One of the best parts about Hershey is just how close we are to Harrisburg. In less than half an hour, depending on traffic, you can go from sipping coffee on our porch to walking the riverfront or touring the state capital. If you’re planning a day trip from our Hershey bed and breakfast, check out some of our favorite things to do in Harrisburg and make the most of your time in the capital city.
Discover Harrisburg’s Rich History and Museums
State Capitol Building
501 N 3rd St
One of the most architecturally stunning government buildings in the country, Pennsylvania’s State Capitol should be at the top of your list. The grand dome, modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, soars above a space filled with murals, marble, and bronze. Free guided tours are available most days and offer a fascinating look at the building’s art, politics, and place in American history.
The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North Street
Just steps from the Capitol, this museum tells the story of Pennsylvania from prehistoric times to today. Explore exhibits on geology, Native American culture, industrial innovation, and even the state’s wildlife. The planetarium is a nice bonus for anyone interested in astronomy.
National Civil War Museum
1 Lincoln Circle
Located on a hill overlooking the city, this museum presents a balanced, in-depth look at the Civil War through soldiers’ letters, personal items, and immersive exhibits. It’s one of the largest museums in the world devoted entirely to the American Civil War, and the elevated location offers panoramic views of the city.
John Harris–Simon Cameron Mansion
219 South Front Street
This beautifully preserved home belonged to John Harris Jr., the founder of Harrisburg, and later to Simon Cameron, Abraham Lincoln’s first Secretary of War. Today, it offers tours that bring local history to life, from early colonial days through the Civil War and beyond.
Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 North 3rd Street
Housed in a repurposed historic bank building, this museum offers a thoughtful mix of contemporary exhibitions from regional, national, and international artists. The light-filled space and rotating exhibits make each visit feel new.
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts
222 Market Street
Part science museum, part performance space, part IMAX theater, Whitaker Center is a hub for creativity and learning with art installations and concerts throughout the year.
Outdoor Things to Do in Harrisburg
Riverfront Park
Riverfront ParkFront Street between Vaughn and Maclay Streets
Stretching along the Susquehanna River, this park offers scenic walking and biking trails, open green spaces, and plenty of benches for people-watching or enjoying a sunset. If you’re visiting on a weekend, you might catch a festival or outdoor event.
City Island
Accessible via Market Street Bridge
Located in the middle of the river and accessible by footbridge or car, City Island is a local favorite. Catch a Harrisburg Senators baseball game at FNB Field (Friday night games end with a fireworks display for an extra bit of magic under the stars), try a round of miniature golf, or hop aboard the tiny train that loops around the island.
Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way
Just four miles from downtown, Wildwood offers a quiet escape into nature with a 3-mile walking loop around a peaceful lake. Elevated boardwalks let you walk through marshland areas where herons, turtles, and native birds are often spotted. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon.
Italian Lake
3rd & Division Streets
This beautifully landscaped park in the Uptown neighborhood is one of our favorite romantic picnic areas, featuring a picturesque lake surrounded by walkways, bridges, sculptures, and seasonal blooms.
Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area
401 Fishing Creek Valley Road
Located just outside the city, this 1,000-acre preserve is ideal for hiking and spotting wildlife. The forested trails vary in length and difficulty, making it a great spot for both casual walkers and avid hikers.
The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat
11 Championship Way, Harrisburg, PA 17101
One of the few remaining authentic paddlewheel riverboats in the country, the Pride of the Susquehanna offers daily sightseeing cruises and themed dinner events from spring through fall. The views of the city from the water are especially stunning at sunset.
Note: As of August 2025, The Riverboat is undergoing renovations but is set to be up and running again shortly. Check their website for updates!
Enjoy Local Harrisburg Events and Entertainment
Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center (HMAC)
1110 North 3rd Street
A top venue for live music, comedy, and community events, HMAC is known for drawing both big-name performers and emerging local talent. Multiple stages and an on-site bar make this a go-to spot for nightlife.
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
The Forum Auditorium, 500 Walnut Street
Concerts are held at the stately Forum Auditorium, located on the Capitol complex. Their seasonal programming includes everything from classical masterpieces to film scores, and the quality of the performances is top-notch.
Midtown Cinema
250 Reily Street
This cozy independent theater offers a thoughtful mix of foreign films, documentaries, and lesser-known indies you won’t find at larger chains.
Third in the Burg: A Monthly Celebration of Art & Culture
920 N. 3rd Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102
If your trip lines up with the third Friday of the month, don’t miss Third in the Burg. Harrisburg’s art galleries, theaters, shops, and cafes come alive with live music, pop-up exhibits, open studios, and spoken word performances.
Stroll Through Local Neighborhoods
Second Street
Known as Restaurant Row, Second Street is the heart of Harrisburg’s nightlife and dining scene. Between Market and State Streets, you’ll find everything from cocktail bars to gastropubs, each with its own character. It’s especially lively on weekends, but you’ll also find quiet corners and great lunch spots any day.
SoMa (South of Market) District
This small but growing neighborhood just south of downtown has become a warm-weather hotspot. Seasonal events bring food trucks, outdoor music, art installations, and pop-up shopping into the streets.
Harrisburg Shopping
Broad Street Market
Broad Street Market1233 North 3rd Street
Founded in the 1860s, this is the oldest continuously operating market house in the country. Inside, you’ll find local produce, small-batch treats, handmade goods, and friendly vendors who are happy to share their stories.
Midtown Scholar Bookstore
1126 North 3rd Street
Right next to the market, this enormous indie bookstore houses everything from local history books to international poetry. With cozy reading nooks, a cafe, and frequent author events, it’s easy to lose track of time here.
Vivi on Verbeke
258 Verbeke Street
Vivi on Verbeke is a fine art gallery showcasing the pottery and sculpture work of co-owners Jeb Boyd and Vivian Sterste. If you’re visiting during Third in the Burg, you might catch Jeb welding whimsical sculptures right out front.
The Rummagers
1419 North 3rd Street
Make sure you bring your own to this quirky Midtown shop. The Rummagers is a modern vintage store run by husband-and-wife duo Nipsey (a local radio host) and Mrs. K (a photographer and marketer). It’s packed with an eclectic mix of vintage finds, collectibles, and artwork from up-and-coming local artists.
The Meadow
1126 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Featuring more than 25 local artists, vintage sellers, and small business owners, The Meadow is a thoughtfully curated marketplace. It’s the kind of place you stumble into for a quick look and end up staying for an hour. You’ll find everything from handmade ceramics and prints to retro clothing and home goods.
Best Harrisburg Restaurants
The city’s dining scene is deliciously diverse and constantly evolving. These are just a few of the local favorites:
note. bistro & winebar
1530 N 2nd Steet
Rubicon
270 North Street
Mangia Qui
272 North Street
1700 Degrees Steakhouse
1 N 2nd Street
Millworks
340 Verbeke Street
Cork & Fork
200 State Street
Alvaro Bread & Pastry Shoppe
236 Peffer Street
Arepa House
3605 Walnut Street
Freshido
925 Norland Avenue
Sturges Speakeasy
400 Forster Street
Los Tres Cubanos
540 Race Street
Planning Your Trip
One of the best things about Harrisburg is how flexible your day can be. You can pack in a full itinerary of museums, trails, and live entertainment, or just choose one or two things and let the rest unfold. Either way, you’ll be back at The Inn on Church Road in time to unwind in your suite and reflect on a day well spent. So, book your stay, and discover your own favorite things to do in Harrisburg!
If you need help planning your day trip, just ask! We’re always happy to make recommendations!.
