10 Unforgettable Things To Do Near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (Dauphin County)

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

If you’re looking for a laid-back, affordable getaway in Pennsylvania, Harrisburg in Dauphin County should be on your list. This small, friendly state capital sits along the Susquehanna River and offers a mix of history, outdoor fun, family attractions, and great food. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from New York, Washington, D.C., or anywhere in the Mid-Atlantic, here are 10 great things to do near Harrisburg, PA.

1. Tour the Stunning Pennsylvania State Capitol

Let’s start with the star of Harrisburg: the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Many people say it looks like a European palace, and they’re not wrong. The grand dome, marble floors, and detailed artwork make it one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the country.
  • What to do: Take a free guided tour (check times in advance).
  • Highlights: The 272-foot-high dome, stained glass windows, and murals.
  • Location: Right in downtown Harrisburg.
If you enjoy architecture, you’ll love walking through the building and just looking up. Even if you’re not a big “history person,” it’s hard not to be impressed.

2. Walk, Bike, or Picnic Along the Susquehanna Riverfront

One of the best free things to do in Harrisburg is simply enjoy the Susquehanna River. The city has a lovely riverfront area with walking and biking paths. On a warm evening, you’ll see locals out for a jog, walking their dogs, or just sitting on benches watching the water.
  • What to do:
    • Walk or bike along the Capital Area Greenbelt.
    • Pack a picnic and enjoy the river views.
    • Watch the sunset over the West Shore.
If you’re driving in, you can easily park nearby and just stroll for 30 minutes to unwind after a long day.

3. Explore City Island: Mini-Golf, Baseball & River Views

Right in the middle of the river, connected by bridge, you’ll find City Island, a small island packed with family-friendly activities.
  • Things to do on City Island:
    • Play a round of mini-golf.
    • Ride the miniature train (seasonal).
    • Catch a Harrisburg Senators minor league baseball game.
    • Take a riverboat cruise on the Pride of the Susquehanna.
This is one of those places where kids can run around, parents can relax, and everyone gets those classic summer-vacation vibes.

4. Dive Into History at the National Civil War Museum

If you’re a history buff—or even just curious about the Civil War—the National Civil War Museum is a must-visit. Located on a hill with a nice view of the city, this museum covers both the Union and Confederate sides in a balanced way.
  • Why it’s worth a stop:
    • Hundreds of artifacts, uniforms, and weapons.
    • Clear, easy-to-understand exhibits, great for teens and adults.
    • Gives a big-picture view of the war, not just battles.
Plan at least 2–3 hours if you like to read exhibits and really take your time.

5. Visit the State Museum of Pennsylvania

Right near the Capitol, the State Museum of Pennsylvania is another great stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids or you love learning about local history and nature. You’ll find everything from dinosaurs and Native American history to displays about Pennsylvania’s industries.
  • Highlights:
    • Planetarium shows (check schedule).
    • Interactive exhibits for younger kids.
    • Detailed look at Pennsylvania’s wildlife and geology.
It’s an easy add-on if you’re already visiting the Capitol complex.

6. Take a Day Trip to Hershey: “The Sweetest Place on Earth”

Just about 15 miles east of Harrisburg sits one of Pennsylvania’s biggest attractions: Hershey. If you’re visiting Harrisburg, spending at least part of a day in Hershey is almost a no-brainer.
  • Top things to do in Hershey:
    • Hersheypark – A full-size amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.
    • Hershey’s Chocolate World – Free chocolate tour ride, plus shops and add-on experiences.
    • Hershey Gardens – Beautiful flower gardens and a butterfly house.
    • The Hershey Story Museum – Learn how Milton Hershey built his chocolate empire.
If you’ve ever wanted to smell chocolate in the air while you walk through town, this is the place.

7. Enjoy Craft Beer, Local Wine, and Great Food

Harrisburg has a growing food and drink scene, especially around downtown and Midtown. You’ll find cozy pubs, riverfront restaurants, and local breweries where you can try Pennsylvania-made craft beer.
  • Ideas for food & drink lovers:
    • Try a local brewery or taproom for a flight.
    • Grab a table with river views on a nice evening.
    • Check out Midtown for coffee shops and casual cafes.
If you like trying regional flavors when you travel, Harrisburg offers a nice mix without the big-city price tag.

8. Discover Art, Shops, and Murals in Midtown Harrisburg

Midtown Harrisburg has a creative, slightly artsy vibe. One of the main hubs is the Broad Street Market, one of the oldest continuously operated markets in the country. Here you can grab everything from BBQ and baked goods to international food.
  • What to check out in Midtown:
    • Broad Street Market – Perfect for lunch or a snack.
    • Local art galleries and small shops.
    • Colorful murals scattered around the neighborhood.
It’s a great spot to wander, people-watch, and enjoy a slower, local side of Harrisburg.

9. Get Outside on the Appalachian Trail and Nearby Parks

If you like hiking and being outdoors, you’re in luck. Dauphin County is close to some beautiful outdoor areas, including parts of the famous Appalachian Trail. Within a short drive of Harrisburg, you can reach trailheads and parks with pretty overlooks and peaceful forests.
  • Outdoor options near Harrisburg:
    • Short hikes to overlooks along the Appalachian Trail north of the city.
    • Local parks and preserves with easy walking trails.
    • Bird-watching and fall foliage drives in season.
If you’re coming from a big city, a few hours in the woods around Harrisburg can feel like a reset button.

10. Take a Scenic Drive Through Dauphin County’s Small Towns

Sometimes the best part of a trip isn’t just the big attractions—it’s the small spots in between. Dauphin County has quiet roads, rolling hills, river views, and small towns where you can pull over for ice cream, a diner meal, or a photo stop.
  • How to enjoy a scenic drive:
    • Follow the Susquehanna River north or south and stop at overlooks.
    • Explore small communities and local farm stands.
    • Visit in the fall for colorful leaves and roadside pumpkins.
If you like unhurried travel, this is a simple way to experience more of central Pennsylvania beyond the usual tourist routes.

Planning Your Trip to Harrisburg, PA

Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather; summer for outdoor events and Hersheypark; winter if you don’t mind the cold and want lower crowds.
  • Getting around: Having a car makes it much easier, especially for day trips to Hershey and nearby trails.
  • Trip length: A weekend is enough for the highlights, but 3–4 days lets you slow down and explore more of Dauphin County.
Harrisburg is easy to reach from many East Coast cities, making it a great option for a quick getaway that still feels different from home.

Have You Been to Harrisburg?

Have you visited Harrisburg, Pennsylvania or anywhere else in Dauphin County?
  • Which attraction was your favorite?
  • Did you spend more time in Hershey, downtown Harrisburg, or out on the trails?
I’d love to hear your stories, tips, and favorite spots. Drop a comment below and share your experience or your questions about planning a trip to Harrisburg. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or family member who’s looking for new places to explore in Pennsylvania!
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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