You're looking for a place to crash near the chocolate capital, and the Crowne Plaza Harrisburg Hershey pops up. It's got the name. It's got the location. But if you’re expecting to step out of the lobby and right onto the Great Bear rollercoaster, you’re going to be disappointed.
Location is everything, but names can be a bit of a tease. Honestly, this hotel isn't actually in Hershey. It’s in the heart of downtown Harrisburg, sitting right on South 2nd Street.
Does that matter? For most people, not really. You’re looking at about a 14-mile drive—roughly 20 minutes—to get to Hersheypark. What you trade in "walkability to the park" you gain in "walking to literally everything else in the state capital." It’s a trade-off.
The Reality of Staying Downtown
Staying at the Crowne Plaza Harrisburg Hershey means you're in the middle of the action, just not the chocolate action. You are steps away from "Restaurant Row." If you want Mexican at El Sol or a drink at Bourbon Street Saloon, you just walk out the door.
The building itself is a bit of a classic. Built in 1960, it has that traditional 10-story architectural vibe. It’s not a brand-new glass tower, and it shows its age in some spots, but it’s solid.
Valet parking is basically mandatory here. Because it’s downtown, street parking is a nightmare. Expect to pay about $25.00 per day for valet, which includes in-and-out privileges. Is it pricey? Kinda. But it beats circling the block for forty minutes only to find a spot three miles away.
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What’s Inside the Crowne Plaza Harrisburg Hershey
The hotel underwent a significant $3 million renovation a few years back. They touched up the lobby, the 261 guest rooms, and the meeting spaces. It feels polished, though some guests still mention that the elevators can be a bit sluggish or the rooms feel "traditional" rather than "ultra-modern."
Here’s the breakdown of what you actually get:
- The Rooms: You’ve got king and queen options. They come with 32-inch TVs, blackout drapes (crucial for sleeping in), and those "Sleep Advantage" aromatherapy kits Crowne Plaza is known for.
- The Food: The on-site restaurant is 2wentyThre3. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The breakfast buffet usually runs around $21.95 per person. It’s convenient, but since you're on Restaurant Row, you might find yourself wandering out for dinner.
- The Tech: Free WiFi is standard. There’s a 24-hour business center if you actually have to work instead of riding coasters.
- The Amenities: There is an indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. The pool is a lifesaver if you have kids who still have energy after a day at the park.
Business or Pleasure?
This place is a bit of a chameleon. During the week, it’s a suit-and-tie vibe. With over 10,000 square feet of meeting space and 10 different rooms, it's a massive hub for state government types and corporate travelers. The Grand Ballroom can hold 600 people in a theater-style setup.
On the weekends, the vibe shifts. The business travelers vanish and the families arrive, loaded down with Hershey’s Chocolate World bags.
It’s an interesting mix. You might see a lobby full of lobbyists in the morning and a sea of toddlers in Reese’s shirts by 4:00 PM.
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Is it Actually Convenient for Hershey?
Let's talk logistics. If your goal is 100% Hershey, you might look at hotels in the 17033 zip code. But those hotels get incredibly expensive during the high season (usually February for events and the summer for the park).
The Crowne Plaza Harrisburg Hershey is often the "value" play. You’re far enough away to avoid the Hershey price premium but close enough to drive there in under half an hour. Plus, you’re a 5-minute walk from the Harrisburg Transportation Center if you’re coming in via Amtrak.
The Pennsylvania State Capitol is only an 8-minute walk away. If you're a history nerd, this is a much better home base than a motel on the outskirts of Hershey. You can see the Whitaker Center or stroll through Riverfront Park in about two minutes.
Things to Keep in Mind
No hotel is perfect. This one has some quirks.
First, the height restrictions on the parking garage. If you’re driving a massive lifted truck or a high-roof van, check with the valet first. It’s an older structure.
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Second, the breakfast isn't free. Unlike some of the "Express" brands, you’re paying for the sit-down experience. If you’re on a budget, there’s a Starbucks counter in the lobby or plenty of cafes nearby.
Third, look for the "Low Season" deals. November and December (outside of the Christmas Candy Lane dates) often see rates drop significantly. According to data from travel sites like Kayak, you can sometimes snag a room for under $100 if you time it right.
Getting the Most Out of Your Stay
If you decide to book here, ask for a room on a higher floor. The city views are actually pretty great, especially if you’re facing toward the river or the Capitol dome.
Check the Whitaker Center schedule before you arrive. It’s literally a 3-minute walk from the hotel. They have an IMAX theater and science exhibits that are perfect for a "rainy day" backup plan if your Hersheypark trip gets washed out.
Actionable Tips for Travelers
- Budget for Valet: Don't let the $25 daily fee surprise you. Factor it into your total trip cost.
- Request a Microwave: Rooms usually come with a fridge but not always a microwave. If you’re traveling with kids and need to heat up leftovers, call ahead and see if they can tuck one in your room.
- Explore 2nd Street: Don't just eat at the hotel. You’re in the best food neighborhood in the city. Use it.
- Drive Time: Use an app like Waze to check the traffic on US-322. It can get congested during the morning rush when everyone is heading toward the park.