Is there a train from Hershey to Allentown?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service between these two cities.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes between 1 hour 10 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes.

What is the best highway to take?

I-78 E is the primary and most direct highway route.

Are there tolls on this route?

No, this specific route via I-78 is toll-free.

Yes, regional bus lines offer connections, though they often require transfers.

Hershey

Allentown

Driving

Hershey to Allentown

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Hershey to Allentown covers approximately 85 kilometers through the heart of Pennsylvania. Driving via I-78 E is the most efficient method, typically taking 75 minutes depending on traffic near the Lehigh Valley. You will pass through Lebanon and Reading, offering scenic views of the rolling hills. While no direct passenger rail exists, regional bus services connect the two hubs. This route is a common commute for those working in the logistics sector of the Lehigh Valley.

Total Distance: 85 km driving distance; 72 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-78 E takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this short distance.

Compare Hershey to Allentown Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

1 hour 15 mins

Avg Price

$15-$20 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

US-422 E to I-78 E

Avoid I-78 during Friday afternoon rush hour to bypass heavy truck traffic.

Travel Tips

Traffic Awareness
Check PennDOT traffic cameras before departing to monitor I-78 congestion.
Fuel Stops
Refuel in Hershey before leaving, as gas prices are often lower than in the Lehigh Valley.
Parking
Downtown Allentown offers several municipal parking garages with hourly rates.
Weather
Winter storms can make I-78 treacherous; always carry an emergency kit.
Navigation
Use real-time GPS apps to navigate around potential accidents on the highway.

Safety Tips

Truck Traffic
I-78 is a major freight corridor; maintain a safe following distance from semi-trucks.
Road Conditions
Watch for deer crossings, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Emergency Services
Keep your phone charged and save local emergency numbers for Pennsylvania State Police.
Visibility
Fog can be dense in the valleys; use low-beam headlights during early morning travel.