We’ve been visiting Hershey PA for 11 years! We’ve visited when it’s been really hot outside! We’ve visited it when it’s been really cold. We’ve even visited when there’s been snow on the ground. Until recently we had never experienced rain during a Hersheypark family vacation. That all changed when we visited Hershey in June. It rained A LOT! But from rain comes inspiration! I present our Ultimate Guide to Rainy Day Activities in Hershey, because rain DOES NOT have to ruin a family vacation to Hersheypark or Hershey PA.
Rainy days in Hershey
I’ve often said some of the best days to visit a family attraction are when it’s either rainy or the forecast calls for rain. That’s because the majority of guests would rather avoid an amusement park or outdoor attraction than risk getting wet. I think there’s a fear that you can’t get the full experience when you have to do it in the rain.
I disagree. If you’re willing to risk getting wet and have a plan B, and know your options you can have a fabulous day at Hersheypark and in Hershey. You may even find that you get to do more than you planned to because there are fewer guests than on a typical sunny day.
Read our guide for rainy day activities in Hershey. We’ve packed it with ideas for where and what to do when it rains in Hersheypark so you’ll be ready if and when the rain does make an appearance.
Hersheypark Rainy Day Policy
Remember that if the weather is really bad while you’re in Hersheypark, the park may give you a rain check ticket to use on another day! So be on the lookout and ask an employee about rain vouchers if the weather is not letting up after a while.
The general policy, the one listed on their website, regarding rainy days at Hersheypark is listed below.
While our goal is to have all attractions available during scheduled operating hours, weather conditions like rain, lightning, wind, snow, and certain temperatures can temporarily cause attractions to close. Hersheypark® remains open during inclement weather conditions and offers a variety of indoor activities including entertainment shows, dining options, shopping, game arcades, exhibits at ZooAmerica, as well as rides under cover while you wait for the weather to clear.
Hersheypark makes every effort to reopen the rides and attractions as quickly and safely as possible after the inclement weather conditions cease. In the event the inclement weather conditions cause the majority of major rides and attractions to close for a continuous 60 minutes on a public operating day, a Return Visit Voucher may be issued for a return visit for the current operating season. Please present your ticket stub or receipt of purchase to any Guest Services location or Hospitality Services to receive your Return Visit Voucher (note, not valid for private events).
Hersheypark website, FAQ
The Ultimate Guide to Rainy Day Activities in Hershey – Things to do when it rains at Hersheypark
When planning a trip, even your best plans can be ruined by a little bit of rain. While a rainy day can certainly keep you from doing many of the fun activities you had planned, there are still plenty of things you can do in Hershey when it rains!
From dining to shopping, from swimming to relaxing, from playing games to riding indoor rides, there are plenty of fun ways you can entertain yourself and your kids during a rainy day in Hershey. So don’t let the rain ruin your Hershey vacation, and instead consider some of these alternatives to keep the fun going even if it’s not sunny outside.
Here are the best rainy day activities to do in Hershey when it rains at Hersheypark.
As a Hersheypark ambassador, Sweet Mom, I was provided with lodging, tickets, and a gift card to help make our Hershey family vacation stories possible.
Eat Indoors in Hershey – The sweetest of rainy day activities in Hershey
Maybe you’ve been putting off eating because you were trying to get in all the roller coasters and rides that you could. Whether that’s the case or you haven’t had a chance to hit the parks there are lots of great dining options in Hershey PA. From Hersheypark to restaurants at the hotel to dining options throughout Downtown Hershey, pass some time on a rainy day in Hershey by trying some new delicious foods.
Indoor dining at Hersheypark
Inside Hersheypark, there are a few indoor restaurants. Keep in mind seating space may be limited so plan to arrive early when rain is in the forecast.
Gourmet Grille
In the Kissing Hill Area, you can escape the rain with the indoor, air-conditioned Gourmet Grille. From salads to tacos, from gluten-free pizza to chicken tenders there’s something for everyone. View the Gourmet Grill menu.
Overlook Food Court
Also near the Kissing Hill Area is the Overlook Food Court. Under cover and away from the rain you can pick from 9 different concession locations that even offer options for those with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. Check out the Overlook Food Court options.
1906 Grill
1906 Grill, located in Founder’s Way offers hungry Hersheypark guests char-grilled burgers, chicken fingers, cheese curds, fries, and more all while providing a meal away from the rain. While dining at the 1906 Grill there are a few tables under the awning and pavilion-like structure to provide protection from the rain.
