19 Things To Do In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Since its establishment in 1785, it has been a central gathering place for residents, hosting important events and speeches by notable figures. Market Square now features new commercial, resident, and retail spaces, making it a lively destination downtown. 

Visitors can enjoy open concerts by professional artists, shop for locally grown produce and goods, and explore modern amenities like bakeries and grocery stores. So, exploring this vibrant market is a must to do Harrisburg PA.

One of the attractions Harrisburg PA this park is a great place to enjoy nature. Travelers can explore different trails that take them through meadows, forests, and wetlands, where they can see lots of plants and animals.

There are special tracks for birdwatching and admiring big trees, and they can even walk on a boardwalk through marshy areas to spot birds. If you're interested in learning more, you can visit the Olewine Nature Center for educational events.

Swoop into the story of America's Civil War at The National Civil War. Inside Reservoir Park, guests can observe the real things from the war like guns, uniforms, and personal items, and learn about topics like why the war happened and what life was like for different people during that time. 

People can also watch videos and explore interactive displays. The museum changes things up with special exhibits about attractive parts of the Civil War.

Be ready to discover endless fun and learning at the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, things to do in Harrisburg. With live music, theater performances, movies, and engaging science exhibitions, there is something for everyone. Kids can enjoy special programs like Little Learners and STEM Exploration.

Dive into creativity in the STEM Design Studios and PNC Innovation Zone, and don't miss out on the exciting events. Whether you're looking for education or more with family and friends, this destination is a must-visit.

Among the Harrisburg PA attractions, let's delve into this fire museum. Housed in a beautiful Victorian firehouse from 1899, this showroom used to be home to the Reily Hose Fire Co. No. 10. Visitors will journey through time as they discover the evolution of firefighting from colonial days to today.

See artifacts and vintage fire trucks, and check out the working Gamewell alarm system from the 1920s. It offers immersive tours lasting 60-90 minutes.

Don't miss the chance to explore the Pennsylvania State Capitol. This stunning building showcases remarkable American Renaissance architecture and holds significant historical importance as the seat of Pennsylvania's government.

Take a guided tour to learn about its design and function, and uncover hidden features and stories like secret passages and a bullet hole from a riot. Visiting the Capitol also encourages civic engagement by empowering visitors to participate in their community's political process.

Included in the things to do Harrisburg PA, Fort Hunter Mansion and Park is a historic site that overlooks the Susquehanna River and offers outdoor fun, from picnics to birdwatching. Explore ten historic buildings, play in playgrounds, and enjoy the fresh air.

Step inside the Mansion, built in 1814, to see how wealthy families lived in the 1800s. The park is open every day, and the Mansion welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday. The admission fee for this place is quite affordable.

Make sure to check out FNB Field. This awesome sports venue is home to the Harrisburg Senators and offers a great time for fans of all ages. With affordable tickets and a family-friendly atmosphere, it's perfect for a day out with kids.

Furthermore, the stadium has a rich history dating back to 1941 and offers stunning views of the Susquehanna River and downtown Harrisburg. Beyond baseball, FNB Field hosts concerts, festivals, and other events.

Attractions in Harrisburg Pennsylvania, you must check out the Susquehanna River Trail. It's perfect for hiking, kayaking, or fishing. If you prefer something more relaxing, take a peaceful walk in Riverfront Park or join a boat tour.

And if you get a chance, be sure to participate in special events like the Tour de Belt bike ride. Your journey should start at City Island, where you can enjoy landmarks like the Walnut Street Bridge.

Strawberry Square is a fantastic spot where modern style meets historical charm, offering a mix of shops, dining spots, and more. Shop to your heart's content with a variety of boutiques and popular stores, and then satisfy your cravings at the diverse range of restaurants and cafes.

Don't miss the monthly Flea market and support local creators. You'll enjoy the mix of modern and historic vibes here, and supporting local businesses helps the community thrive.

With over 200 animals like black bears and bison, the zoo is dedicated to conserving North American wildlife. Visitors can learn about animals and their habitats through dun programs and exhibits, making it a great educational opportunity for everyone.

Families will love the seasonal events like Hersheypark In The Dark, and being right next to Hersheypark means you can enjoy both amusement park rides and wildlife in one trip. This is one of the unmissable activities for animal lovers.

Nestled on the eastern side of Harrisburg, Strite's Orchard is a charming family-owned farm. They offer a wide array of freshly grown produce, from juicy apples to sweet peaches and succulent strawberries, available for picking or purchase at their farm market.

Families with kids will love the fun activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches. Throughout the year, they host lively seasonal events like the Fall and Strawberry Festival, featuring live music and delicious food.

Get ready for a fun and tasty time at The Hershey Story Museum. Learn all about chocolate's awesome history and the person who made Hershey's famous, Milton S. Hershey.

Visitors can taste chocolate, make their own candy bars, and even take chocolate-making classes. Check out cool displays, and don't leave without grabbing some sweet souvenirs from the gift shop. It's a great place for all ages.

Discover a world of artistic wonders at the Susquehanna Art Museum. People can dive into diverse exhibitions showcasing contemporary and historical artworks, and uncover hidden treasures within unique installations. Engage in educational workshops, lectures, and guided tours to deepen your understanding of art's impact on society. 

As a cultural hub, the museum fosters creativity and diversity within the community, offering budget-friendly options like the free admission event, Third in the Burg, held monthly.

The farm show is the biggest indoor farm show in the country, drawing over half a million visitors annually. There are lots of things to see, like agricultural shows, car displays, sports competitions, and more.

People can even check out a butter sculpture. And when you're hungry, head to the Farm Show Food Court for yummy sandwiches, salads, and wraps. Don't miss trying some delicious Pennsylvania Dutch dishes like goulash and chicken pot pie.

Explore the Cathedral of Saint Patrick for a meaningful blend of history, architecture, and spirituality. With roots dating back to the late 18th century, this beautiful church is a testament to the rich history of Catholicism in the region.

Marvel at its Baroque Revival design, highlighted by a granite dome and elegant marble interiors. As the mother church of the Diocese of Harrisburg, it holds cultural significance and serves as a symbol of unity for the local Catholic community. Ensure a respectful visit by checking the official website.

Built in 1766, this stunning stone mansion tells the stories of John Harris Jr., Harrisburg's founder, and Simon Cameron, Lincoln's Secretary of War. Explore the mansion to learn about Harris Jr.'s role in building the city and the mansion's significance during the Civil War under Cameron's leadership.

Marvel at the architectural changes over the years and admire period decor from Cameron's time. Visitors can discover Harrisburg's pivotal moments in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.

Don't miss the chance to explore the region's vibrant wine culture through wine tasting at nearby wineries. It's a fantastic way to discover a variety of locally crafted wines, each with its unique flavors shaped by Pennsylvania's special growing conditions.

Plus, you'll get to soak in the breathtaking scenery of the Susquehanna Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. With plenty of wineries to choose from, catering to different tastes and preferences, there's something for everyone.

Exploring the Midtown Butterfly Mural is stuff to do in Harrisburg PA that you should check out. It was painted by an artist Ryan Spahr in 2019 and was inspired by a character from Godzilla. There's a neat butterfly part where you can stand and take pictures.

It's part of a trail called Murals & More, where you can see other cool paintings and buildings in the area. You can also see more paintings on the Sprocket Mural Works website.