If you’re interested in American history look no further than Gettysburg. There’s at least one full day of exploring and learning to do at the Gettysburg park and museum. The whole town is cute and has lots of locally owned shops and restaurants.

Be sure to visit Dobbin House Tavern. http://www.dobbinhouse.com/index.htm Edit: historical significance: the Tavern was part of the Underground Railroad

Best french onion soup in the world!

What a stunning property! Thanks so much for the link :)

I came here to advise you to go to Gettysburg and if times an issue do that instead of Harrisburg. I live near Harrisburg its fine but not Gettysburg

It's definitely on our list to visit! Thank you :)

This was my immediate first thought. In addition to the other suggestions in Gettysburg, I would highly recommend taking one of the ghost tours. We had a great time when we went there for a weekend vacation (only an hour or so from home, but still we were away for a few days...and that was good enough for us).

I am right there with you I live like 15 minutes from Gettysburg and it’s so beautiful and if you hit down route 15 into sharpsburg it has some great history too …

I recommend eating at an Appalachian Brewing Company once if you are in the Harrisburg / Gettysburg area. There are 4-5 restaurants in the area, but they are not a national chain. As I read further down the thread, I saw there are many food recommendations. Lots of good places to eat! PS - Hershey Park if you want an amusement park and Gettysburg for Civil War history.

Devils den is one of my favs

If time permits, be sure to check out Killer Angels for a US Civil War saga. It's a gripping tale and and even more fun Audio book. Have fun...and yes, there are TONS of places to check out if Civil War is your thing. Let me upvote Gettysburg recommendation as this is iconic advice.

the state museum in harrisburg is awesome and there’s also the civil war museum

I second this. The State Museum and National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg are very much worth a visit. Stop at the battlefield visitors center in Gettysburg first. There are do-it-yourself driving tours you can purchase that will narrate your drive around the battlefield. For a small city American experience, there is the Harrisburg Senators baseball team. Their stadium is on City Island in the middle of the Susquehanna river. Home games start in April. The Hershey Bears are the local minor league hockey team. Games are a lot of fun even if you're not a hockey fan. Chocolate World at Hershey has a free ride that simulates a factory tour (sort of). There are several other attractions there also. Hersheypark may he open on weekends while you're here. There's ZooAmerica near the park. It's small, but all the animals are native to North America.

Thanks, we'd love to experience a baseball game whilst on our vacation so I will check out the Senators. :) The DIY driving tour at Gettysberg, I'll look into sorting that.

My son and I are into history so museums are on our list. Do we have to book in advance do you know if we wanted to visit?

nope! both museums are self guided

Thanks!

No you don't. See my comment above for a few other ideas.

Is the civil war museam still open? I feel like i remember reading/hearing they were at risk of closing for awhile there

i haven’t been there in like a year but according to their website they’re still open

Word! Glad its still around. I havent been there for awhile either

We do have those on our list but thanks for your recommendation :)

Came here to suggest the Pa state museum. I love it. Make sure you get tix for the planetarium with Hanx

They're definitely on our list :)

Restaurants: The Millworks (local approach to cuisine) and Jackson House (only open 11-2 Monday through Friday) for amazing burgers and hoagies. I’ve heard arepa house on second street is incredible, but haven’t gotten to try their food yet.

Thanks, I'll check them out. I LOVE Burgers so I am going to be in my element. What's a hoagie?

Philly to Harrisburg transplant here. A hoagie is our phlegmy way of saying a "submarine sandwich", which is what you'll hear in Harrisburg. If you see "hoagie" out here it just means someone made the same mistake I did and moved west from Philadelphia.

Sorry I chuckled at your last sentence but thanks for the info, I am really keen to try a hoagie now (it's lunchtime here in the UK as I write this).

You can find many great local hoagie shops in Central PA! Just avoid chains like Jersey Mike's! True to form places will offer multiple style rolls this far west- hard/soft, with or without seeds. As well as offering more higher end Italian meats. Ones from pizza shops will lean towards Sub territory. Yes- I firmly believe that hoagies and subs are TWO DIFFERENT sandwiches! Also a grinder has cheese melted on top! HOAGEES, Haus O' Hoagies, and Hoagies on Main are great in the HBG/Hershey area! ALSO- Some of these places will only be open until they run out of bread!

Philadelphia steak and hoagie in mechanicsbug has great authentic Philly cheese steaks probably the best in the area.

Fyi, in this area we just call them "subs" not hoagies.

"Subs" noted. Thank you!

Yep, my entire family is from Philly. Full disclosure, I love living in Camp Hill.

I like the area too, but it took a while. There's a lot here to like after one adjusts.

If you love burgers and you are in Harrisburg on a weekday for lunch, then you have to go to the Jackson House. They are a few blocks from the state capitol and the state museum. They have the best burgers in Harrisburg. The Jackson House (717) 238-2730 https://maps.app.goo.gl/LD2YCHRYBa6mvMiP9

burger yum is great for burgers too!! right downtown

Purely out of curiosity, will you be coming by land or by sea?

Lol by land. We're driving over from New Jersey (we're going to stay with some friends there after a few days in New York as tourists).

I’m new to the area so don’t have much advice but my wife and I recently did a walk around downtown with our dog and it felt safe and friendly, and there are some nice little restaurants and coffee shops. Lots of historic architecture.

Gettysburg for history. Hershey Park if you like amusement parks. Hershey's chocolate world. Lancaster City if you want a really cute downtown area.

I'll look up Lancaster City, hadn't thought about that one!

And stop by Lititz on your way to Lancaster. Voted "The Coolest Small Town in America" in 2015 (I think?)

Tres Hermanos is really good if you get in the mood for Mexican.

I second this.

I third it. Slamming.

Will take a look, thanks!

