Hershey Lodge Review: A Sweet Family-Friendly Stay Near Hersheypark

Location & First Impressions of Hershey Lodge

Hershey Lodge is located on University Drive in Hershey, PA, just a few minutes’ drive from the famous Hersheypark and Chocolate World attractions. While not within walking distance, the Lodge offers complimentary shuttle service to and from Hersheypark for all guests. In fact, the shuttle drops you off at a special resort-only spot just steps from Hersheypark’s entrance, saving you the hassle of parking. This convenience is a huge plus for families eager to get to the fun quickly.

When you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you’ll immediately notice the warm, rustic ambiance. The lobby is designed like a grand mountain lodge with a stone fireplace and cozy seating. And yes – it even smells like chocolate when you walk in, reminding you that you’re truly in Hershey, “the Chocolate Town”. Check-in is a delight for kids: there’s a special “Kids’ Check-In” experience at the front desk where little ones are welcomed and often get a small treat or activity sheet. The whole family also receives free Hershey’s chocolate bars or Kisses at check-in, a signature Hershey Lodge touch. It’s a great way to start your stay on a sweet note!

The Lodge itself is expansive – with over 600 rooms, conference facilities, and multiple wings, it’s one of the largest resorts in the area. Despite its size, staff keep the atmosphere friendly and upbeat. Do note that because it’s so popular with families (and often hosts sports teams and events), the vibe can be busy and lively rather than quiet. You’ll see excited kids in swimsuits heading to the pool, groups gathering in the lobby, and families buzzing about their Hersheypark plans. If you’re looking for a peaceful, intimate getaway, this isn’t that – but for an energetic family vacation, Hershey Lodge’s lively energy is part of the fun.

Rooms & Accommodations

Rooms at Hershey Lodge are comfortable and tailored for families. Standard guest rooms come with two queen beds (perfect for a family of four), and there are also larger suites that can accommodate up to 6-8 people for those traveling with extended family or larger groups. A popular option for bigger families is the Premium 2 Queen room, which includes a sleeper sofa in addition to two beds, offering extra sleeping space without booking a separate room.

What makes the rooms extra fun is the Hershey-themed decor. Look closely and you’ll find Hershey’s Kisses details throughout – from subtle wallpaper patterns to the chocolate-inspired color scheme. It’s a cozy, rustic style with chocolatey touches that constantly remind you where you are. The rooms aren’t ultra-luxurious or modern chic; instead, they’re warmly furnished and very clean, with plush beds that guests often find very comfortable (just what parents need after a day at the park!). And yes, housekeeping might leave a Hershey’s Kiss on your pillow, keeping the theme going.

Since the resort is spread out, some rooms can be a bit of a walk from the lobby or amenities. If you have little kids or lots of gear, you may want to request a room near the main lobby or near the pool complex when booking. Some wings are closer to the action (like the restaurants and water park), while others are quieter. Guests who stayed near the indoor water park loved the convenience of quick pool access, though note you might have to walk outside briefly to reach the water park building depending on your room’s location. Overall, the accommodations hit the mark for what families need – space, comfort, and a fun theme – ensuring you have a relaxing place to recharge each night.

Family-Friendly Amenities & Activities

One thing is for sure: no one will be bored at Hershey Lodge! The resort is packed with amenities and activities that cater to kids, parents, and even grandparents. Here are some of the highlights that make Hershey Lodge an awesome family-friendly destination:

