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

Should you visit Hershey or Berkeley?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Berkeley? 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.

Hershey

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

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hershey and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Hershey or Berkeley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Berkeley than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Berkeley is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Berkeley and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Also, Berkeley is famous for University of California Botanical Garden.

How is Hershey different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hershey
Berkeley

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

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Hershey or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Hershey or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Berkeley

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

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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 Hershey or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Berkeley

Hershey is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Berkeley?

Hershey
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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 Hershey or Berkeley Better for Families?

Hershey
Berkeley

Hershey is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly town. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Hershey or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Hershey
Berkeley

Hershey is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Hershey is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


Is Hershey or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hershey
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

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 Hershey or Berkeley Better for Students?

Hershey
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Hershey
Berkeley

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

Berkeley has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Hershey or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Hershey
Berkeley

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

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hershey and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Hershey. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Hershey or Berkeley?

The town of Hershey offers museums and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Berkeley, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hershey or Berkeley?

Hershey is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hershey, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Berkeley, 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 Berkeley has to offer.


Five days in Hershey or Berkeley?

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley 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.

A week in Hershey or Berkeley?

Hershey is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

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


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, Berkeley or Hershey?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $212, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Hershey and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Berkeley? 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 Hershey


Hotels in Berkeley


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 and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Berkeley $30

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $44
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $126
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $43
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Hershey 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
    Hershey $61
    Berkeley $36
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

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

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

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Berkeley $30
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

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $26
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey and Berkeley, 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 Hershey or Berkeley?

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 Hershey or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Berkeley. Many travelers come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hershey is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 77°F (25°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Hershey usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Berkeley. Many visitors come to Hershey in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Hershey is cooler than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Hershey or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hershey can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Hershey is much colder than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Hershey usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Hershey during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In April, Hershey is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Hershey

Hershey Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)