Harrisburg is a state capital with flare
Harrisburg, the leading city in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, has long been one America's truly fascinating state capitals. Aside from the landmark buildings, it's steeped in Civil War history, and comes with acclaimed military museums to prove it. It's also just on the cusp of beautiful Appalachia, which means wooded hills and misty ridges for the walkers. And that's not even mentioning the sweeter delights of Hersheypark, where the twisting rollercoasters and splashing slides are all in the name of America's favorite chocolate. Harrisburg vacation rentals are your ticket to all that and more…
Capitol buildings and chocolate in Harrisburg
No visit to Harrisburg could possibly be complete without at visit to the glorious State Capitol Building, which looms above the Susquehanna River with its majestic domes and facades for all to see. From there, be sure to break out to Hersheypark, where the whole family can screech on the rollercoasters and ride the carousels while munching on chocolate. The famous Susquehanna Art Museum is also not to be missed, especially on account of its world-famous array of touring exhibits showcasing everything from the avant-garde to urban street art.
Harrisburg offers state history and hills
Start your visit to Harrisburg with a guided tour of the glorious State Capitol, where the gilded domes and Renaissance architecture is surely enough to make you gasp. Art walks and riverside parks occur all down the meanders of the Susquehanna River, while the American MusicFest erupts on the 4th July, and Pennsylvania's largest LGBT Pride puts the party into overdrive come midsummer. Excursions to totemic sights like Gettysburg and the Amish farms of Lancaster are also possible, and the rising peaks of Appalachia and the Blue Mountain beckon anyone who's eager to hit the American trails.
Getting hot in Harrisburg
If you're eager to ride the lazy rivers of Hersheypark and wonder up at the Pennsylvania State Capitol without shivering, then be certain to book your Harrisburg vacation rentals for the summer months between May and August. That's when the weather here is at its best – think long, sunny, dry days with temperatures in the high 70s to mid-80s. If you want to hold off until the main holidays are over, then fall – in September and October - is also a beautiful time to visit Appalachia – think forests that change color and crisp fresh air.
Exploring the natural landscape of Harrisburg
Whether you're an adventurous traveler or just want to appreciate the scenery, Harrisburg is a great place to get outside. These are some of the area's most stunning natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- City Island (1.2 mi / 2 km)
- Riverfront Park (1.3 mi / 2.1 km)
- Hershey Gardens (12.3 mi / 19.8 km)
- Lake Tobias Wildlife Park (15.9 mi / 25.6 km)
- Susquehanna River (1.8 mi / 3 km)
- Wildwood Park (3.1 mi / 5 km)
Transportation to and around Harrisburg
Fly into Harrisburg Intl. Airport (MDT), the closest airport, located 8.7 mi (14 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Harrisburg, PA (HAR-Capital City), which is 4 mi (6.4 km) away.
If you'd prefer to travel by train, you can make your way to Harrisburg Transportation Center.
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