• Hershey’s Water Works Indoor Water Park: Perhaps the crown jewel of the Lodge’s amenities, this indoor pool complex is a 30,000-square-foot splash paradise. It’s exclusive and complimentary for hotel guests. Inside, you’ll find Twizzlers℠ Twists water slides (yes, named after the candy!), a Reese’s Water Walk obstacle course, a zero-entry pool for little ones, a water playground with a tipping chocolate-themed bucket, water basketball hoops, and more. It’s like having a mini water park right in your hotel – perfect for a break from the theme park or a rainy day. Parents can relax in the seating areas or even enjoy a poolside drink from the Cocoa Cabana while the kids play. The indoor water park is open year-round, with ample hours daily (typically morning through evening). In summer, there’s also an outdoor pool with a zero-entry area and spray features, open seasonally for sun-seeker.
• Arcade & Games: Adjacent to the water park, the Lodge offers a fun arcade filled with video games, air hockey, claw machines, and more to entertain kids of all ages. Kids can rack up points on a game card and win sweet prizes. There’s also a fitness center nearby, so adults can squeeze in a workout while kids play games. Additionally, a family game room is available for more low-key fun like board games.
• Mini Golf & Sports Courts: Outdoors, you’ll find a 18-hole miniature golf course right on the property. It’s a Hershey-themed mini golf that’s free for guests (open seasonally). Challenge the family to a round in the evening! Sports-loving families will also enjoy the basketball and tennis courts, and even pickleball courts, on-site. You can borrow equipment (basketballs, rackets, etc.) from the recreation desk at the Water Works complex – so no need to pack your own gear.
• Kids’ Activities & Entertainment: Every day, Hershey Lodge hosts a roster of resort activities designed for families. These can include Hershey’s character appearances (meet your favorite candy bar mascots for a photo op!), Chocolate Bingo (yes, with sweet prizes), craft workshops, story time, and even s’mores roasts by an outdoor fire pit. During summer and holiday periods, they often have enhanced programming – for example, around Halloween there might be spooky crafts, or in winter holiday-themed activities. Upon check-in, you’ll receive a schedule of all the activities and their times. One very popular offering is the “Kids’ Check-In” time each afternoon in the lobby, where kids can sign a guest book or do a simple craft and receive a sticker or small treat. It’s little touches like this that really make families feel welcome.
• Character Dining & More: Occasionally, Hershey Lodge even offers special events like character breakfasts or visits from animals from ZooAmerica (the nearby zoo) right at the hotel. It’s worth checking the schedule or asking the front desk if any special events will happen during your stay. All these extras are included or low-cost, adding incredible value to your stay since you have entertainment even when you’re not at the theme park.

From splashing in the pool to roasting marshmallows for s’mores, Hershey Lodge ensures your family is constantly making memories on site. The emphasis on kid-friendly fun is evident everywhere – and yet parents aren’t left out either, as there are cozy lounges and a spa nearby (at the sister Hotel Hershey) if you crave a little adult relaxation.

Dining Options at Hershey Lodge

Traveling with kids, it’s so convenient to have good dining options right at your hotel – and Hershey Lodge delivers with multiple on-site restaurants and cafes to satisfy any craving. You won’t need to leave the property for meals (unless you want to). Here’s an overview of the dining choices at the Lodge:

• Fire & Grain: A modern, upbeat restaurant off the main lobby serving hearty breakfast buffets and a full dinner menu. Fire & Grain features contemporary American cuisine with a regional twist. In the morning you can fuel up with omelets, pastries, and coffee, and in the evening expect options like flatbreads, steaks, and pastas. There’s a fireplace in the dining room giving it a cozy feel, and a full bar for the grown-ups. It’s casual enough for kids and offers children’s menus, but also has a chic atmosphere for adults to enjoy.
