Giant Center Hershey
A versatile arena hosting Hershey Bears hockey, major concerts, and large trade shows like America's Largest RV Show.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid traffic jams
Giant Center Hershey
Best Time
Avoid traffic jams
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A versatile arena hosting Hershey Bears hockey, major concerts, and large trade shows like America's Largest RV Show.
"Great sound and views, but parking and exit traffic can be a major hassle."
🚗 Beat the Exit Traffic
Wait an hour after events to avoid long traffic jams leaving the Giant Center. :car:
💰 Parking Costs
Be prepared for potentially high parking fees, sometimes up to $35. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hershey Bears Hockey
Arena Floor
Experience the thrilling home games of the AHL's Hershey Bears, a beloved local team.
Concerts & Live Events
Main Arena
Catch major concerts and touring shows in this versatile venue, known for great sound.
+1
PIAA Wrestling Championships
Arena Floor
Witness the intensity of the PIAA wrestling championships, drawing top student-athletes.
America's Largest RV Show
Exhibition Halls
Explore a vast array of RVs and camping gear at this massive annual event.
+4Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Hershey Traffic
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Exit Traffic
Wait an hour after events to avoid long traffic jams leaving the Giant Center. :car:
💰 Parking Costs
Be prepared for potentially high parking fees, sometimes up to $35. :moneybag:
👀 Improve Your View
Consider seats with screens if you're in ADA areas for better performer visibility. :eyes:
👜 Bag Policy
Check the venue's bag policy; some clear plastic purses may not fit the size requirements. :handbag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Exit Traffic
Wait an hour after events to avoid long traffic jams leaving the Giant Center. :car:
💰 Parking Costs
Be prepared for potentially high parking fees, sometimes up to $35. :moneybag:
👀 Improve Your View
Consider seats with screens if you're in ADA areas for better performer visibility. :eyes:
👜 Bag Policy
Check the venue's bag policy; some clear plastic purses may not fit the size requirements. :handbag:
🏒 Hockey Night
Enjoy the energetic atmosphere of a Hershey Bears hockey game! :ice_hockey:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Giant Center is a well-maintained venue praised for its great sound, views, and concessions during events like concerts and hockey games. However, visitors frequently cite excessive parking prices and challenging exit traffic as significant drawbacks. Some also note potential visibility issues from certain seating areas for stage performances. +4
"As a concert venue the is sound is great the concessions are great, the views are great, everything is great except one thing parking. Leaving Giant Center is like trying navigate merge lanes from 10 different angles. They will gladly guide you in to the event but leaving it, forget about it. This could be run so much smoother instead of 45minute+ traffic jam."
Jared Briggs
"Wow. Was shocked at how massive the arena is. Only issue is when ur up in the Ada area it's hard to see performers on the stage. Wished they would have had screens to see the band members! The bands rocked it out of the park! Left happy with a great performance but hershey needs to improve the visual so attendees can see the performers."
Missy Arnold
"The venue was nice and in wonderful condition. However, the parking price was incredibly excessive and unnecessary. $35 for a two hour event is way too much. If they want to charge that much for parking, there needs to be more amenities. Tram service, covered walkways, trash receptacles amongst the parking spots just to name a few. Again the giant center is in great condition and well maintained. The event was superb and highly entertaining. However, the parking price was excessively too much. It offends me that they are taking advantage of so many families by charging so much for parking. I would consider taking my family to more events if parking wasn’t an additional excessive amount."
Jeffrey Engebretson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Giant Center is located at 550 W Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033. It's easily accessible by car via major highways like I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) and I-81. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most common method. +1
The Giant Center offers ample on-site parking. However, be aware that parking fees can be substantial, especially during major events like concerts or the RV show. +1
Direct public transportation to the Giant Center is very limited. Most visitors arrive by car. It's advisable to check local transit schedules if you plan to use public transport, but driving is generally recommended.
Arriving at least 30-60 minutes before an event is recommended to account for traffic and parking. For very popular events, arriving even earlier might be beneficial.
