Best Dog-Friendly Places to Take Your Pup in Hershey, PA
As a fellow dog owner here in Central PA, I've spent countless weekends exploring Hershey with my furry companion. While you can't bring your dog into Hersheypark itself (except for service animals), pets are not permitted within Hersheypark, and service animals are allowed inside Hersheypark, there's actually a surprising number of fantastic dog-friendly spots throughout the area. Here's your complete guide to the best places where you and your four-legged friend can explore together in America's sweetest town.
Dog-Friendly Outdoor Adventures
Boathouse Park: Creek Access Fun
Bring Fido to the dog-friendly Boathouse Park in Hershey, PA. Located along the Swatara River, the area is branded as a pet-friendly creek access. The park is unique to all of the other township parks in that it features a boat launch. This hidden gem offers leashed pups and their owners fishing, boating and picnicking opportunities. It's perfect for dogs who love water and a quieter alternative to busier parks.
Detweiler Park: Seven Miles of Trails
About 15 minutes north in Dauphin, enjoy nature with Fido at the dog-friendly Detweiler Park in Dauphin, PA. This property features 7 miles of trails that wind through varied habitats like gardens, meadows and evergreens. There are several Adirondack chairs placed throughout the park where you and your pup can sit and enjoy the surroundings! Dogs must stay leashed and waste must be bagged and removed from the park.
Swatara State Park: Historic Cabin & Waterfall
For a special adventure, bring Fido along with you to the pet-friendly, historic Armar Bordner Cabin by Aycrigg's Falls in Swatara State Park, Jonestown, PA. You can explore the 3.1-mile out-and-back trail with flat stone paths, enjoy the waterfall, and let your pup cool off in the streams. Dogs are welcome inside the cabin and can join you at one of the picnic tables for a relaxing time in nature. Just be sure to keep them leashed and cleaned up after.
Dog Parks & Off-Leash Areas
Founders Park - Right in Hershey
In addition to being a great dog park in Hershey, Founders Park features amenities such as baseball and soccer fields, playgrounds for children, and clean restrooms, making it a perfect destination for families and pet lovers alike. It's located right in town and offers a safe space for your dog to run and socialize.
Derry Township Parks & Recreation
Derry Twp Parks & Recreation in Hershey, PA, offers a welcoming dog park experience with excellent accessibility features including wheelchair accessible entrances and parking. This dog park in Hershey, PA, is perfect for pet owners looking for a safe and inclusive environment to enjoy with their furry friends. The park also boasts amenities such as basketball courts, a swimming pool, and gender-neutral restrooms, making it a versatile spot for families and dog lovers alike.
Lower Allen Township Dog Park
Just 20 minutes away in Camp Hill, Fido is invited to play at Lower Allen Township Dog Park in Pennsylvania. This off-leash facility contains two separate areas for large and small dogs. Amenities include waste and water stations along with agility equipment for your furry friends. Before entering, complete Lower Allen Community Park Dog Park Rules and the Dog Park Registration Form.
Dog-Friendly Breweries & Restaurants
Tröegs Independent Brewing
This is one of my personal favorites! Tröegs Independent Brewing is a dog-friendly brewery and eatery in Hershey, PA where your leashed dog is welcome to join you outside at a picnic table in a designated area. Try their sweet corn fries, house local charcuterie, and pulled pork sandwiches from the Snack Bar! If you're looking for the perfect drink, the Passionfruit Ale, Grand Cacao Stout, and Sunshine Pilsner are all customer favorites. Please note table service for food isn't available, so Fido must remain outside while you go in to order.
The Chocolate Avenue Grill
Located right on Chocolate Avenue, The Chocolate Avenue Grill is a dog-friendly restaurant in downtown Hershey, PA, where Fido is welcome on the outdoor patio with over a dozen tables. The eatery is known for its broad menu of freshly prepared American fare - from starters like calamari, spanakopita, and wings to sandwiches, burgers, hearty steaks, seafood risotto, and wraps - plus tempting cocktails and desserts.
Hidden Still Spirits
Hidden Still Spirits is a dog-friendly distillery and restaurant in Hershey, PA, where Fido can join you at an outdoor table for lunch or dinner. Pair one of their signature cocktails with something from their food menu like pizza, burgers, sandwiches, tacos, or an entree like mushroom stroganoff.