• The Bears’ Den: A favorite for families, the Bears’ Den is a sports-themed restaurant modeled after a hockey rink (a nod to the local Hershey Bears hockey team 🏒). The vibe here is fun and casual – there are TVs playing sports, hockey memorabilia on the walls, and booth seating like a classic sports pub. The menu is American comfort food – think burgers, pizza, wings, sandwiches, and salads. Kids love the playful atmosphere (you might even feel like you’re dining “on the ice”), and parents love the laid-back, friendly service. It’s open for lunch and dinner, perfect for a relaxed meal after a busy park day. (Insider tip: The Bears’ Den also does takeout orders, so you can grab food to-go and eat in your room if the kids are wiped out – one family noted their takeout after a long park day hit the spot.)
• Revelry (formerly The Hershey Grill): Revelry is the Lodge’s upscale dining venue, located just off the lobby. By upscale we mean it has a more refined dinner menu (including steaks, seafood, and chef specials) and a quieter atmosphere, but it’s still family-friendly and welcomes kids. This is a great spot if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a nicer sit-down meal. The dress code is resort casual (no need for formal wear, but many guests freshen up a bit for dinner here). Despite its elevated vibe, Revelry still embraces the Hershey spirit – you might find chocolate incorporated into a sauce or dessert. If you have kids who can sit through a proper meal, they might even enjoy feeling “grown up” for a night here. Otherwise, consider booking a babysitter and having a date night at Revelry while staying at the Lodge.
• Stacks: Opened in 2023, Stacks is a breakfast and lunch eatery that has quickly become a hit with Lodge guests. (It’s actually in the space formerly known as the Hershey Grill, now reimagined with a new concept.) Stacks is all about big, delicious breakfast and brunch creations. They serve all-day breakfast from 7 AM to 2 PM, featuring dishes like Chicken & Waffles (rumored to be Milton Hershey’s favorite), giant “stacked” buttermilk pancakes with creative toppings, Belgian waffles, and hearty lunch fare like a double-decker BLT and gourmet grilled cheese. If you love breakfast food, this is your spot – and you don’t need a reservation (Stacks is first-come, first-served). The restaurant is located a short walk from the main lobby (near the convention center side of the hotel). Tip: Come hungry – portions are big (the pancake stacks can be massive), and everything is indulgent. It’s a perfect way to fuel up before a day at Hersheypark. Kids will devour the chocolate chip pancakes or other sweet treats on the menu, and adults will enjoy the specialty coffees, espresso drinks, or even a morning cocktail.
• Cocoa Beanery: This is the Lodge’s lobby coffee shop and cafe. Cocoa Beanery is ideal for a quick breakfast on the go or an afternoon pick-me-up. They serve Starbucks coffee, espresso drinks, plus smoothies, pastries, muffins, sandwiches, and salads. Open early morning into the evening, it’s very convenient for grabbing a latte and a bagel before heading out, or a cupcake and hot chocolate for dessert. There’s seating if you want to hang out, or you can take items to your room. For families with early park plans, the Cocoa Beanery is a lifesaver for a quick bite.
• Cocoa Cabana: Located inside the Water Works indoor pool area, Cocoa Cabana is a poolside snack bar. In the summer months or during busy weekends, you can order light fare like chicken tenders, pretzels, soft-serve ice cream, and drinks while enjoying the pool. They even have adult beverages (cocktails, beer, wine) for parents relaxing by the water. It’s super convenient so you don’t have to drag the kids out of the water when hunger strikes – just grab something at Cocoa Cabana and keep the fun going.

