Harrisburg Travel Guide
You may not get free chocolates here, unlike neighboring Hershey. But in Harrisburg, the capital of Pennsylvania, you'll find history etched along its quiet residential streets and in its quaint museums and art galleries. This is a city that has rebounded from many disasters. Harrisburg suffered huge economic losses after the downfall of its steel and dairy industries. And it endured the horrors of the Three Mile Island nuclear incident, proving that the ninth largest city in Pennsylvania has a whole lot of heart.
Sights
Start your tour of Harrisburg at the National Civil War Museum, the only one in the United States that portrays the complete history of the American Civil War without any bias to the causes of either side. You can learn more about his war by visiting Camp Curtin and the Harrisburg Cemetery, where the fallen union soldiers lay buried. Indulge in country-style living as you walk along the Susquehanna River to the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park. Its picnic pavilions and play equipment also make it a great place to take the kids. Speaking of kids, Harrisburg is a great city for some family time. Must-sees include The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum with its many exhibits, the State Museum of Pennsylvania and the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts which features hands-on activities for the young and young-at-heart. Cap your tour with an afternoon of biking, boating and hiking at City Island.
Restaurants
After a busy day, treat yourself to the dining delights that Harrisburg has to offer. The best restaurants are lined along, where else, Restaurant Row at 2nd Street. There are also coffee shops and fast food eateries all over the downtown area. If you want to fuel up while in City Island, head to the Riverside Village Park for some ice cream. Good eats may also be had at Strawberry Square. If you happen to be in the city in January, don't miss all the food (most of which is free) and fun at the Pennsylvania Farm Show, the biggest agricultural event of its kind in America.
Shopping
Strawberry Square in Downtown Harrisburg is a major shopping area. More upscale choices can be found at The Shops on Third. If you want a taste of Amish goods and other local produce, head to the Broad Street Market at Verbeke Street and 3rd Street.
Where to Go in Harrisburg
