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

Should you visit Hershey or Phoenix?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Phoenix? 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a sprawling, desert, and laid back city. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hershey and Phoenix: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Hershey or Phoenix?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Phoenix than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Phoenix is better known for its food, nightlife, and hiking, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Phoenix is well known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. Also, Phoenix is famous for Desert Botanical Garden.

How is Hershey different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hershey
Phoenix

Both Hershey and Phoenix have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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).

Phoenix offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.


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

Hershey
Phoenix

Phoenix is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

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 Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Phoenix

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

Phoenix has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Phoenix

Hershey is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Phoenix is not a resort destination.

In Hershey, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Phoenix is not a resort destination.


Is Hershey or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Phoenix

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

Phoenix is a good destination for hiking. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Phoenix?

Hershey
Phoenix

Shopping is a popular activity in both Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Hershey or Phoenix Better for Families?

Hershey
Phoenix

Hershey is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Hershey is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.


Is Hershey or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Hershey
Phoenix

Hershey is a great town for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Hershey
Phoenix

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

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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Hershey or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Hershey
Phoenix

Hershey and Phoenix both are respectable when exploring on foot.

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

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable town. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.


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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hershey and Phoenix. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Phoenix. 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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix.


  • How many days in Hershey or Phoenix? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Phoenix 1-3

One day in Hershey or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix, 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 Phoenix has to offer.

Five days in Hershey or Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Phoenix. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Phoenix 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 Phoenix is $238. 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 Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Hershey or Phoenix? 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 Phoenix


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 Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Phoenix $39

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 Phoenix

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $117
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $90
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $110
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $140
  • Phoenix International Airport (PHX) - Private transfer From/to Hotels: $118
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Phoenix to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) - Departure Private Transfer: $58
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Private Tesla Transfer from Phoenix Airport to all Hotels : $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $52
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 Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Awesome French Crêpes Cooking Class: $75
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $92
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $92
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Phoenix $40
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 Phoenix

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Phoenix.

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Surprise by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting Entry Ticket: $17
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Mesa by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Phoenix Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Private Blackout Motel Escape Room Experience in Avondale: $24
  • The Scottsdale Selfie Experience: $25
  • Ghosts & Poltergeists Guided Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • RoRo Street Art Tour in Phoenix: $27
  • Phoenix Ghosts: Phantoms, Psychopaths, & Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Scottsdale Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Tempe Puzzling Adventure: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

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

  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $55
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $155
  • Ghost town of Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour: $215
  • Custom Arizona Brewery / Vineyard Tour: $245


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


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix and Hershey during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hershey in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. In July, Hershey is generally cooler than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 77°F (25°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hershey. In the summer, Hershey often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Phoenix. Most visitors come to Hershey for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Hershey is much colder than Phoenix in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Phoenix fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. Hershey usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during autumn. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hershey usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Phoenix. The winter months attract visitors to Hershey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

The weather in Hershey can be very cold. In the winter, Hershey is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Phoenix averages at about 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. In the winter, Hershey often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

In April, Hershey is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. Hershey usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during spring. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Hershey

Hershey Phoenix
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm)