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

Should you visit Charlotte or Hershey?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Hershey can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hershey

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

Charlotte and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charlotte than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charlotte is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. Also, Charlotte is famous for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charlotte
Hershey

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Hershey and Charlotte.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

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 Charlotte or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Hershey

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

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

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 Charlotte or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Hershey

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

Charlotte has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

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 Charlotte or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Charlotte
Hershey

Hershey is great for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Hershey?

Charlotte
Hershey

If you're looking to go shopping, Charlotte and Hershey both offer plenty of notable spots.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Is Charlotte or Hershey Better for Families?

Charlotte
Hershey

Hershey is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Hershey is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Charlotte or Hershey Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Hershey

Hershey is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Hershey is a great 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.


Is Charlotte or Hershey Better for Students?

Charlotte
Hershey

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

Charlotte is popular with students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Charlotte
Hershey

Charlotte is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Charlotte, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Charlotte or Hershey a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Hershey

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

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charlotte and Hershey. In our opinion, Charlotte has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Charlotte than Hershey. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte 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 Charlotte.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Charlotte or Hershey?

In Charlotte, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Charlotte or Hershey?

In Charlotte, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlotte has to offer.

You'll find museums and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Charlotte or Hershey?

Charlotte is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled town of Hershey. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Charlotte or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charlotte. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Charlotte. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Charlotte?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, 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 Charlotte and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte 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 Charlotte


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

Also for Charlotte, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $132
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $132
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54

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 Charlotte or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46
    Hershey $61
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

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.
    Charlotte $43
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Charlotte by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $12
  • Uptown A Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Heart of Queen City: $12
  • Uptown Funk: 1 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN AT SUNDOWN: 1 Hour Guided Arts Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Charlotte by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sea Life Charlotte Concord Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Charlottesville: Ghosts of Court Square Walking Tour: $26

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
    Charlotte $20
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Charlotte:

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


When comparing the travel costs between Charlotte 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 Charlotte Expensive? and Is Hershey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Hershey?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte 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 Charlotte 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 Charlotte or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Hershey. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charlotte is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charlotte in July average around 81°F (27°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 Charlotte this time of the year. In the summer, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Charlotte gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun.

Charlotte receives a lot of rain in the summer. Charlotte usually gets more rain in July than Hershey. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

In October, Charlotte is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 63°F (17°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during autumn. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charlotte usually receives less rain than Hershey. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Charlotte during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hershey. Charlotte is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 42°F (6°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets more rain in January than Hershey. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Hershey. Many travelers come to Charlotte for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Charlotte is a little warmer than Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charlotte in April average around 63°F (17°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 Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during spring. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hershey. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Charlotte

Charlotte Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)