Hershey Park Garden Hours: A Comprehensive Guide

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Hershey Gardens, a 23-acre botanical garden located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, offers visitors a year-round experience with varying hours of operation. Open daily, including weekends, the garden’s hours change seasonally to accommodate different weather conditions and visitor needs. From the vibrant butterfly atrium to the picturesque rose garden, understanding the Hershey Park garden hours is essential for planning your visit.

What Are the Regular Operating Hours for Hershey Gardens?

hershey park garden hours
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Hershey Gardens maintains consistent hours throughout most of the year, with extended hours during the peak summer season:

  • January 1 to May 23: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • May 24 to September 2: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • September 3 to December 31: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

It’s important to note that the gardens are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, they operate on reduced hours from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

How Do Seasonal Changes Affect Hershey Gardens’ Hours?

hershey park garden hours
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The seasonal variations in Hershey Gardens’ hours are designed to accommodate changing daylight and weather conditions:

  1. Winter Months (January to March):
  2. Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  3. Note: Some outdoor areas may be closed due to icy conditions

  4. Spring and Fall:

  5. Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  6. Note: Perfect time to view blooming flowers or fall foliage

  7. Summer (May 24 to September 2):

  8. Extended Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  9. Note: Ideal for enjoying long summer evenings in the gardens

What Special Events and Activities Are Available at Hershey Gardens?

Hershey Gardens offers various attractions and events throughout the year:

  1. Butterfly Atrium:
  2. Open daily, included in general admission
  3. Last admission: 15 minutes before closing time

  4. Note: School field trips may occur between 10:00 AM and noon in April and May

  5. Seasonal Displays:

  6. Spring: Tulip display
  7. Summer: Rose garden in full bloom
  8. Fall: Chrysanthemum festival

  9. Winter: Christmas tree showcase

  10. Educational Programs:

  11. Offered throughout the year
  12. Check the official website for schedules and topics

How Accessible Are Hershey Gardens?

Hershey Gardens strives to be accessible to all visitors:

  • Wheelchair and Electric Mobility Scooter Access:
  • All areas are accessible

  • Limited manual wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Service Animals:

  • Permitted in all public areas of the gardens

  • Resources for Guests with Autism:

  • Social stories
  • Visual schedules
  • Sensory backpacks (available on a first-come, first-served basis)

What Are the Parking and Food Policies at Hershey Gardens?

Understanding the policies can enhance your visit:

  1. Parking:

  2. Free onsite parking available

  3. Food and Drink:

  4. No food allowed inside the Gardens
  5. Picnic tables available outside

  6. Water fountains located throughout the gardens

  7. Smoking:

  8. Strictly prohibited inside the Gardens
  9. Includes cigars and e-cigarettes/vaping

What Rules Should Visitors Follow to Protect the Gardens?

To preserve the beauty and integrity of Hershey Gardens, visitors must adhere to these rules:

  1. Plant Protection:

  2. No disturbing, cutting, carving, chopping, picking, removing, or eating parts of any plant, shrub, or tree

  3. Wildlife Protection:

  4. Do not feed or disturb wildlife

  5. Tree Climbing:

  6. Prohibited for safety and preservation reasons

  7. Photography:

  8. Personal photography allowed
  9. Commercial photography requires prior permission

How Can You Make the Most of Your Visit to Hershey Gardens?

To maximize your experience at Hershey Gardens, consider these tips:

  1. Plan Your Visit:
  2. Check the Hershey Gardens website for current hours and special events

  3. Allow at least 2-3 hours for a thorough visit

  4. Seasonal Highlights:

  5. Spring: Tulip display and awakening gardens
  6. Summer: Rose garden and butterfly releases
  7. Fall: Chrysanthemum festival and autumn colors

  8. Winter: Indoor tropical butterfly atrium and winter walks

  9. Bring the Right Gear:

  10. Comfortable walking shoes
  11. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
  12. Water bottle (refill stations available)

  13. Camera for capturing memories

  14. Take Advantage of Resources:

  15. Pick up a map at the entrance
  16. Join a guided tour if available
  17. Ask staff about current blooms or points of interest

By understanding the Hershey Park garden hours and planning accordingly, you can ensure a memorable and enriching visit to this horticultural gem. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, Hershey Gardens offers a year-round escape into nature’s beauty, educational opportunities, and seasonal delights.

References:
1. Hershey Gardens: Hours
2. Hershey Gardens: Visitor Information
3. Yelp: Hershey Gardens

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