet as a reason they rebook.

Do suites have Wi-Fi and workspaces?

Every suite includes high-speed wireless internet and a dedicated workspace. Your team can run video calls, access cloud tools, and work full days without leaving the suite.

How far is it from Harrisburg?

15-20 minutes via Route 322. Many of our corporate guests are working in Harrisburg and prefer to stay in Hershey for the quieter, more residential environment.

Are pets allowed for extended corporate stays?

Small pets are considered in select suites. Ask when booking and we'll match your team member to a pet-friendly option if available.

Book Corporate Housing in Hershey

If you're arranging extended stays for your team, start here. One conversation gets you suite recommendations, corporate pricing, and a direct billing setup.

Check availability and suites: suitesonchocolate.com

Call: (717) 533-6178

Email: team@suitesonchocolate.com

Suites on Chocolate is a family-owned extended-stay property on East Chocolate Avenue in Hershey, PA. Nine fully furnished suites. 20+ years in operation. 4.7★ on Google. Built for stays of 15 nights or more.

Suites vs. Hotels in Hershey for 15–30+ Day Stays: An Honest Comparison

Fri, 29 May 2026 17:35:30 GMT

Suites vs. Hotels in Hershey for 15–30 Day Stays: An Honest Comparison

Whether you're traveling to Hershey PA for work, a family relocation, medical visits, or a long-overdue change of scenery, you've probably already noticed that most travel advice is written for weekend visitors. This guide is for the other kind of stay: the kind where you need a real routine, not just a place to sleep.

Here's a straightforward look at what actually separates a hotel from a furnished extended-stay suite when you're committing to 15 nights or more.

The Real Differences Between a Hotel and a Furnished Extended-Stay Suite

A standard hotel room is designed for short bursts. You check in, sleep, shower, and leave. That model works fine for two or three nights. Stretch it to three weeks and the cracks start to show — cramped quarters, no place to cook, nowhere to spread out, and a daily rhythm that revolves entirely around housekeeping schedules and restaurant hours.

A furnished extended-stay suite is built around a different premise: that you're going to live there for a while. That typically means:

A full or kitchenette setup — refrigerator, stovetop or microwave, cookware, and dishes
Separate living and sleeping areas — so your bed isn't also your desk and your couch
On-site laundry — because packing 15+ days of clothes isn't realistic
More square footage — enough to feel like a temporary home, not a holding room
Weekly rather than nightly pricing structures — which changes the math significantly

These aren't luxury upgrades. For a 15–30+ day stay, they're practical necessities.

Who Hotels Are Better For vs. Who Suites Are Better For

Hotels tend to work better when:

Your stay is under 7–10 nights and you're mostly out during the day
You want daily housekeeping and on-site dining without thinking about it
You're expensing the stay and per diem covers the premium

Extended-stay suites tend to work better when:

You're staying 15–30+ nights and want to control your own schedule
You're traveling solo with minimal gear and prefer a full kitchen, plus separate guest spaces
You're traveling with family or a colleague and need shared space that doesn't feel suffocating
You're managing a budget and want to cut food costs by cooking some meals
You're here for work — a contract, a project, a training rotation — and need a quiet, functional space to decompress after hours
You have medical appointments or caregiving responsibilities that make a predictable, private environment important

The honest answer: most people staying 15+ nights in Hershey are better served by one of our Suites. Hotels aren't wrong, they're just not optimized for this length of stay.

What Actually Matters Most for 15+ Nights

After the first few days, the novelty of hotel life fades fast. Here's what guests consistently say matters most for longer stays:

Kitchen access. Eating out three times a day for 30 days is expensive and exhausting. Even basic cooking capability — eggs in the morning, reheating leftovers, keeping snacks on hand — makes a meaningful difference in both cost and comfort.

Laundry. This one is underrated until you need it. Access to a reliable on-site laundry facility (seconds from your door) is a genuine quality-of-life factor for stays beyond two weeks.

Quiet. Hotels have hallway traffic, thin walls, and rotating neighbors. If you're working remotely or keeping an irregular schedule, that ambient noise adds up. Our Suites tend to offer more consistent quiet.

Space to spread out. A separate living area means you can have a video call without sitting on your bed. You can leave your suitcase open without it blocking the bathroom door. Small things that compound over 30 days.