Additionally, Hershey Lodge offers room service and a lobby bar for cocktails in the evening. With all these options, even picky eaters in your family will find something to love. The variety of restaurants means you can enjoy a different vibe each day – from a quick casual bite to a festive sports bar meal to a nice dinner. And if you do want to venture out, downtown Hershey and Hersheypark’s own dining (like The Chocolatier restaurant at Chocolatetown) are a short drive or shuttle ride away. Overall, the dining at Hershey Lodge gets a thumbs-up for convenience, quality, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Hersheypark Perks: Sweet Benefits for Lodge Guests

One of the biggest reasons families choose Hershey Lodge is for the exclusive Hersheypark perks that come with being a guest. By staying at an official Hershey resort, you get several sweet benefits that day-trippers and off-site hotels do not offer. These perks can really enhance your Hersheypark visit and even save you money. Here are the key benefits Hershey Lodge guests enjoy:

• Free Front-Gate Shuttle to Hersheypark: As mentioned earlier, the Lodge provides complimentary shuttle buses to Hersheypark and other attractions all day long. These shuttles run about every 20–30 minutes, starting early in the morning before park opening and continuing until park closing at night. The shuttle drops you off at a dedicated resort guest entrance, just steps from the front gate of Hersheypark. This means no parking fees and a super easy start and end to your day (especially nice when the kids are exhausted after the park – the bus picks you up close to the exit). They also stop at Hershey’s Chocolate World and Hersheypark’s Entertainment Complex if you need. It’s incredibly convenient and stress-free.
• Hersheypark Preview Plan – Extra Evening Hours: If one day at the park isn’t enough, you’re in luck. Hershey Lodge guests (with valid park tickets for the next day) can take advantage of the Preview Plan, which grants you up to 3 extra hours in Hersheypark the night before your planned visit. For example, if you have tickets for Saturday, you can head into the park on Friday night for a few bonus hours (usually after 6 or 7 PM, closing permitting). This is free – it doesn’t use up your ticket, it’s an extra perk. It’s a fantastic way to ride a few coasters the night before and get a “preview” of the fun to come, or even just enjoy the park atmosphere twice. Many families say this perk alone makes staying at the Lodge worth it, because it spreads out the fun and reduces pressure to cram everything into one day.
• Sweet Start Early Park Access: On the morning of your Hersheypark visit, you’ll get to enter the park 1 hour early with the Sweet Start program (available on select days, typically all summer and some weekends). This early access is gold in the busy summer months – you can get into Hersheypark ahead of the crowds and hit a few popular rides with minimal waits. Imagine riding Candymonium or Skyrush roller coasters before the lines build! Sweet Start is available to all resort guests and season pass holders, and it’s a fantastic way to maximize your day. Especially if you have young kids, that extra morning hour in the cooler part of the day can be a great time to do the kids’ rides or meet characters without hustle. Travel tip: plan to take advantage of Sweet Start by arriving at the shuttle pickup or park entrance early (many other resort guests will do the same). The Lodge will often start shuttles early enough to get you there for Sweet Start – check the shuttle schedule provided.
• Free Admission to Local Attractions: As a Lodge guest, you also receive complimentary tickets to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum. These two attractions are in town and are a nice bonus on your trip. Hershey Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden (with a butterfly atrium) that normally costs about $15 per adult – but you get in free with your hotel key card. The Hershey Story is a museum about Milton Hershey’s life and chocolate history, which is both educational and interactive for kids – again free for guests. If you have a day where you’re not doing the park, or a few hours to spare, these inclusions are definitely worth checking out (and saving ~$50+ for a family of four on tickets). Additionally, Lodge guests get preferred pricing at ZooAmerica, the nearby small zoo, if you want to visit it separately (note: ZooAmerica is also included in a Hersheypark ticket).
• Free Chocolate at Check-In: We mentioned it before, but it bears repeating – everyone gets a sweet treat when you arrive! 🍬 The front desk hands out Hershey’s chocolate to each guest at check-in. It’s a simple perk but one that kids absolutely love (and let’s be honest, adults do too). Plus, throughout your stay the staff might surprise you with a few extra chocolates, and you’ll find Hershey Kisses in the room. It’s all part of the Hershey hospitality that makes the experience special.
• Resort Activities & Pools Access: All the on-site fun – the Water Works indoor water park, pools, fitness center, arcade, mini golf, etc. – are included with your stay at no extra charge. Some hotels might charge a resort fee or extra for certain activities, but at Hershey Lodge it’s all part of the package. So while you’re paying for a resort hotel, you’re getting a mini-vacation’s worth of entertainment built-in.

These perks can really add value to your stay. For example, the cost of parking at Hersheypark is about $25, Hershey Gardens tickets ~$13 each, early access can save you hours of waiting – so all told, families often feel the benefits offset the higher cost of the Hershey Lodge versus a non-official hotel. Especially during peak season when Hersheypark is crowded, being able to get in early and avoid some lines (and hop on a shuttle instead of sitting in a traffic line) is priceless. Many reviewers note that the early entry and convenience were worth it even if the nightly rate is higher than nearby hotels.

Pricing and Value for Families

Speaking of cost, let’s touch on pricing. Hershey Lodge is generally a mid- to upscale-priced resort. Depending on the season, room rates typically start around the high $200s per night in the off-season and can go $300+ in the busy summer months. For example, on a summer weekend, you might see rates around $350/night for a standard room. Packages that include park tickets or breakfast can offer some savings, and in the winter or early spring, you might find more moderate prices or special deals. The Lodge often runs promotions (like kids eat free packages or holiday packages), so it’s worth checking their website or calling for current offers.

While it’s certainly more expensive than a basic roadside hotel, most families find that the experience and perks justify the cost. You’re paying not just for a room, but for the 24/7 resort experience – the pools, activities, characters, shuttle, freebies, and the immersion in Hershey’s chocolatey world. If you are mainly visiting Hershey for Hersheypark, staying here maximizes your fun and minimizes logistics. That said, if you’re on a tight budget, there are cheaper hotels in the area (and even a Hersheypark Camping Resort) – but you will give up the on-site perks. One travel blogger noted that during less busy seasons, they might opt to save money off-site, but during summer, Hershey Lodge was “worth spending a bit more” for the convenience and extras.

Tip: To save money, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) when rates are a bit lower and Hersheypark is still open on weekends. Also, check if kids stay or eat free promotions are running – currently, Hershey Lodge has offered “Kids Stay, Play & Eat Free” packages on certain dates, which can be a great value for families with multiple children. And remember, the included Hershey Gardens and museum tickets add some value (roughly $40-$50 saved for a family), and the free shuttle saves parking fees. When you add it up, the value proposition of Hershey Lodge is quite good for an all-in-one family getaway.

Final Thoughts: Is Hershey Lodge Right for Your Family?

