Planning a sweet escape to Hershey, Pennsylvania? Get ready for chocolate-covered adventures! But before you dive into the creamy goodness, let's tackle the logistics: finding the closest airport to start your Hershey adventure. This guide will help you navigate the travel options and ensure a smooth arrival in the heart of chocolate country.
What Airports are Closest to Hershey?
Hershey doesn't have its own airport, so you'll need to fly into a nearby one and then travel to your destination. The three most convenient options are:
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Harrisburg International Airport (MDT): This is generally considered the closest and most convenient airport for Hershey. It's approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. Numerous rental car companies operate at MDT, making transportation easy. You can also find ride-sharing services readily available.
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Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Philadelphia is a larger airport with more flight options and potentially lower fares, but it's a considerably longer drive to Hershey – around 1.5 to 2 hours. While a longer journey, PHL's extensive flight network might be worth it for travelers looking for cheaper or more convenient flight times.
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Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Similar to PHL, BWI offers a wide range of flights but also comes with a longer drive to Hershey – about 1.5 to 2 hours. Consider the trade-off between flight options and travel time when choosing BWI.
Which Airport Should I Choose for My Hershey Trip?
The best airport for you depends on your priorities:
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Convenience: Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) wins for its proximity to Hershey. The shorter drive saves you valuable time, especially if you're on a tight schedule.
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Cost: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) might offer cheaper flights, but factor in the cost of transportation from the airport to Hershey. Weigh the potential savings on airfare against the extra expense of a longer drive or ride-sharing service.
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Flight Options: PHL and BWI are significantly larger airports with a broader selection of airlines and flight times. If you have specific airline preferences or need flexibility with your travel dates, these larger airports might be a better choice.
How Do I Get From the Airport to Hershey?
Once you've landed, several transportation options are available:
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Rental Car: Renting a car provides the most flexibility to explore Hershey and the surrounding areas at your own pace.
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Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Ride-sharing services are readily available at all three airports. Check the estimated fares beforehand, especially for longer trips from PHL or BWI.
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Taxi: Taxis are also an option, but they are generally more expensive than ride-sharing services.
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Shuttle Services: Some companies offer shuttle services from the airports to Hershey. Check for availability and pricing before your trip.
What are the advantages of choosing Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)?
The primary advantage of choosing Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is its close proximity to Hershey. This significantly reduces travel time and associated costs compared to using Philadelphia or Baltimore airports. The smaller airport often means less congestion and a quicker process through security and baggage claim.
What are other transportation options to Hershey besides flying?
While flying is the most common method for long-distance travel, you can also reach Hershey by:
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Driving: If you live within a reasonable driving distance, driving your own car can be a cost-effective option, allowing flexibility during your stay.
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Bus: Bus services might be available, but check schedules and routes carefully as direct services to Hershey might be limited.
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Train: Train travel to Hershey may require a combination of train and other transportation methods, so investigate the options and plan your journey accordingly.
Remember to book your flights and transportation in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best deals and avoid any last-minute surprises. Now that you're armed with this information, go ahead and plan that Hershey trip – your chocolate-filled adventure awaits!