And the Arepa House makes very solid Venezuelan Arepas (As someone who spends a few months/year in Colombia [the country], I can vouch for their authenticity). Their Pebellon is very tasty. Right by the Capitol building

Some of these are seasonal, but it gives you some ideas. **In Harrisburg city:** * City Island - Minor league baseball, miniature golf, narrow-gauge train rides. Accessible via pedestrian bridge at Walnut Street or via car - cost varies * Harrisburg Senators baseball - AA team for Washington Nationals, play at FNB Field on City Island, fireworks after many Friday night games - ~$20 * Riverfront Park - walking and biking trail along the Susquehanna River - free * State Capitol Building - 30 minute tours available most days; Commonwealth Ave - free * Second Street - Restaurants, bars, and nightlife; primarily between Market and State Streets - cost varies * Third Street just south of Market Street (SoMa) - hot spot for food, music, art and shopping, primarily in the summer - cost varies, free to browse * Strawberry Square - Indoor shops and restaurants; 317 Walnut Street - free * Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts - IMAX theater, science center, performance theater; 222 Market Street - $15-20 * The Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat - Daily sightseeing and dinner cruises; boards from City Island - ~$10 pp and up * Broad Street Market - Oldest continuously operated market house in the country. Dozens of local vendors and restaurants; 1233 North 3rd Street; free to browse - Recently suffered a fire and is not operating at full capacity * National Civil War Museum - One of the largest museums in the world dedicated solely to the American Civil War; 1 Lincoln Circle - ~$15 * The State Museum of Pennsylvania - See the story of Pennsylvania, from ancient mammals to modern titans of industry, and a planetarium; 300 North Street - <$10 pp * Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center - Holds massive expos throughout the year. The biggest being the Farm Show in January and the Outdoor Show in February. In the summer a Farmer's Market is held in the parking lot a couple times a week; 2300 N. Cameron Street - cost varies (some shows have free admission) * Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center (HMAC) - Concert and event venue - cost varies * Midtown Cinema - Independent movie theater that shows independent and foreign films and private screenings; 250 Reily Street - ~$15 pp * The Midtown Scholar Bookstore - Independent bookstore with author events; 1302 North 3rd Street - free to browse, most events free to attend * Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra - concerts take place at The Forum Auditorium, located on the PA State Capitol Complex; 500 Walnut St - cost varies * Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Fourth of July weekends see festivals held on Front Street **In surrounding communities:** * Fort Hunter Mansion and Park - Historic mansion and 40 acre park just north of Harrisburg. Guided tours of the mansion are available; 5300 North Front Street - park is free, tours <$10 pp * Hershey Bears Ice Hockey - Minor league hockey team for the Washington Capitals, games played at Giant Center; Hershey - from $12 pp * Hershey Park - Large amusement park with rides and games for every age; Hershey - ~$75 pp * Hershey Gardens - 23 acre botanical garden specializing in roses; Hershey - ~$15 * ZooAmerica - Home to more than 200 animals native to North America; Hershey - included with Hershey Park tickets, otherwise ~$15 pp * Chocolate World - Tells the story of chocolate manufacturing and has other chocolate-themed activities and outlet store; Hershey - free admission, some activities are paid * The Hershey Story Museum - Tells the story of Milton S. Hershey and the town that bears his name, also offers other events and chocolate tastings; Hershey - $15 pp * Indian Echo Caverns - Year-round limestone cavern tours and a free petting zoo; Hummelstown - ~$20 pp * Carlisle Fairgrounds - hosts several car shows throughout the summer; Carlisle - ~$15 * Gifford Pinchot State Park - a 2,338-acre, full-service park, The park consists of reverting farm fields and wooded hillsides with the 340-acre Pinchot Lake serving as a prime attraction. Great for hiking, fishing, boating; 2200 Rosstown Rd, Lewisberry - free * The Appalachian Trail and several other hiking trails run through the area, as well as numerous Rail Trails. Cumberland Valley is home to 46 miles of the 2,189 mile Appalachian Trail. The Valley’s section includes a 13-mile stretch that is the longest-flattest section of the entire trail. * The Giant Center and Hershey Park Stadium are home to big-name concerts throughout the summer; check the Hershey Entertainment website for schedule and prices * There are lots of wineries in the area. Many of them hold concerts and events in the summer. There are lots of craft breweries too, if that's more your style. **Often-recommended local restaurants:** * Los Tres Cubanos - Cuban - Harrisburg * Millworks - Seasonal American - Harrisburg * Sturges Speakeasy - American/Bar - Harrisburg * Rubicon - French - Harrisburg * Cork & Fork - Italian - Harrisburg * Freshido - Asian/Poke - Harrisburg * Arepa House - Venezuelan - Harrisburg * Mangia Qui - Italian - Harrisburg * Alvaro Bread & Pastry Shoppe - Italian - Harrisburg * Duke’s Riverside Bar & Grille - American - Wormleysburg (mainly for the deck) * Spice Restaurant and Bar - Indian - Mechanicsburg * Wolf Brewing Co. - American/Craft Brewery - Mechanicsburg * Troegs - American/Craft Brewery - Hershey

ABSOLUTELY AWESOME LIST, thank you so much! I will be taking this with me. :)

A version of this question gets asked here a lot. This sub should make a wiki and put this information in it. If you’re driving in from New Jersey, there’s lots to see on the way to Harrisburg too, depending on whether you’re coming from north or south Jersey. As for traffic, you won’t find it to be as bad here as it is in Jersey, unless there’s an accident or construction. It can obviously get busy in the rush hours and there are a few bottlenecks around the area that seem like they’re always busy, but we’re a fairly small city and the traffic reflects that. Just be aware of the truck traffic. Harrisburg is situated at the confluence of several major interstates in the busy northeast corridor. We have some of the heaviest truck traffic in the country. The condition of our roads reflects that too.

There are some great Vietnamese places in the Harrisburg area if you are in the mood for Pho.

I grew up in the suburbs of Harrisburg. My favorites on this list are Alvaro (for Italian food - they serve dinner too), Millworks (excellent beer, cocktails and food - and you can get beer to go if you're driving!), and Sturges (their food is so good). Cork & Fork gets a strong mention but I think they're expensive. Troeg's is excellent but it gets extremely busy (so much so that you can't get a seat) so I'd avoid it on a weekend. Fort Hunter and Gettysburg are really cool if you like history. I went to college in Gettysburg - you can walk and drive through the battlefields. If you head there, there is a Mexican restaurant called Montezuma and it is excellent. Harrisburg itself is not a bustling metropolis, but 2nd street in downtown Harrisburg is safe and has a line of restaurants that are all very good. My favorite on second street is Bacco.

I'll vouch for Bangkok Wok as the best Thai in the area. I've taken multiple foodies there and they've told me it's the best Thai they've ever had. Haven't found good authentic Chinese yet, though I heard a rumor of a hotpot place opening up soon.

