The Sweetest Place on Earth
by Tracey Meloni
Hershey, Pennsylvania: The town fueled by chocolate and famous for kiddie amusement rides is also a grown-up, sophisticated getaway, home to one of the most elegant hotels in America. High on a hill stands the Hotel Hershey, an Italianate villa holding court over her subjects, a symbol of all that allowed Hershey to prevail through the Depression era thanks to the dreams and determination of one chocolate-maker named Milton Hershey. But Hershey has evolved into so much more. From spelunking in the 440 million-year-old Indian Echo Caverns to pursuing the “sport of kings” through the ancient art of falconry, Hershey has something old and new for everyone. Thirteen roller coasters draw thrill-seekers from far and wide. Antique car buffs glory in the seasonal outdoor shows and flock to the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum. Gourmet dining is plentiful, from The Circular in the hotel to super-seafood Devon, but there is plenty of kid-friendly, simple fare. Premier golf courses abound amid resort living, and a world-class chocolate spa, which proves the delicious stuff is as good on the outside of the body as inside, thrills everyone. Glorious gardens characterize Hershey, with seasonal, herbal and butterfly varieties. Hershey is also home to the renowned Milton Hershey School, dedicated to providing all children with the very best education regardless of their financial circumstances. Milton and Catherine (Kitty) Hershey may not have had children of their own, but their gift of love gave thousands of kids a future as well as rides and fun. 
Even if you’re just passing through, see the glorious hotel, the more casual lodge, experience Chocolate World and throw yourself into everything Hershey. Chocolate World: Board the historic trolley for a 75-minute journey through the history of chocolate and development of Hershey before falling into yummy samples. Summer guides lead trolley tours from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and you can check out the special 4-D mystery show year-round or have breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus in season. // hersheys.com/chocolateworld Indian Echo Caverns: Cool (literally—it’s 52 degrees, so bring a wrap) splendor, these 440 million-year-old limestone caves amaze kids of all ages. The Caverns also offer an outside petting zoo and options for kids’ birthday parties. The caverns are open daily year-round. In summer, try your hand at an East Coast gold rush at Glen Mill Junction. // indianechocaverns.com Hersheypark: No trip to Hershey is complete without scaring your wits away on one of the 13 famous roller coasters, from the classic wooden Wildcat to the Sooperdooperlooper. Locals like the Great Bear, and veterans dig the inverted loop on the Fahrenheit. // hersheypark.com The Chocolate Spa: If mom braves the coasters, she ought to be given a pampering reprieve at the Chocolate Spa in the Hotel Hershey, maybe with a cocoa massage. Couples’ massages also are very popular. Reserve early on weekends—many wedding parties fill Saturdays. // chocolatespa.com Falconry: Imagine these noble birds landing on your gloved hand while you participate in the “sport of kings.” Learn from master falconer Jack Hubley and experience an interactive demonstration featuring hawks, falcons and a golden eagle. Free flight and simulated hunt demonstrations are also offered. Call in advance—hotel guests are accommodated first. // jackhubley.com/hershey-falconry 
Think outside the chocolate box and discover Hershey’s cultural connection with America: education, history, theater and cars. Milton Hershey School: In 1910, Hershey created a home and school for orphaned boys. Today, Milton Hershey School provides a cost-free, private, coeducational home and school for children from families of low income and limited resources. The campus is exceptional, and Founders Hall is considered one of the most unique pieces of architecture in central Pennsylvania. The campus is open to the public daily from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. except school holidays. Hershey’s Giant Center and Hersheypark Stadium: Big-name performers draw huge crowds to the Giant Center and Hersheypark Stadium in the heart of Hershey entertainment country. Part of the current lineup: • April 6 -Earth, Wind and Fire and Chicago • April 14 – Brantley Gilbert: The Blackout Tour • April 29 – Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy • June 14 – Janet Jackson • June 24 – Dixie Chicks The Hershey Theatre: This was another brainstorm of entrepreneur and philanthropist Milton S. Hershey built between 1929 and 1933 as part of his Great Building Campaign of the Great Depression. The Theatre became center stage to the world’s leading performers and shows. A sampling of this year’s schedule: • April 14 – Let It Be – A Celebration of the Music of the Beatles • April 26-May 1 – Ragtime Antique Automobile Club of America Museum: If vintage cars are your thing, this is the place. Whether you revel in elegant Bentleys, crave American muscle cars or document the history of bus travel, AACA has you covered. A beautiful building with a teasing selection of antique cars out front beckoning you in, AACA is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of motor cars in a manner that educates and entertains. Mission accomplished. The Elegance at Hotel Hershey, a celebration of magnificent motorcars, is happening June 10-12. Executive director Don Stabilito says, “The Elegance at Hershey is a weekendlong celebration of all things automotive.” Hershey Story Museum: What’s it all about, Milton? The museum is very hands-on, interactive and kid friendly. Make your own chocolate. Learn the final formula for chocolate success. Explore the community with a digital display. Try your hand at a fun scavenger hunt. Feel those special first-floor exhibits. Try tastings and a ChocolateLab class (nothing to do with dogs). There’s a combination bargain pass with Hershey Gardens. 
• The Butterfly House Volunteers, called flight attendants, guide you past some 400 butterflies representing 25 North American varieties at the Butterfly House at Hershey Gardens. Opens May 27. // hersheygardens.org/attractions/butterfly-house • Savor the 23-acre Hershey Gardens, a botanical tour de force showcasing rare species and teaching budding gardeners how to preserve nature’s beauty. // hersheygardens.org • Bid farewell to Hershey with a memorable drive down Chocolate Avenue, past mansions of times past under those Hershey Kidd streetlights that make it all memorable. 
Chocolate is everywhere, from giant kisses to chocolate diamonds: edible, spreadable, wearable and bear-able (from teddies to Hershey Bears sports memorabilia). But there is more. The Chocolate Spa at the Hotel Hershey: “In 2015, the spa upgraded its signature product line,” says Reilly Elizabeth Fies, communications specialist for Hershey Resorts. “The all-natural offerings include chocolate, Cuban and noche azul collections, body treatments and retail products.” Terrific fluffy robes and other pampering products are available, too. Shops at the Hotel Hershey: What better excuse to view the hotel’s magnificence when you’re visiting than to shop? From Hershey signature polo shirts to Lilly Pulitzer and balsamic vinegar tastings to distinctive home decor, the gallery of shops is a good reason to bring your shopping bag. Hershey Outlets: OK, so they’re everywhere. But where else can you hop off a roller coaster in the shadow of the great hotel and head for a Disney store? Starbucks, Subway and free Wi-Fi, plus everything from Aeropostale to vitamins. The Jewelers Bench: A perfect little jewel box itself, The Jewelers Bench is a best-kept local secret offering custom original designs, exceptional estate pieces, unusual quality gemstones and knowledge. Established in 1979, the store’s motto is “For those not content with the ordinary.” And it fits. 
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