The state capital of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, is a charming historic neighborhood with many attractions, beautiful views of the Susquehanna River, and architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Spending an entire day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex would allow you to explore the city’s centerpiece and the artistic side of state administration through the local artwork. Activities on and near the Susquehanna River, such as biking along the Capital Area Greenbelt and kayaking, as well as riverboat excursions and leisurely afternoons at the City Island Complex, are some of the best things to do in Harrisburg PA.
Because of Harrisburg’s historic roots, it’s crucial to visit places like the National Civil War Museum so that you can emerge with a greater understanding of the city. Many visitors to Harrisburg make the quick trip to Hershey, Pennsylvania, to take advantage of the state capital’s chocolate-inspired neighbour.
It is easy to see why Harrisburg is one of Pennsylvania’s top tourist destinations if you spend a week there or include it in a weekend trip. Obviously you may get a real flavour of the culture of the area by taking a Susquehanna Riverboat Cruise or taking an afternoon stroll through the historic Broad Street Market to shop from local sellers.
Let’s delve deeper into what to do in Harrisburg PA for the family reunions, and solo travelers, and fun-minded travelers!
A trip to Fort Hunter Mansion and Park will teleport you through time while also allowing you to see the picturesque 40-acre park on the Susquehanna River’s banks. Although you can explore the site on your own, the best option is to join a guided tour because there is so much to discover.
The large estate today has about a dozen historic buildings for guests to explore, and perched atop a hill overlooking the Susquehanna river.
You’ll be able to see what life was like for the wealthy Americans in 1725 as you go inside the Victorian mansion, and it is one of the best places to visit in Harrisburg PA.
The mansion, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, served as both a private home and a community space for early settlers during times of war.
Fantastic furnishings, period items, and interesting exhibitions can be found in the Victorian-era estate, and costumed actors and knowledgeable guides can help you learn more about the time period. Many people host private gatherings and weddings in its picturesque riverfront park because of its beautiful grandeur.
The Pennsylvania Canal Trail offers views of the remains of more than ten buildings that had stood on the estate.
2. It’s the Recreation Galore at Hershey Park
While Hershey Park is a popular attraction for tourists visiting the state capital, Harrisburg is renowned for its abundance of historic buildings and cultural landmarks. The exciting and family-friendly theme park, one of Pennsylvania’s most well-liked attractions, offers both young and old visitors a variety of thrilling rides and rollercoasters to enjoy.
It was built in 1906 as a recreation area for Milton S. Hershey’s chocolate factory employees, and it is only 20 minutes from the city centre. And, is one of the best things to do around Harrisburg PA.
Attractions include Explorer Horizon, Leaning Eiffel Hill, and The Seaside, among other themed sections. There are currently over 70 thrilling attractions to check out.
There is also a fantastic water park and zoo to explore, and there are frequently held festivals, live music concerts, and fireworks displays. Hershey’s Chocolate World, a unique vacation destination with a chocolate theme, is just outside. Here, you can sample tonnes of delectable chocolate and candies.
3. Learn History at National Civil War Museum
One of the biggest museums devoted to chronicling the American Civil War, is a must-see while you’re in Harrisburg. The Smithsonian Institution is connected to the museum, which debuted in 2001.
A thorough examination of one of America’s most significant conflicts is provided in exhibits that exhibit insights from the struggle, and is one of the unique things to do in Harrisburg PA this weekend.
The museum, which was only founded in 2001, is housed in a two-story brick building in the middle of the park and has countless relics and displays. Later portions examine how geography and topography impacted army movements, while earlier sections concentrate on slavery and the opening shots at Fort Sumter. The exhibits on why troops chose to fight for either side and the roles played by women during the war are particularly compelling.
There are rare relics, weaponry, documents, and memorabilia present, including things belonging to President Abraham Lincoln and General Robert E. Lee.
Accordingly, The museum’s archives contain more than 21,000 artefacts from the war. So, if you love history, you should time your trip around one of the frequently held lectures held at the museum.
