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

Should you visit Cincinnati or Hershey?

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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Hershey? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a hard-working, blue collar, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Hershey

Hershey is a fun-filled, playful, and lighthearted town. And you can't forget about the shopping and museums.

Cincinnati and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cincinnati or Hershey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hershey. Although Cincinnati and Hershey are popular destinations, Hershey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hershey is very popular for its food and resorts, while Cincinnati attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Hershey is more touristy than Cincinnati and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. It is also well known for Hersheypark. Cincinnati is famous for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Cincinnati different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cincinnati
Hershey

Cincinnati is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Cincinnati offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Hershey offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Cincinnati or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cincinnati
Hershey

Hershey is a town with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

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.

Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Is Cincinnati or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Hershey

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

Cincinnati has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

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 Cincinnati or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Cincinnati
Hershey

Hershey is well known for its resorts. However, Cincinnati is not a resort destination.

Hershey is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Cincinnati is not a resort destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Hershey?

Cincinnati
Hershey

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hershey and Cincinnati.

Cincinnati offers some nice shopping areas. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Hershey has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Is Cincinnati or Hershey Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Hershey

Hershey is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hershey is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Is Cincinnati or Hershey Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Hershey

Hershey is well known for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Hershey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.


Is Cincinnati or Hershey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Hershey

Cincinnati is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

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

Cincinnati
Hershey

Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

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 Cincinnati or Hershey a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Hershey

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

Cincinnati is very walkable. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

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 Cincinnati Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cincinnati and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hershey than in Cincinnati. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cincinnati, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Cincinnati. 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 Cincinnati. 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati.


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

One day in Cincinnati or Hershey?

In Cincinnati, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

With museums and shopping around the fun-filled 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 Cincinnati or Hershey?

In Cincinnati, you'll find nightlife 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati or Hershey?

Cincinnati 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.

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 Cincinnati or Hershey?

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

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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Cincinnati?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati


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: Cincinnati Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cincinnati

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cincinnati:

  • Cincinnati to Cincinnati Airport (CVG) - Departure Private Transfer: $35

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 Cincinnati or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Cincinnati 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
    Cincinnati $55
    Hershey $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cincinnati

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cincinnati.

  • Ohio River Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $61
  • Mainstrasse Village Food Tour in Covington KY: $79
  • Cincinnati Court Street Food Tour with Vegan Options: $85
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour With Findlay Market : $85
  • Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour with Pizza and Ice-cream: $120

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.
    Cincinnati $26
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Cincinnati

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

  • Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour: $6.75
  • Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self Guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour Audio Tour Music Hall OTR: $7.75
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Cincinnati: $9.59
  • Queen of the West's Best - An Audio Tour: $12
  • Reds Hall of Fame and Museum Entry Ticket: $12
  • Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game Ticket at Great American Ballpark: $16
  • Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati: $25
  • Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories: $28

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
    Cincinnati $11
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Cincinnati

Also in Cincinnati, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cincinnati Bar Hunt: Cin-sational Cincinnati Bar Crawl: $12
  • Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting: $49
  • Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop: $64
  • Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour: $68


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


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Hershey?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati or Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and Cincinnati are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cincinnati because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

In July, Cincinnati is generally around the same temperature as Hershey. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 79°F (26°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Hershey. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cincinnati. Cincinnati usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during summer. Cincinnati gets 298 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cincinnati usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hershey. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Hershey in the Autumn?

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

Cincinnati is around the same temperature as Hershey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cincinnati averages around 58°F (15°C) in October, and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Cincinnati often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Cincinnati gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

Cincinnati usually gets less rain in October than Hershey. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cincinnati and Hershey. Many travelers come to Cincinnati for the museums and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cincinnati. In the winter, Cincinnati is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cincinnati in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Hershey averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

Cincinnati usually receives less sunshine than Hershey during winter. Cincinnati gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cincinnati usually receives less rain than Hershey. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cincinnati as well as Hershey.

In April, Cincinnati is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 56°F (14°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cincinnati this time of the year. In the spring, Cincinnati often gets less sunshine than Hershey. Cincinnati gets 215 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Cincinnati usually gets more rain in April than Hershey. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Cincinnati

Cincinnati Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)