Cost: What to Realistically Expect

Pricing for extended stays varies based on season, suite size, and how far in advance you book — so treat any number here as a starting point, not a guarantee.

That said, a few honest framing points:

Nightly rates drop significantly for longer commitments. We offer 15 day and monthly pricing that can be 20–40% lower than the equivalent nightly rate.
Cooking your own meals offsets a meaningful portion of the cost. If you're spending $15–25 less per day on food by having a kitchen, that adds up to $225–$750 over a 15–30 day stay.
Hotels in Hershey during peak season (summer, Hersheypark weekends) can spike sharply. Our prices are the same, year-round.

The bottom line: for 15–30 day stays, a furnished suite will almost always come out ahead on total cost when you factor in food, comfort, and the value of having functional space.

How to Pick the Right Option for Your Group and Schedule

Before you book, answer these four questions honestly:

How long are you staying, and how many people are in your group? If it's more than 7–10 days with two or more people, a suite's separate living spaces pay off immediately.
Will you be working or have structured daily obligations? If so, a quiet environment and reliable Wi-Fi matter far more than standard hotel amenities.
Do you have dietary needs or prefer to cook your own meals? Kitchen access quickly goes from "nice to have" to essential.
What's your actual budget — per night and total? Run the full numbers, including meals, before comparing options.

If most of your answers point toward routine, privacy, and cost control, a furnished extended-stay suite in Hershey is the right choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are extended-stay suites cheaper than hotels for 30 days?

In most cases, yes — especially when you factor in weekly/monthly rate discounts and the money saved by cooking some of your own meals.

Do all extended-stay suites have kitchens?

Ours do. Expect at minimum a kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, and basic cookware. Full kitchens with a stovetop are common in purpose-built extended-stay properties.

Is it quieter than a hotel?

Generally, yes. Extended-stay properties have fewer transient guests cycling in and out, which means less noise and more consistent neighbors. It's not a guarantee, but it's a meaningful difference for most guests.

Is it good for families?

Yes, often better than a hotel for families staying more than a week. Separate sleeping and living areas, kitchen access, and laundry facilities make managing daily family life significantly easier.

Is it good for business travel?

Absolutely. Reliable Wi-Fi, a quiet environment, a dedicated workspace, and the ability to cook or store food make extended-stay suites a practical choice for contractors, consultants, and anyone on a multi-week work assignment.

Planning a stay in Hershey? The right fit depends on your specific situation: length of stay, group size, and what you need to feel settled. If you're staying 15 nights or more, it's worth taking a closer look at what a furnished suite actually offers before defaulting to a hotel.

Extended Stays in Hershey, PA (who they're for + what you get)

Wed, 06 May 2026 18:14:48 GMT

Guest Types Who Love The Suites for Extended Stays in Hershey, PA

Looking for somewhere comfortable to stay in Hershey for more than a couple of weeks? Whether you're here for work, family, or medical reasons, an extended-stay suite gives you space, privacy, and a full kitchen at a fraction of what you'd spend at a hotel over the same period. Here's everything you need to know about choosing the right extended stay in Hershey, PA.

What Counts as an Extended Stay in Hershey?

An extended stay is any furnished accommodation designed for guests staying 15 nights or longer. Unlike a standard hotel room booked night-by-night, extended-stay suites are built around the reality that you're living here, not just sleeping here. That means full kitchens, dedicated workspaces, and enough square footage to actually spread out.

At Suites on Chocolate, the minimum stay is 15 nights, with better per-night rates as your stay gets longer. The suites range from efficient 300 sq ft studios up to full 1,800+ sq ft houses and cottages, so there's something for solo travelers, couples, families, and small teams alike. You're not checking into a room. You're moving into a home base.

Who Extended-Stay Suites Are Best For

Traveling nurses and medical professionals. Medical visitors and patient families. Extended hospital stays are stressful enough without worrying about where you'll sleep. Having a quiet, fully furnished suite nearby, with the ability to cook meals and do laundry, makes a hard situation a little more manageable.

Corporate and traveling professionals. Consultants, contractors, interns, and project-based workers who need 3-6 weeks in the Hershey area get a stable home base with fast Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, and none of the sterility of a business hotel. Direct billing is available for companies.

Remote workers. If your office is your laptop, a suite with a real kitchen, reliable internet, and a quiet environment is a better setup than any hotel business center. Several suites are specifically designed with remote professionals in mind.