After exploring everything Hershey Lodge has to offer, we can confidently say it’s an excellent choice for families looking for a fun, hassle-free Hershey vacation. The combination of amenities, on-site dining, and park perks creates a seamless experience – you can park your car and not worry about a thing except enjoying your trip. The Lodge really caters to kids with its water park and activities, yet also provides comfort and convenience for adults. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming; from the moment you see that Hershey Bar character in the lobby and get your chocolate at check-in, you know you’re in for a special treat.

That said, consider your family’s preferences: if you value peace, quiet, and a boutique hotel ambiance, you might prefer the more upscale (and pricier) Hotel Hershey up the hill. Hershey Lodge is bustling and busy, especially in summer – some hallways can be long and noisy with excited kids. But for most families, that’s exactly the fun, friendly environment they’re looking for. It feels safe, lively, and geared toward making kids smile at every turn. The staff is used to dealing with children and goes out of their way to be accommodating (whether it’s handing out extra crayons at a restaurant or helping you warm a baby bottle).

In summary, Hershey Lodge offers a sweet blend of family fun and practical convenience. You’ll make wonderful memories here – whether it’s watching your kids conquer the Twizzler water slides, enjoying a cozy dinner together at the Bears’ Den, or getting to Hersheypark early enough to ride front-row on a coaster with no wait. The theming and hospitality remind you constantly that you’re in a magical chocolate-infused destination, which adds to the joy of the vacation. For an enthusiastic family adventure in Hershey, we highly recommend Hershey Lodge as your home away from home. 🍫🏰

Bottom line: if Hersheypark is on your itinerary, and you want to maximize fun for the kids (and ease for the parents), Hershey Lodge is absolutely worth it. It’s a place where the whole family can stay, play, and eat with a smile, and you’ll leave with fond memories (and maybe a bag full of Hershey’s chocolates) to treasure.

Planning Your Visit & Getting There (with Trip.com)

Ready to plan your sweet getaway to Hershey Lodge? Here are a few tips to make your trip planning easier – and how you can use Trip.com to book everything in one place:

• Booking Your Hotel: You can reserve your room directly through Hershey Lodge, but it’s also worth checking for deals on third-party sites. Trip.com, for instance, often has competitive rates for hotels. You can search for Hershey Lodge on Trip.com’s Hotels page to compare prices and read reviews. Booking through Trip.com is straightforward and can sometimes bundle perks or discounts.
• Getting to Hershey – Flights: If you’re coming from out of state, the nearest airport is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), about 20 minutes from Hershey. Philadelphia (PHL) is another major airport about 1.5–2 hours away. Use Trip.com to find the best flight options for your family – their flights page lets you compare airlines and prices easily. Look for flights to Harrisburg, Philadelphia, or even Baltimore/Washington (BWI, ~2 hours drive) depending on fares and convenience.
• Transportation – Car Rentals or Transfers: Having a car in Hershey is helpful (especially if you plan to explore beyond Hersheypark), and Trip.com can assist you with booking a rental car. Major rental companies operate at the airports. If you’d rather not drive, you can also arrange an airport transfer or shuttle through Trip.com – a driver can pick you up from the airport and take you directly to Hershey Lodge, which can be handy for families with lots of luggage or those who just want to relax upon arrival.
• Tickets & Attractions: Don’t forget to plan your Hersheypark tickets and other attraction visits. While Hershey Lodge gives you some for free (like the Gardens and Story museum), you’ll need park tickets. Trip.com has a Things To Do section where you might find Hersheypark tickets, tours, or other local experiences that you can book in advance. Sometimes bundling attractions or buying in advance can save money. Also, check out Trip.com’s packages – there are occasionally vacation packages that include hotel + tickets which could be a good deal.

With Trip.com, you can essentially book your whole Hershey vacation step-by-step: your hotel at Hershey Lodge, your flights, your car rental, and even your park tickets or tours – all through one convenient platform. This not only saves time but also means all your trip details are organized in one place. Plus, Trip.com often has an app that provides 24/7 customer service, which can be reassuring when traveling with family.

We hope this review and guide helps you plan an amazing family trip to Hershey Lodge! From the chocolate-scented welcome to the last coaster ride at Hersheypark, your family is in for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy every moment, take lots of photos, and indulge in all the chocolatey fun – after all, Hershey, PA isn’t called the Sweetest Place on Earth for nothing. Happy travels, and have a sweet stay at Hershey Lodge! 🍫🧳🎢