In the heart of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of Hershey City, the Hershey Gardens presents a serene retreat of botanical beauty. Since its opening in 1937 by Milton S. Hershey, the founder of The Hershey Chocolate Company, the gardens have grown into a 23-acre horticultural display, providing visitors with a captivating blend of color, fragrance, and scenic vistas.
An Array of Themed Gardens
Hershey Gardens is home to a myriad of breathtaking themed gardens. The Historic Hershey Rose Garden, one of the original sections, displays over 3,500 roses in 175 varieties, creating an enchanting panorama when in bloom. The perennial garden offers a colorful display of blooms throughout the season, while the Japanese Garden, designed in traditional style, provides a peaceful setting with its graceful combinations of rocks, water, and plants.
The Children’s Garden, spanning one acre, is a delightful space designed to engage kids with more than 30 themed areas including a butterfly maze, musical garden, and a whimsical Hershey’s Kisses-shaped fountain.
The Butterfly Atrium
A key highlight of Hershey Gardens is the indoor Butterfly Atrium at the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory. This tropical setting is home to dozens of rare and exotic butterfly species from around the world, flying freely amid tropical plants and orchids. Visitors can witness the fascinating life cycle of butterflies, from chrysalis to their first flight. The atrium offers a year-round, close-up interaction with butterflies, a truly unique experience that’s both educational and awe-inspiring.
Educational Opportunities
Hershey Gardens also serves as an educational center, providing an array of learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. Interactive exhibits throughout the Children’s Garden and seasonal horticultural demonstrations give insight into the natural world and gardening techniques. The gardens also host various seasonal events, garden-themed workshops, and educational programs throughout the year.
The Overlook Mansion
The High Point Mansion, once the home of Milton and Catherine Hershey, adds a historical touch to the visit. Although the mansion itself isn’t open for public tours, visitors can appreciate its architecture and the spectacular view of Hershey City from the patio.
Weddings at Hershey Gardens
Hershey Gardens provides multiple venues within the garden for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Couples can choose from various outdoor spaces, each with its own charm and ambiance. All wedding rentals include access to all attractions and a choice of five outdoor wedding ceremony locations.
Hershey Gardens Events
Throughout the year, the garden hosts various events and activities for visitors to enjoy. The real-time information about specific events can be found on Hershey Garden’s website.
Hershey Gardens Orchid Show
The Orchid Show is a highly anticipated annual event that showcases a stunning array of orchids in various shapes, colors, and sizes. The show features captivating displays of orchids arranged in creative and artistic ways. You can expect to see a wide variety of orchid species, including rare and exotic ones, presented in stunning arrangements that highlight their unique features.
In addition to the beautiful orchid displays, the Orchid Show often includes educational exhibits. These exhibits may provide information about the different types of orchids, their care and cultivation, and tips for growing orchids at home.
The Orchid Show also features vendors selling a wide selection of orchids. You can browse through the offerings and purchase orchids to take home with you.
Hershey Gardens Virtual Tour
The virtual tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty and serenity of the gardens from the comfort of your own home. It can be accessed through the official Virtual Tour website.
Hershey Gardens Gift Shop
The Gift Shop offers a wide range of unique and garden-themed items. Unique gardening accessories, statuaries, ornamental things, clothing, books, children’s products, and jewelry are also available. Hershey Gardens members enjoy a 15% discount when purchasing items from the shop.
A visit to Hershey Gardens is a journey into a botanical paradise. Its beautiful themed gardens, the enchanting Butterfly Atrium, and various educational opportunities create a blend of nature, beauty, and learning that appeals to visitors of all ages. Whether you are a seasoned gardener, a nature enthusiast, or a family looking for a fun and educational outing, this is a destination that will not only meet but exceed your expectations. It’s truly a place where nature’s elegance unfurls in all its splendor, offering a tranquil retreat and a memorable experience.
Hershey Gardens Admission Price
Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. The admission prices are as follows:
Regular (ages 13-61): $16.50
Senior (ages 62+): $15.50
Junior (ages 3-12): $12.50
Children ages 2 and under – FREE
Hershey Gardens Members – FREE
These prices are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the official website for real-time information on admission fees and any available discounts.
Where is Hershey Gardens?
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