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

Should you visit Charleston or Hershey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Hershey, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Charleston and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Charleston and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park.

How is Charleston different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charleston or Hershey?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Charleston or Hershey.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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).

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

Charleston is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Charleston or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Charleston is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Charleston has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

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.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, Hershey is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Hershey is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Hershey is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Hershey is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for Beaches?

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

Charleston is considered a top beach destination. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is very popular for its historic old town. However, Hershey does not have a historic old town.

Charleston has a world-famous historical area. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Hershey does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Hershey?

Charleston is very popular for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 Charleston or Hershey Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Hershey does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Charleston. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Hershey does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Hershey does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Hershey does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for Families?

Hershey is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hershey is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly coastal town. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for Couples?

Charleston is very popular for romance. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Hershey is a great coastal town if you're traveling as a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Is Charleston or Hershey Better for Students?

Charleston is a popular place for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

Charleston is popular with students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Both Charleston and Hershey offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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

Is Charleston or Hershey a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great destination for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Hershey?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Hershey 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 Charleston.

One day in Charleston or Hershey?

In Charleston, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and shopping around the playful town of Hershey, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Charleston or Hershey?

In Charleston, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Hershey, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Charleston or Hershey?

Charleston 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 Charleston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hershey, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Charleston or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. In Charleston, you'll find live music 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charleston and Hershey, we can see that Hershey is more expensive. And not only is Charleston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charleston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charleston and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Hershey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hershey than you might in Charleston.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Hershey?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Hershey, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Charleston or Hershey?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Charleston or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Hershey. Many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Charleston is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Hershey averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charleston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during summer. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Charleston usually receives more rain than Hershey. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Charleston or Hershey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Hershey. Most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hershey because of the shopping scene.

In October, Charleston is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Charleston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hershey. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hershey in the winter. Charleston is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during winter. Charleston gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Charleston usually receives more rain than Hershey. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Charleston or Hershey in the Spring?

Both Hershey and Charleston during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In the spring, Charleston is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Hershey, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charleston. In the spring, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets less rain in April than Hershey. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hershey and Charleston