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

Should you visit Hershey or Juneau?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Juneau? 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.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Hershey and Juneau: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Hershey or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Hershey and Juneau are popular destinations, Juneau has more sights and attractions for tourists. Juneau is very popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hershey attracts visitors for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Juneau and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Hershey different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Juneau 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 Juneau?

Hershey
Juneau

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

Juneau offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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 Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Juneau

Juneau 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, Juneau makes for a great culinary experience. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Juneau

It's hard to distinguish whether Hershey or Juneau has a better nightlife scene.

Hershey is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Juneau doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Hershey or Juneau Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Juneau

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

Juneau is not a resort destination.


Is Hershey or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Juneau

Juneau is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Juneau?

Hershey
Juneau

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

Juneau is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau Better for Families?

Hershey
Juneau

Hershey is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.


Is Hershey or Juneau Better for Couples?

Hershey
Juneau

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

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Hershey is a great town 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 Hershey or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hershey
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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 Juneau Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hershey
Juneau

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

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 mostly limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.


Is Hershey or Juneau a more walkable city?

Hershey
Juneau

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

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hershey and Juneau. In our opinion, Juneau has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Juneau 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 Juneau. 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 Juneau than Hershey. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Juneau that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


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

One day in Hershey or Juneau?

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 Juneau, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau, you'll find food and shopping. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Juneau has to offer.


Five days in Hershey or Juneau?

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.

Juneau 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.

A week in Hershey or Juneau?

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 Juneau. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Juneau. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.


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, Juneau 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 Juneau is $160. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Juneau? 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 Juneau


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 Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Juneau $38

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 Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $49
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.
    Hershey $53
    Juneau $17
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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $132
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $154
  • eBikes Alaska - Rainforest Adventure: $160
  • Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise with Local Guide: $177
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska: $189
  • Juneau Whale Watching Adventure: $189
  • Five-Star Juneau Pedicab Private Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Juneau $16


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

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


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Juneau. The summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

In the summer, Hershey is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hershey in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In Hershey, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Hershey usually receives less rain than Juneau. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Juneau. The shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hershey is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 56°F (13°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In the autumn, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Hershey usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Juneau in the Winter?

Both Juneau and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Juneau can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Hershey. Hershey is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In January, Hershey usually receives less rain than Juneau. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Hershey during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Juneau for the natural beauty during these months.

Juneau can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Hershey is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hershey in April average around 53°F (12°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Hershey. In the spring, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Hershey

Hershey Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)