10 Popular Activities in Harrisburg
October 25, 2022Part of designing and building a custom home is determining where you want to live and finding land that works for you. Whether you are looking for land in a neighborhood or finding a scattered lot that fits your needs, the location should be somewhere you will enjoy living. Here are some popular activities in Harrisburg to help you determine if it’s somewhere you want to live:
1. Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex
As the state capital of Pennsylvania, there is a lot of history in Harrisburg and a lot to explore. The Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex is a good place to start. During warmer weather, you can catch a great view of the State Capitol, which is an Italian Renaissance-style building, and the large fountain in front of it. You can explore on your own or take one of the many historic guided tours available, or even go on a scavenger hunt or ghost tour.
2. National Civil War Museum
If you are interested in history and the Civil War, Harrisburg is home to the National Civil War Museum. You can leisurely explore two floors full of historic documents, information video clips, and artifacts. Also, it’s located on a hilltop overlooking the cityscape, so you can enjoy some scenic views as well.
3. State Museum of Pennsylvania
With over two million artifacts, the State Museum of Pennsylvania has plenty of heritage and history to explore. With a mix of the planetarium plus permanent exhibits, changing exhibits, events, and more, there is always something new to see and experience.
4. Wildwood Park
Located just outside of downtown Harrisburg is Wildwood Park. This nature center and preserve sprawls across 229 acres and is centered around 90 acres of freshwater wetland. There is a three-mile loop trail that winds around the park along with plenty of boardwalks and side trails to explore. Plus, there are environmental exhibits located throughout the Olewine Nature Center within the park and plenty of seasonal activities and events throughout the year.
5. Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
The Fort Hunter Mansion is located on a bluff that overlooks the Susquehanna River. Throughout history, it has been a private estate, a hum of early frontier commerce, and even a war fort. The mansion has been preserved and is open to the public for guided tours from May through December. The grounds feature several buildings and the surrounding park is open year-round.
6. Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center
The Pennsylvania Farm Show attracts a lot of people. From the exhibits to the food and more, there’s something for everyone at the Farm Show. And, who can resist the famous Farm Show milkshakes?
Aside from the Farm Show, there are several events that happen at the farm show complex throughout the year. From big national events to smaller local events like flea markets, there is almost always something to check out at the Farm Show Complex.
7. City Island
City Island is full of fun for tourists and for locals. In addition to a steam train, horse-drawn carriages, and miniature golf, there are plenty of trails for biking, running, walking, and more.
Along with the fantastic views, City Island is known as a recreational island and often features events, festivals, minor league baseball games, and more. You can even take a boat ride down the Susquehanna River on the Pride of Susquehanna Riverboat.
8. Broad Street Market
Broad Street Market is the oldest farmer’s market in Pennsylvania and is still going. In fact, it’s the oldest continuously-operated market house in the United States! The market is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and is located downtown with plenty of parking.
Featuring over 40 vendors, you can find just about anything at the Broad Street Market. From fresh, locally-grown meats, produce, and baked goods to tons of food vendors, artisans, local crafts, and more, there is something for everyone and always something new to try.
9. Whitaker Center
The Whitaker Center is known as Central PA’s nonprofit center for the arts. In addition to exhibits in the science center and related events, there is also a performance theater, digital cinema, and more that regularly features shows, movies, etc. Between regular exhibits, scheduled shows, and events throughout the year, there is always something new to see and experience.
10. Hersheypark
Living in Harrisburg, you’ll be close to Hershey and Hersheypark. Not only will you be close enough to be able to take a trip to enjoy the park or Chocolate World at your convenience, but you’ll also be able to take advantage of the concerts, sports, and other events at the stadium and across the grounds.
These are just a few of the popular activities in Harrisburg to keep in mind if you’re already living there, already looking for land, or just visiting to see if you like the area enough to relocate. If you’re ready to get started on a custom home in Pennsylvania, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090. We can help make your dream home a reality!