Some attendees opt for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, which can sometimes help bypass the most congested exit traffic. However, surge pricing can be a factor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased through the official Giant Center website, Ticketmaster, or other authorized ticket vendors. It's always best to buy from official sources to avoid counterfeit tickets.
The Giant Center has a clear bag policy. Only clear plastic tote bags up to 12"x6"x12", gallon-sized clear zip-top bags, or small clutch purses (no larger than 4.5"x6.5") are permitted.
Age restrictions vary by event. Most concerts and sporting events are all-ages, but specific shows may have age recommendations or requirements. Check the event details when purchasing tickets.
Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed inside the Giant Center. Concessions are available for purchase within the venue.
The Giant Center's operating hours are event-dependent. Doors typically open 60-90 minutes before the scheduled start time for most events.
🎫 🛏️ Onsite Experience
For concerts, seats closer to the stage offer the most immersive experience. However, the venue is designed so that most seats have a good view, and some attendees prefer upper-level seats for a broader perspective. +1
Yes, the Giant Center offers a variety of concessions, including classic arena fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn, as well as more diverse options.
The Giant Center is accessible, with designated seating areas, elevators, and accessible restrooms. However, some visitors have noted that visibility from certain ADA seating areas can be challenging for stage performances.
The Giant Center hosts a wide range of events, including major concerts, family shows, ice skating events, and large trade shows like America's Largest RV Show.
Photography policies vary by event. Generally, personal cameras without professional lenses are allowed, but video recording is often prohibited. Check the specific event's policy.
📸 📸 Photography
For general venue shots, the concourse areas offer good perspectives. During events, focus on capturing the energy of the crowd or performers. Remember to check the specific event's photography policy. +1
Professional cameras with detachable lenses are typically not allowed. Small, personal cameras are usually permitted, but policies can vary by event.
Yes, capturing the action on the ice, the enthusiastic fans, and the arena atmosphere makes for great photos during Hershey Bears games.
At America's Largest RV Show, you can photograph the vast array of RVs, unique features, and the bustling crowds of enthusiasts.
Drones are strictly prohibited inside and around the Giant Center for safety and security reasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the venue's clear bag policy and potential parking costs. For performances where visibility might be an issue from certain seats, look for options with large screens or consider shows where the focus is less on intricate stage visuals.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Some attendees suggest waiting an hour after events to leave, which can help avoid the most congested and time-consuming exit traffic, potentially saving on fuel costs if you're driving yourself.
🎸 Music Lovers
+1 The venue is praised for its sound quality, ensuring a great auditory experience for concerts. For a truly immersive experience, consider arriving early to enjoy the pre-show atmosphere and explore the venue. Remember to check the specific photography and videography policies for the concert you're attending, as these can vary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hershey Bears: More Than Just Hockey
Beyond the on-ice competition, the Bears often host special events, theme nights, and community outreach programs. These events add an extra layer of fun and engagement for families and fans of all ages. The arena's design ensures that most seats provide a good view of the action, making it a great venue for hockey enthusiasts.
When planning your visit for a hockey game, consider arriving early to soak in the pre-game buzz and explore the arena's amenities. The energy is palpable, and it's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the Hershey community spirit.
America's Largest RV Show: A Motorhome Mecca
+4Beyond the RVs themselves, the show features numerous vendors offering RV accessories, camping gear, and related services. It's an opportunity to gather information, speak with experts, and find everything you need for your next adventure on the road. Many attendees find it a valuable experience for planning their travels and discovering new destinations.
+1Given the show's popularity, expect large crowds, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to navigate the exhibits more comfortably and potentially snag better deals. The sheer scale of the event makes it a significant draw for the region and a highlight for RV lovers.
Concert Experiences at the Giant Center
+1When attending a concert, it's wise to check the specific seating chart for your desired performance, as views can vary. While most seats offer a good vantage point, some visitors have noted that certain areas, particularly ADA seating, might have obstructed views for stage-heavy performances, suggesting the use of venue screens for better visibility.
Beyond the music, the Giant Center provides a full range of concessions and amenities to enhance your concert night. Remember to review the venue's bag policy and arrive with sufficient time to navigate parking and entry procedures, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable evening.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit