Location: Harrisburg
Top Things to do in Harrisburg
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Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (PA)
Nestled in the fertile Susquehanna Valley, Harrisburg has played a pivotal role in the shaping of American history, both as a major link in rail and water transportation and as the setting of major Civil War battles. Having bounced back from economic distress in the 1980s, the city is now a vibrant hub of family activities, from cruises along the Susquehanna to arcades and athletics on City Island. The annual Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor agriculture exposition in the U.S.
Restaurants in Harrisburg
1. Outside The Box Escape Room
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 45 reviews
Outside The Box Escape Room is an entertainment complex for adults and corporate groups located in Historic Downtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, about 5 minutes walking distance from the Capitol, and about a 20 minute drive from Hershey, Pennsylvania. Central Pennsylvania's premiere live escape room complex where adults have 60 minutes to crack codes, find hidden clues, and work collaboratively to navigate through professionally designed escape rooms. With five games, three floors, and over 4,000 sq ft filled with puzzles, gadgets, and props imported from around the globe. You are in for an unforgettable experience!
2. Pennsylvania State Capitol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 940 reviews
Teddy Roosevelt declared that this Italian Renaissance-style building was the handsomest building I ever saw. Indeed, the State Capitol, with its vaulted dome and grand staircase and the murals and painted floors inside, is thing to behold.
Reviewed By Davidcarmytraveler - Coventry, United States
This is second PA Capitol as the first one was destroyed. This one took 4 years to build and is much the other brand building from the gilded age. 23 carat gold covers a lot and the mosaic tiles that make up the floor are true art. The senate and house chambers are beautiful and make sure to see the Governor’s Reception room for a pictorial story of William Penn. The inside and outside are simply beautiful and truly a historic landmark and priceless work of art. The stained glass, French marble, chandeliers, and art work are worth the free tour for sure. Make sure to visit the welcome center for some interactive fun for the kiddos.
3. State Museum of Pennsylvania
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 257 reviews
Museum housing more than two million objects associated with or significant to the history and heritage of Pennsylvania.
Reviewed By SF88 - San Francisco, United States
Excellent museum in downtown Harrisburg: staff were great and you get to cover both the history/wars affecting Pennsylvania, the natural history of the area from the time of the dinosaurs, up to modern day economic and cultural contributions of the State. Very well presented, with different topics on each floor. Well stocked gift shop for mementos of your visit.
4. The Forum Auditorium
5. Wildwood Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 296 reviews
Wildwood Park is located in the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania on the outskirts of downtown Harrisburg. Its 229 acres are a haven for countless species of flora and fauna centered around the 90 acre freshwater wetland. A popular three-mile loop trail encircles the park with side trails and boardwalks for a total of six miles of trails. Its attractive Olewine Nature Center features engaging exhibits on environmental education. Established in 1901, during the City Beautiful Movement, Wildwood was part of a nationwide effort to improve urban life. In 1976, the Dauphin County Commissioners assumed ownership of the property. Now managed by Dauphin County Parks and Recreation Department, Wildwood Park is one of Pennsylvania’s premier centers for environmental studies, educational opportunities and outdoor recreation. It is a cherished retreat for nature lovers, bird watchers and exercise enthusiasts.
Reviewed By maryjom231
Three mile walking path provides tons of beauty, deer, birds, ducks, and geese galore. Safe whether you are alone or with family/friends. Great way to unwind after a long day of work.
6. Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 67 reviews
Enter the 1899 Victorian Firehouse, Home of the Reily Hose Co. No. 10 and experience the sights and sounds of Firefighting History. The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum features fire apparatus from Handtubs and Steam Pumpers, hand drawn to horse drawn, to motorized Engines and a 1935 MACK tillered Ladder Truck. An outstanding and varied collection of artifacts are on display
Reviewed By TravellinDays - Philadelphia, United States
Very interesting museum with lots of memorabilia in an easy to view format and a wonderful complete early 20th century restored/working fire alarm exhibit on the second floor that the docents will be happy to operate for you - don't miss it. The docents are also happy to answer questions and provide information. Highly recommend.
7. National Civil War Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,109 reviews
The only museum in the United States to present a balanced, unbiased look at the Civil War.
Reviewed By T4232XIjohnb - Toronto, Canada
While the National Civil War Museum does not provide an exhaustive look at the Civil War (best to go to the various battlefields for this) it does give a great overview of the events leading up to the outbreak of hostilities and the key political and military events. There are monitors with videos scattered throughout and some very interesting artifacts and mementoes (including one of Lincoln's hat boxes!). There's a large store and the museum sits atop a hill which provides splendid views towards downtown Harrisburg. There's plenty of free parking.
8. FNB Field
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 140 reviews
Home of the Harrisburg Senators, the AA affiliate of the Washington Nationals. FNB Field is located on City Island, in the middle of the Susquehanna River.
Reviewed By MikeR586 - Shelburne, United States
I used to live in the area - long before there was a team - but always want to take in a game here when I come back to visit family. Great sight lines from all seats, good food (and local beer!) selections and just a very nice feel to the park. On top of that, it's located on n island with a walking/biking bridge from Harrisburg. Park like setting in the middle of the Susquehanna River.
9. Midtown Scholar Bookstore
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 117 reviews
The Midtown Scholar is an award-winning bookstore & cafe. With over 100,000 used, discount, & rare books in inventory, we have the largest collection of used books between New York and Chicago. Over 1 million books are available online! The Little Scholar, has hundreds of great children's and young adult titles and features weekly activities! The Yellow Wall Gallery features a different artist monthly. Also stop in to Robinson's Rare Books and Fine Prints Room. The cafe provides excellent service and great products including Counter Culture Coffee and Rishi Tea. We host dozens of book clubs and community events weekly, as well as live music on weekends. Stop in and see for yourself why the Midtown Scholar is the hidden gem of Harrisburg! OPEN 7 DAYS!
Reviewed By SongBird212 - Philadelphia, United States
This large, welcoming bookstore is well stocked with all the latest books as well as a large collection of used books on all topics. The children’s section, the art books, the history books, and the fiction are some of my favorites. They host talks by current authors, sell coffee and yummy snacks. You can curl up in any number of comfy armchairs and spend a few golden hours. Not to miss! Oh, and it’s the mayor’s business. How cool is that?!
10. Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 289 reviews
Built on a bluff overlooking the Susquehanna River, Fort Hunter Mansion and Park has served as a war fort, a hub for frontier commerce, and an exclusive private estate. Now preserved and open to the public, Fort Hunter Mansion and Park invites you to explore Pennsylvania's rich history. Guided tours of Fort Hunter Mansion are available every day but Mondays, May through December. Admission is charged.Fort Hunter Park is open free to the public, daily from 8 am - dusk.
Reviewed By themoonindaylight
A very pleasant historical house in a lovely setting - right on the Susquehanna River with views across the Rockville Bridge, the longest stone masonry arch railroad bridge in the world. It's the staff that really elevate Fort Hunter above similar historic properties, however. Our guide, Steve, met us at the door, got us our tickets and took us around the house himself (it was a quiet afternoon so it was just us on our tour). He was incredibly friendly, welcoming and engaging and had a great sense of humour. As nice as the house, furniture and other items inside were, Steve's level of enthusiasm and friendliness really went above and beyond to create a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable visit.