Chick-Fil-A
Craving those yummy Chick-Fil-A waffle fries? Order some up and whatever else you’re craving and enjoy indoor dining at the Chick-Fil-A in Hersheypark. It’s open Monday – Saturday in the Pioneer Frontier region.
Subway
We haven’t eaten at the Subways at Hersheypark so we’re confirming that at least one of the three locations offer indoor dining.
Prefer a sub or hoagie? Next door to Moe’s Southwest Grill is Subway. It also offers indoor dining.
Indoor dining at Chocolatetown
In the area between the parking lots and the main area of Hersheypark is the newest area of Hersheypark. Called Chocolatetown this sweet space offers indoor dining and shopping areas.
The Chocolatier
Even when you can’t ride the Ferris Wheel you can eat around it at the Chocolatier. Each seat is filled with a different appetizer: Chocolate Barbecue Chicken Wings, Crispy Mozzarella, Classic Chicken Tenders, Buffalo Chicken Dip, and Soft Pretzel Dippers.
Speaking of seating, at The Chocolatier the indoor seating will have you feeling nostalgia for the Comet and other rides. The restaurant has booth seating created from the ride carriages.
The Chocolatier is located on the left-hand side, before you reach the entrance gate for Hersheypark, in the Hersheypark Supply Company building. When you walk into the building the restaurant is located on the upper level. Learn more about The Chocolatier.
Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor
On the first floor of the Hersheypark Supply Company building, below The Chocolatier is Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor. It offers a fabulous selection of ice cream flavors, cones, and sundaes. If you still need to have your lunch, around the corner, is another counter selling hot foods like chicken fingers and such. Learm more about Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor.
The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen
Want something yummier to eat while waiting for the rain to pass? Then, you must visit the Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen. It’s to the right of Milton’s and offers some jaw-dropping treats. I dare you to walk away from the counter and not order anything. Everything looks so divine and there are even some items made without gluten.
Want to pack some desserts to take home? They can do that too. I ordered this delicious chocolatey treat to take home. Though we were barely out of the parking lot before I finished it off. ;-) Learn more about The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen.
Starbucks
Pass the Hersheypark entrance. Walk a few steps from Candymonium. Then, you’ll come upon Starbucks! Heat up with a latte or chill out with an iced coffee all while watching the raindrops inside Starbucks. If it’s crowded or not open for hanging out take your drink over to the Candymonium ride. There’s some cover there where you can step away from the rain.
Indoor dining at the Hershey Lodge
When rain is in the forecast there are plenty of places you can stay dry inside the Hershey Lodge while dining on a fabulous meal enjoying your favorite hot beverage.
Fire & Grain
More details coming soon.
Revelry
More details coming soon.
Cocoa Beanery
More details coming soon.
The Bears’ Den
The Bear’s Den is the most playful of the Hershey Lodge restaurants. Themed after the Hershey Bears hockey team, the sports decor is fun and engaging. There’s even a few arcade games at the front of the restaurant.
Play a few games while you wait for your food or watch the latest games on the televisions around the restaurant.
Hershey Grill
More details coming soon.
Indoor dining at the Hotel Hershey
The Hotel Hershey also offers several family-friendly indoor dining spots.
The Circular
Even on a rainy day, dining at The Circular can be a beautifully delicious experience. The Circular restaurant is a somewhat circular-shaped indoor restaurant at The Hotel Hershey.
With large expansive windows, you can dine on a wonderful meal while looking across The Hotel Hershey grounds and admiring the architecture, gardens, and water fountains.
Harvest
Harvest, at The Hotel Hershey, provides a sophisticated yet fun atmosphere to get away from the rain and enjoy a tasty meal with the kids.
Towards the back fo the Harvest restaurant, near where the bar is, is a game room of sorts. While we waited for our meal my guys played pool, tabletop shuffleboard, and other games.
Trevi 5
More details coming soon.
Chef’s Market
The Chef’s Market is a grab-and-go cafe at The Hotel Hershey. But don’t let the grab and go convenience fool you. While taking a break from the rain you can ‘grab’ a scrumptious dessert and enjoy it at one of the indoor tables. In addition to desserts, the Chef’s Market offers prepackaged salads, sandwiches, drinks, and other options.
Iberian Lounge
More details coming soon.
Indoor dining in Downtown Hershey
Should you be in Downtown Hershey when it is raining escape to one of these fantastic restaurants.
