A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Hershey for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Hershey can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Hershey

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its museums, resorts, and shopping. Hershey is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for Lake Lure Beach Park.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Hershey is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

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).

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Hershey can be difficult as they are each respectable in their own way.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Hershey offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

It's hard to distinguish whether Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey has a better nightlife scene.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best 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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Hershey is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

In Hershey, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Hershey is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Hershey to go shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Hershey is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hershey is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Hershey are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Hershey is a great recreation area 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Hershey is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Hershey

Hershey is a town with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

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

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This recreation area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Hershey, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this playful destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. You can also relax and pamper yourself 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has to offer.

In Hershey, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Hershey. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This town offers something for everyone.

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many people enjoy the when visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the town of Hershey. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196, 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
    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.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Hershey $53

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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Hershey $27


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive? and Is Hershey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Hershey?

Hershey has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.