Families visiting Hershey long-term. Folks navigating life changes. Whether you're relocating, between homes, or have a family member in treatment at Penn State Hershey Medical Center (just 4 miles away), a suite with a kitchen and multiple rooms makes life feel normal again. No more eating every meal out. No more cramming everyone into one hotel room.

What You Get vs. a Typical Hotel

The differences add up fast over a 15, 30, or 45+ night stay:

Full kitchen, not a mini-fridge. Every suite at Suites on Chocolate has a complete kitchen. That means a stove, full-size fridge, cookware, and everything you need to make real meals. Over a month, that alone can save hundreds of dollars versus eating out or ordering delivery every night.

Real space. The loft-style suites average around 500 sq ft, and the houses and cottages go up to 1,800+ sq ft. Compare that to the 300-400 sq ft of a standard hotel room. You have room for a living area, a workspace, and a bedroom that's actually separate from where you eat.

Privacy and stability. No housekeeping knocking at 9 AM. No lobby noise. No shared walls with a conference group. You have your own space, your own schedule, and a consistent environment for however long you're here.

Predictable pricing. Hotel rates fluctuate with demand, events, and seasons. Extended-stay rates at Suites on Chocolate are consistent year-round, and longer stays come with lower per-night costs. You'll know what you're paying before you commit.

On-site support from real people. This is a family-owned property with over 20 years in Hershey. You're not calling a 1-800 number if something comes up. You're talking to the people who own and manage the building, and they're right there.

How to Choose the Right Suite for Your Group Size and Stay Length

Start with two questions: how many people, and what kind of space do you actually need?

Solo travelers or couples (1-2 guests) : The Studio (Suite #9) is the most efficient option at ~300 sq ft. If you want more character and a lofted bedroom, The Park (Suite #4), The Theatre (Suite #5), The Factory (Suite #6), The Club (Suite #7) and The Zoo (Suite #8) are all around 500 sq ft with full kitchens and one bed/one bath.

Larger families, intern groups, or small teams (4-6 guests) : The Hershey House (Suite #2) gives you 1,800 sq ft across three floors with 2 bedrooms. The School (Suite #3) comes in at 700 sqft and has the benefit of being ADA Compliant. The Annville Cottage (Suite #10) is a 2-3 bedroom private cottage just outside Hershey with 1,800+ sq ft and full home comforts.

Prioritizing quiet and focus? The School and The Factory were designed with working professionals in mind. Prioritizing space for kids? The Hershey House and The Zoo. Prioritizing budget? The Studio gives you everything you need at the lowest rate.

*Small pets considered in select Suites.

Booking Tips: Dates, Minimum Stay, and What to Expect

Minimum stay is 15 nights. Rates decrease as your stay lengthens, so 30+ and 45+ night stays get progressively better pricing. Think of it as: the longer you stay, the more it costs like rent and less like a hotel.

Book direct for the best experience. You can check real-time availability and pricing for each suite directly on the website. Rates are transparent and shown before you need to enter any personal information.

What to expect on arrival : Each suite is fully furnished, including linens, towels, cookware, and basic supplies. You don't need to bring anything except your clothes and personal items. Wi-Fi info, local recommendations, and check-in details are provided ahead of time.

Seasonal demand : Hershey gets busy around Hersheypark's summer season, Giant Center events, and medical center rotations. If you know your dates, booking earlier gives you the best suite selection.

Corporate and insurance stays : Direct billing and simplified invoicing are available. If your company or insurance is covering your stay, reach out directly to set up a streamlined booking process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Suites On Chocolate good for 15-30 day stays?

Yes. The property is specifically designed for stays of 15 nights or longer. Every suite includes a full kitchen, dedicated workspace, and enough space to live comfortably for weeks or months. Rates are structured to reward longer stays with lower per-night pricing. Stay with us as long as you'd like!

Do the suites have full kitchens?

Every suite has a complete kitchen with a stove, full-size refrigerator, cookware, dishes, and utensils. You can cook full meals, store groceries, and eat on your own schedule, which saves significant money over 15+ night stays compared to dining out.

How close are you to Penn State Hershey Medical Center?

Suites on Chocolate is approximately 4 miles from Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. The drive is about 10 minutes. Many guests are families of patients during extended treatments or medical professionals on rotations.