4. Attend a Game at the City Island
Spent a day playing at the City Island complex that spans 63 acres in the Susquehanna River. The mile-long City Island is smack in the middle of the raging Susquehanna River, is home to a variety of alluring sights and activities. It is one of the primary locations in Harrisburg to either relax and unwind or enjoy some exhilarating outdoor activities and entertainment.
During the Civil War, the island served as a rest stop for Union forces before they crossed the river to protect the city from the Confederate Army.
Archaeologists have learned that the island was inhabited even earlier. It was evidenced through artefacts they uncovered during early settlement days that belonged to the Susquehannock and Iroquois tribes.
Today it serves as a golf facility, a baseball field, minor league soccer stadium, and walking trails and is one of the top Harrisburg attractions. It perhaps offers the best view of the Harrisburg skyline and the sunset.
5. At the John Harris and Simon Cameron Mansion, Experience Time Travel
The John Harris and Simon Cameron Mansion is a must-see if you admire urban architecture. The 250-year-old mansion, which commands a commanding position overlooking the Susquehanna River, is open for tours. The city’s first mayor, John Harris, constructed it in 1766.
The U.S. Senator Simon Cameron, then-President Lincoln’s Secretary of War, bought the original Georgian-style house in 1863. It underwent a series of renovations to become a Victorian palace. The mansion is still standing today and serves as the headquarters of the Dauphin County Historical Society. You can either visit during one of the public events or take a guided tour and it is one of the top-rated attractions in Harrisburg PA.
6. Discover the Susquehanna Art Museum
In 2015, the Susquehanna Art Museum moved to a new location in the Keystone Trust Building and undertook a $11 million renovation. It is presently located in the centre of Midtown Harrisburg and offers guests more than 20,000 square feet of art galleries and exhibition space. It is testament of downtown Harrisburg Pennsylvania tourism.
The museum houses a variety of collections that are intended to highlight local, national and worldwide artists as well as various forms of culture. The structure itself includes artistic elements worth highlighting, such as the 27-foot ceilings, the marble floors, and the 1923 bank vault that has been meticulously repaired.
7. Take a Visit to Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex
Visit the breathtaking Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex, one of the top things to do in Harrisburg. One of the most spectacular structures in the country, the capitol building is a prominent element of the Harrisburg skyline.
This National Historic Landmarks dome is a recreation of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome in the Romanesque style.
It features some excellent Beaux-Arts architecture and is sometimes referred to as the “Palace of Art” because of all the sculptures, paintings, and stained-glass windows it contains.
A visit to the Capitol will amaze you with more than 475 rooms, four storeys, and a magnificent staircase in the main dome inspired by one in the Paris Opera House.
There are free tours available. On tours, professional docents will share more information about the structure with you and point out the beautiful details adorning its magnificent rotunda and enormous government chambers.
If you have time, visit the nearby Finance Building, which has painted murals, intricate chandeliers, and bronze statues as well.
8. Enjoy Trails, Wildlife, and Refreshing Scenery at Wildwood Park
This lush sanctuary, which spans 229 acres, provides countless chances for adventure and enjoyment. Its expansive boundaries are concentrated around the sizable and picturesque lake of the same name, making it a highly well-liked location to exercise and immerse oneself in nature.
You’ll adore this public park if you’re looking for free things to do in Harrisburg. The park is the ideal escape from city life with its beautiful pathways, wildlife, and refreshing landscape. Various native species can be seen either on the reflected lake or tucked away in the surrounding lush vegetation.
You can stroll along its 3-mile paved trail and see the natural beauty of its untainted fauna and vegetation. The Olewine Nature Centre also welcomes visitors to check out its open-air exhibits.
Visitors can learn more about the state’s flora and animals at its superb nature centre; pythons, crocodiles, owls, and foxes are all frequently seen in the park. A peaceful refuge from the city, Wildwood Park is the ideal location for a picnic while you’re on vacation.
9. Take a Riverboat cruise on the Pride of the Susquehanna
