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

Should you visit Hershey or Newport?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Newport? 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.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Hershey and Newport: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Hershey or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Newport and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street.

How is Hershey different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hershey
Newport

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

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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 Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Newport

Newport 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, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Newport Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Newport

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

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

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 Newport Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Newport

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

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.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Hershey or Newport Better for Beaches?

Hershey
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Hershey or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Hershey
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Hershey does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Hershey does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Newport?

Hershey
Newport

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

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport Better for Families?

Hershey
Newport

Hershey is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hershey is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Hershey or Newport Better for Couples?

Hershey
Newport

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

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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

Hershey
Newport

Newport 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 Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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 Newport a more walkable city?

Hershey
Newport

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

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Newport?

In either Hershey or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Hershey because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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


  • How many days in Hershey or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Hershey or Newport?

In Hershey, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Newport, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town 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 Newport?

In Hershey, you'll find museums and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hershey has to offer.

In Newport, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer.


Five days in Hershey or Newport?

Hershey is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Newport is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hershey or Newport?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Newport $36

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 Newport

Also for Newport, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $87
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $87
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Newport $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

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport's Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14
  • Touro Synagogue Entry and Guided Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Newport $14


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

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


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Newport?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Newport. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hershey is generally around the same temperature as Newport. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 77°F (25°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In the summer, Hershey often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hershey for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hershey is a little warmer than Newport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. Hershey usually receives less sunshine than Newport during autumn. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hershey usually receives less rain than Newport. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Hershey during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can be very cold during winter. Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Hershey is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Hershey often gets less sunshine than Newport. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets less rain in January than Newport. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Newport. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Hershey is generally a little warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Hershey, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hershey usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during spring. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hershey usually receives less rain than Newport. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Hershey

Hershey Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)