Hershey, PA: A Shopping Paradise for Chocolate Lovers and Beyond

Introduction

The charming town of Hershey, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its iconic chocolate factory and theme park. However, beyond these attractions, Hershey is a vibrant shopping destination that offers an eclectic array of experiences for every taste and style. From specialty chocolate boutiques to designer outlets, Hershey caters to shoppers of all ages and interests.

Outlets and Department Stores

Tanger Outlets Hershey

• Located along Route 322, Tanger Outlets Hershey is an outdoor shopping mall featuring over 80 stores, including Kate Spade, Coach, Calvin Klein, and Nautica.
• With daily discounts of up to 70% off retail prices, shoppers can find designer brands at affordable prices.

Outlets at Hershey

• Across the street from Tanger Outlets, Outlets at Hershey is another popular outlet mall with over 40 stores.
• It features a mix of home décor, apparel, and sporting goods stores, including Under Armour, Tommy Hilfiger, and Yankee Candle.

Chocolate Boutiques

The Hershey Store

• The Hershey Store on Chocolate Avenue is the ultimate destination for chocolate lovers.
• With over 1,000 varieties of chocolate, including exclusive and limited-edition creations, it's a chocolate paradise.
• Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits, a chocolate fountain, and a make-your-own-candy bar station.

Chocolate World Store

• Located inside Hersheypark, Chocolate World Store is another must-visit for chocolate enthusiasts.
• It offers a wide selection of Hershey's chocolates, candy, and souvenirs, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at the chocolate-making process.

Chocolate Avenue

• Chocolate Avenue is a charming street lined with chocolate shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• Visitors can find unique chocolate creations, such as hand-dipped truffles, chocolate-covered bacon, and even chocolate-infused coffee.

Specialty Shops

Antique Marketplace of Hershey

• Antique Marketplace of Hershey is a sprawling antique mall with over 200 dealers.
• Shoppers can browse through a wide variety of antiques, collectibles, furniture, and vintage clothing.

Hershey Flea Market

• Held every Saturday and Sunday, the Hershey Flea Market features over 1,000 vendors selling everything from antiques to crafts to produce.
• With over 15 acres of shopping space, it's a treasure hunter's paradise.

Shopping Tips

Planning Your Visit

• For the best shopping experience, plan your visit during the off-season or weekdays when crowds are smaller.
• Check the websites of individual stores and outlets for sales, discounts, and special promotions.
• Allow plenty of time to explore all the different shops and attractions in Hershey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not visiting in the off-season: Hershey can be extremely crowded, especially during peak season.
• Only visiting the outlet malls: While the outlets offer great discounts, Hershey has a lot more to offer. Be sure to explore the specialty shops and downtown area.
• Not sampling the chocolate: Hershey is all about chocolate, so make sure to sample the many delicious creations available throughout the town.

Step-by-Step Approach to Shopping in Hershey

1. Choose a basecamp: Whether it's a hotel or bed and breakfast, choose a place to stay that's centrally located to the shopping areas.
2. Make a list of priorities: Decide which stores and attractions you're most interested in and plan your itinerary accordingly.
3. Start with the outlets: If you're looking for discounts, start your shopping day at the outlet malls.
4. Explore Chocolate Avenue: Once you've had your fill of outlets, head to Chocolate Avenue for unique chocolate experiences.
5. Visit the antique shops: For antique lovers, a visit to the Antique Marketplace of Hershey is a must.
6. Take a break: With all the shopping, don't forget to take breaks and enjoy a bite to eat or visit a nearby attraction.
7. Check out the flea market: If you're looking for bargains, make sure to visit the Hershey Flea Market on Saturday or Sunday.
8. Indulge in chocolate: Throughout your shopping adventure, don't forget to indulge in the delicious chocolate offerings available at the many stores and restaurants in Hershey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the hours for the outlet malls in Hershey?

A: The outlet malls are typically open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, seven days a week.

Q: How much time should I allow for shopping in Hershey?

A: It depends on how many shops you want to visit, but a full day is recommended to fully experience Hershey's shopping scene.

Q: Are there any parking fees in Hershey?

A: There is free parking available at all the major shopping areas in Hershey.

Q: What are the best times to visit Hershey for shopping?

A: The off-season (January-March and September-November) is the best time to visit Hershey for shopping, as crowds are smaller and discounts are more plentiful.

Q: Are there any other attractions near the shopping areas in Hershey?

A: Yes, Hersheypark, Hershey Gardens, and the Indian Echo Caverns are all located within a short drive of the shopping areas.

Call to Action

Plan your shopping adventure today and experience the sweet and savory delights of Hershey, Pennsylvania! With its diverse range of shopping options, from chocolate boutiques to designer outlets, Hershey offers something for everyone. Whether you're a chocolate lover, an antique aficionado, or simply looking for great deals, Hershey is the perfect shopping destination.