Lancaster County to Hershey Park is a popular route for tourists and locals alike. The journey spans approximately 28 miles and takes about 38-39 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions. This guide provides essential information on transportation options, attractions along the way, and tips for making the most of your trip from Lancaster County to the sweet world of Hershey Park.
What is the Distance and Travel Time from Lancaster County to Hershey Park?
The journey from Lancaster County to Hershey Park is relatively short and straightforward:
- Distance: Approximately 28 miles (45 kilometers)
- Travel Time: Around 38-39 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions
This makes Hershey Park an easily accessible destination for a day trip or weekend getaway from Lancaster County.
What are the Transportation Options Available?
There are several ways to travel from Lancaster County to Hershey Park:
- Driving: The most common and flexible option.
- Pros: Convenience, flexibility in timing
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Cons: Parking fees at Hershey Park
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Ride-sharing Services:
- Uber estimates a 39-minute trip with an average cost of $52 for UberX
- Pros: No need to worry about parking
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Cons: Can be more expensive than driving, especially for groups
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Car Rental:
- Available in Lancaster
- Pros: Flexibility without using your own vehicle
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Cons: Additional costs, responsibility for the rental car
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Public Transit:
- No direct public transit options available
- Combination of local buses and ride-sharing might be necessary
- Pros: Potentially lower cost
- Cons: Longer travel time, multiple transfers
What is the Best Route to Take?
The most direct and commonly used route from Lancaster County to Hershey Park is:
- Take US-322 E
- Continue onto PA-743 N
This route typically takes about 38-39 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, it’s always a good idea to check real-time traffic information before departing.
What are Some Recommended Stops Along the Way?
While the journey is relatively short, there are several interesting stops you can make to enrich your trip:
- Strasburg:
- Location: About 20 minutes from Lancaster
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Attractions:
- Strasburg Rail Road (Operating hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, costs: $20-$50 per person)
- Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (Operating hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, admission: $10-$15 per person)
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Sight & Sound Theatres:
- Location: Lancaster, about 25 minutes from Hershey
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Showtimes vary; ticket prices range from $50 to over $100 per person
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Harrisburg:
- Attractions:
- Pennsylvania State Capitol
- National Civil War Museum
These stops can add cultural and historical depth to your journey from Lancaster County to Hershey Park.
What Should I Know About Hershey Park Before Arriving?
Before you reach your sweet destination, here are some key points about Hershey Park:
- Operating Hours:
- Vary by season; generally open from 10 AM to 9 PM during peak season
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Always check the official website for current hours
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Admission Prices:
- Range from $50 to $75 for single-day tickets
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Discounts available for online purchases and multi-day visits
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Parking:
- General parking: $20 per vehicle
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Preferred parking: $35 per vehicle
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Attractions:
- Over 70 rides, including 14 roller coasters
- Water attractions in The Boardwalk area
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ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park (included with admission)
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Food Options:
- Numerous restaurants and food stands throughout the park
- Special dietary needs can usually be accommodated
How Can I Make the Most of My Trip from Lancaster County to Hershey Park?
To optimize your journey from Lancaster County to Hershey Park, consider these tips:
- Timing:
- Leave early to avoid traffic and make the most of your day at the park
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Consider weekday visits for smaller crowds
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Packing:
- Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a change of clothes for water rides
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Pack snacks and water for the journey
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Tickets:
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Purchase tickets online in advance for potential discounts and to save time at entry
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Itinerary:
- Plan your route and any stops you want to make along the way
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Check opening hours and ticket availability for any attractions you plan to visit
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Hershey Park Strategy:
- Download the Hershey Park app for real-time wait times and park maps
- Consider starting with popular rides early in the day to avoid long lines
What are Some Frequently Asked Questions About the Trip from Lancaster County to Hershey Park?
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Is there a direct bus from Lancaster County to Hershey Park?
No, there is no direct public transit option. You would need to combine local bus services and possibly use ride-sharing for the final leg of the journey. -
How much does parking cost at Hershey Park?
General parking is $20 per vehicle, while preferred parking is $35 per vehicle. -
Are there any scenic routes from Lancaster County to Hershey Park?
While the direct route is the fastest, you can take a slightly longer route through Amish country for scenic views. However, this will add time to your journey. -
Can I visit both Lancaster County attractions and Hershey Park in one day?
While possible, it would make for a very long day. It’s recommended to allocate separate days for Lancaster County attractions and Hershey Park to fully enjoy both. -
What’s the best time of year to visit Hershey Park?
The park is open year-round, but summer offers the fullest experience with all attractions open. However, it’s also the busiest season. Spring and fall can offer a good balance of pleasant weather and smaller crowds.
By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey from Lancaster County to Hershey Park. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking forward to the roller coasters or a chocolate lover eager to indulge in sweet treats, the trip from Lancaster County to Hershey Park promises an exciting adventure for all ages.
References:
1. Travelmath: Driving Time from Lancaster, PA to Hershey, PA
2. Wanderlog: Drive from Lancaster to Hershey with Recommended Stops
3. Uber: Getting from Lancaster PA to Hershey PA