There are some places in Pennsylvania that feel like stepping into another world, and The Hotel Hershey is one of them. Perched elegantly on a hilltop with panoramic views of the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” this timeless resort blends luxury with heart, history with modern comfort, and chocolate nostalgia with Mediterranean elegance. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, breathe deep, and soak in every beautiful detail.

And for history lovers like me, there’s an added treat—The Hotel Hershey is officially a National Historic Landmark, added in 1988 in recognition of its remarkable architecture and Milton S. Hershey’s vision for uplifting a community during a time of hardship.

Whenever I walk through its doors, I’m immediately immersed in a world that feels both classic and indulgent, with a story that’s as rich as the chocolate this town is famous for.

It’s impossible to talk about The Hotel Hershey without talking about the man behind it—Milton S. Hershey. While the rest of the nation was struggling through the Great Depression, Hershey believed in supporting his town by creating jobs, boosting morale, and continuing to invest in the community he loved.

So in 1930, he launched the Great Building Campaign—and right at its heart was his dream for a grand, world-class hotel overlooking his chocolate paradise.

Inspired by his travels through the Mediterranean, Hershey envisioned a resort filled with terracotta roofs, sunlit courtyards, elegant archways, sweeping terraces, and breathtaking garden landscapes. A place that echoed European charm but felt unmistakably like Hershey, PA.

By 1933, The Hotel Hershey opened its doors—a symbol of hope, beauty, and craftsmanship at a time when the country needed it most.

And Milton’s story is still very much alive today—so much so that a major motion picture about Milton and his wife Catherine “Kitty” Hershey has recently been filmed right here in Pennsylvania. Titled Hershey, the film is set to be released in 2026, shining a fresh spotlight on the man whose dream built an entire town. This upcoming movie brings new attention to his remarkable life and legacy, and it makes visiting places like The Hotel Hershey even more meaningful.

One of the most mesmerizing aspects of The Hotel Hershey is the atmosphere. You don’t just walk through the property—you experience it.

Grand Hilltop Setting

The hotel sits atop Pat’s Hill, giving it commanding views of Hershey’s beautiful landscape. Whether it’s sunrise touching the gardens or the town lights twinkling at night, the scene never fails to impress.

Mediterranean Elegance

Milton Hershey’s love for European design is everywhere:

• Terracotta roof tiles

• Soft arches and pillared walkways

• Mosaic details

• Sun-drenched courtyards

• Elegant fountains and terrace views

You’d almost forget you’re in Pennsylvania—until you catch the sweet scent of chocolate drifting in the breeze.

Beautifully Preserved Interiors

Inside, the atmosphere shifts to warm, classic, and inviting:

• Dark woods polished to a soft glow

• Vintage photographs of Hershey through the decades

• Plush seating and soft lighting

• Historic design elements that have stood the test of time

Every inch feels well-loved, well-lived, and wonderfully preserved.

The World-Famous Chocolate Spa

Where else can you indulge in chocolate in ways you never imagined? Treatments include:

• Whipped Cocoa Bath

• Cocoa Facial Experience

• Chocolate Fondue Wrap

• Cocoa Massage

It’s decadent, unique, and one of the hotel’s top attractions.

Extraordinary Dining Options

Food is taken seriously here. Three of the most popular restaurants include:

• The Circular – Designed by Milton Hershey himself, it offers panoramic views and fine dining in a stunning circular layout with no corners.

• Harvest – A farm-to-table restaurant celebrating local ingredients.

• Trevi 5 – A modern Italian spot with fabulous pasta and cocktails.

Hershey Gardens

Just steps from the hotel, this 23-acre garden is a breathtaking escape featuring:

• A 3½-acre rose garden

• A tropical butterfly atrium

• Seasonal flower displays

• A whimsical children’s garden

It’s one of my favorite places for photography.

Elegance With a Warm Heart

Despite its luxury, the hotel never feels pretentious. There’s a genuine warmth here that comes from the Hershey legacy of hospitality.

You have several lodging styles to choose from, depending on your vacation mood:

The Main Hotel Rooms

Rich in historic character, these rooms offer:

• Classic décor

• Modern comforts

• Views of the gardens, town, or hillside

• A cozy, peaceful retreat

The Woodside Cottages

Perfect for families, couples, and groups, the cottages offer:

• Fireplaces

• Private patios

• Spacious layouts

• A more secluded, residential feel

They’re luxurious yet extremely homey.

Premium Suites

These suites are ideal for special getaways. Their features include:

• Separate living areas

• Stunning views

• Unique historic touches

• Exceptional comfort and elegance

Booking Your Stay at The Hotel Hershey

If you’re ready to plan your visit to this beautiful historic resort, you can book your stay directly through my link below. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing weekend, a chocolate-filled getaway, or a full Hershey adventure, The Hotel Hershey is truly a destination worth experiencing.

👉 Book Your Stay HereThe Hotel Hershey

Hershey is packed with fun attractions for all ages. You can stay busy from the moment you arrive—or take it slow and soak in the scenery.

Hersheypark

Roller coasters, water rides, family attractions, and of course—chocolate everywhere.

Hershey Theatre

A beautifully restored landmark offering:

• Musicals

• Ballet

• Concerts

• Broadway tours

The architecture alone is worth visiting.

Hershey Gardens Butterfly Atrium

One of the few year-round tropical butterfly environments in the country.

The Hershey Story Museum

A fascinating deep dive into Milton Hershey’s life, philanthropy, and chocolate empire. With the upcoming 2026 film about his life, this museum is about to get a lot more attention.

While The Hotel Hershey isn’t saturated with ghost stories like some century-old hotels, a few whispers exist. Guests have reported:

• Light footsteps in empty hallways

• Soft knocks at night

• A gentle presence in some of the oldest rooms

Most describe the “spirits” here as peaceful, almost protective—more like longtime guests who simply never checked out.

Given the hotel’s rich history, it’s no surprise that a place built with so much love and pride might hold on to a few lingering memories.

The Hotel Hershey shines in every season, but certain times of year truly elevate the experience.

Spring – Flowering trees and gardens in full bloom.

 Summer – Poolside relaxation, concerts, and family fun.

 Fall –  Crisp air and vibrant foliage—my personal favorite time.

Winter – The entire town transforms into Hersheypark Christmas

Candylane, with twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and cozy

fireplaces back at the hotel.

It’s absolutely magical.

There’s something timeless about The Hotel Hershey. Maybe it’s the way history and luxury blend effortlessly. Maybe it’s the spirit of Milton Hershey—his generosity, his heart, and his vision—still woven into every part of the experience. Or maybe it’s simply the feeling you get when you’re standing on that hilltop, taking in the view of the town below, where chocolate has been bringing people joy for more than a century.

With the upcoming major motion picture about Milton and Kitty Hershey’s life releasing in 2026, this landmark hotel is poised to take center stage once again—reminding the world of the extraordinary couple whose dreams and compassion built the sweetest town in America.

For me, The Hotel Hershey remains one of Pennsylvania’s most cherished places—a destination rich with history, beauty, tradition, and the sweetest kind of magic.

For more information about Hotel Hershey, and to explore other historic stays across the country, visit the Historic Hotels of America website.

 Until Next Time!

Susan