I was invited to attend Sweet Welcome by the great folks at Hersheypark and Hershey, Pa. I loved my press trip so much the day I came home I booked an anniversary trip for our 15th wedding anniversary! We’re headed to the Hotel Hershey + Chocolate Spa and I can’t wait! I mean, you know I loved it when I’m plunking down my cash to experience it again. Let me tell you why, and share with you why the Hotel Hershey and the Chocolate Spa is a perfect getaway for couples and a great destination for a girls’ weekend, in addition to being such a family friendly destination.
We’re celebrating 15 years of marriage next month, and I wanted to do something special. Our anniversary falls on New Year’s Day (01/01/01 to be exact) which was a lovely day to get married, but turns out to be tough on the budget. Flights are pricey, most locations are at premium rates, and getting away for more than a few days would be tough. While we were set on doing something neither of us came across anything that sounded right. We prefer warmer weather, a bit of pampering, and stuff to do, so when I was on my press trip to Hershey most of the check boxes I had started to be ticked. While I wasn’t going to get warmer weather Hershey had enough to make me think it might work.
I checked the boxes for close to home (so we don’t waste time traveling and can return home if need be), luxury options (hello, cottages), great dining, and of course that world-famous spa.
The plan for our anniversary is to stay at the Hotel Hershey in a cottage room. These rooms are separate from the main hotel and provide more amenities like a fireplace in the room and a soaking tub. they feature a porch, private entrance, and are more spacious than regular rooms. You marriage only turns 15 once so I figured we should treat ourselves.
In addition, I booked us a handful of spa services. We’ve never done a spa trip as a couple (and I rarely go alone) so this is a real treat! We’ll also enjoy all the great on site dining options and be able to shop, walk the grounds, and more. Mostly though we’re just looking forward to having no agenda, no to-dos, and lots of quality time (that’s uninterrupted by pets and kids!).
I think it will be a great place for you, too. Whether you’re planning a weekend away with your honey, or want to spend some quality time with your girlfriends or family you will love the options at Hershey.
The Chocolate Spa
One of the main draws for the Hotel Hershey is the spa. Known as The Chocolate Spa it is a full-service spa with treatments from hair and nail care to massages and more. Many treatments have chocolatey options that will feel decadent without the calories. 😉
While visiting Hershey for Sweet Welcome we spent the morning at the spa. I spent about an hour lounging in the Oasis with my friend, Laura, and then we got chocolate pedicures-known as their ‘Sweet Feet’ treatment.
Here’s a look inside the spa.
Once you’re checked in you’ll go into the locker rooms where you can change into your spa robe and stash your stuff.
The locker rooms.
Gorgeous tile in the bathrooms.
The fountain as you enter the spa sets the mood.
The gorgeous views from the spa-it looks out on the back gardens.
The view from the entry stairs.
The silence room.
The Oasis-perfect for a spa lunch or a place to relax.
Spa cocktails? Don’t mind if I do! Hot chocolate, water, and tea are available at no charge.
Our lounge area in the Oasis.
My sweet feet treatment.
A few things to note:
- Call ahead for reservations. They are often booked.
- Take advantage of deals like packages or their current ‘buy $200 in gift cards and get $25 free’ deal. (follow The Chocolate Spa on Instagram and Facebook to keep up)
- Plan to spend the day. Even if you aren’t staying over you get access to the facilities for the day.
- Go with someone else! It’s much more fun with a friend or four.
You can find the full spa treatment options for the spa here.
The Hotel Hershey
I shared a bit about the Hotel Hershey in my last post, but wanted to give you more details about this amazing historic hotel. It was built throughout the Great Depression. As candy sales slowed Mr. Hershey created a grand plan to keep his community and Hershey employees working. His plan: creating a hotel that overlooks Hershey and provided jobs that were desperately needed. Opened in 1933, it has been a well-loved hotel, and a favorite in the Philadelphia area for generations.
World Class Dining
We also have grand plans to eat well while we’re at the hotel. The hotel itself features a number of restaurants including a farm to table restaurant, quick-service breakfast, room service, and more! You can view all the dining options here. Additionally, we may head into downtown Hershey to try out some of the great food there. Let’s just say we won’t have trouble finding good eats!
The Circular is one I’m thrilled to head back to! We dined at The Circular during our Sweet Welcome trip and it was simply wonderful. We have plans to enjoy their brunch which serves so many great options I know I’m going to have trouble choosing! You can see their full menus here.
While I can’t give you a peek inside, I’m most excited about our anniversary dinner at Harvest which is a farm to table restaurant that looks amazing! Read more and see their full menu here.
I’m sure I’ll share more after our trip, but if you’re considering a getaway for friends, you and your spouse or partner, or even the whole family you should definitely take a closer look at Hershey. If you plan to visit for the holidays you can read all about their holiday offerings Hershey at Christmas, it’s magic!
Kelly
Disclosure: I was hosted by Hershey. All opinions and info are my own thoughts.