How to Experience Harrisburg in Two Days

Planning a vacation to the beautiful capital of Pennsylvania? At the note ofHarrisburg, many people think of the historical attractions, but there’s actually much more to explore. Whether you’re packing for the weekend with your friends or taking the kids on vacation, this guide will give you everything you need to make the most of two days in Harrisburg.

Day One

The first day of your two-day getaway in Harrisburg should be all about discovering the city’s historical landmarks. There are also plenty of nearby attractions that are worth a visit.

Historical Landmarks

Before you reach further into the state, get ready to explore Harrisburg’s many attractions steeped in history and heritage. Start off with a trip to The Pennsylvania State Capitol. Admire the gorgeous architecture and majestic Rotunda, then enjoy a tour of the building’s highlights.

Right in front of the Pennsylvania State Capitol is the Capitol Park. Here you can roam through six acres of beautiful green lawns and gardens, and spot some of the city’s most iconic monuments, like the Gettysburg Monument and Liberty Bell replica.

Take a walk along Front Street, visiting places like the State Museum of Pennsylvania. After a guided tour exploring the many permanent collections, stop at The Mantis sculpture located right outside the museum. Continue your journey into the past with a trip to The Susquehannock Village, which recreates a Susquehannock Indian settlement complete with costumed interpreters, artifacts, and homes from the 1690s.

Nearby Attractions

After you’ve seen some of Harrisburg’s landmarks, take a drive across the Susquehanna River and visit Harrisburg Riverboat. Explore the City Island area and admire the skyline from the deck of the riverboat. Then stroll along Front Street and pick up souvenirs at tourist shops on your way back.

You can also spend time in nearby attractions like Paxtang, Wormleysburg and Middletown. Paxtang is full of parks and attractions like Kiwanis Lake and Reservoir Park, where you can enjoy a picnic in nature or watch wildlife in their natural habitat. Wormleysburg offers amazing views of the river along with trails and outdoor activities like zip lining. Middletown is also great for outdoor activities, such as fishing and camping.

Day Two

On day two of your two-day getaway in Harrisburg, take advantage of all that Pennsylvania’s capital has to offer in terms of entertainment. There are plenty of local live music venues, shows, and festivals here for you to enjoy.

Live Music

Head down to downtown’s Music Row to experience some of Harrisburg’s best live music venues. Stop by The Abbey Bar, a small but cozy venue located in a historic building one block from the Capitol Complex that hosts both local and traveling acts. The Tellus 360 is also close by, serving up craft beers and live music mostly on weekends. For those who love Latin music, check out Bijou: Your Salsa Experience, which also offers free salsa lessons during every event they stage.

Festivals and Shows

Harrisburg plays host to a range of festivals throughout the year such as theSusquehanna Folk Music Festival, which has taken place for over 30 years and celebrates folk music from all over the world with an average attendance of over 6,000 visitors annually. The event includes workshops and activities along with live performances and food trucks located in nearby Rivers Edge Park on Fraser Street every summer in July.

Outside of music festivals, there are also plenty of other fun activities to check out around town like Harrisburg’s Community Theatre production at Whitaker Center for Science and Arts on Market Street. They host a variety of performances like concerts, plays, musicals and standup comedy acts ranging from kid friendly to adult only shows year-round.

Whether you’re taking the kids on vacation or headed out with your friends, there is no shortage of fun activities to keep you entertained in Harrisburg during a two day getaway. Experience some Pennsylvania history with a day at the State Capitol and visit nearby attractions, then end your getaway enjoying live entertainment and checking out festivals around town on day two!

An Insider’s Guide: Two Days in Harrisburg

Are you looking for an unforgettable trip to Harrisburg? Skip the generic tourist spots and follow this insider’s guide to make the most of your brief stay in the city. Here are some of the must-visit, lesser-known attractions, as well as unique dining experiences that only the locals know about.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

Harrisburg has a reputation for being a historic city, but the locals know that it has much more to offer than just the standard tourist sites. For example, Millennium Grove is a hidden gem located in Riverfront Park that contains hundreds of trees donated by residents of the city. It’s the perfect spot to take a tranquil walk and enjoy nature while getting a break from the hustle-bustle of the city.

If you’re into arts and culture, head to the Susquehanna Art Museum that showcases an eclectic collection of contemporary and modern art. You can also learn about the history of Harrisburg’s Jewish community by visiting the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg’s Kline Gallery, which features a changing lineup of Jewish-themed exhibits throughout the year.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine

While in Harrisburg, satisfy your taste buds with some mouth-watering local cuisine. Take a stroll to Broad Street Market, which is the oldest continually operating market shutter in America. Here, you can shop fresh ingredients to cook a meal of your own or grab a slice of fresh pizza at one of the several stalls.

No visit to Harrisburg is complete without a taste of its iconic ‘Scrapple’. You can visit any restaurant or cafe in the city, and they’ll serve you a delicious version of this traditional dish consisting of pork scraps and cornmeal, making it one of the most beloved dishes that locals and visitors enjoy alike.

Cultural experiences

It’s never too late to learn something new! The National Civil War Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the United States through the lens of the Civil War. Another essential part of the city’s vibrant arts scene is the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, which features cutting-edge performance spaces and interactive exhibits in the middle of downtown.

You can also experience various city festivals, from Greekfest to Oktoberfest, that celebrate different cultures and traditions through music, food, and entertainment. Find out what’s happening during your visit to Harrisburg and participate in the festivity.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Harrisburg’s rich history is full of stories worth sharing. Visit the John Kane House, constructed in 1790, for a douse of ancient American architecture. For an eerie twist, stop by the haunted Soldier’s Grove, where many visitors have reported encountering paranormal activity.

For a little taste of America’s political history, visit the Pennsylvania State Capitol to observe the awe-inspiring dome, intricate murals, impressive architectural details, and political heritage on display.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore the city with a unique perspective, rent a bike and travel on Capital Area Greenbelt, a 20 miles looped trail around the city’s surrounding area. You can also take a guided mural tour around the city to view the city’s vibrant street art scene.

Want to meet a local artist? Attend a live demonstration at the Susquehanna Art Museum, or add local markets at Riverfront Park to your itinerary for authentic local shopping experiences.

Harrisburg is a hidden gem with a rich history and an undeniable charm that visitors would love. Go beyond the conventional tourist routes and get a glimpse of the unique culture, food, and customs that make up the heart of this city. Enjoy!