Things To Do
in Harrisburg
Harrisburg is the capital city of the state of Pennsylvania, located along the Susquehanna River. Known for its rich history, Harrisburg features historic sites such as the State Capitol building and the National Civil War Museum. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters.
Harrisburg has a diverse dining scene, shopping options, and outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors and residents to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Take a guided tour to admire the stunning architecture and learn about the state’s history.
Have lunch at a local café before heading to the National Civil War Museum. Explore the exhibits that delve into the history of the Civil War.
Finish your day with a stroll along City Island. Enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants while watching the sunset.
Tour the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum in the morning. Discover artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of firefighting in Pennsylvania.
Explore the nearby Fort Hunter Mansion and Park for lunch. Enjoy the historic structure and views of the Susquehanna River.
Spend your evening checking out live music at a local venue. Experience Harrisburg's nightlife and enjoy the local talent.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and historical landmarks such as the Pennsylvania State Capitol
- Central location in Pennsylvania, making it accessible to other major cities
- Lower cost of living compared to larger urban areas
- Vibrant arts and culture scene with local theaters, galleries, and events
- Access to outdoor recreational activities with nearby parks and rivers
- Higher crime rates in certain areas compared to national averages
- Limited job market and economic opportunities compared to bigger cities
- Public transportation options may be less comprehensive
- Weather can be unpredictable with cold winters and hot summers
- Perception of a declining population and some urban decay in parts of the city
Best Activities in Harrisburg
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and diverse wildlife at Wildwood Park, offering a serene outdoor experience in Harrisburg.
Explore the picturesque Capital Area Greenbelt by bike, featuring over 20 miles of scenic trails and beautiful river views.
Experience the beauty of Harrisburg from the water by kayaking along the Susquehanna River, offering stunning views and tranquil waters.
Tours
Uncover the best of Harrisburg with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Harrisburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of the Susquehanna River and is a popular spot for photo opportunities.
A historic and architecturally stunning building that provides great photo opportunities, especially from the front steps or the surrounding grounds.
Features picturesque views of the river, skyline, and the Walnut Street Bridge, making it a prime spot for photo opportunities.
Food in Harrisburg
Harrisburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish in Harrisburg, pierogies are filled dumplings of Central and Eastern European origin. They can be found at the Broad Street Market.
Must-Try!
A breakfast staple, scrapple is a savory dish made of pork scraps and cornmeal. Try it at local diners such as The Millworks.
A molasses-based pie with a crumb topping, shoofly pie is a beloved PA Dutch dessert. Experience its authentic taste at The Tomato Pie Cafe.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The country's oldest continuously operating market house, Broad Street Market is a hub for fresh produce, ethnic cuisine, and local treats. Sample diverse street food offerings here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Harrisburg, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others without their consent.
Using polite language such as 'please' and 'thank you' is highly valued in Harrisburg as a sign of respect.
Punctuality is valued in Harrisburg, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments and social engagements.
Safety
Tipping in Harrisburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In Harrisburg, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for various services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. The general practice is to tip around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Harrisburg is typically done using credit or debit cards, but cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are gaining popularity, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses in Harrisburg also accept digital wallet payments and online transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Harrisburg. Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make for a pleasant visit.
Warm temperatures and outdoor events, such as festivals and concerts, are in full swing. However, it can be humid.
Beautiful foliage and mild weather. Fall festivals and harvest activities are popular during this time.
Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Holiday events and indoor attractions, such as museums, are popular choices.
Harrisburg at Night
Hiking in Harrisburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers a moderate hike through woods and along streams, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
This extensive trail follows the Susquehanna River, providing beautiful views and varied terrain, perfect for hiking and biking.
A beautiful state park with a range of trails that vary in difficulty, featuring stunning views of the Cumberland Valley.
Located just outside Harrisburg, this park has numerous trails that meander around picturesque lakes and woodlands.
These trails offer a mix of paved and natural surface hikes, suitable for families and casual walkers.
This urban trail loops around the city, incorporating parks and natural areas, providing a convenient hiking option close to Harrisburg.
Aiports
How to reach Harrisburg by plane.
Located approximately 107 miles southeast of Harrisburg, PHL is the largest airport in Pennsylvania and a major hub for international and domestic flights.
Situated around 120 miles south of Harrisburg, BWI serves the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas with numerous international and domestic routes.
Approximately 200 miles west of Harrisburg, PIT serves the Pittsburgh area and offers various international and domestic flights.
Located about 140 miles south of Harrisburg, IAD is a key airport serving the Washington, D.C. area with extensive international connections.
Around 180 miles northeast of Harrisburg, EWR is a major international airport serving the New York City metropolitan area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Non-Hispanic White population, making up a significant portion of Harrisburg's demographics.
A large demographic group, representing a substantial part of the city's population.
Includes individuals of various ethnic backgrounds, contributing to the cultural diversity in Harrisburg.
A smaller yet growing demographic group with various national origins, including East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial categories, reflecting increasing diversity.
A minor demographic group, representing indigenous populations in the region.
A very small demographic group, including individuals from various Pacific Island nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a highly popular sport in Harrisburg, with local high schools and community teams engaging in competitive leagues.
Basketball enjoys strong participation and support, with various leagues for youth and adults throughout the city.
Baseball has a rich tradition in Harrisburg, with the Harrisburg Senators being the local minor league team, fostering community engagement.
Soccer has seen growing popularity in Harrisburg, with numerous youth programs and adult leagues emphasizing inclusivity and participation.
Ice hockey has a dedicated following in Harrisburg, with local teams and events drawing significant local interest.
Lacrosse is gaining momentum in Harrisburg, with youth programs and high school teams contributing to its popularity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harrisburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Harrisburg offer diverse vegetarian and vegan menus, catering to those with plant-based diets. Notable options include the vegan dishes at Veggie Works and the vegetarian platters at Passage to India.
Eating gluten-free in Harrisburg is made easier by establishments like Home 231, which provides a separate gluten-free menu with an array of delicious options.