Visiting Hershey Chocolate World is a dream come true for many chocolate enthusiasts. Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of the iconic Hershey’s chocolate brand, this compelling attraction offers an immersive experience of the world of chocolate.
The duration of a visit to Hershey Chocolate World can vary depending on the individual’s preferences, but the Hershey Chocolate World Tour takes approximately 30 minutes. Visitors can also participate in other activities which can add to the overall duration of their visit. A typical visit may last around 2-3 hours.
This article will guide you through the time required to tour Hershey Chocolate World, the various attractions, and helpful tips to make the most of your visit.
Introduction To Hershey Chocolate World
Hershey Chocolate World is a unique visitor center offering a variety of chocolate-themed experiences, such as factory tours, interactive exhibits, and shopping opportunities. It opened in 1973 to replace the original Hershey chocolate factory tour.
The factory had become increasingly popular and challenging to accommodate. Since its opening, Hershey Chocolate World has continued to expand and evolve, offering new and exciting experiences for its visitors.
Duration Of The Tour
The time required to tour Hershey Chocolate World varies depending on the attractions you choose to visit and the time you allocate to each activity. On average, visitors can expect to spend around 3 to 5 hours touring the facility.
However, for a comprehensive experience, it is recommended to set aside an entire day. The following sections will discuss the various attractions available and the time required for each.
- Hershey’s Chocolate Tour
- Duration: 30 minutes
The Hershey’s Chocolate Tour is a free, self-guided ride that takes you through making Hershey’s chocolate, from cocoa beans to the final product. Visitors board a slow-moving vehicle and travel through a series of exhibits.
The exhibits showcase the chocolate-making process, complete with animatronics, multimedia displays, and the delightful aroma of chocolate. The tour lasts approximately 30 minutes, and guests are treated to a complimentary Hershey’s chocolate sample at the end.
- Create Your Own Candy Bar
- Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Create Your Own Candy Bar is a hands-on experience where visitors can customize Hershey’s chocolate bar. Participants don a hairnet, apron, and gloves before entering a small-scale factory environment.
You can choose the type of chocolate and fillings and even design the packaging. The entire process takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This activity requires a separate ticket, and reservations are recommended to ensure availability.
- 4D Chocolate Movie
- Duration: 30 minutes
The 4D Chocolate Movie is an interactive, family-friendly experience that combines 3D film technology with special effects and audience participation.
This short film follows the adventures of Hershey’s chocolate characters as they work together to solve a mystery. The experience lasts approximately 30 minutes and requires an additional ticket.
- Hershey’s Unwrapped
- Duration: 30 minutes
Hershey’s Unwrapped is a theatrical tasting experience that combines storytelling, humor, and interactive elements.
Participants are guided by a “Chocolate Professor” through the history of Hershey’s chocolate and learn how to taste and appreciate the different flavors and textures properly. The show lasts roughly 30 minutes and requires an additional ticket.
Check out this video to watch a full tour of Hershey’s Chocolate World:
Hershey’s Chocolate World 50th | Full Tour | February 2023
- Chocolate Tasting Experience
- Duration: 30 minutes
The Chocolate Tasting Experience is a guided, sit-down activity where visitors learn about the art of chocolate tasting.
Led by a chocolate expert, participants sample a variety of Hershey’s chocolates while learning about the nuances of flavor, texture, and aroma. This experience lasts approximately 30 minutes and requires an additional ticket.
- Hershey Trolley Works
- Duration: 75 minutes
The Hershey Trolley Works is a guided tour exploring the town of Hershey and delving into the history of its founder, Milton S. Hershey. The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes and covers various points of interest.
It includes the original Hershey factory, the Hershey Theatre, and Milton Hershey’s mansion. Onboard, guests are treated to a historical narrative and chocolate samples. This experience requires an additional ticket.
Shopping And Dining
In addition to the above attractions, Hershey Chocolate World offers a variety of shopping and dining opportunities.
The main shopping area, Hershey’s Largest Candy Store, features an array of Hershey’s products, souvenirs, and exclusive merchandise. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the food court or indulge in a sweet treat at the in-house bakery.
The time spent shopping and dining depends on your preferences, but allocating at least 1 to 2 hours for these activities is recommended.
Tips For Maximizing Your Visit
Follow these tips to enjoy your tour to its fullest:
- Plan Ahead
Research the attractions available at Hershey Chocolate World and decide which ones you would like to visit. It will help you allocate your time efficiently and get all the experiences.
- Purchase Tickets In Advance
Some attractions require an additional ticket, and purchasing these ahead of time can save you time waiting in line on the day of your visit.
- Allocate A Full Day
While it is possible to tour Hershey Chocolate World in a few hours, allocating a full day will allow you to immerse yourself in the experience and explore each attraction fully.
- Arrive Early
Hershey Chocolate World can get busy, particularly during peak travel seasons and weekends. Arriving early will help you avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes
As you will be on your feet for most of the day, it is essential to wear comfortable shoes to ensure an enjoyable experience.
- Take Breaks
Take breaks throughout the day to rest, refuel, and recharge. Enjoy a meal at the food court, or grab a sweet treat from the bakery.
- Check For Special Events And Offers
Hershey Chocolate World occasionally hosts special events and offers promotions. Check their website and social media accounts for the latest information to enhance your visit.
Conclusion
Hershey Chocolate World offers a memorable experience for chocolate enthusiasts of all ages, with attractions like Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, Create Your Own Candy Bar and the Hershey Trolley Works.
The duration of the visit to Hershey Chocolate World depends on the selected attractions and the time spent on shopping and dining, typically lasting around 3 to 5 hours. However, to fully explore the facility, it is recommended to dedicate an entire day and plan.
Featured image from: Travelandleisure.com