Things to do in Harrisburg

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Harrisburg

Types of activities

Where to stay

Harrisburg Travel Guide

Photo provided by Hershey Harrisburg Visitors Bureau

Pennsylvania State Capitol showing interior views and heritage architecture

Pennsylvania State Capitol featuring an administrative buidling, heritage architecture and interior views

Harrisburg featuring a bridge and a river or creek

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What to do in Harrisburg

Popular places to visit

Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex

Catch an event at Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex during your trip to Harrisburg. Amble around this family-friendly area's riverfront and enjoy its local chocolate shops.

Pennsylvania State Capitol

Visit a majestic palace in the heart of Harrisburg and wander Pennsylvania’s halls of power in a building created as a tribute to art, freedom and democracy.

City Island

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at City Island during your travels in Harrisburg. Experience the entertainment choices or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

National Civil War Museum

Learn about one of the bloodiest conflicts in America’s history in an elegant and informative museum that documents every aspect of the era.

Riverfront Park

Explore the great outdoors at Riverfront Park, a lovely green space in Harrisburg. Amble around this family-friendly area's riverfront or experience its acclaimed theater scene.

Fort Hunter Mansion and Park

Find out about the history of Harrisburg when you spend time at Fort Hunter Mansion and Park. Amble around this family-friendly area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Wildwood Park

Wildwood Park is just one of the places to see in Harrisburg, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the local chocolate shops and great live music in this family-friendly area.

State Museum of Pennsylvania

Surround yourself with the history, culture and nature of Pennsylvania in a museum that examines every area of life in the diverse state.

Shoppes at Susquehanna Marketplace

You can do some window-shopping at Shoppes at Susquehanna Marketplace during your trip to Progress. Experience the acclaimed theater scene and great live music in this family-friendly area.

Areas of Harrisburg

Downtown Harrisburg

Downtown Harrisburg is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts and Pennsylvania State Capitol while in the area.

Midtown

While visiting Midtown, you might make a stop by sights like Riverfront Park and Broad Street Market.

Allison Hill

If you're spending some time in Allison Hill, National Civil War Museum and Appalachian Brewing Company are top sights worth seeing.

South Harrisburg

When in South Harrisburg, you can plan a visit to Susquehanna River and Riverfront Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Uptown

Though Uptown might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Pennsylvania State Capitol.

East Harrisburg

While there might not be top attractions in East Harrisburg, you can explore the larger area and discover places like National Civil War Museum and Riverfront Park.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Harrisburg worth visiting?

One of the most popular things to do in Harrisburg is explore City Island. Check this major sight off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's family-friendly attractions and history.

How do I spend a day in Harrisburg?

City Island and Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts are two awesome places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Harrisburg while you're there too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Harrisburg?

The top tourist attraction in Harrisburg is City Island, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing list.

Is three days enough to stay in Harrisburg?

You can easily tick off popular attractions like City Island, Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts and Appalachian Brewing Company with a three-day trip to Harrisburg. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Harrisburg - Hershey.

Is Harrisburg a walkable city?

With popular neighborhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city center, Harrisburg is a great place to experience on foot. Wander between City Island and Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts. Then take a stroll around Downtown Harrisburg, located 2 kilometers from downtown, and Progress, which is roughly 5 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Harrisburg with kids?

If you are after tours and attractions for all the family, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Harrisburg with kids.

What to do in Harrisburg for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or adventure seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Harrisburg for adults including Appalachian Brewing Company and Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex.

Are there free things to do in Harrisburg?

In Harrisburg, Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the parks and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in Harrisburg.