Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
A Three Day Weekend Escape to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Nestled alongside the Susquehanna River, Harrisburg, the capital city of Pennsylvania, provides a combination of history, culture, and good old-fashioned fun. From its Civil War era attractions to its thriving restaurant scene, Harrisburg offers a blend of relaxation and excitement that’s hard to beat. So, grab your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem with our three-day itinerary!
Day 1: Immersing in History and Culture
Pennsylvania State Capitol
Start your trip exploring the marvelous Pennsylvania State Capitol. Regarded as a palace of art, its marvelous architecture is inspired by Italian Renaissance style with murals, stained glass, and sculptures adorning its interior. Don’t miss out on the 272-foot, 52 million-pound dome inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
State Museum of Pennsylvania
A few minutes walk from the Capitol, you’ll find The State Museum of Pennsylvania. This museum houses numerous exhibits, from archaeology to geology, that represent Pennsylvania’s vibrant history and culture. Don’t forget to check out the Planetarium for an extraordinary cosmic journey.
Lunch at Millworks
After soaking in the morning’s history, head to Millworks for lunch. This multi-level dining establishment serves up a farm-to-table menu within an artists’ community. Enjoy your meal in the rooftop biergarten, surrounded by locally made artwork.
National Civil War Museum
Post-lunch, visit the National Civil War Museum, a shrine to the American Civil War. It offers a neutral, balanced presentation of the war’s history, humanizing both the Union and Confederate experiences. Exhibits cover everything from the issues that divided the nation, to the weapons used in battle, to the experiences of the soldiers and civilians.
Day 2: Adventure and Nature
Wildwood Park
Start your day at Wildwood Park. This urban oasis is perfect for bird-watching, nature photography, or simply enjoying the great outdoors. Don’t miss the nature center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Lunch at The Progress Grill
For lunch, visit The Progress Grill, Harrisburg’s oldest and finest seafood restaurant. Enjoy their famous lump crab cakes or one of their many delicious steak options.
Hersheypark
After lunch, experience thrills at Hersheypark. This family theme park hosts over 70 rides and attractions, including 14 roller coasters and a water park. Don’t forget to visit ZooAmerica, a wildlife park home to over 200 animals, which is included in your Hersheypark admission.
Day 3: Exploring the Extraordinary
Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat
Begin your day with a relaxing cruise on the Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat. The only authentic paddlewheel riverboat in the area, it provides stunning views of the river and city skyline.
Lunch at Home 231
After your cruise, enjoy a fresh, farm-to-table lunch at Home 231. This downtown establishment offers a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring each dish is vibrant and fresh.
Midtown Scholar Bookstore
After lunch, wander over to the Midtown Scholar Bookstore, a haven for book lovers. This enormous, multi-story bookstore offers hundreds of thousands of new, used, and rare books.
Broad Street Market
End your trip to Harrisburg by walking through the historic Broad Street Market. One of the oldest continuously operating markets in the country, it features over 40 vendors offering everything from fresh produce to locally-sourced meats to artisanal cheese and baked goods.
Harrisburg is a city of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s history, food, adventure, or culture you seek, you’re sure to find it in this charming city by the Susquehanna River. Happy travels!