Is it good for remote work?

Yes. Multiple suites are set up with dedicated workspaces, fast Wi-Fi, and quiet environments. The Factory and The School are particularly popular with remote professionals. The full kitchen means you're not losing work time to lunch runs.

How is this different than a hotel?

Three main differences: space (500-1,800 sq ft vs. a typical 350 sq ft hotel room), full kitchens in every suite (not a microwave and mini-fridge), and pricing stability (consistent rates year-round, no surge pricing during events). It's family-owned with on-site support, rated 4.7★ on Google, and has been operating in Hershey for over 20 years.

Ready to find your suite? Check availability and pick the suite that fits your group size, budget, and priorities. Whether you need the efficiency of the Studio or the full-house space of the Hershey House, there's a fit for your stay.

Check Availability →

What to Expect from a 15-Day Stay in Hershey

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:23:15 GMT

What to Expect from a 15-Day Stay in Hershey

At The Suites On Chocolate, we’re more than just a place to stay —we’re your gateway to experiencing the sweetest town on earth like a local. This 15-day itinerary is tailored for our guests, blending Hershey’s iconic attractions with hidden gems, local partners, and plenty of time to relax in your spacious Hershey home away from home.

Day 1: Welcome & Settle In

Check in, explore your Suite amenities.

Order a classic Italian pizza from Piazza Sorrento .

Day 2: Chocolate World & Downtown

Morning: Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World .

Afternoon: Shopping at Tanger Outlets or Knock Knock , a local boutique.

Evening: Grab dinner at local favorite, Chocolate Avenue Grill .

Day 3: Hershey Gardens & Spa

Morning: Get your zen on with a Hershey Gardens tour.

Afternoon: Cranberry Spice spa treatment at MeltSpa by Hershey (seasonal).

Evening: Relax in your Suite, board games or movie night.

Day 4: Local History & Culture

Morning: Visit The Hershey Story Museum.

Afternoon: Late brunch at The Hershey Pantry.

Evening: Explore Hershey Theatre (check for shows or soft opening events).

Day 5: Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Walk/bike at Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail .

Afternoon: ZooAmerica visit.

Evening: Try Fenicci's of Hershey .

Day 6: Coffee Passport Day

Morning: Try a seasonal latte at Lisa's Cafe on Chocolate .

Afternoon: Shop new titles and grab coffee at Book Bar , a local cafe.

Evening: Explore local art with HAAA .

Day 7: Family Fun

Log a full day of family fun at Hersheypark .

Day 8: Relax & Recharge

Morning: Try a beginner yoga class at Studio So l or Brownstone Station .

Afternoon: Use those Suite amenities like laundry, kitchen, TV, board games.

Evening: Trivia night at YAH Brew .

Day 9: Partner Experiences

Morning: Start your day with an espresso at Pronio's authentic Italian market.

Afternoon: Browse The Shoppe on Chocolate .

Evening: Get competitive at Adventure Sports , followed by d inner/drinks at Troegs .

Day 10: Seasonal Events

Spend the day at a local festival (e.g., Hershey Artfest or holiday market depending on season).

Day 11: Local Flavors

Morning: Brunch at First Watch .

Afternoon: Visit a local farmers’ market or Fresh Market at Hershey Towne Square for dinner ingredients.

Evening: Cook in your Suite's full kitchen or order from a local favorite eatery.

Dessert: Order anything from Desserts Etc .

Day 12: Explore Surroundings

Day trip to nearby attractions (e.g., Cherry Crest Farms , Harrisburg Capitol ).

Day 13: Brunch & Go

Brunch at The Hershey Bistro .

Afternoon: In season, hit the slopes at Roundtop Mountain Resort .

Evening: Unwind with a drink at Hidden Still Spirits .

Day 14: Photo Opps

Morning: Make a photo-shoot worthy breakfast in your Suite.

Afternoon: Visit Hershey Gardens Butterfly Atrium for the perfect picture.

Evening: Host a small group of friends or co-workers to watch the game in your Suite's living room.

Day 15: Last Day in Town

Morning: Brunch at nearby Funck's Restaurant in Palmyra.

Afternoon: Organize your travel plans and your luggage in one of your Suite's workspaces.

Final Step: Check out and share what you loved most about your stay at The Suites On Chocolate.