- Houlihan’s
- Devon Seafood and Steak
Play and ride indoors at these indoor Hershey attractions
Indoor attractions & activities in Chocolatetown
While in Chocolatown you can either take advantage of the indoor dining restaurants listed above or the indoor shopping options listed below.
Indoor attractions & activities in Hershey’s Chocolate World
Hershey’s Chocolate World is a meca of amazing indoor attractions! It’s a must-do must-visit spot for rainy day activities in Hershey. Admission to Hershey’s Chocolate World is free, but some activities do have a fee. At the time of this writing (August 17, 2021) reservations are required to enter Hershey’s Chocolate World or participate in the activities listed below. You can find more details online at https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/things-to-do/chocolate-world.php.
Hershey’s Chocolate Tour
Hershey’s Chocolate Tour is free and a must-do activity anytime you’re visiting Hersheypark. It’s part ride, part history lesson, part interactive activity and all fun. Sit with your family in a slow moving cart and ride along as you listen to the cows, characters, and others tell you how Hershey takes cocoa beans and transforms them into the chocolate we all know and love. Each guest gets to also leave with a parting gift of chocolate.
The Hershey’s Chocolate Tour runs continuously while Hershey’s Chocolate World is open. No tickets are needed. Read more about Hershey’s Chocolate Tour.
Create Your Own Candy Bar
We haven’t done this (yet) but we’ve had team members who have. If you or the kids have ever wanted to create your own chocolate candy bar this is the activity you HAVE to do. You’ll have so much fun you’ll forget about the rain outdoors.
The Create Your Own Candy Bar experience lasts about 45 minutes and is currently $27 for each guest wishing to enter and participate in the experience. You can learn more on this page of their website.
4D Chocolate Movie
The 4D Chocolate Movie is another indoor activity in Hershey. It’s located in the lobby area of the Chocolate World building. Tickets start at $7 each.
Solve a sweet mystery that’s unlike any other Hershey activity. During the 30-minute indoor experience prepare to have your senses awakened as you and the Hersheypark characters work together to solve the mystery. There are over 100 different possible variations. So let the rain keep falling as you experience the 4D Chocolate Movie over and over!
Hershey’s Unwrapped
Hershey’s Unwrapped is another indoor theatrical experience you can do at Hershey’s Chocolate World. Like the 4D Chocolate Movie, the show is 30 minutes. Only with Hershey’s Unwrapped you will be eating chocolate throughout the show and learning about its history. Tickets start at $13 each. Learn more about Hershey’s Unwrapped.
Indoor attractions & activities at Hersheypark
As we started to say earlier, a rainy day doesn’t mean your day at Hersheypark is a complete washout. Often, that rain isn’t going to last all day. When the rain is falling check out these fully and partially indoor rides and activities at Hersheypark.
Indoor rides at Hersheypark
The following rides are fully inside and protected from the rain.
- Laff Trakk
- Kissing Tower
- Reese’s Cupfusion
Rides under cover at Hersheypark
These rides take place under a shelter or pavilion so while they don’t provide full protection from the rain they do offer some protection from it.
- Carrousel
- Dizzy Drums
- Fender Bender (bumper cars)
- Granny Bugs
- Livery Stables
- Music Express
- Pony Parade
- Whip
- Space Age
Additional rides that provide some cover
With these rides, you are encased in a car/cart that offers some protection from the rain.
- Monorail
- Convoy
Indoor activities at Hersheypark
- Overlook Arcade in Kissing Tower Hill
- Chevrolet Music Box Theatre
- Play Dome Arcade
New for 2021, Pepsi Pop Star, allows guests to record their dance performances in private dance pods featuring personalized, customizable avatars. Afterward, guests can receive a free video of their performance. It’s located in the Kissing Tower Hill region of Hersheypark. There’s no fee to participate and it’s all indoors.
Keep the rainy day activities in Hershey going with these indoor attractions & activities near Hersheypark
If you’re at Hersheypark and you’ve tried the options above or you want more ideas for rainy day activities in Hershey try these indoor attractions in Hershey.
Hershey Trolley Works
Details coming soon.
ZooAmerica
Details coming soon.
Giant Center
Details coming soon.
Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory at Hershey Gardens
Can visiting Hershey gardens really be a rainy day activity in Hershey? It can! Granted the majority of the Hershey Gardens are outdoors, there are at least four indoor areas you can visit: the butterfly lobby, indoor atrium, butterfly atrium, and the gift shop.
