Hershey, Pennsylvania

Hershey, Pennsylvania
Bronayur at English Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Name	Hershey, Pennsylvania
Settlement type	Borough

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a borough in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, located near the cities of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The area is known for its rich history, which is closely tied to the Hershey Company, founded by Milton S. Hershey. The company's presence has had a significant impact on the development of the region, with attractions like Hersheypark and Chocolate World drawing visitors from across the United States, including New York City and Philadelphia. The borough is also situated near the Susquehanna River and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, making it an important transportation hub.

Geography

Hershey, Pennsylvania is nestled in the heart of the Keystone State, surrounded by the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Central Pennsylvania. The borough is bordered by the townships of Derry Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania and South Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, and is located near the cities of York, Pennsylvania and Reading, Pennsylvania. The area's unique geography, with its mix of rural and urban landscapes, has made it an attractive location for businesses and residents alike, including the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and the Hershey Gardens. The nearby Blue Mountain and Appalachian Mountains offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking and skiing, and are home to popular resorts like Seven Springs Mountain Resort and Camelback Mountain Resort.

History

The history of Hershey, Pennsylvania is closely tied to the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, who founded the Hershey Company in 1894. The company's early success was fueled by the production of milk chocolate, which became a staple of American candy. As the company grew, so did the town, with Hershey building a model community for his employees, complete with amenities like Hersheypark and the Hershey Theatre. The town was officially incorporated as a borough in 1903, and has since become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the United States, including Los Angeles and Chicago. The area is also home to a number of historic sites, including the Landis Valley Farm Museum and the Pennsylvania State Capitol.

Economy

The economy of Hershey, Pennsylvania is driven by a mix of industries, including tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing. The Hershey Company remains a major employer in the area, with its global headquarters located in the borough. Other major employers include the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company, which operates a number of attractions, including Hersheypark and the Hershey Lodge. The area is also home to a number of small businesses and startups, including those in the tech industry and the agricultural industry, with companies like John Deere and Cargill having a presence in the region. The borough's proximity to major cities like New York City and Philadelphia makes it an attractive location for businesses looking to expand into the Mid-Atlantic region.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Hershey, Pennsylvania was approximately 14,000 people. The borough has a diverse population, with a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. The area is known for its high quality of life, with good schools, low crime rates, and a range of community amenities, including the Hershey Public Library and the Derry Township School District. The borough is also home to a number of community events, including the Hershey Festival and the Hershey Halloween Parade, which attract visitors from across the region, including Lancaster, Pennsylvania and York, Pennsylvania. The area's demographics are also influenced by its proximity to major universities, including Penn State University and University of Pennsylvania.

Tourism

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The borough is home to a number of attractions, including Hersheypark, Chocolate World, and the Hershey Gardens. Visitors can also explore the nearby Amish Country, which offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. The area is also home to a number of historic sites, including the Landis Valley Farm Museum and the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Other popular attractions include the Hershey Theatre, which hosts a range of performances, including concerts and Broadway shows, and the Giant Center, which is home to the Hershey Bears hockey team. The borough's tourism industry is also supported by a number of hotels and resorts, including the Hershey Lodge and the Hotel Hershey.

Education

Hershey, Pennsylvania is served by the Derry Township School District, which operates a number of schools in the area, including Hershey High School and Hershey Middle School. The borough is also home to a number of private schools, including the Hershey Montessori School and the Covenant Christian Academy. The area is also served by a number of higher education institutions, including Penn State University and the University of Pennsylvania, which offer a range of academic programs, including those in business, engineering, and medicine. The Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is also a major center for medical research and education, with a number of residency programs and clinical trials. The borough's education system is also supported by a number of community organizations, including the Hershey Public Library and the Hershey Community Center.