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

Should you visit Hershey or San Francisco?

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

Should I visit Hershey or San Francisco? 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a quirky, eccentric, and one-of-a-kind coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, theater, and nightlife.

Hershey and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hershey or San Francisco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Francisco is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is well known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. San Francisco is well known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge.

How is Hershey different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Francisco is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in San Francisco that are not to be missed. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car 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 Hershey or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a popular place for theatre. However, Hershey is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Hershey is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, San Francisco is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

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

San Francisco has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

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 San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a popular place for live music. However, Hershey is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Francisco is active and vibrant. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Hershey is not a live music destination.

Is Hershey or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Hershey is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is Hershey or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

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

San Francisco is considered a top beach destination. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Hershey or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

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

People visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or San Francisco?

San Francisco is very popular for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

San Francisco is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hershey or San Francisco.

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.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Is Hershey or San Francisco Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hershey and San Francisco make for a very good 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.

San Francisco is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Hershey or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco 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 San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

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 San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is a great destination for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is very popular for its public transit. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

San Francisco has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and 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 San Francisco a more walkable city?

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

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or San Francisco?

Both Hershey and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Hershey. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco 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 San Francisco.

One day in Hershey or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Hershey. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal 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 San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hershey. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hershey or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Hershey. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

San Francisco 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 San Francisco has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hershey or San Francisco?

You'll find museums and shopping around the town of Hershey. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Francisco. Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 comparing the travel costs between Hershey and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco 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 San Francisco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hershey or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

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 San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Hershey during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than San Francisco. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and San Francisco. Many visitors come to Hershey in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Hershey is cooler than San Francisco in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In October, Hershey usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hershey or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hershey as well as San Francisco. Most visitors come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Hershey can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Hershey is much colder than San Francisco. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and San Francisco averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Hershey usually gets less rain in January than San Francisco. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In April, Hershey is generally cooler than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Hershey