Why Visit Harrisburg, Pennsylvania?
Harrisburg, PA is the capital of Pennsylvania and lies on the east bank of the Susquehanna River. The city is filled with 18th and 19th century architecture and is known for its rich history, having played a major role in the Westward expansion, the Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution.
Fun Fact: In 1986, a Statue of Liberty replica mysteriously appeared in the Dauphin Narrows as a patriotic prank to commemorate the centennial of the original Statue of Liberty. "Harrisburgers" grew to love the statue, eventually making it a permanent monument of the town. It wasn’t until 2011 that a local lawyer owned up to erecting the statue.
Best Time to Visit Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Harrisburg, PA transitions between a humid subtropical and a humid continental climate. The hottest months fall between June and August, with highs averaging at around 85°F. The coldest months fall between December and February, with lows averaging at around 25°F.
Hotels in Harrisburg, PA are most expensive from June to August. The cheapest time to visit Harrisburg, PA is in October.
Getting Around Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is 10 miles southeast of downtown Harrisburg. The most convenient way of leaving the airport to get to downtown Harrisburg is via taxi. Taxis are available on the ground floor of the transportation center. The journey takes 11–15 minutes, and costs between US$30–US$40.
The cheapest way of getting to downtown Harrisburg from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is by bus. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) bus service operates 32 routes within the city from Monday to Saturday. Route 7 from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) runs from 06:00–20:00, Mondays to Fridays, 07:00–18:00 on Saturdays. It costs US$1.80 for each one-way ride.
Things to Do in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
One of the top things to do in Harrisburg, PA is visit the magnificent Pennsylvania Capitol building. Its notable dome is a centerpiece in the Harrisburg, PA skyline. Free guided tours are offered every 30 minutes, from 08:30–16:00, Monday–Friday. Tours over weekends and holidays run at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, and 15:00 only.
Experience "Harrisburgian" culture at its finest at Broad Street Market, one of the oldest markets in the country. A diverse variety of food vendors and goods are offered, from fresh local produce and meats, to prepared meals and snacks.
Spend the day at City Island Complex. The island spans 63 acres, in the middle of the Susquehanna River. Previously a resting point for Union soldiers during the Civil War, the island has now become a hub for entertainment and recreation. Attractions include a golf course, a baseball field, batting cages, walking trails, and prime views of the Harrisburg skyline.
While you're there, venture on The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat Cruise, the only remaining paddle-wheel riverboat in the country. Catch even better views of the Harrisburg, PA skyline while you listen to the narrated tour of the city played onboard. The cruise operates daily from spring until fall, from 12:00–15:00. Each cruise journey runs for 45 minutes, and tickets cost US$12.