The Hershey Gardens website says, “Hershey Gardens opened in 1937 with Milton Hershey’s request to “create a nice garden of roses.” More than 80 years later, the small rose garden has blossomed into 23 acres of botanical beauty providing visitors with unique experiences and enriching opportunities.”
Indoors and outdoors there is so much to explore at Hershey Gardens. Indoors I was blown away by the hanging stained glass butterflies (make sure to look up). And of course, the variety and vibrancy of the butterflies in the atrium always makes me giddy.
Outdoors, yes even in the rain, it was delightful to see the roses in full bloom, the Kisses Fountain misting away, and kids (including my own) enjoying the Children’s Garden.
Indoor attractions in Downtown Hershey
A rainy day in Hershey does not have to be a wasted day. For some more rainy day activities in Hershey check out these family-friendly attractions.
The Hershey Story Museum
Quite possibly the sweetest museum you could ever visit. It’s definitely one of my favorites. Hershey makes history fun and delicious with interactive exhibits and activities. We’ve tasted chocolate around the world. We took on the role of a factory worker. We’ve engaged in an epic indoor snowball fight and we’ve ‘cashed’ in tokens to see how Hershey dollars make a difference. Learn more in our story, Hershey Story Museum ~ Sweet Discoveries, Fun, & Games.
Hershey Theatre
Details coming soon.
Adventure Sports In Hershey
Details coming soon.
Escape Room
Details coming soon.
Relax at the Hershey Spas
One of my favorite rainy day activities in Hershey would be a spa experience. The sound of the falling rain can be incredibly peaceful… even more so when you’re wrapped in a soft robe receiving a pedicure or massage. Take a look at where you can go in Hershey for a relaxing spa treatment.
Spa experiences at Hersheypark
Hersheypark doesn’t offer any spa experiences.
Spa experiences at the Hershey Lodge
Hershey Lodge doesn’t offer any spa experiences.
Spa experiences at the Hotel Hershey
You don’t need to be a guest of the Hotel Hershey or the Hershey Lodge to take advantage of The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Massages, facials, and more await you. Learn more about the spa at the Hotel Hershey.
Spa experiences at Downtown Hershey
Visitors to Hershey can also get away from the rain by enjoying some spa experiences at the MeltSpa by Hershey. Learn more about the MeltSpa by Hershey.
Guests staying at Hershey resorts can enjoy these rainy day activites in Hershey
One of the best perks of staying at either the Hershey Lodge or The Hotel Hershey is all the activities the hotels offer guests. You may even find your kids are having so much fun indoors they don’t want to leave for the park.
Indoor rainy day activities at the Hershey Lodge
Here are some of the indoor activities and amenities guests of the Hershey Lodge can take advantage of nearly any day, not just rainy days.
- Hershey’s Character Appearances
- Chocolate Bingo
- Arcade
- Kids’ Crafts
- Family Game Room
- Water Works
Indoor activities at the Hotel Hershey
Not to be left out, The Hotel Hershey also offers indoor activities and amenities to guests nearly every day.
- Sports & Fitness Complex
- Chocolate bingo
- Make your own tie-dye souvenir
- Hersheys Character appearances
- Kids’ Club
- Arcade
I will say The Hotel Hershey has a slight advantage over the Hershey Lodge when it comes to indoor attractions. Right outside the Circular restaurant is a beautiful spacious setting. With a stunning water fountain in the center, plants, and plenty of seating around the space, it reminds me of something you might see in Tuscany. Grab a few good books and pass the time reading, coloring, or sketching, in this picturesque space.
If it’s warm enough you can even sit outside and take in the view. It might be rainy but there are some outdoor lounge chairs and other seating that sit under an overhang. We spent some time there as the rain poured and we were waiting for our table at The Circular.
Indoor Swimming in Hershey
It may be raining outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do some swimming inside at one of the Hershey hotels. As long as there’s no lighting and thunder and you’re a guest of one of the Hershey hotels you can take advantage of that hotel’s indoor pool.
Indoor swimming at Hersheypark
Hersheypark doesn’t offer any indoor swimming pools, but its resort properties do. Guests are ONLY allowed to take advantage of the indoor pool for the resort they are staying at.
Indoor swimming at the Hershey Lodge
The Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey Lodge is unlike any indoor hotel pool we’ve ever experienced. In fact, I’d almost say by itself it’s a reason to stay in Hershey PA. Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey Lodge, is a 30000 square foot indoor pool complex, complete with interactive water features for the whole family. Read more about it in our Hershey Lodge Water Works ~ Wonderful Water Fun.
