Hollywood Casino Near Hershey
You're planning a trip to Hersheypark, maybe a weekend getaway with the family, and you're wondering if there's a place nearby where you can unwind with some adult entertainment after the kids are asleep. Or perhaps you're a local looking for a reliable spot for a night out with slots, table games, and a decent meal without having to drive all the way to Philadelphia or Baltimore. The good news is, there's a major casino resort practically in Hershey's backyard. The confusing part? It's not actually *in* Hershey. Let's clear up exactly where it is, what it offers, and how it stacks up for a player's night out.
The Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
The casino you're looking for is the Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course. It's located in Grantville, Pennsylvania, which is about a 25-minute drive east of downtown Hershey. This proximity makes it the default casino destination for visitors to the Hershey area. It's not a small satellite casino; it's a full-scale, 24/7 gaming floor attached to a live horse racing track. The drive is straightforward—you'll take Route 322 East/US 22 East, and you'll see the complex off Exit 80 of I-81. Many hotels in Hershey even offer shuttle services for guests.
Gaming Floor and Slots Selection
Inside, you'll find over 100,000 square feet of gaming space. The slot selection is massive, with well over 2,000 machines. You'll see everything from classic reel slots like Double Diamond and Wheel of Fortune to the latest video slots with progressive jackpots that can climb into the six figures. High-limit areas are available if you're looking to play with bigger stakes. The atmosphere is typical of a Penn National Gaming property: bright, energetic, and focused primarily on slot play, though table games are present.
Table Games, Poker, and Sports Betting
If you're a table game enthusiast, Hollywood Casino Grantville has you covered, but with some limitations compared to the larger resorts in Eastern PA. You'll find around 50 table games, including multiple blackjack, roulette, and craps tables. They also offer Mississippi Stud, Three Card Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold'em. A dedicated poker room operates with daily tournaments and cash games, primarily spread-limit and no-limit Texas Hold'em. Since the legalization of sports betting in Pennsylvania, the casino features a retail sportsbook where you can place wagers on all major professional and college sports. You can bet using cash or a wagering account linked to the Hollywood Casino app.
Dining, Drinks, and Entertainment
You won't go hungry. The casino has several quick-service options for a fast bite, like the Final Cut food court. For sit-down meals, the Epic Buffet offers a wide variety, while the award-winning Felt Steakhouse provides a fine-dining experience with dry-aged steaks and seafood. For a more casual pub atmosphere with craft beers and elevated bar food, The DraftKings Sportsbook & Bar is a popular spot. Live entertainment is a regular feature, with free concerts on the casino floor stage and bigger ticketed events in their dedicated event space, featuring tribute bands, comedians, and occasional national acts.
How It Compares to Other PA Casinos
For someone in the Hershey area, Hollywood Casino is the most convenient option. However, if you're willing to drive an hour to ninety minutes, you have alternatives. To the east, you have the larger resort-casinos like Wind Creek Bethlehem and Parx Casino near Philadelphia, which offer more table games, higher-limit options, and more extensive poker rooms. To the north, Mohegan Pennsylvania (formerly Mohegan Sun Pocono) offers a similar scale to Hollywood but with a different hotel and amenities vibe. Hollywood Casino's key advantage is its combination of slots, racing, and proximity to the Hershey attractions. It's a strong local option rather than a destination resort itself.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
You must be 21 or older to enter the casino floor and sportsbook. Smoking is permitted in designated areas of the casino. The dress code is casual, but they discourage overly revealing clothing or attire with offensive language. Parking is free and plentiful in the multi-level garage. If you plan on playing slots, sign up for the mychoice players club before you start—it's free, and you'll earn points for play that can be redeemed for food, hotel stays, and other perks. Their welcome offer for new members typically includes bonus slot play, like $10 free just for signing up with a valid ID.
FAQ
How far is Hollywood Casino from Hersheypark?
It's approximately 17 to 20 miles, depending on your starting point in Hershey. The drive typically takes 25 to 30 minutes via Route 322 East and I-81 North.
Does Hollywood Casino near Hershey have a hotel?
Yes, it does. The Hollywood Casino features a 102-room hotel connected directly to the gaming floor. It's modern and comfortable, but it books up quickly on weekends and during major horse racing events, so reservations are recommended.
Can I bet on horse racing at the Hershey casino?
Absolutely. The casino is built onto the Penn National Race Course. You can watch and wager on live thoroughbred racing most evenings. There are also simulcast broadcasts of races from across the country throughout the day in dedicated lounges.
What is the minimum gambling age at Hollywood Casino Grantville?
The minimum age is 21 for all casino gaming, sports betting, and entering the gaming floor. The minimum age to enter the property for dining only (without passing through the gaming area) is 18, but you must be accompanied by someone 21 or older.
Is there a buffet at Hollywood Casino?
Yes, the Epic Buffet is open for lunch and dinner on most days. It features multiple stations including carved meats, Italian, Asian, and a dessert bar. Pricing and hours can change, so it's best to check the casino's website before your visit.