FAMILY TRIP: 3 Days in Hershey, PA — Chocolate, Christmas Candylane & Family Fun

Hershey in December smells like chocolate and looks like a snow globe — and in 2026 there is one big change to know before you plan. Hersheypark Christmas Candylane runs on select dates from November 13, 2026 through January 3, 2027, with more than 5 million lights, family rides, and a new Fire & Ice Experience. The drive-through Hershey Sweet Lights, a 20-season tradition, will NOT return in 2026 — Hersheypark says it is focusing on growing Candylane instead. So this 3-day plan leans into Candylane itself, plus Hershey's chocolate attractions, which are open all year.

🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1 — Drive to Hershey, settle in, and spend the afternoon at Hershey's Chocolate World, then an evening at Christmas Candylane if it is an operating night. Day 2 — A full day at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane: family rides, Treeville, the NOEL light show, ZooAmerica (included with park admission), and Santa visits. Day 3 — A slower morning: Hershey Gardens or the Hershey Story Museum, one last chocolate stop, then drive home.

📍 Stops: Hersheypark, 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033 — home of Christmas Candylane, with select family rides, the candy-themed Treeville, more than 5 million lights, and the new Fire & Ice Experience for 2026. Santa hosts a breakfast buffet at The Chocolatier on select dates between November 27 and December 24. Candylane runs mostly on weekends until mid-December and almost every day after that, so check the park calendar — only select dates are open. Hershey's Chocolate World, 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA — the free chocolate tour ride, tastings, and make-your-own candy bar experiences. ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, inside Hersheypark — admission comes with every Hersheypark ticket. The Hershey Story Museum, 63 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA — the story of Milton Hershey and the town he built. Hershey Gardens, 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, PA — 23 acres of themed gardens, including a butterfly atrium.

🚗 Drive Times: Bergen County to Hershey is about 2.5-3 hours via I-78 West and I-81 South. Break the drive in the Allentown area (about 1.5 hours in) for lunch. This plan uses two nights in Hershey itself, so no mid-drive hotel is needed.

🏨 Where to Stay: Hershey has family resorts, hotels on Chocolate Avenue, and vacation rentals nearby. The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge are the classic family picks, both with indoor pools and shuttle service to the park; Hershey Lodge is especially geared to families with kids. Book early for December weekends.

👶 Toddler Travel Tips: Do Candylane on a weekend afternoon opening (noon start on Saturdays and Sundays) rather than a late evening, if your toddler fades early. The Chocolate World tour ride is stroller-friendly and short. Dress in layers for Candylane. Bring ear protection for sensitive kids. Build in a hotel nap on Day 2. Pack snacks and water for the park.

💰 Budget Tips: One paid splurge per day is enough. ZooAmerica is included with Hersheypark admission. Check for Candylane ticket deals and presale offers before you buy. Eat one big sit-down meal a day and keep the other meals casual.