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

Should you visit Houston or Hershey?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Houston and Hershey. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Hershey

Hershey is a fun-filled, playful, and lighthearted town. And you can't forget about the shopping and museums.

Houston and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Houston or Hershey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Hershey are popular destinations, Houston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Houston is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Hershey attracts visitors for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Houston and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hershey and Houston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Houston or Hershey?

Houston
Hershey

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

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's 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 Houston or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston
Hershey

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

Houston offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection 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 Houston or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Hershey

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

The people in Houston know how to have a good time. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston or Hershey Better for Music?

Houston
Hershey

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

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Hershey is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Houston
Hershey

Hershey is well known for its resorts. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Hershey?

Houston
Hershey

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hershey and Houston.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Hershey has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Is Houston or Hershey Better for Families?

Houston
Hershey

Hershey is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hershey is very family-friendly. 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 Houston. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.


Is Houston or Hershey Better for Couples?

Houston
Hershey

Hershey is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Houston or Hershey Better for Students?

Houston
Hershey

Houston is a popular place for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Houston
Hershey

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

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

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 Houston or Hershey a more walkable city?

Houston
Hershey

Houston and Hershey both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Houston?

How long in Houston or Hershey?

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

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


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

One day in Houston or Hershey?

Because Houston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Houston or Hershey?

Because Houston 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. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Houston has to offer.

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.


Five days in Houston or Hershey?

Houston 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.

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.

A week in Houston or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Houston. 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 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Houston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $262, while the average daily cost in Hershey is $212. 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 Houston and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Houston and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Houston or Hershey? 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 Houston


Hotels in Hershey


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: Houston Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $167
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Business Car: $105
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Luxury SUV: $108
  • George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Transfer: $193
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): Transfer to Houston: $345
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Arrival Private Transfer: $81
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $160
  • Round-Trip Shuttle Transfer to NASA Space Center: $62
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $168
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port: $193

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Houston 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
    Houston $35
    Hershey $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.

  • Seasonal Pizza From Scratch Experience in Houston: $55
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $86
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Heights Culture and Food Tour: $95

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.
    Houston $14
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sights of Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.26
  • Sights of Downtown Houston Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Houston Museum of Natural Sciences: Planetarium Ticket: $9.00
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Houston Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern History Tour: $12
  • Houston Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $13
  • Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $14
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Children's Museum Houston Entry Ticket: $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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Houston and Hershey, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Hershey much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hershey would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hershey 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston than you might in Hershey.

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


Which is Bigger, Houston or Hershey?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Hershey, 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 Houston or Hershey?

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 Houston or Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Houston is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 84°F (29°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In July, Houston usually receives more rain than Hershey. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Houston or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Houston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hershey in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Houston is much warmer than Hershey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets more rain in October than Hershey. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Houston or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Hershey. Many visitors come to Houston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hershey can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Houston is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Houston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Hershey averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

In January, Houston usually receives more rain than Hershey. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Houston or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Houston as well as Hershey. Most visitors come to Houston for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Houston is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 70°F (21°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Houston usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hershey. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Houston

Houston Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)