Far from the Madding Crowd

If you need to get away from the crowded attractions in Hershey for an hour or two, there's a quiet place closer than you might expect. In the shadow of Founder's Hall, you'll find the Alumni Memorial Grove of the Milton Hershey School.

This is where I go when I need a break from the world. Despite being within sight of a busy road, this really is a peaceful place; I never hear the traffic when I'm here. This year, since we've had a surplus of rain, Alumni Memorial Grove is more lush and green than usual. Even before the annuals are planted there, the spring green on all the surrounding trees and shrubs gives the Grove a garden feeling.

Of course, Founder's Hall itself is well worth a stop, too. A magnificent tribute to Milton S. Hershey, this imposing marble building centers the Milton Hershey School's main campus. Take a peek inside and learn about the man who founded our town and left such a lasting legacy.

Then leave the tourists and take that walk in the Grove. You'll be happy you did, I promise.