Hershey Gardens is a Must See Destination for Hershey Visitors

Hershey Gardens is a Must See Destination for Hershey Visitors

When most people think of Hershey, Pennsylvania, they picture roller coasters, chocolate bars, and the sweet smell of cocoa drifting through the air. But just up the hill from the heart of town lies a quieter treasure. Hershey Gardens, a 23-acre oasis of flowers, trees, and butterflies that has been delighting visitors for nearly nine decades.

Address: 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033

Category: Botanical Gardens

Duration: 1hr – 2hrs

Directions, Admission, and More

Hershey Gardens is located at 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA 17033, just minutes from Hersheypark, The Hershey Story Museum, and Hershey’s Chocolate World. The entrance to the gardens is well-marked, with free parking available on site.

The garden is open daily, with seasonal variations in hours. Regular admission is $17.50 for adults and $13.50 for children aged 3-12. Various military, senior, and group discounts are available.

The majority of pathways are wheelchair and stroller-accessible, making Hershey Gardens a welcoming destination for all ages and mobility levels. Some outdoor areas may be closed due to icy conditions in the winter months.

Be sure to plan your visit around the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Check out their official website for the latest hours, costs, and special events.

The entrance to the Hershey Gardens with Hersheypark in the background

A Gift from Milton Hershey

The story of Hershey Gardens begins in 1936, when Milton Hershey was asked to create a small rose garden in Washington D.C. overlooking the town. He decided to open it in Hershey instead as a space where residents and visitors could enjoy the beauty of nature.

A photo of the rose garden during it’s opening in 1937

The garden opened to the public in 1937 with just 3.5 acres and 12,000 rose bushes. Over the years, it expanded into the 23-acre lush landscape we see today. a series of themed gardens, walking paths, and scenic overlooks that together create a year-round destination for nature lovers.

The rose garden facing the Hershey Hotel

Among the many blooms in the Historic Rose Garden, the M.S. Hershey Rose is a true standout. This red hybrid tea rose was named in honor of Milton Hershey. Its deep color, classic shape, and sweet fragrance is one of over 175 varieties found within the garden.

A bumblebee pollinating a rose

Specialty Gardens Worth Exploring

One of the most rewarding parts of a visit to Hershey Gardens is wandering through its collection of specialty gardens. Each section is designed with its own distinct character and charm.

A rose arch over a paved path

The Japanese Garden offers a tranquil koi pond, stone lanterns, and carefully placed ornamental plantings create a peaceful retreat perfect for quiet reflection.

Japanese Garden and koi pond

The Herb Garden showcases a variety of culinary and medicinal plants that will inspire any home gardener. Visitors can find native and tropical plants that are found within the pantry.

An arch leading to the herb garden

Visitors will also enjoy the Rock Garden, with its unique mix of mature trees and statues. Ornamental Grass and Pollinator Gardens provide movement, seasonal interest, and a haven for butterflies, bees, and other beneficial creatures.

One of the many rock statues within the garden

Kid-Friendly Adventures

The Children’s Garden is a whimsical, interactive space designed to inspire curiosity and creativity in young visitors. It’s filled with hands-on features like giant musical instruments, Hershey’s Kisses-shaped misters, and an education center. Playful sculptures, colorful plantings, and butterfly-friendly flowers keep the space lively and engaging.

A chocolate display within the Children’s Garden

The Senses Garden invites visitors to experience nature with all five senses. Designed to be enjoyed by guests of all ages and abilities, this space encourages touching soft leaves, smelling fragrant blooms, and listening to the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. Vibrant colors catch the eye, while textured paths and plantings add depth to the experience.

The Senses Garden

Butterfly Atrium

One of the crown jewels of Hershey Gardens is the Butterfly Atrium, an indoor, climate-controlled paradise where hundreds of butterflies from around the world flutter freely among lush tropical plants. Open year-round, this vibrant space offers a dose of warmth and color even in the middle of winter, making it a favorite stop for both locals and visitors.

Butterflies pollinating a flower

The atrium is designed to mimic a rainforest environment. The room is filled with tropical blooms, cascading vines, and a warm, humid atmosphere that’s ideal for these creatures.

The lush tropical garden of the atrium

Informative displays introduce visitors to the life cycle of butterflies, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult. Other exotic species of bugs and amphibians are also on display in the atrium. Staff members are often on hand to answer questions, point out unique species, and help guests spot butterflies that might be blending in with their surroundings.

A variety of cocoons

While the butterflies may look delicate and inviting, it’s important to admire them without touching them. Their wings are covered in tiny scales that can easily be damaged, and handling them can cause stress or injury.

An orange-spotted tiger clearwing butterfly on a leaf

Final Thoughts

Hershey Gardens is a gem that offers much more than just stunning flowers and scenic views. It’s a place where nature’s beauty comes alive through thoughtfully designed gardens and tranquil walking paths. The Butterfly Atrium stands out as a magical highlight. It’s the perfect break from the excitement of the city and a chance to reconnect with nature.

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