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

Should you visit Norfolk or Hershey?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Hershey? 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. It's also known for shopping and museums.

Norfolk and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Norfolk or Hershey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hershey. Although Norfolk and Hershey are both popular with visitors, Hershey has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hershey is more popular for its resorts, while Norfolk is known for its food and nightlife. Hershey is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. It is also home to Hersheypark. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Norfolk
Hershey

Both Norfolk and Hershey have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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 Norfolk or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Norfolk
Hershey

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

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

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 Norfolk or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Hershey

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

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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 Norfolk or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Norfolk
Hershey

Hershey is a great destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Hershey is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Hershey?

Norfolk
Hershey

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hershey and Norfolk.

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

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 Norfolk or Hershey Better for Families?

Norfolk
Hershey

Hershey is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Hershey Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Hershey

Hershey is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.


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

Norfolk
Hershey

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

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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 Norfolk or Hershey a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Hershey

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

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Norfolk and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hershey than in Norfolk. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

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


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

One day in Norfolk or Hershey?

In Norfolk, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Norfolk or Hershey?

In Norfolk, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Hershey?

Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Norfolk. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Norfolk. 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Norfolk?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $166, 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 Norfolk and Hershey in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk 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 Norfolk


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

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 Norfolk or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $49
    Hershey $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $140
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

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.
    Norfolk $14
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

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

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $84
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Mother's Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk: $103
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $103

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
    Norfolk $10
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Downtown Norfolk: $30


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

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


Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Hershey?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

Norfolk is around the same temperature as Hershey in the summer. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Hershey. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives less sunshine than Hershey during summer. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Norfolk. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Hershey. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Norfolk during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Norfolk is a little warmer than Hershey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Norfolk in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Hershey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the autumn, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hershey. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Hershey. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Norfolk. In January, Norfolk is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 39°F (4°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during winter. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Hershey. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Hershey.

Norfolk is a little warmer than Hershey in the spring. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In the spring, Norfolk often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets less rain in April than Hershey. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Norfolk

Norfolk Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)