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

Should you visit Hershey or Denver?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Denver? 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 fun-filled, playful, and lighthearted town. And you can't forget about the shopping and museums.

Denver

Denver is a suburban, accessible, and sprawling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Hershey and Denver: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Hershey or Denver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Denver. Although Hershey and Denver are popular destinations, Denver has more sights and attractions for tourists. Denver is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and big city activities, while Hershey attracts visitors for its museums and resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Denver and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Denver is famous for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area. It is also well known for Red Rocks Park.

How is Hershey different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hershey or Denver Better for Skiing?

Hershey
Denver

Denver is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Hershey is not a skiing destination.

Denver is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Hershey is not a skiing destination.


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

Hershey
Denver

Hershey is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

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).

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

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

Hershey
Denver

Both Hershey and Denver offer reasonable local cuisine and restaurants.

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

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Denver. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Hershey or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Denver

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

Denver has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

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 Denver Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Denver

Hershey is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Denver 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.

Denver is not a resort destination.

Is Hershey or Denver Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Denver

Denver is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Denver is a good destination for hiking. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Denver?

Hershey
Denver

Shopping is a popular activity in both Denver and Hershey.

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Denver. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.


Is Hershey or Denver Better for Families?

Hershey
Denver

Hershey is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver 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.

Denver is a family-friendly town. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Is Hershey or Denver Better for Couples?

Hershey
Denver

Hershey is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Denver is a good town for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Hershey or Denver Better for Students?

Hershey
Denver

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

Denver is popular with students. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Hershey is not popular with students.


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

Hershey
Denver

Denver 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 Denver, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

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 Denver a more walkable city?

Hershey
Denver

Hershey is a moderate town for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Denver is not a very walkable town. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Denver or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hershey and Denver. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Hershey or Denver?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Hershey. 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.

In Denver, you'll find shopping and skiing. 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 Denver?

Hershey is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Denver, you'll find skiing and nightlife. 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 Denver has to offer.

Five days in Hershey or Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Denver 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 Denver?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the playful destination of Hershey. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Denver. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Denver. 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, Denver 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 Denver is $218. 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 Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Denver? 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 Denver


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 Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Denver $101

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 Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by SUV: $177
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Luxury Van: $135
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Aspen hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer : $217
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Glenwood Springs - Round-Trip Transfer: $119
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Steamboat - Arrival Private Transfer: $282
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon - Arrival Transfer: $217
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Winter Park - Arrival Private Transfer: $130
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $252
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $92
  • Denver Airport Transfer To/From Aspen for 6-14 Sprinter Van: $1,950
  • Denver hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $50
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury Van: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver 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
    Denver $42
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 Denver

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


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Denver $52
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 Denver

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

  • Discover A Walking Tour of Denver's Top Sights: $5.00
  • Denver’s Downtown: Past and Present In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Denver by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure on Your Phone: $10
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Molly Brown House Museum Self-Guided Tour & Entry: $14
  • Colorado Rockies Baseball Game Ticket at Coors Field: $14
  • Denver Botanic Gardens General Admission Ticket: $16
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Aurora by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • History and Architecture Walking Tours: $20
  • Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Denver $5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

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

  • 4-Hour Downtown Denver Pub Crawl: $25
  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Hershey and Denver, we can see that Denver 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 Denver Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Denver?

Denver has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey and Denver, 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.