We hope that the following frequently asked questions will help you in planning for your visit!
When is The Butterfly House open and is there an additional fee to visit the butterflies?
The Butterfly House is included in admission and is open daily May 24 through September 15, 2013 from 9 AM to 5 PM. The Butterfly House will close during inclement weather and may close periodically during extreme heat.
What happens inside the Gardens when it rains?
We remain open during showers and on most rainy days. However, in the event of severe, inclement weather, guests will be asked to exit the Gardens and seek shelter in their cars. Guests will be re-admitted once the storm has passed.
Is Hershey Gardens wheelchair accessible? Are wheelchairs available?
Hershey Gardens is wheelchair accessible. To avoid steep terrain, please follow the suggested route on the map guide. Hershey Gardens has a limited number of manual wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis. Wheelchairs may not be reserved in advance.
How much time should be allotted to visit Hershey Gardens?
We encourage you to take your time and enjoy the beauty of the Gardens! The average visitor will spend one hour to one and a half hours touring the grounds. Please allot additional time if you’re a botany enthusiast or if your youngsters will be enjoying The Children’s Garden.
Can I bring food into the Gardens?
Outside food and drink is prohibited. Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis outside the main entrance. Beverage vending machines and drinking fountains are located inside the Gardens.
Can I smoke inside the Gardens?
Smoking (including cigars) is strictly prohibited inside the Gardens.
Are pets permitted in the Gardens?
With the exception of service dogs, animals are prohibited inside the Gardens.
What other items are prohibited inside the Gardens?
In addition to outside food and beverages, non-service animals, smoking, roller blades, heelys, and skateboards are prohibited inside the Gardens.
May I pick flowers in the Gardens?
For your safety and to preserve the beauty of the Gardens, disturbing, cutting, carving, chopping, picking, removing, or eating parts of any plant, shrub, or tree is strictly prohibited. In addition, Hershey Gardens is home to birds, rabbits, squirrels, and other wildlife. Disturbing any wildlife, nests or eggs is strictly prohibited. Some wildlife, such as hummingbirds, is protected by law. Any guest who fails to comply with these terms may be ejected and subject to fines or other penalties.
I am a professional photographer and would like to take photos in the Gardens. Can I?
Advanced registration, normal admission rates, and a $150 fee are required for photographers photographing the Gardens for commercial use. Commercial use includes prom photos, wedding photos, senior portraits, etc. This is a standard fee charged at most public gardens. We do not book photography sessions in the Gardens if there is a wedding in progress. Advanced registration ensures that you will be granted a photographer’s pass. Photos of Hershey Gardens may not be used for commercial purposes without the written permission of Hershey Gardens’ management. To register, please call 717-534-8841.