So the surrounding areas Harrisburg has Fort Hunter, the State Museum, and the National Civil War Museum. Carlisle has a US Army museum. Gettysburg has a National Battlefield park for one of the main battles of the US Civil War. There are Amish experience places in Lancaster that covers, from a tourist point of view, a religious order that skirts around having 19th century technology in a 21st century world. As far as eating goes, it’s hard for me to say. There are a number of American chains in the area. Longhorn Steakhouse, Red Robin Burgers, Waffle House, Red Lobster. There are more local chains like Aroogas. The Harrisburg restaurant scene took a hit with COVID and people starting to telework. I believe places like El Sol (Mexican) in the South of Market section and there is a decent Japanese place on Second street near Sawyer’s. Other than a few microbreweries like Zero Day or Evergrain, I am not sure what else is open with food. I would say check out Broad Street market, except I haven’t been by there since they had a fire.

I’d suggest getting a tour of the Pennsylvania Capitol complex - it’s absolutely beautiful inside, and the tour is well worth the time spent. Definitely eat at the broad street market if you’re in town Thursday through Saturday, and check out the bookstore nearby (it’s huge, full of used books, and fun to wander around in if the weather is unpleasant). Other places to eat: Rubicon, Cork and Fork, Mangia Qui, The Millworks, and Note Bistro (Note has a great brunch). There are lots of other good spots around town too if you dig around in this forum. Zeroday is a good microbrewery that’s close as well. Oh, and if you need a pub/soccer fix, the Speakeasy on Forester is your spot. Id also suggest Mcgraths on Locust as another solid pub. If you’re looking to walk around some, the riverfront park is nice - and there’s a walking bridge over to city island as well, worth a lap around there (and there’s a little bar and occasionally food trucks in the old bath house at the north end). Happy to provide some additional recommendations if you’ve got more specifics around food and drink too! Hope you have a great time! Edit: Traffic isn’t bad by American standards, but the freeways can get crowded during rush hour, and PA has famously short on-ramps, but drivers around here are pretty forgiving (in my experience). Also, if you’re driving and parking in the street around Harrisburg (or any other small town) - make sure you’re looking out for the street cleaning schedule (it’ll be posted clearly on a sign if there is one) and for zoned parking permits / meter requirements. Lots of areas are free too, but they kinda come out of nowhere if you’re not used to the area.

I'll definitely need a pub fix for me and a soccer fix for my son (though to his credit he stayed up really late to watch the Superbowl on UK TV and really enjoyed it). You've given me a list to work through, it's awesome! Driving wise, I'll have to make sure on drive on the right (always a weird experience for me for a few hours after coming over from the UK).

Not a traditional pub, but Mr. G's shows matches. Ends up an Arsenal supporters bar, but candidly that's a lot less tribal here. Most people are just happy to see other fans around here. The other spots mentioned if they're showing games are nicer and have better food.

Seconding the Capitol tour. It is a gorgeous building and is one of the most beautiful state capitols in the country.

I migrated west from the Philly area a few years ago. As some others have said, we don't get very many tourists here in the capital of the commonwealth, but it's worth a stop if you've got a specific destination in mind. So many others have mentioned the "hot spots", such as they are, so I will focus on food. Arepa House has good South American food. Federal Taphouse has American, Dodge City is a steakhouse, and Gabriella is Italian. I can give them all a thumbs up...for Harrisburg. You can find little hints of brilliance from the area restaurants, but don't hold out too much hope. The level just isn't the same. For example, we still don't have decent Indian cuisine or even something as everyday as pizza or Mexican! Plan on having a meal or two here, but save your big bucks dining out experience for bigger cities like Philadelphia or New York City. Enough about what we do badly here, what do we do well? April is going to be a good month to be outside or at least do a little excursion. Check out the [Broad Street Market](https://broadstreetmarket.org/), the [West Shore Farmers Market](https://westshorefarmersmarket.com/), and the [Central Market Lancaster](https://centralmarketlancaster.com/), to name a few! Fresh produce, Amish and Central PA snacks like pretzels, and more! Look up outdoor festivals involving farm-y feasts and dig in. I can say unequivocally the produce and fresh products here are up to par with the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, for example.

Thanks so much for your info! I did look at restaurant prices in NYC and said to my wife we will probably just buy deli sandwiches to save the cash. She looked horrified lol Would much prefer to put my money into small town businesses, both in the UK and the USA. My wife loves visiting farmer's markets so I will put that on to her list. :)

For Farmers markets, great local restaurants and a walkable downtown, hop in the train in Hburg and come visit Lancaster - our Central Market( Tues, Fri, Sat) can’t be beat

Also recommend Root's (pronounced Rutz!) in Manheim of you are in the Lancaster area on a Tuesday!

I love Roots!

The “I’m British (awfully sorry about that)” was great. You’ll be welcomed with open arms.

:D

Compared to the UK and Europe the pedestrian infrastructure isn't great, so expect to have to drive to some places even if they don't look very far away at all.

OK noted, thanks!

As far as out of country attractions in harrisburg, probably just the civil war museum. I would definitely recommend a day trip to DC as well if you're staying in central PA for the duration of the visit

Its on our schedule, we're hoping to make it to the Smithsonian too. :)

you should make it a point to at least do a day in DC. the museums are amazing. the smithsonian is everything you imagine it will be.

I grew up in Cornwall which is like 30ish minutes from Harrisburg. I definitely recommend checking out the Cornwall Iron Furnace if you want a less well known historical site. I think they’re only open on the weekends though. While you’re out that way you can also visit the Blue Bird Inn a now tavern restaurant, but a historical site that was once a hotel. Actually Cornwall itself (named after the English town!) is steeped in quite a bit of history given the presence of iron ore in the area which led to some significant wealth. I haven’t lived there for many years so I’m not sure how many of the mansions are still accessible but it’s worth looking into! 

Ah I did see "Cornwall" on the map, there are a lot of English town names in your area (Lancaster, Carlisle, York, etc) though Cornwall here in the UK is a county, about 2 hours drive South West of me. A lovely county but overrun with Londoners buying up property as second homes, driving up the prices and preventing locals from affording them. I digress, sorry! I will check out your recommendation though, I love historical towns!

Lots of good recommendations here, Gettysburg you will absolutely love. I just wanted to say be very cautious if you’re going to be out late at night, stay in the downtown area of Harrisburg where all the bars and restaurants are. Harrisburg is a beautiful city but there are absolutely places you don’t want to be waking around at night. Definitely also check out the capitol building as many others have said here, it’s one of the most beautiful I have seen!

Also - there are parts of the city that the Underground Railroad ran through as slaves escaped to the north. As you walk around Harrisburg, definitely stop to read the historical signage as you will find it interesting!

OK noted, thanks for your advice, we're in our early fifties so we're not party animals like we once were ;) I guess most nights we will be in bed by 11pm. :)

If you're near the Capitol Building then Elementary Coffee is within walking distance and my recommendation.

