Planning a trip to Hershey, Pennsylvania, the chocolate capital of the world, is exciting! But before you indulge in all the delicious treats, you need to figure out how you're getting there. Hershey doesn't have its own airport, which leaves travelers wondering about the best airport options. This guide will help you navigate your airport choices, making your Hershey adventure as smooth as melted chocolate.
Which Airport is Closest to Hershey?
The closest airport to Hershey, Pennsylvania is Harrisburg International Airport (HIA). Located approximately 20 miles from Hersheypark, HIA offers the most convenient option for most travelers. The drive is relatively short and straightforward, making it an ideal choice for those looking to minimize travel time.
What Other Airports Serve Hershey?
While Harrisburg International Airport is the closest, other airports can serve as viable alternatives depending on your origin and flight availability. These include:
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Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Hershey, BWI offers more flight options and potentially cheaper fares, depending on your origin city. However, the longer travel time needs to be factored into your overall journey.
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Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Located about 1 hour and 50 minutes away, PHL is another major airport with extensive flight options. Similar to BWI, the added travel time should be considered.
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New York Airports (JFK, LGA, EWR): While offering a vast array of flight choices, these airports are significantly further away (3-4 hours drive) and are only recommended if you have particularly advantageous flight deals or are already in the New York area.
How Do I Get From the Airport to Hershey?
Once you land at your chosen airport, several transportation options are available to get you to Hershey:
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Rental Car: This offers the most flexibility and allows for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. It's the most popular choice for families or larger groups.
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Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft): Convenient and readily available, particularly from HIA. This is a great option for solo travelers or smaller groups. Pre-booking is always advisable, especially during peak season.
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Taxi: Taxis are available at all major airports but can be more expensive than ride-sharing services.
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Shuttle Services: Some companies offer shuttle services directly to Hershey from various airports. Check availability and pricing in advance.
What is the best airport to fly into for Hersheypark?
For Hersheypark specifically, Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) remains the best option due to its proximity. The shorter travel time means less time spent traveling and more time spent enjoying the rides and attractions.
What is the cheapest airport to fly into for Hershey?
The cheapest airport to fly into will vary greatly depending on your origin and the time of year you're traveling. Checking flight prices to all the airports mentioned above (HIA, BWI, PHL) using flight comparison websites is recommended to find the most cost-effective option. Flexibility with your travel dates can also significantly impact the price.
Which airport has the most flights?
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) generally offer a significantly higher number of flights and airlines compared to Harrisburg International Airport (HIA). This increased choice may come at the cost of increased travel time to Hershey.
Is it easy to get from the airport to Hershey?
Yes, getting from the airport to Hershey is relatively straightforward, with various transportation options available. However, the ease and cost will vary depending on your chosen airport and transportation method. HIA offers the simplest journey.
By carefully considering these factors and using resources like flight comparison websites, you can choose the airport and transportation method that best suits your needs and budget, ensuring a sweet start to your Hershey adventure! Remember to book your flights and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
