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

Should you visit Richmond or Hershey?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Hershey can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Richmond and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Richmond or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Richmond than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Richmond is better known for its museums, food, and nightlife, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Richmond and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights. Also, Richmond is famous for the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

How is Richmond different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Richmond
Hershey

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

Richmond offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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 Richmond or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Richmond
Hershey

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

Richmond offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

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 Richmond or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Hershey

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

Richmond has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

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 Richmond or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Richmond
Hershey

Hershey is notable for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Hershey?

Richmond
Hershey

Both Richmond and Hershey are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hershey. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Is Richmond or Hershey Better for Families?

Richmond
Hershey

Hershey is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hershey is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Richmond or Hershey Better for Couples?

Richmond
Hershey

Hershey is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Hershey is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.


Is Richmond or Hershey Better for Students?

Richmond
Hershey

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

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Richmond
Hershey

Both Richmond and Hershey offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

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 Richmond or Hershey a more walkable city?

Richmond
Hershey

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

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by 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 Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Hershey?

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

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


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

One day in Richmond or Hershey?

In Richmond, 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.

The town of Hershey offers museums and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Richmond or Hershey?

In Richmond, 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 Richmond has to offer.

Hershey is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hershey, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Richmond or Hershey?

Richmond 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 popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Richmond or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Richmond. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Richmond. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Hershey is a great place to explore. 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. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Richmond?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, 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 Richmond and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Richmond 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 Richmond


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

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 Richmond or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    Hershey $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

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.
    Richmond $13
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30

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
    Richmond -
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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

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


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Hershey?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Hershey. Most visitors come to Richmond for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Richmond is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Richmond in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Hershey averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. Richmond usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during summer. Richmond gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Richmond usually receives more rain than Hershey. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Hershey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Hershey. The autumn months attract visitors to Richmond because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

In October, Richmond is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 59°F (15°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In the autumn, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Richmond gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets more rain in October than Hershey. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Richmond this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hershey. It's quite cold in Richmond in the winter. Richmond is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 36°F (2°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during winter. Richmond gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Richmond usually receives more rain than Hershey. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Hershey in the Spring?

Both Hershey and Richmond during the spring are popular places to visit.

In the spring, Richmond is a little warmer than Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Richmond in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Hershey, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Richmond. In the spring, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Richmond gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets less rain in April than Hershey. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Hershey and Richmond

Richmond Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 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 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)