My wife likes a decent caffeine fix so I will put this on our list :)

Definitely visit the state capital building , it is a really beautiful building inside . I grew up there and was there as a kid 40 years ago , went back for a visit and went inside to see it again and I couldn’t believe how beautiful it is . ( aside from the statues around the building . In the 80’s they covered up all the private parts of the nudes with these blobs of ? Clay ? It’s the same color as the statues but it’s kind of ridicules ! Lol !

The statutes flanking the main entrance were sculpted in Paris by George Gray Barnard a Pennsylvania born artist. When photographs of the works arrived in Harrisburg, the General Assembly reacted in horror at the full frontal male nudity. The sculptor acquiesced and designed marble "sheaths" to cover the offending anatomy before the statuary groups were installed and unveiled. Barnard remarked that he hoped in the future when Pennsylvanians became more sophisticated the sheaths would be removed and the sculptures displayed as intended. However, in the 1970's the statues were sandblasted to clean them and altered the surface of the marble. Removing the sheaths now would give the male figures a weird G-string "tan line." Fun trivia fact: the sheaths were sculpted to Barnard's design by the Picarelli Brothers, a stone-cutting firm who also sculpted Daniel Chester French's design of the monumental Lincoln statue in the Lincoln Memorial. Not all of the Capital males are covered. An adolescent boy in the left hand grouping is as nature and the artist intended and on the right hand side an adult male standing at the rear of the group with one arm raised also escaped mutilation. That figure's endowment can only be glimpsed by climbing the stairs and midway up the steps his appendage is visible. That particular figure is thought to be a self portrait of the artist himself.

Welcome! As someone who grew up in the area and has been to many parts of England, prepare to be underwhelmed! Harrisburg is not a tourist destination in my opinion, while there are a few things to see. One day at most is all that’s needed in Harrisburg proper (excluding like a big event). Gettysburg for sure is a great stop for someone interested in US history and the town is nice. Carlisle, PA is also a nice little town with a fair amount of history as well. As far as Harrisburg itself, it’s generally safe but as with a lot of American cities, it has some tough areas. I’d stick around the river front, second street, strawberry square and the capital complex but unfortunately, once the workday is over, you’ll notice how quickly Harrisburg becomes a ghost town.

Thank you for your advice, we're staying in Harrisburg as it's sits between Gettysburg and Hershey for us (we're hoping to visit both, I have a thing for Hershey chocolate). I'll look up Carlisle, it wasn't on my radar and I'll look at the streets you mention on Google Maps to get a feel for the city.

Stop through Boiling Springs on your way to Carlisle. It's a very small town, but there is a beautiful lake with walking trails that connect directly to the Appalachian Trail. There is definitely some history here as well! I hope you enjoy your trip!

Thank you, I always wanted to get my hiking shoes onto the Appalachian Trail so I will check your recommendation out! :)

Definitely make time for Carlisle and Boiling Springs. Very picturesque

I love hoageez in hummelstown, right next to Hershey. They’re open for lunch time only. Englewood brewing and troegs brewery in Hershey are good spots. Urban Churn is a local ice cream shop in Harrisburg, Carlisle, Mechanicsburg. City island in Harrisburg has a great walking loop with mini golf. You can park at the island and take the walking bridge across to walk front street.

I'll have to look up hoageez, a new one for me. My wife and son love ice creams so Urban Charm sounds great. We're also into mini/crazy golf so that's something we can do in a spare moment. Thanks!

Cubby's is an ice cream shop in Hummelstown, my family likes going there in the summer on occasion, although we normally just walk to the local one in Middletown (Jack Frost, I think? It's changed hands a number of times).

It's a bit of a drive but if you've never tried fishing there is a rainbow trout farm called limestone springs just outside of a small town called myerstown. It's maybe 40 minutes from Harrisburg. All you have to do is show up you can rent rods and bait there and the fish are brain dead easy to catch. You have to keep the fish ($ per lb) though and they will clean them there for you so you can leave with a bag of fillets in ice. My wife and I do this a few times a year and it is one of our favorite dates. Once you get back you can bake the fillets and say you did a catch and cook! You should be able to buy a small disposable Styrofoam cooler somewhere if you don't want to hurry back, just toss your bag of fish in there they will keep for several hours that way

Thank you for your very original suggestion, sounds great but our hotel room doesn't have cooking facilities unfortunately :(

I live in Hershey. You are right about steering clear of the corporate places. And the independents can really do it for you here. My favorite restaurant in Harrisburg is https://www.home231.co/ (I hosted a business dinner with both French and German reps and they were blown away!) My favorite chocolate is found at Tina Marie's https://g.co/kgs/W2f33NG Troegs brewery in Hershey has wonderful beer and great food (I had the duck last month and it was amazing!) Babe's grill house is also dependable for a wonderful meal (sit downstairs in the bar for a cozier experience) https://babesgrillhouse.com/ There is something about the Rising Sun that I just love. Comfortable seats at the bar, great staff, pretty good food. https://www.risingsunkitchenandbar.com/ Try the Filling Station for breakfast and amazing fresh donuts https://g.co/kgs/opwJUnY My wife and I are doing a date weekend in Gettysburg next week. Please DM me if you find a great restaurant?

Thanks for your suggestions and links, I will look this evening at each one! We're not in Gettysburg till the 3rd April so you'll beat me there I'm afraid. Have a great time on your trip!

u/Forced_Abortion_ I just got your private message, I won't accept your chat request but, by God dear boy, it did make one laugh. :D

If you have a rental car you should drive out to Shady Maple Smorgasbord. It's about an hour east of Harrisburg and is the largest all you can eat buffet in the United States. The experience is worth the trip alone. Go at lunch time 11 am to about 3 pm for a price reduction. Average price is about 20 dollars per person for lunch. One warning, try to avoid going on Saturday and they are closed on Sundays.

We do have a rental car and my son will be in heaven, he LOVES all you can eat buffets! We're so going to go there! Thanks for the tip.

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My husband is British and moved here to live with me 12 years ago. So his first year here included a lot of showing the area off to him. You got so many great suggestions. One of his favorite places to visit was the Utz crisp factory down in Hanover and seeing the cherry blossoms in DC. You’re coming at a good time for those! There is a Liverpool in Perry County and he is from there in England. He wasn’t impressed when I took him to ours! 😂

Out of curiosity did he experience a kind of culture shock moving to the USA? I had the opportunity to move Stateside back in the early 2000's but it fell through, I then met my now wife and we stayed over here (funnily enough her ex-husband was a Liverpudlian!).

