A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Hershey for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. It's also known for shopping and museums.

Fort Lauderdale and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Hershey are both popular with visitors, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is known for its museums. Fort Lauderdale is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Hershey is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

Hershey is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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).

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

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

Fort Lauderdale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its resorts. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

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.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Hershey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hershey and Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Hershey Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

Hershey is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Hershey Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

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

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Hershey is a great coastal city 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 Fort Lauderdale or Hershey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Hershey.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Hershey a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Hershey

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

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

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

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


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The lighthearted destination of Hershey offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

The town of Hershey offers museums and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hershey is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Fort Lauderdale?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $182, 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 Fort Lauderdale and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale


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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Luxury SUV: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Luxury Van: $88
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Hollywood Beach in Business Car : $72
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Hollywood Beach in Luxury Van: $88
  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $259
  • Departure Private Transfer: Fort Lauderdale to Airport FLL in Business Car: $80
  • Departure Private Transfer: Hollywood Beach to Airport FLL in Business Car: $72
  • Departure Private Transfer: Hollywood Beach to Airport FLL in Luxury Car: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer: Hollywood Beach to Airport FLL in Luxury SUV: $92
  • Departure Private Transfer: Hollywood Beach to Airport FLL in Luxury Van: $88
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $106

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 Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $49
    Hershey $61
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

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


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise: $80
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • 2 Hour Pizza Dinner cruise for 2ppl - Pompano Beach: $299

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.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Audio Walking Tour of Las Olas Riverwalk: $7.27
  • Water Taxi evening hop-on hop-off sunset sightseeing cruise: $20
  • Skip the Line: Flamingo Gardens Admission Ticket in Fort Lauderdale: $24
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Haunted Walking Tour: $24
  • Sea Rocket Speed Boat Cruise in Fort Lauderdale, FL: $25
  • Private BLU3 Nomad Scuba Demo Experience in Deerfield: $25
  • Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter: $29
  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale (arrive 30 minutes early): $29
  • Fort Lauderdale Ghost Tour: $30
  • Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $31
  • VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!! Best of Fort Lauderdale over 30 years!!!: $32
  • Water Taxi All Day hop-on hop-off Venice of America Boat Tour: $32

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:

  • AACA Museum Regular Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Hershey $27
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Ft. Lauderdale Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Guided Happy Hour Bar Crawl by Beer Bike: $64
  • Party Bike Bar Crawl: $74


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Hershey, we can see that Hershey is more expensive. And not only is Fort Lauderdale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fort Lauderdale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.

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


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Hershey?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Hershey in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, 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 Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Hershey. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Fort Lauderdale 83°F (28°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hershey in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Hershey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Hershey. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Fort Lauderdale 78°F (26°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Hershey. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hershey can be very cold during winter. In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Hershey. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Fort Lauderdale 67°F (20°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Hershey. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Hershey in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, 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 Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hershey. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Fort Lauderdale 75°F (24°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)