Book Your Stay At The Suites

Celebrate the New Year in Hershey

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:31:56 GMT

Celebrate the New Year in Hershey

Ready to welcome the New Year in the sweetest way possible? Hershey, Pennsylvania, is buzzing with excitement, family fun, and unique traditions to help you ring in 2026. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the festivities, you’ll find something for everyone—from iconic midnight celebrations to kid-friendly countdowns and wellness events to start your year right. Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss New Year’s happenings in Hershey and the surrounding area!

Hershey Kiss Raise

Ring in the New Year with Hershey’s iconic Kiss Raise! Join the community for a memorable countdown, live music, and a festive atmosphere as the giant Hershey’s Kiss ascends at midnight.

�� Downtown Hershey, Hershey, PA

�� hersheynewyearseve.org

Chocolate World NYE Celebration

Ring in the New Year with style at Hershey’s Chocolate World! Enjoy live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a sweet countdown to midnight.

�� 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033

�� chocolateworld.com/things-to-do/events/new-years-eve.html

The Hershey Story's Kid-Friendly NYE

Celebrate with the little ones at The Hershey Story’s special New Year’s Eve event! Enjoy crafts, activities, and a bubble wrap stomp to welcome the new year in a fun, family-friendly way.

�� 63 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033

�� hersheystory.org/hershey-story-event/new-years-eve-countdown-8/

“Noon Years” Celebration at The State Museum of Pennsylvania (Harrisburg)

Can’t stay up until midnight? Celebrate the “Noon Year” at The State Museum of Pennsylvania with crafts, activities, and a special countdown at noon—perfect for families with young children.

�� 300 North St, Harrisburg, PA 17120

�� statemuseumpa.org/event/noon-years/

Plan Your Suites Staycation ��

Until 12/31/25, we're offering an exclusive holiday rate in our Park Suite — use code STAY25 to book your Suites Staycation today.

With so many ways to celebrate, Hershey is the perfect place to make holiday memories. Whether you’re seeking sparkling lights, delicious treats, or family fun, you’ll find it all right here. Happy holidays!

Book Your Stay At The Suites

Let's Get Festive: Holiday Fun in the Hershey PA Area

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 19:33:13 GMT

Let's Get Festive : Holiday Fun in the Hershey Area

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better place to embrace the magic of winter than Hershey , Pennsylvania ! Whether you’re a local or planning a sweet getaway, Hershey and the surrounding area are bursting with festive events, twinkling lights, and cozy celebrations. Here’s your guide to the best holiday happenings to make your season merry and bright.

Wonderful Beer Weekend @ Troegs (11/20–11/23)

Raise a glass to the season at Troegs’ Wonderful Beer Weekend, November 20–23. Enjoy special brews, food pairings, and a cozy brewery atmosphere.

�� 200 E Hershey Park Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� troegs.com

Harrisburg Tree Lighting (11/21)

Kick off the holiday season at the Harrisburg Tree Lighting ceremony on November 21. Gather downtown for music, festivities, and the magical moment when the city’s tree lights up the night.

�� 10 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA 17101

�� eventbrite.com/e/harrisburg-tree-lighting-tickets-1787148632669

Hershey Holiday Parade (11/22)

Bundle up and enjoy the Holiday Parade in Hershey on November 22. Watch as floats, bands, and performers bring holiday spirit to the streets.

�� Downtown Hershey, Hershey, PA 17033

�� visithersheyharrisburg.org/event/detail/holiday-parade/27328

Trans-Siberian Orchestra (11/23)

Experience the electrifying sounds of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra on November 23. Their holiday show is a spectacular blend of rock, classical, and festive favorites.

�� GIANT Center, 550 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� visithersheyharrisburg.org/event/detail/trans-siberian-orchestra/27301

Thanksgiving Buffet @ Hershey Lodge (11/27)

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a grand buffet at Hershey Lodge on November 27. Savor traditional favorites and sweet treats in a warm, festive setting.

�� 325 University Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� visithersheyharrisburg.org/event/detail/thanksgiving-buffet-at-hershey-lodge/26195

Hershey Bears v. Laval (11/30)

Catch the excitement of holiday hockey as the Hershey Bears take on Laval on November 30. Cheer on the home team and enjoy a festive night at the rink.