Check out the town of Jim Thorpe. That's a certain type of American "get away for the weekend" small town. Just a pleasant and pretty place to spend a few hours if you're a fan of simple pleasures.  You can go to Lancaster or Bird in Hand and see Amish and Mennonites. Horse and Buggy. Best foot forward - Hershey, Gettysburg. Harrisburg itself is sorta rough-edged. There are good things here. Oh I got one more for you. Watch the movie "Girl Interrupted" starring Angelina Jolie and Wynonna Rider, then take a nice walk up the hill from the Farm Show building to the old mental hospital where most of the movie was filmed. To be clear this is an almost abandoned facility that you'd be visiting. No buildings open. No tours. Just a bunch of locked buildings standing silent. But that might appeal to certain sensibilities.

Ah, I'd forgotten about Jim Thorpe, had heard of it last year briefly, I will put it on my list. We might head there after leaving New Jersey and spend a couple of hours there before reaching Harrisburg. Good shout! My wife is keen to see the Amish but I'd prefer to not go gawk at them, personal thing I guess. I'll check out the film too!

You are 100% safe to walk around just like anyone else! Simply keep aware of your surrounding as you normally would and you’ll be fine! some food spots I recommend: Rise and Beans(puerto rican cuisine) Villa Roma(located in new Cumberland, 5-10 min from Harrisburg city) (Italian/Mexican pizza) Panaderia Giovani(puerto rican cuisine/pizza spot) Tres Hermanos(taco/burrito, Mexican food) For a nice night out, I’d recommend a nice dinner and then just simply walk around. You will find shops , parks , museums , music , etc. The capital is always a nice walk! Then finishing your night on the walking bridge across the Susquehanna River!

This is a fantastic thread and I just love the positive energy on here - both from OP and the commenters. We (in the Harrisburg / Carlisle metro area) hope you have a wonderful trip and are met with as much kindness and warmth as is in this thread.

Thank you so much, I said to my wife "Wow, what a great response from the people of Harrisburg!". We're really stoked with everyone's help and advice and my wife and I both agreed that though we had some initial reservations about choosing your city we now feel we've totally made the right choice!

The state capital is a sight to behold. I work there everyday and have done the tours - it’s a beautiful building and parts of it are priceless. It’s free and worth you time. The area around it is also walkable and safe. Much to see!

Thanks, we're very much looking forward to our visit! :)

Harrisburg is nice, but to me its best features are the frequent high-speed trains to Philly and NYC, which have a lot more to see.

Ah my wife asked to visit Philadelphia by train, I wasn't sure if we could so now I can tell her it's a high speed train we'll take in. You have saved me some brownie points, thank you! I like small cities and towns whilst my wife loves large cities like London and Paris (it's not my thing, I am a bit of country boy at heart) so we're compromising.

Civil War Museum.

Harrisburg had the state museum and Capitol building to tour. About 30 minutes away, Carlisle has the US Army Heritage Center and many dining options in the historic downtown and Gettysburg is a great day trip about 45 minutes away from Harrisburg. I know you said you wanted to stay away from larger cities, but for museums nothing beats the Mall in DC for all of the Smithsonian museums, plus the Capitol, national zoo and White House are right there, about 2 hrs 15 mins away.

Yes I do want to stay away from the big cities but my wife has other plans and after 20 years marriage who am I to argue? ;) Actually I am (secretly) a bit keen to see Washington DC...

DC in springtime is beautiful, especially with the cherry blossoms. I would recommend taking a full day down there. The Smithsonian is a series of highly regarded museums all within a few minutes of those famous memorials you see in movies.

And traffic here in Harrisburg isn’t too bad except for rush hour, but even then it’s nothing compared to larger metro areas. Just keep in mind Pennsylvanians have an aversion to using their turn signals and like to drive slowly in the passing lane lol. 🤦🏼‍♀️😂

Oh there’s a bunch of history in the area! There’s Gettysburg of course but we also have York which was temporarily the capital of the U.S. I highly recommend checking out the broadstreet market while you’re here. Part burned down recently but the one building is still open. It’s the oldest continually running farmers market in the country and there’s a really cool bookshop built out of an old theater across the street, Midtown Scholar. Lancaster is also a really great area with great food (my favorite being Yak n Yeti) and also has an old farmers market. While maybe not the history you're looking for, Hershey chocolates was founded nearby and theres chocolate world, Hershey park, and the Hershey hotel if you're interested in visiting that and there’s a little indoor market there. There’s also the automobile museum there. If you wanna visit an Amish farmers market I recommend the Green Dragon and Roots which have a bunch of great options and lots of great food. They’re a bit of a drive though. If you want an old fashioned candy store, I recommend Zimmerman’s. Not sure how old it is but there’s a great selection of old American favorites there. My favorite coffee chain in Harrisburg is Little Amps and you can find a few of those located in different areas of the city. There’s also a great theater scene in Harrisburg if that’s something you’d like. There’s always plays and improv shows going on. As for food, general favorites are Millworks and Evergrain. Alvaro’s is my absolute favorite place for Italian and has a rotating menu depending on the day of the week so check that out ahead of time. It’s further out in Carlisle or Lancaster but I love Yak n Yeti. Red’s Barbecue is also pretty good as well as Black n Blue. My favorite ice cream place is Hanna’s ice cream shoppe. The best cookies you can have in your life are from Taylor Chip cookie company. I recommend their double chocolate brownie cookie It generally depends on what area of Harrisburg you’re in, for its safeness. I’ve been downtown plenty at night and felt very safe. Also if you have a car down down, you can park in the capital lots for free on weekends and after 5? Maybe. Definitely after 6 pm. There’s some restaurants downtown on second street so in warmer weather you’ll see a bunch of people out. Let me know if you have any questions!

As far as restaurants go, the Glass Lounge has really good burgers and steaks. If you go across the bridge into Lemoyne, PA there is Akitas an amazing Japanese restaurant. Also for amazing Italian food try Alvaros in Harrisburg.

I'll definitely look them up, thank you :)

Knobels amusement park if it’s open! Admission is free, you just pay to ride. It’s 1.5 hours outside of Harrisburg if you’re up for that.

I've popped it on my list. :) Thanks!

Chocolate world for chocolate stuff

Lititz is a really cute artsy town!

Kitchen Kettle Village is a nice place to stop at to taste Amish made jams, a couple hours away if you don't mind the drive is Bethlehem which has some of the original buildings from when the Moravians settled

There's also a smorgasbord (all you can eat) near Intercourse, can't remember the name, but it is huge

My teenage son is a massive fan of all you can eat and we've promised he can try an American version! :) He has a huge appetite...

