Looking for a sweet escape? Hershey, Pennsylvania—affectionately nicknamed “The Sweetest Place on Earth”—is full of surprises. History buffs, roller coaster junkies, chocolate enthusiasts, and just about everyone in between will enjoy these 10 fun facts about Hershey:
1. Hershey Didn’t Succeed Right Away
This list wouldn’t be complete with facts about Milton Hershey, the founder of The Hershey Company, who didn’t have an easy path to success. After dropping out of school at 13, he tried (and failed) to start multiple candy businesses. It wasn’t until he launched the Lancaster Caramel Company that he finally struck gold—or rather, caramel. This early win allowed him to fund what would become the world-famous chocolate company we know today. Learn more about his story at the Hershey Story Museum.
2. America’s First Mass-Produced Milk Chocolate Was Born Here
In 1900, Hershey produced the first mass-produced milk chocolate bar in the United States. Up until then, milk chocolate was considered a luxury item, mostly made in Europe. Milton Hershey’s innovation made it affordable and accessible to the everyday American, forever changing the candy industry.
3. Hershey’s Kisses Were Inspired by a Sound
One of our favorite facts about Hershey’s chocolate is the origins of its most iconic sweet. Hershey Kisses were introduced in 1907. Their name was inspired by the kissing sound the chocolate-making machine made as it dropped the chocolate onto the conveyor belt. Want more fun facts about Hershey Kisses? Over 70 million Kisses are produced every single day!
4. Milton Hershey Built a Town for His Workers
Believing that happy employees made better products, Milton Hershey built a company town complete with housing, schools, public transportation, restaurants, and recreational facilities. The town of Hershey, PA, was born out of this vision and continues to reflect his values of community, care, and opportunity. It’s one of the fun facts about Hershey, Pennsylvania that sets our town apart.
5. He Also Created a School That Still Changes Lives
In 1909, Milton and Catherine Hershey founded the Milton Hershey School for orphaned boys. The school still exists today and has expanded to serve thousands of children in need, providing them with free education, housing, and support.
6. Hersheypark Started as a Perk for Employees
This list would be incomplete if we didn’t give any fun facts about Hershey Park! Today, Hersheypark is one of Pennsylvania’s top attractions, but it started in 1906 as a small park for Hershey Chocolate Company workers to relax and enjoy time with their families. It has since grown into a full-blown amusement destination with roller coasters, water rides, and even a zoo.
7. There’s a Kissing Tower with a View
One of the most unique rides at Hersheypark is the Kissing Tower, a 330-foot tall observation tower with windows shaped like Hershey’s Kisses. It offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding town, making it one of the sweetest photo ops around.
8. You Can Smell Chocolate in the Air (Literally)
One of the more magical aspects of visiting Hershey is the occasional smell of chocolate wafting through the air. On the right day and under the right conditions, the scent from the nearby Hershey factory drifts across town. Yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds.
9. Hershey’s Chocolate World Offers a Free “Factory Tour”
Opened in 1973, Hershey’s Chocolate World is a visitor experience center where guests can take a simulated tour of the chocolate-making process. It ends with a free sample and offers plenty of interactive attractions, including custom chocolate bar creation and tasting experiences.
10. Hershey Has Its Own Pro Hockey Team
Hershey is home to the Hershey Bears, the oldest team in the American Hockey League. Founded in 1932, the Bears have a loyal fan base and host a beloved annual Teddy Bear Toss, where fans throw thousands of stuffed animals onto the ice for local charities. It makes for a great date night activity.
Visit Hershey, PA
From its chocolatey beginnings to its community-driven legacy, Hershey is a town like no other. These 10 fun facts about Hershey, Pennsylvania highlight just how rich its history is—and how much there is to discover beyond the candy wrapper. Whether you’re a fan of Hershey’s chocolate, curious about Milton Hershey’s journey, or looking for your next weekend vacation spot, this town has something truly sweet to offer. Book your stay today!
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