It was a relatively short and easy drive to Hershey, PA where we checked into the Thousand Trails Hershey RV Resort in Lebanon, PA not long after Jackie and David arrived.  I have to say that I was not impressed with the welcome we received when it was known that we were not Thousand Trails members.  In fact, the "ranger" who checked us in was not only unfriendly, he bordered on rudeness.

Geese at the park

Our site, however, and the park itself were very nice.

Jackie and David brought their leftover crabs over and we had a delicious feast before turning in for an early night.

Monday, May 16   Hershey, PA

We set out in the morning to see the interesting little town of Hershey.  Milton Hershey really left his mark everywhere, not just in the making of chocolate but in every aspect of business in the town. For example,  The Milton Hershey School is one of the top private schools in the country, and it provides an outstanding free education to children from low income families.  The campus is just beautiful! After making his fortune in the chocolate industry, Mr. Hershey devoted much of his efforts to various philanthropic pursuits, and put the town on the map as "the sweetest place on earth." And yes, there really are street lights shaped like candy kisses!

We spent most of our time In Hershey's Chocolate world, where we took the Chocolate Tour to learn how cocoa beans are transformed into Hershey's famous chocolate. We enjoyed the Chocolate Tasting Experience which was very informative (and tasty) and where all four of us obtained the official title of Hershey's Palateer!  We shopped in Hershey's largest candy store and perused the souvenir shop.  You can also see a 4-D movie, take a trolley ride around historic Hershey, create your own candy bar, or feast on Hershey's bakery, deli, or ice cream items.  It is quite a place!

Having consumed so much chocolate, we had a late lunch and very little dinner.  We all agree that Hershey is, indeed, the sweetest place on earth.  

Tuesday, May 17   Travel to Niagara Falls, NY

This was a longer trip than we usually make in one day, (about 325 miles)  and we were all tired and ready for happy hour, dinner, and relaxation in preparation for visiting the Falls tomorrow.