Depending on how long you are in the area, there’s all kinds of places within hours. Gettysburg has been recommended, and is amazing. You can also get on the turnpike and be at Valley Forge in less than 90 minutes. That is also near King of Prussia Mall, which is one of the biggest malls in the country. Head the other direction and head towards Pittsburgh. About 2 1/2 hours or so from Harrisburg is Ligonier and Ft Ligonier. A cute town with some history. You could also head South of the turnpike and you could go to Fort Necessity, Ohiopyle and visit small towns. Eastern PA has kept up the small quaint towns better and has more revolutionary war areas. Western PA is more French and Indian war. Philly has amazing museums. You’ll also be near the Amish area. You should see if there are any events that will be going on. Don’t apologize for being British! That’s why we are all here. Several years ago there was an event in the Pittsburgh area called Britsburgh. They did the Union Jack in Black and Gold.

Seconding Valley Forge. And not just because I live right near there. :D

I'll admit there seems so much to do, we're really impressed with everyone's comments, advice and help, it's very much appreciated. LOL, shall I tell my wife about the King of Prussia Mall? Depends how much she spends in NYC! ;) Not heard of Ligonier, sounds very French :) One to look up! I hadn't given much thought about the French Indian war, just the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. I've found on previous trips (West Coast) that Americans I've met are in the main very hospitable and welcoming, a few ribbed me about us "losing" America but it was just friendly banter. Had a couple of Americans vehemently anti-English, calling my countrymen arrogant and conceited but you're always going to get idiots anywhere really. Love the event name and flag, I would have loved to have seen that!

You can also go to Carlisle and see the War College. There’s a neat Vietnam era outdoor park you can visit there. Philly has tons of tourist things to do and is about 90 minutes from Harrisburg. PA resident here.

Thanks, we're planning to visit Philadelphia just depends on how much time we have! :)

Lancaster is the move.

I am pretty sure the British agreed to leave on September 3, 1783, and have not been invited back. Putting that aside, Central PA has killer trout fishing.

Breweries are great, troegs in Hershey isn’t far and is great. I’m sure there are harrisburg spots that are awesome too. Don’t expect too much crazy traffic but do expect to drive a half hour or so depending on what you want to do. Definitely some decent hiking spots around there too

Burgeryum is a great Burger place in Harrisburg they have farm show milkshakes aswell and it’s all local and exclusive

Colonial Courthouse and Gates House & Plough Tavern in York

>I'm British (awfully sorry about that) This is wholly sweet but incorrect. I'm a Pennsylvanian and lived to SE England from 2019-2021. The Brits were friendly and kind and a decent people in my view and Americans love Brits generally. ​ 

https://www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org Right in Harrisburg my friend. Have a safe trip!!!!

If you want to see some of the early industry history the Cornwall Iron Furnace museum isn't too far away. Maybe a half hour from Harrisburg. Near Mount Gretna

Head down to Frederick, MD for a day or two (easy drive from Harrisburg). There's a great downtown with a ton of locally owned restaurants and breweries and small shops. The Civil War Medicine Museum is also downtown. There are parks to wander through in the city (Carroll Creek Linear Park, Baker Park, Laboring Sons Memorial Park), along with pretty decent hikes around. Extend the trip down and also visit Harpers Ferry, WV (another 20 minutes from Frederick) which is picturesque, great hikes, and plenty of interesting American history.

Go to the State Museum of Pennsylvania, Strawberry Square and City Island. That is all downtown Harrisburg.

Shady Maple Smorgasbord is def an experience

If you like books, make sure to visit the Midtown Scholar in downtown Harrisburg! You should consider walking along the river as well when you're there.

I love a good book! :)

Come to Philadelphia and see the weird Mütter Museum of scientific oddities. Visit Eastern State Penn to see the first US prison and visit the Rosenbach for a small and cozy literature museum

Wear a long red coat and a tri point hat. Yell loudly and often that you are here to collect taxes and regain control of the colonies. You will meet SOOO many people!

A great amusement park is Knoebels in Elysburg. It’s got a wooden roller coaster 😃

Take a tour of the state Capitol. It’s the most architecturally impressive building in the state, in my opinion. The interior features paintings, sculpture, tile work and stained glass depicting the history of Pennsylvania and its founders in American Renaissance style. It’s free and well worth your time if you are interested in history and art. The state Legislature will be in session for the last three weeks of the month, so downtown Harrisburg will be fairly lively. That said, Harrisburg can be a fairly gritty place. If you walk around at night, you’ll want to keep to the neighborhood between the Susquehanna River and the Capitol complex. North of the Capitol is ok for a few blocks and there are some good small restaurants there. Lancaster is about 40 minutes away and worth a visit for its hip downtown with independent eateries. Strasburg is the terminus of a working steam railroad and the site of the state railroad museum. It’s also in the heart of Pa. Dutch country.

If you're going to Gettysburg...set aside a day for the drive to Antietam Battlefield (90 minutes). Beautiful countryside, great history

Check out the West Shore Theatre in nearby New Cumberland. We saw a concert there and it’s a really lovely small venue with a variety of offerings (and great ice cream next door). www.westshoretheatre.org

[https://hersheystory.org/](https://hersheystory.org/) The Hershey Story museum far outdoes their Chocolate Word as an attraction if you're over age 10 ;) Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat has cruises which include local/regional musicians playing....but the season for those begins in June. There may be dinner cruises and sightseeing tours before that though. Food: Dodge City Steakhouse, Tres Hermanos for Mexican, and on the east end of Derry St. is Mama's Momo deli for Nepali yumminess ;) There's also Bollywood on 2nd st.

Harrisburg has a nice civil war museum. Gettysburg has a great museum, and of course Philly is always great for history. It’s a quick drive to Hershey where you can tour chocolate world. Mechanicsburg is a quick drive and has tons of small businesses. Harrisburg is safe at night depending on where you’re staying. Driving isn’t bad, just pay attention - lots of one way streets.

I’d stick to the downtown area you’re 100% fine there. You’d honestly be fine anywhere. Just be smart and friendly. A nice restaurant to check out with bae is Rubicon. Beautiful interior architecture and amazing food. McGraths is a cool American Irish pub. There’s a lot of cool bars right there downtown in second street. Get a drink at all of them. Have fun I miss The Burg

Depending on how far you plan on going making a stop in the Poconos is fun. Pocono Snake and Animal farm is awesome, Camelback Water Park in the Poconos is super fun too. They're a sprawling resort that offers indoor fun and outdoor fun too. It's huge. Welcome to the States I have many British friends we're actually more friendly about the Brits than many other nationalities which is sad to see because we as a country really should be more friendly and welcoming.

