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

Should you visit Hershey or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Monterey? 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. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hershey and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hershey or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Monterey and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Hershey different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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 Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey 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, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Monterey know how to have a good time. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Monterey Better for Resorts?

Hershey is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Hershey to choose from. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Hershey or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hershey or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a popular place for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Monterey?

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

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Monterey Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hershey or Monterey.

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.

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Is Hershey or Monterey Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hershey and Monterey make for a superb place to visit.

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.

Monterey is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Hershey or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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

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

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 Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Hershey or Monterey a more walkable city?

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

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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 Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hershey and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Hershey. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

Families should spend more time in Monterey than Hershey. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Monterey, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Hershey or Monterey?

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 Monterey, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

A weekend in Hershey or Monterey?

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 Monterey, you'll find museums 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 Monterey has to offer.

Five days in Hershey or Monterey?

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.

Monterey 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Monterey. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hershey or Monterey?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hershey or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Monterey. Most visitors come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Hershey because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

Hershey is cooler than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Hershey usually receives more rain than Monterey. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hershey or Monterey in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Hershey in the winter. In the winter, Hershey is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Monterey. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Hershey is generally cooler than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than Monterey. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Hershey