A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New York City vs. Hershey for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit New York City 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 New York City 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.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

New York City and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in New York City or Hershey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although New York City and Hershey are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is known for its resorts. New York City is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Hershey is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar.

How is New York City different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Hershey?

New York City
Hershey

New York City 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 New York City that are not to be missed. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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 New York City or Hershey Better for Theater?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is very popular for theatre. However, Hershey is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in New York City draw crowds from around the world. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Hershey is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New York City or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City
Hershey

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

For foodies, New York City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is very popular for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

New York City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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 New York City or Hershey Better for Music?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is very popular for live music. However, Hershey is not a live music destination.

New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Hershey is not a live music destination.

Is New York City or Hershey Better for Resorts?

New York City
Hershey

Hershey is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New York City 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.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Hershey?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is very popular for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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 New York City or Hershey Better for Christmas?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Hershey does not offer Christmas activities.

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Hershey does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New York City or Hershey Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Hershey does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Hershey does not offer Christmas markets.

Is New York City or Hershey Better for Families?

New York City
Hershey

Hershey is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

New York City is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.


Is New York City or Hershey Better for Couples?

New York City
Hershey

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

New York City makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Hershey is a great city 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 New York City or Hershey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City
Hershey

New York City 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 New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City or Hershey Better for Students?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is very popular for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

Many students frequent New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Hershey is not popular with students.


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

New York City
Hershey

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

New York City has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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 New York City or Hershey a more walkable city?

New York City
Hershey

New York City is very popular for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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 New York City Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or New York City?

How long in New York City or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New York City and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Hershey. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.


  • How many days in New York City or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    New York City 3-7 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in New York City or Hershey?

Because New York City 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the playful 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.


A weekend in New York City or Hershey?

Because New York City 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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.

Five days in New York City or Hershey?

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the playful 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.

A week in New York City or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or New York City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in New York City is $326, 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 New York City and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New York City $175
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New York City $350
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in New York City and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in New York City 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 New York City


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: New York City Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New York City $49
    Hershey $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer-New York JFK/LGA/EWR Airport Transfe Up to 5pax: $95
  • 10-Minute Helicopter Transfer from Manhattan to JFK : $245
  • 10-Minute Helicopter Transfer from Manhattan to Newark Airport: $245
  • Airport Limousine Transfer one-way - LaGuardia Airport - Lincoln MKT: $275
  • Airport Transfer and Chauffeur Services NYC & New Jersey : $150
  • Arrival Private Transfer: LaGuardia Airport LGA to New York in Luxury SUV: $197
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Newark Airport EWR to New York in Business Car: $157
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Newark Airport EWR to New York in Luxury SUV: $197
  • Bronx to JFK: Private Airport Departure Transfers: $108
  • Brooklyn - JFK: Private Airport Departure Transfers: $100
  • Central Park Private Walking Tour with Transfers: $171
  • Central Park Private Walking Tour with Transfers : $171

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 New York City or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and New York City 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
    New York City $50
    Hershey $61
Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

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

  • New York City Pizza Crawl: Best of Manhattan route: $37
  • Lower East Side and Essex Market Multicultural Food Tour: $39
  • Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
  • Shared Food Tour Bohemian Greenwichvillage: $45
  • New York Walking and Food Tour in Flushing : $56
  • East Village Food Tour: $60
  • Ultimate Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour: $63
  • NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
  • Greenwich Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
  • West Village Pizza Walk: $65

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.
    New York City $180
    Hershey $53
Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

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

  • Central Park NYC: First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.26
  • Central Park: Self-guided Bike Tour App - Audio + Written: $5.00
  • Marvel Universe in New York In-app Audio Tour in English: $5.00
  • Self Guided Central Park Bike or Walking Tour Application: $5.00
  • Tour Free Por Central Park en Español: $5.00
  • Central Park Free Walking Tour: $5.00
  • New York City's Financial District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Broadway: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the World's Iconic Theatre District: $5.39
  • New York World's Fair Site: Explore its utopian future on an audio tour: $5.39
  • Central Park Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Self Guided "Central Park Movie Tour" Solo Walking Tour in New York City: $6.75
  • Private Haunted and Historic Audio Tour in Greenwich Village: $6.95

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

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    New York City $29
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $21
  • NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
  • New York: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • The Bar Crawl and History Experience! : $36
  • NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $42
  • Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Brooklyn Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • East Village Gangster Ghost Pub Crawl: $64
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74
  • Guided Brooklyn Craft Brewery Tour: $99


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between New York City and Hershey, we can see that New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 New York City Expensive? and Is Hershey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, New York City or Hershey?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 610 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City or Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and New York City during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New York City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences.

New York City is around the same temperature as Hershey in the summer. The daily temperature in New York City averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New York City. New York City usually gets more rain in July than Hershey. New York City gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    New York City 77°F (25°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit New York City or Hershey in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both New York City and Hershey. Many travelers come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hershey in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, New York City is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in New York City in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Hershey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In October, New York City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hershey. New York City gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    New York City 57°F (14°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit New York City or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to New York City as well as Hershey. Many visitors come to New York City in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hershey can be very cold during winter. New York City can get quite cold in the winter. In January, New York City is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in New York City average around 31°F (-1°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

New York City usually gets more rain in January than Hershey. New York City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    New York City 31°F (-1°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit New York City or Hershey in the Spring?

Both Hershey and New York City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

New York City is around the same temperature as Hershey in the spring. The daily temperature in New York City averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In April, New York City usually receives more rain than Hershey. New York City gets 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    New York City 52°F (11°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and New York City

New York City Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-1°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)