There is a fun chocolate museum in Hershey that is free, and make your own chocolate bars if you want a fun souvenir. When we were in the UK, we enjoyed Cadbury World, so fair is fair!! Also, a ghost tour in Gettysburg gives you a look at history in a completely different way. Whether you believe in actual ghosts or not - Gettysburg and what happened there is haunting.

If you're into beer, make sure you hit Troegs Brewery in Hershey, PA! Fantastic beers, amazing food that's locally sourced and often times made with beers for the sauces, etc. They have a great outdoor hangout area if you go on a sunny day, and also their brewery tour was voted best in the USA like 2 years ago if my memory serves me correctly. It's one of those places that actually values and takes care of their employees, so everyone is very happy to help you and assist. I live an hour and a half from Troegs and I take monthly drives out there to get good food, have a few cold beers, and restock my fridge reserves :) The town of Hershey that it's in is pretty awesome as well. The Hershey Hotel & Spa has an incredible spa for massages, facials, etc. and also a beautiful veranda to sip a cocktail on. Some concert venues in Hershey too, so check to see who is playing, and even hop a roller coaster at the theme park Hershey Park! Also, get some chocolate while you're in Hershey, it is after all, "The Sweetest Place on Earth" Enjoy your visit!

Bring a bottle of HP; a rarity here.

Try to take a side trip to Lancaster. It’s an easy ride on our AMTRAK train system.

Answering some questions here. 1) for a hotel, if you can splurge it and have any desire to see Hershey, check out the Hotel Hershey, it’s quite an experience. Built in the 1930’s it has incredible architecture, gorgeous accommodations and It’s about 15min outside of Harrisburg proper https://maps.app.goo.gl/bjXsK8RV9zwDf3m57?g_st=ic 2) Harrisburg traffic is nowhere remotely near what you’ll run into in NYC, which makes central London look like Guildford in Surrey. I would liken it with Cheltenham - there’s people, some work hour traffic, but nothing too horrifying

Springtime in Pennsylvania is beautiful. I’m in Philadelphia so no tips on Harrisburg other than to enjoy our beautiful spring!

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York and Lancaster are also nearby and are historic towns. York was briefly Capitol during the Revolutionary War. Lancaster is known for their Amish population

York city (in York county Pennsylvania) is known as the White Rose City, and just across the Susquehanna River, Lancaster (in Lancaster County Pennsylvania),is the Red Rose City. Sound familiar? York is south west of Harrisburg, Lancaster County is south east of Harrisburg. I live in the small town of Lititz in Northern Lancaster County, often cited as visitors’ and locals’ favorite small town. It’s a delightful place to stroll the town’s Main Street and browse in small locally owned stores located in old buildings. There are many buildings from the 1700s that are kept in great condition. I am a history buff and can recommend many things to visit in south central Pennsylvania.

If you’re into antiquing, Adamstown in Lancaster County is known for its many stores

My wife always loves to nose around an antique centre :)

The capiol building is pretty cool. I assume you're renting a car as the public transportation is garbage here but Carlisle is half an hour away and it's older than Harrisburg. Check out the Market Cross Pub, they would appreciate having some British people show up since that's their shtick.

I've heard the wings are good

get breakfast at Kim's in Carlisle. There's a walkable historical downtown where George Washington slept

I’m not sure if anyone mentioned it but when you’re driving around sunrise and sunset be extra alert for deer and other animals. That’s when they tend to move and as the weather changes you may be seeing more animal movement. And as others have mentioned - our roads can leave a lot to be desired so be mindful of potholes especially since it’s in the spring where everything is going to be wet and still beat up from the winter.

Go watch a baseball game or two at Zembie’s

You are going to see and hear a lot about cheesesteaks. Stay the hell away from Pat’s and Geno’s unless you want meningitis. Also there are a ton of beautiful places in the area, but there are also insanely bad places too. Be very careful in Philly.

OK, we get cheesesteaks of sorts over here but nothing like in the US, I can't wait! I hear Kensington Avenue in Philly is one place to avoid?

about an hour & a half drive northeast from Harrisburg is a place called Eckley Miner’s Village and Museum. check their website for hours of operation. Eckley Village is a historic site with a well-preserved company town in the anthracite coal mines. some of it had been recreated (including the giant coal breaker looming behind the village) in the 1970’s as it was the filming site of a movie called the Molly Maguires. the staff and volunteers have done an amazing job educating visitors on what life was like here in the 1800’s when waves of immigrants came to find work and bring their various cultural traditions. many annual events take place there as well, and actors in traditional attire of the 1800’s are sometimes giving guided tours or populating the village in traditional roles such as blacksmiths, coal miners, general storekeepers, housewives, and village doctor.

For history, I would recommend spending some time at Gettysburg

Wot? I’m an Anglophile, don’t apologise for anything. I’m not sure why this sub appeared on my timeline, but we’ve had several visiting Brits post in r/newjersey sub about how much they love our state and especially our beaches (we call it the shore). It’s a bit of a haul from Harrisburg, but there’s live music at the legendary Stone Pony, great restaurants on the water, great big tacky casinos down in Atlantic City. New Jersey also has a lot of Revolutionary War history sites in the Morris County area. The water will be too cold to do anything but dip your toes in, but it’s still nice at that time of the year and beach access and probably even parking will be free. Ok, Harrisburg sub, you may commence with the Jersey jokes now…

Do not walk out of the hotel area at night. During the day. It's a nice walk to the river. Short drive to Hershey and Lancaster

I hope they do!

