Hershey Gardens

Hershey Gardens offers 23 acres of stunning botanical displays that captivate children and adults alike, from vibrant tulip beds to an enchanting butterfly house where kids can walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies. The garden features interactive children's programming during spring and summer, plus themed gardens that make learning about plants feel like an adventure through different worlds.

• ✓Butterfly House with hundreds of tropical butterflies landing on visitors
• ✓Children's Garden with interactive play and educational activities (seasonal)
• ✓11 themed gardens including Japanese and Rock Gardens to explore
• ✓Seasonal bulb displays featuring over 30,000 tulips in spring
• ✓Scavenger hunts and nature-based activities designed for young explorers

1. 1.Visit the Butterfly House early in the day when butterflies are most active and the space is less crowded,it's a small enclosed area that fills up quickly on peak days.
2. 2.Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas with gorgeous garden views, saving money and time with hungry kids.
3. 3.Download or grab the children's garden guide at the entrance for a self-guided scavenger hunt that keeps kids engaged throughout your visit.
4. 4.Wear closed-toe shoes comfortable for walking as you'll cover significant ground on mulched and paved paths throughout the 23 acres.
5. 5.Time your visit for late spring (tulip season) or mid-summer (rose peak) for the most spectacular blooms, and check their website for special kids' activity days.

Visit on weekday mornings from late April through June for the most impressive spring blooms and smaller crowds. Early morning also offers cooler temperatures for summer visits and the most active butterflies in the conservatory.

Admission fees apply (typically under $15 for adults, less for children), with parking available on-site. The gardens are stroller-accessible on paved paths, though some areas have mulched trails; light snacks are available at the gift shop, but outside food is welcome in picnic areas.

Peak season runs spring through fall, with tulips spectacular in late April-May and roses stunning in June-July. The Butterfly House operates seasonally (typically late March through September). Special programming and children's activities are concentrated in spring and summer months. Winter hours may be reduced or closed,check ahead for off-season visits.

Hershey Pantry (less than 2 miles away) offers generous portions of family-friendly American comfort food in a casual setting. For a quick bite, Troegs Brewing Company has a family-friendly atmosphere with a kids' menu and large outdoor space where children can play.