A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Hershey for Families, Food, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Hershey?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Hershey. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums.

Cape Cod and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cape Cod than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cape Cod is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hershey is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Cape Cod and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Also, Cape Cod is famous for The Cape Cod National Seashore.

How is Cape Cod different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hershey and Cape Cod. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Hershey?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Hershey is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hershey. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Cape Cod is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Cape Cod or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Hershey is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Hershey is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Hershey to choose from. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.


Is Cape Cod or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Cape Cod is a great destination for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Hershey Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Cape Cod is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Hershey?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Cape Cod is a great destination for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hershey. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.


Is Cape Cod or Hershey Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Hershey is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hershey is very family-friendly. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Cape Cod or Hershey Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Cape Cod and Hershey both superb destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Hershey is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Is Cape Cod or Hershey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Cape Cod and Hershey both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.


Is Cape Cod or Hershey a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Hershey

Cape Cod is a popular place for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Hershey is generally not a very walkable beach destination. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Cod and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Hershey. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Cape Cod. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hershey, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cape Cod than Hershey. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cape Cod that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hershey than Cape Cod if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Hershey.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Cape Cod or Hershey?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Hershey offers museums and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Hershey?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Hershey is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hershey, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Cape Cod or Hershey?

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Hershey is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Cape Cod?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $183, while the average daily cost in Hershey is $212. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Cod and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Hershey? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Cod


Hotels in Hershey


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Cape Cod change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Cod $60
    Hershey $61

Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Hershey $27


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Cod and Hershey, we can see that Hershey is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Cod Expensive? and Is Hershey Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or Hershey?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Hershey. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cape Cod is cooler than Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Cod in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Hershey averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In the summer, Cape Cod often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Hershey. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hershey in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Cape Cod is generally cooler than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 53°F (12°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during autumn. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In October, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Hershey. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Cape Cod during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hershey can be very cold during winter. Cape Cod can get quite cold in the winter. Cape Cod is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Cape Cod often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in January than Hershey. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Hershey. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cape Cod is much colder than Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Cod in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during spring. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Hershey. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)