�� GIANT Center, 550 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� visithersheyharrisburg.org/event/detail/hershey-bears-hockey-vs-laval/26021

Pentatonix: Christmas in The City Tour (12/11)

Don’t miss the Pentatonix: Christmas in The City Tour on December 11. Enjoy an unforgettable night of holiday music and harmonies from this world-renowned a cappella group.

�� GIANT Center, 550 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� visithersheyharrisburg.org/event/detail/pentatonix%3a-christmas-in-the-city-tour/26177

Christmas Movie Trivia (12/17)

Test your holiday movie knowledge at Christmas Movie Trivia at The Vineyard at Hershey on December 17. Enjoy a fun evening with friends, festive drinks, and a chance to win prizes!

�� 598 Schoolhouse Rd, Middletown, PA 17057

�� eventbrite.com/e/christmas-movie-trivia-at-the-vineyard-at-hershey-tickets-1602980410559

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

Experience the wonder of over 5 million twinkling lights, festive rides, and holiday cheer at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

�� 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� hersheypark.com/plan-your-visit/christmas-candylane

Sweet Lights

Take a ride through Chocolate World's Sweet Lights for a magical journey through Hershey’s dazzling drive-through light display.

�� 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033

�� chocolateworld.com/things-to-do/events/sweet-lights-trolley.html

Breakfast with Santa

Make holiday memories with a festive Breakfast with Santa at Hershey’s Chocolate World.

�� 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033

�� chocolateworld.com/things-to-do/events/breakfast-with-santa.html

Hershey’s Holiday Chocolate House

Marvel at the incredible Hershey’s Holiday Chocolate House, a life-sized house made entirely of Hershey’s sweet treats!

�� 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033

�� chocolateworld.com/things-to-do/events/hersheys-holiday-chocolate-house.html

New Year’s Eve Celebration (12/31)

Ring in the New Year with style at Hershey’s Chocolate World! Enjoy live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a sweet countdown to midnight.

�� 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033

�� chocolateworld.com/things-to-do/events/new-years-eve.html

Lebanon Christkindl Market

Take a short drive to the Lebanon Christkindl Market at Coleman Memorial Park for a traditional German-style Christmas market. Shop for unique gifts, enjoy festive foods, and soak in the holiday charm.

�� 1400 W Maple St, Lebanon, PA 17046

�� colemanpark.com/event/christmas-marketplace-at-coleman-memorial-park

Plan Your 7 Day Suites Staycation ��

Until 12/31/25, we're offering an exclusive 7 day holiday rate in our Park Suite — use code STAY25 to book your Suites Staycation today.

Book Your Stay At The Suites

Halloween In & Around Hershey

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 18:39:31 GMT

Halloween In & Around Hershey

Get ready to celebrate Halloween in and around Hershey , with a lineup of fun events, cozy treats, and spooky fun for all ages! Whether you’re looking to relax with pumpkin-inspired spa treatments, explore family-friendly trick-or-treat trails, or enjoy haunted happenings and classic movie nights, this guide has you covered. Check out the best local events, complete with addresses and links, to make the most of the season in Chocolate Town and beyond.

Trick Or Treat — Local Dates

Looking for your local trick-or-treat spots?

�� Website: Penn Live Recommendations

�� Address: Dauphin, Cumberland, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, and York Counties

Haunted Halloween Classic Movie Showing (Oct 25)

Enjoy a candlelit evening of Halloween classics at the Rose Lehrman Arts Center.

�� Address: Rose Lehrman Arts Center, 1 HACC Dr, Harrisburg, PA 17110

�� Website: Haunted Movie Showing

Pumpkin Palooza @ The Hershey Gardens (Oct 25–26)

Kids, come in costume and trick or treat at four Hershey’s candy stations, enjoy over 200 painted pumpkins, a unique 14-foot “pumpkin tree,” and the perfect photo backdrop of pumpkin mosaics! Don’t miss the Creepy Creatures Gallery, food trucks, and a colorful 9-foot mum tree.

�� Address: Hershey Gardens, 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: Pumpkin Palooza

Dracula: Comedy of Terrors

Catch a hilarious and spooky performance of “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” in Hershey.

�� Address: Hershey Area Playhouse, 830 Cherry Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: Dracula: Comedy of Terrors

Shaun of The Dead Free Screening (Oct 29)

Don’t miss a free rooftop screening of the cult classic “Shaun of The Dead” at The Millworks.