Indoor swimming at the Hotel Hershey
Guests of the Hotel Hershey can take advantage of the Hotel Hershey indoor pool. Reservations are not required. The indoor pool generally opens between 7 – 8 am and stays open till 8 pm. Of course, hours may vary so always call ahead before heading down to the pool. There are about 10 lounge chairs and 4-6 tables by the poolside and food service can be ordered to be delivered to the pool.
Shop Indoors in Hershey
You can never have too much Hershey merch. Do you need more t-shirts? Is there someone special back at home watching the pets or the house while you’re away? Want to get a head start on holiday shopping? Use some of that rainy day in Hershey to get some shopping done.
There are always new Hershey souvenirs and Hersheypark gifts being developed. Get away from the rain by going in the shops and exploring what’s new in Hershey gifts.
Indoor shopping at Hersheypark
Christmas Memories
I LOVE LOVE LOVE Christmas shops. There’s just something about all the Christmas ornaments and decorations that gets me excited for the upcoming holiday. One of our family vacation traditions is to bring back a Christmas ornament from our destination.
Not only does Christmas Memories have nearly every imaginable Hershey Christmas ornament, but this year they have a new machine that personalizes Hershey ornaments. So as we stepped away from the rain, we were fascinated watching this laser cutter go to work customizing our 2021 Hersheypark Christmas ornament.
More indoor stores at Hersheypark
- Agent Supply Shop
- Beachology
- Candymonium Shop
- Character Central
- Flip Flop Shop
- Dutch Fudge
- HP Collections
- Kisses Boutique
- Looper Souvenirs
- Pioneer Sports
- Provisions
Indoor Shopping in Chocolatetown
Looking to find an extensive collection of Hershey merch all in one place? Visit the Hersheypark Supply Co! You can’t miss it as you enter Chocolatetown. With meals upstairs or downstairs, desserts, and ice cream in the same building, it’s the perfect building to spend some time in on a rainy day in Hershey.
Indoor shopping at the Hershey Lodge
- Sweet Memories Gift Shop
- Hershey Custom Apparel Shop
Indoor shopping at the Hotel Hershey
- The Jeweler
- Signatures-All Things Hershey
- A Storied Home
- Sweets – Candy and More!
- Chic Boutique
- Shine
Indoor shopping in Downtown Hershey
Here’s a look at the most well-known shops in Downtown Hershey.
- Knock Knock Boutique
- Marketplace Hershey
- Pronio’s
- Simply J Boutique
- The Shoppe on Chocolate
- Bella Sera Boutique
- Three Little Birds Boutique
- Stay Apparel Co.
- Adrienne’s Herbals
- Leitzel’s Jewelry
- 1000 West Inc.
- Au Jewelers
- Bernie’s Guitars
- Crossroads Antique Mall
- Hershey Pharmacy and Gift Shop
- Royer’s Flowers & Gifts
- Tanger Outlets
- The Outfitters Ski Shop
Whether you decide to brave Hersheypark in the rain, stay back at one of the Hershey hotels, or explore the other indoor attractions Hershey has to offer, I hope you can see there are plenty of rainy day activities in Hershey that you and your family can enjoy.
Read more about visiting Hershey PA
We’ve been visiting Hershey Pennsylvania for almost as long as Jersey Family Fun has been around. In those 11 years, we’ve written a lot about the different things to do in Hershey and the places to stay near Hersheypark. Why not learn more before you visit Hershey by reading one of the articles below.
- The Best Tips to Save Money at Hersheypark and Hershey Lodge
- Stories about where to stay in Hershey PA
- Our Sweet Stay at Hersheypark Camping Resort
- Sweet Places to Stay Near Hersheypark with Kids
- Stories about Hershey Lodge
- Stories about where to eat in Hershey PA
- Christmas in Hershey
- Our Adventure at Hersheypark’s ZooAmerica
- Hershey’s Chocolate World Tour… Deliciously New Experiences
- Hershey Story Museum ~ Sweet Discoveries, Fun, & Games
- Experience a Hersheypark Halloween with Hersheypark in the Dark
- Five Reasons Why Hersheypark Should be on Your Summer Bucket List
- Eat, Stay, & Play – Plan Your Family Vacation to Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Tips for Your Hershey Vacation
- Jersey Family Fun Visits HersheyPark!
- What’s NEW at Hersheypark?
- 10 Things to Expect at Chocolatetown at Hersheypark
- Sweet Educational Hersheypark Printables for Homeschoolers & Virtual Learning