First Watch
Perfect for weekend brunch, First Watch is a dog-friendly award-winning breakfast restaurant located in Hershey, PA. Fido is welcome to join you at a table on the outdoor patio where water bowls are provided. Serving delicious breakfast and lunch favorites which are both traditional and creative, First Watch uses fresh ingredients and cooks all dishes to order. Whether you enjoy a simple breakfast of eggs and bacon or prefer a protein-packed quinoa power bowl to start the day, First Watch caters to many tastes.
Shopping & Indoor Activities
Tanger Outlets Hershey
Tanger Outlets is a dog-friendly, open-air shopping mall with a location in Hershey, PA, offering a variety of brand-name and designer stores. Your leashed furry friend is welcome to join in outdoor areas. While the grounds are pet friendly, please note that not all stores welcome dogs, so guests are encouraged to check directly with businesses before entering with Fido.
Pennsylvania State Police Museum
For something educational, leashed dogs are welcome at the pet-friendly Pennsylvania State Police Museum (run by the Historical, Educational, and Memorial Center) in Hershey, PA. Visitors are invited to explore the rich history and legacy of the PA State Police through interactive exhibits including vintage patrol vehicles, a 1962 Harley motorcycle, weaponry and artifacts from the Troopers' daily lives.
What About Hersheypark and Hershey Gardens?
Unfortunately, with the exception of service dogs, animals are prohibited inside the Gardens at Hershey Gardens. However, there's no need for a "hot hound" thanks to our animal kennel, The Barking Lot. The kennel, located just outside the Park under the west end of Hersheypark Stadium, is available for a nominal daily fee. Barking Lot is open from Park opening to Park closing during the regular summer season and also seasonal events. Space is limited and all dogs must be current on all vaccinations for Rabies, Distemper, and Bordatella (canine cough) and they must be flea/tick free.
Pet-Friendly Hotels & Accommodations
Planning to stay overnight? Hampton Inn Harrisburg-East (Hershey Area) (Pets are welcome for an extra fee. Hampton Inn and Suites Harrisburg North (Pets are welcome for an extra fee. Staybridge Suites Harrisburg-Hershey (Pets are welcome for an extra fee; 80 lbs. max weight per pet) are all excellent options that welcome furry guests.
Local Trails & Nearby Adventures
Wildwood Park
About 20 minutes away in Harrisburg, Wildwood Park is a pet-friendly attraction in Harrisburg, PA. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on the seven walking trails of this lovely Harrisburg nature center. Be sure to keep an eye out for ducks, geese and squirrels.
Boyd Big Tree Preserve
Also in Harrisburg, Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area is a pet-friendly attraction in Harrisburg, PA. The park is 1,025 acres and is the habitat of large trees of numerous species to see firsthand with your furry friend. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails as long as they are cleaned up after.
Conewago Recreational Trail
For rail-trail enthusiasts, The Conewago Recreational Trail is one of 1600 rail-trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that is working to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors. Previously an unused railroad corridor, this "rail-trail" is now a great place to walk Fido in Elizabethtown!
Tips for Visiting Hershey with Your Dog
- Always keep your dog leashed - Most venues require leashes except in designated off-leash areas
- Bring water and waste bags - Not all locations provide these essentials
- Check vaccination requirements - Some dog parks require proof of current vaccinations
- Call ahead - Restaurant policies can change, especially during busy seasons
- Consider the weather - Summer heat can be intense on paws and pads
If you're looking for professional dog training or daycare services while exploring the area, we've had great experiences with Greenlin Pet Resorts in nearby Camp Hill – they're fantastic if you need a safe place for your pup while you visit attractions that don't allow pets.
Making the Most of Your Hershey Dog Adventure
Hershey might be known for chocolate, but it's surprisingly accommodating for dog owners who know where to look. From waterfront parks to craft breweries, historic trails to shopping outlets, there's plenty to keep both you and your furry friend entertained. The key is planning your route to include both dog-friendly restaurants for meal breaks and parks for exercise.
I typically start our Hershey adventures with a morning hike at Detweiler Park, grab lunch at Tröegs, do some shopping at Tanger Outlets, and end with dinner at The Chocolate Avenue Grill. It makes for a full day that keeps both human and canine family members happy!
Remember that while Hersheypark itself doesn't allow pets, the surrounding community has embraced dog-friendly tourism. With a little planning, you and your best friend can create sweet memories in America's chocolate capital.