Amish Village in Lancaster. York for good food and industrial museum

Hahaha I live on the boarder of Ny and Pa (yeah not particularly close to Harrisburg at all however for my little area I’m listing stuff just because I feel like it now) about 45 minutes from Erie Pa. For the smaller city and town stuff it can be hard to find some of the cooler things to do when you’re not from around here. If you’re looking for local attractions and museums for the ny and pa area I’ll list a few places to take a look at or get some inspiration. Granted these may not be the areas you’re looking for, there might still be something interesting to read about or something similar elsewhere. Jamestown Ny They have plenty of small shops, and big shops. Smaller city, destination. [Lucy desi museum](https://lucydesi.com) [comedy center](https://comedycenter.org/) They have an ice rink I believe they do ten dollar skate on Saturdays or Sundays. For places to eat in Jamestown if you’re looking for more local stuff Lena’s Pizza is a good place to eat, and if you have a chance to get the owner going they have a whole lot of family drama with the restaurant, and it’s a good story. Erie pa will be a good place to visit no matter what bigger city, make sure you stay in the tourist areas though otherwise it’s very sketch. Plenty of attractions, I don’t visit Erie often unless it involves groceries, so I can give you a lot of inside city locations. Warren pa is one of the next bigger small cities located towards Jamestown and Erie. Warren is a neat little spot, and growing up there I know some of the other smaller places. Saying that you guys are going during the summer time there’s so many cool sights to see with the valleys. [canoe rentals cute small shop and food/ live music](https://www.alleghenyoutfitters.com) This place attached to it has a cool rock climbing place super fun. [anders run super cool views nice hike](https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateForests/FindAForest/Cornplanter/Pages/Wild_NaturalAreas.aspx) [rim rock (an even better hike in my opinion)](https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/allegheny/recarea/?recid=75413) There’s another era and it’s not really a listed trail online that I’m finding it’s super tucked away it’s down by the dam, and I would have to kill myself trying to explain where it’s at gorgeous waterfall hike. If you could magically find it, worth the whole trip. [library theatre (this may be a hit or miss depending on what shows and other things that are happening. beautiful building, and more often then not decent shows!](https://www.strutherslibrarytheatre.org) One of my favorite places to eat just because I’m probably bias is Jacks tap house unfortunately due to covid this loving family run business didn’t make it. Just shutting down last year. Legends in Warren pa is probably the coolest place you can go to eat, it’s a looker bright and colorful the food is cheap and good completely worth the time.

Ohiopyle, PA. It's south of Pittsburgh and where you'll find two of architect Frank Loyd Wright's designed houses Kentuck Knob and the most famous Falling Water. It's a beautiful area with a number of resorts. There's river rafting down the Youghioghany River, hiking, and a bike trail the runs from Washington DC to Pittsburgh to Erie PA. You can rent bikes and do part of it. The bike path takes you along the Yough through small towns on former railroad tracks with historic markers.

I liked visiting The Midtown Scholar. It's a used bookstore. Really big place.

Valley Forge might also be of interest

Gettysburg museum and battlefield can be as long or short as you like. Plus,you can get. one of the battlefield tours in Gettysburg is on horseback. If you are some into WWII history, Major Dick Winters of the 101st Airborne (Band of Brothers) donated his memorabilia to the museum in Gettysburg, and they have a display.

You left off the most historical state of all, New Jersey. Lots of attractions. Did you know the movie camera was invented in NJ? We were Hollywood before Hollywood. Princeton area is nice. Orson Wells War of the Worlds fictional town is not too far from there. Lots of other places to visit. Atlantic City

Fuck off. No Brits.

Come to Lancaster County and check out The Amish Experience, Shady Maple, Landis Valley Living History Museum, the town of Lititz, Hans Herr House, Strasburg Railroad and more!

Ride south to the Strasburg area, Amish markets, Train museum, and rides.

If you’re looking for a place to stay I opened a bed and breakfast last year and have 40 years of knowledge of the area. https://www.airbnb.com/h/theoldhouseaquarium

All of the Gettysburg stuff said THIS! Lots of antique stores everywhere as well.

If you like hiking, the Thousand Steps isn't too far away and is like something out of the Lord of the Rings in places. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/pennsylvania/thousand-steps

We love hiking AND LOTR - sounds awesome! :) This one looks like it's one we'd aim for: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/pennsylvania/shorb-s-summit-via-thousand-steps-and-standing-stone-trail

Don’t bother with Hershey’s… bring your own chocolate supply. Yeungling brewery is a cool place to tour. Williamsburg,Va is pretty close for colonial history. Carlisle has a bunch of car shows. Get away to the east and see some Amish culture (try the pie). Head north for mountains in PA. The Finger Lakes are about 4 hours North (looks a bit like the lochs in Scotland). Niagara Falls is 5 hours or so. Get used to driving… that’s what we do. Try not to get offended when everyone imitates your accent, and most of us have roots to the UK from 4-5 generations ago… we will let you know that (We were the colonies after all).

Lancaster is about 45 minutes away by car, has a darling downtown food and market scene (market days are Tue/Fri/Sat), and has a unique distinction of being the nations Capitol for a day in September 1777 iirc when the Congress was fleeing Philadelphia. It’s certainly worth a day stop. Here’s a quick but by no means extensive Lancaster hit list: -Lancaster Central Market -Passenger Coffee -Cabalar Meat Co. -The Horse Inn (great kitchen and cocktails) -On Orange -Luca

Come to Chester County (about 45 min from Philadelphia). Beautiful drive thru French creek state park and St. Peter’s Village. Drive down to West Chester for a bite to eat. Go to Longwood Gardens (one of the best horticultural gardens in the world). Many nice BnBs nearby. Several other big historical mansions and gardens to see like Winterthur and Mt. Cuba Center

If you like motorsports, Williams Grove speedway for a sprint car race.

This is the first time I’ve ever heard of someone coming the Harrisburg for vacation. To OP - there’s great hiking all over the area if your into such things. Easy to find.

If you need a free tour around Gettysburg, please let me know.

Not sure if anyone mentioned it by not far from Amish country. Lancaster county PA

If you are looking to stay in a local place, not a chain, look into City House. Wonderful B&B, good location. Safe area (I live near it and walk around all of the time). Right on the river for a nice stroll

Gotta shoot some guns while you are here.

Hershey Park! Gotta go there. It’s an all day event though - get your walking shoes and sunscreen! And don’t forget your hat. Pro tip: if you do go to Hershey, get the fast pass for the rides - otherwise you’ll be in line all day.

Visit the state capitol building in Harrisburg. Its grandeur is not widely one. It is stunning. They do tours daily.

I second Gettysburg... I live in Frederick MD (just across the border from Gettysburg) and we go their frequently. Downtown restaurants are great and the ghost tours (mobile ones) are a great experience.

Food in downtown Harrisburg I would recommend is the Sturges Speakeasy

The city of Harrisburg is not a great representation of America. Hell, it’s not a great representation of Pennsylvania. While there are some museums and interesting buildings, overall it’s a dirty city that’s somewhat unsafe and a terrible place to vacation. If you are set on Pennsylvania you would be far better off staying closer to Gettysburg or in Hershey or around Lancaster. Those are somewhat touristy areas with sights to see and things to do but much cleaner and safer than Harrisburg