�� Address: The Millworks, 340 Verbeke St, Harrisburg, PA 17102

�� Website: Shaun of The Dead Screening

Snake & Skein Halloween Party (Oct 30)

Celebrate Halloween with crafts, costumes, and community at the Snake & Skein Halloween Party.

�� Address: The Snake & Skein, 1104 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102

�� Website: Snake & Skein Party

Halloween Bar Crawl (Oct 31)

Join the official Halloween Bar Crawl in Harrisburg for a night of spooky fun, drinks, and costumes.

�� Address: Downtown Harrisburg, PA (check event page for starting location)

�� Website: Halloween Bar Crawl

Hersheypark Dark Nights

Looking for a scare? Hersheypark’s Dark Nights run now through Nov. 2—perfect for thrill-seekers and Halloween lovers.

�� Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: hersheypark.com

Hersheypark Treatville

Bring the kids for a sweet adventure through Treatville at Hersheypark, where costumes and candy are the stars of the show.

�� Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: HersheyPark Treatville

Pumpkin Inspired Spa Treatments

Treat yourself to pumpkin spice spa treatments at The Spa at The Hershey Hotel and MeltSpa by Hershey, running until November 30th. Relax and rejuvenate with seasonal scents and cozy vibes.

�� The Spa at The Hotel Hershey, 100 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033 / MeltSpa by Hershey, 11 E Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: Pumpkin Spice Spa Treatments

Book Your Stay At The Suites

Lean Into Fall: The Hershey Area's Best Happenings to Embrace the Season

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 14:21:27 GMT

Lean Into Fall: The Hershey Area’s Best Happenings to Embrace the Season

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, Hershey and the surrounding region come alive with cozy flavors, festive drinks, and can’t-miss fall events. Whether you’re a foodie, a family looking for fun, or just want to soak up the autumn vibes, this guide has you covered. Here’s where to lean into fall in Hershey and beyond!

FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN

Hersheypark Halloween & Dark Nights

Looking for a scare? Hersheypark’s Dark Nights run now through Nov. 2—perfect for thrill-seekers and Halloween lovers.

�� Address: 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: hersheypark.com

Night at The Museum

Experience history after hours with Night at The Museum—an evening of fun, learning, and fall festivities.

�� Address: Hershey History Center, 40 Northeast Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: hersheyhistory.org

Brewery Float

Float into fall with a unique brewery experience—enjoy local brews and the beautiful autumn scenery.

�� Address: Susquehanna Outfitters, 333 S Front St, Wormleysburg, PA 17043

�� Website: susquehannaoutfitters.com

Choctoberfest

Indulge your sweet tooth at Choctoberfest, Hershey’s annual celebration of all things chocolate.

�� Address: ChocolateTown Square Park, Corner of Chocolate & Cocoa Ave, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: downtownhershey.com

ZooAmerica Creatures of the Night

Experience the nocturnal side of wildlife at ZooAmerica’s Creatures of the Night event—enjoy after-dark animal encounters and spooky fun for the whole family.

�� Address: 201 Park Ave, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: zooamerica.com

Cider Donut Fall Festival at Cherry Crest Farms

Celebrate fall with cider donuts, family activities, and more at Cherry Crest Farms’ Cider Donut Fall Festival.

�� Address: 150 Cherry Hill Rd, Ronks, PA 17572

�� Website: cherrycrestfarm.com

Trick or Treat Trek

Get your costumes ready for the Trick or Treat Trek—a family-friendly event that’s sure to delight kids of all ages.

�� Address: Fort Hunter Mansion & Park, 5300 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17110

�� Website: forthunter.org

Hershey Pantry Fall Lineup

A beloved local spot for breakfast and lunch, featuring cozy fall baked oatmeal flights and a seasonal drink menu (pumpkin spice, anyone?).

�� Address: 801 E Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: t hehersheypantry.com

Oktoberfest at Troegs Independent Brewing

Raise a stein at Troegs Oktoberfest! Celebrate with your favorite brews and German-inspired bites at this Hershey craft beer staple.

�� Address: 200 E Hershey Park Dr, Hershey, PA 17033

�� Website: troegs.com

GIANT CENTER EVENTS

NHL Preseason: Washington Capitals vs. Philadelphia Flyers

NHL preseason hockey returns to Hershey!