Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s capital city, is brimming with activities that cater to history buffs, nature lovers, and culinary enthusiasts alike. From the majestic Pennsylvania State Capitol to the serene trails of the Appalachian, this city offers a blend of cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, and delectable dining experiences.
Whether you’re exploring the rich exhibits at the National Civil War Museum or enjoying a leisurely cruise on the Susquehanna River, Harrisburg promises memorable experiences for all visitors. In this blog, we will share 19 things to do in Harrisburg, ensuring your visit is packed with excitement and discovery.
Table of Contents
Below are the 19 best things to do in Harrisburg.
1. Tour the Pennsylvania State Capitol.
The Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg is not just any building. It’s a masterpiece of art and architecture. Inside, you’ll find beautiful paintings, stained glass, and sculptures.
It’s where the state’s laws are made, and you can take a tour to see the grand Senate and House chambers. The Capitol’s dome was inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, making it a stunning sight to see.
2. Discover the National Civil War Museum.
This museum in Harrisburg takes you back to one of the most challenging times in American history, the Civil War. It has uniforms, weapons, and personal items from soldiers, showing both the Union and Confederate sides of the story.
It’s a place to learn about the war that shaped the nation. The National Civil War Museum is one of the largest museums in the world dedicated solely to the Civil War.
3. Relax at Fort Hunter Mansion and Park.
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park in Harrisburg is a peaceful retreat by the Susquehanna River. The mansion, which is over 200 years old, is surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking paths.
It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk. Fort Hunter was once a fort used during the French and Indian War before it became a mansion.
4. Walk through the State Museum of Pennsylvania.
Walking through the State Museum of Pennsylvania is like taking a journey through time. You’ll see dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and exhibits about the state’s wildlife. There’s also a planetarium where you can gaze at the stars.
It’s a fun and educational experience for all ages. The museum has a life-size replica of the Pennsylvania State House as it looked in 1830, giving visitors a glimpse into the past.
5. Experience the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center hosts the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the U.S. each January, among other events year-round.
Visitors can enjoy animal exhibits, farming demonstrations, and delicious food. The Farm Show features a famous butter sculpture each year, created with over 1,000 pounds of butter.
6. Walk or bike the Susquehanna River Trail.
The Susquehanna River Trail offers picturesque views along Harrisburg’s waterfront. Ideal for walking or biking, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and see the city from a different perspective.
The trail is part of a larger network that aims to connect paths along the entire length of the Susquehanna River.
7. Catch a game at FNB Field.
FNB Field on City Island is home to the Harrisburg Senators, the Double-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals. Watching a baseball game here offers stunning views of the Susquehanna River and the Harrisburg skyline.
8. Visit City Island for family fun.
City Island is a recreational paradise in the middle of the Susquehanna River, accessible from downtown Harrisburg. It features attractions like miniature golf, a vintage carousel, and the City Island Railroad.
City Island also hosts the Harrisburg Senators’ baseball games, making it a hub of activity during the season.
9. Enjoy local brews on a brewery tour.
Harrisburg’s craft beer scene is thriving, with several breweries offering tours and tastings. Discover the art of beer-making and sample some unique local brews.
Some breweries in the area are part of the broader Susquehanna Ale Trail, highlighting the region’s rich brewing history
10. Explore the Broad Street Market.
The Broad Street Market in Harrisburg is one of the oldest continuously operated markets in the United States. It’s a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from fresh produce to international cuisines.
The market has been serving the Harrisburg community since 1860, making it a historic landmark in its own right.
11. Watch a show at the Whitaker Center.
The Whitaker Center in Harrisburg is a dynamic venue for science, the arts, and entertainment. It hosts live performances, science exhibits, and an IMAX theater.
The Whitaker Center is the first center of its kind in the United States to combine science and the performing arts under one roof.
12. Enjoy your time at Wildwood Park.
Wildwood Park is a nature sanctuary on the outskirts of Harrisburg, offering trails, boardwalks, and a nature center. It’s a great place for bird-watching, photography, and environmental education.
The park is home to the Benjamin Olewine III Nature Center, named after a local philanthropist who contributed significantly to its development.
13. What is special about Harrisburg?
Harrisburg captivates with its rich blend of history and culture, highlighted by the majestic Pennsylvania State Capitol and the comprehensive National Civil War Museum.
This vibrant capital city invites exploration with its scenic beauty, bustling festivals, and a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, making it a unique gem in the heart of Pennsylvania.
14. Learn about art at the Susquehanna Art Museum.
The Susquehanna Art Museum showcases contemporary art in a variety of mediums, hosting exhibitions from local, national, and international artists. It’s a cultural hub for art lovers.
The museum is located in the historic Midtown district, in a beautifully renovated bank building that combines classic architecture with modern design.
15. Shop and dine at Strawberry Square.
Strawberry Square in Harrisburg is a vibrant mixed-use complex where you can shop at unique boutiques and enjoy a variety of dining options. It’s a lively spot for both locals and visitors.
Strawberry Square connects directly to the Whitaker Center, making it easy to enjoy a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment under one roof.
16. Ride the Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat.
The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat offers scenic cruises along the Susquehanna River, providing beautiful views of Harrisburg’s skyline.
It’s a relaxing way to learn about the area’s history and natural beauty. The Pride of the Susquehanna is one of the last remaining paddlewheel riverboats in the United States, operating since 1988.
17. Make chocolate at the Hershey Story Museum.
The Hershey Story Museum offers a sweet experience where visitors can learn about the history of Hershey’s chocolate and even make their chocolate bar.
It’s a deliciously interactive activity for all ages. The museum features a “Chocolate Lab” where you can participate in chocolate-making classes and learn the science behind chocolate.
18. Hike the Harrisburg Section of the Appalachian Trail.
The Appalachian Trail passes near Harrisburg, offering hikers stunning natural scenery and challenging treks. This section of the trail provides a unique opportunity to explore Pennsylvania’s wilderness.
The Appalachian Trail is over 2,190 miles long, stretching from Georgia to Maine, and the section near Harrisburg includes some beautiful vistas of the Cumberland Valley.
19. Visit the Fort Hunter Mansion.
The Fort Hunter Mansion is a beautifully preserved 18th-century mansion set in a picturesque park along the Susquehanna River. Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about life in the area during the colonial and Victorian eras.
Fort Hunter Park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including a popular fall festival that celebrates the region’s history and culture.
FAQs
Strawberry Square, a centerpiece of Harrisburg’s downtown revival in the 1970s, got its unique and inviting name to attract visitors and tenants, becoming a symbol of urban renewal and community vibrancy.
Originally named “Louisburg” in honor of Louis the Dauphin of France, the area was renamed Harrisburg in 1785 by John Harris Jr., honoring his father, a pivotal figure in the town’s early development.
Harrisburg has a lively nightlife with something for everyone. You can find cool bars, dance clubs, and places with live music. It’s a fun city to explore at night, whether you want to relax with a drink or dance till late.
This vibrant capital city invites exploration with its scenic beauty, bustling festivals, and a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, making it a unique gem in the heart of Pennsylvania.