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

Should you visit Memphis or Hershey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Hershey, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, museums, and nightlife.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums.

Memphis and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Memphis or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts and shopping. Hershey is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Memphis
Hershey

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Hershey and Memphis.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Memphis. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

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).


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

Memphis
Hershey

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

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

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 Memphis or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Hershey

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

The people in Memphis know how to have a good time. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Memphis or Hershey Better for Music?

Memphis
Hershey

Memphis is very popular for live music. However, Hershey is not a live music destination.

Memphis is a world class music destination. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Hershey is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Memphis
Hershey

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

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Hershey?

Memphis
Hershey

Hershey is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Hershey Better for Families?

Memphis
Hershey

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

Hershey is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.


Is Memphis or Hershey Better for Couples?

Memphis
Hershey

Hershey is a great town for couples. Also, Memphis 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.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Memphis or Hershey Better for Students?

Memphis
Hershey

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

Memphis is popular with students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Memphis
Hershey

Memphis and Hershey both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

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.


Is Memphis or Hershey a more walkable city?

Memphis
Hershey

Memphis is a popular place for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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 Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Memphis and Hershey. In our opinion, Memphis has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Memphis 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 Memphis. 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 Memphis. 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 Memphis 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 Memphis.


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

One day in Memphis or Hershey?

In Memphis, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Memphis or Hershey?

In Memphis, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Memphis 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 Memphis or Hershey?

Memphis 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 Memphis or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Memphis. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Memphis. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Memphis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $167, 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 Memphis and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Memphis 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 Memphis


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Greater Memphis To MEM International Airport - Luxury Transfer: $95
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Hot Springs Resorts Arrival Transfer: $142
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $284
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Transfer from Memphis International Airport to Memphis : $147

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 Memphis or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Memphis 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
    Memphis $43
    Hershey $61
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

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


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

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.
    Memphis $45
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Beale Street: $6.50
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Downtown In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Memphis by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum with Audio Tour: $11
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Memphis Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

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
    Memphis $26
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $59
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $62


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

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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Hershey?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Memphis 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 Memphis or Hershey?

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 Memphis or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Hershey. Many visitors come to Memphis in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Memphis is a little warmer than Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Memphis in July average around 83°F (29°C), and Hershey averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the summer, Memphis often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets less rain in July than Hershey. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hershey because of the shopping scene.

In October, Memphis is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Hershey. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Memphis during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Memphis because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hershey in the winter. The weather in Memphis can be very cold. Memphis is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Memphis often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets less rain in January than Hershey. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Hershey. The activities around the city are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

In the spring, Memphis is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Memphis in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

Memphis gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Hershey. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Memphis

Memphis Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)