Family-Friendly Itinerary for Harrisburg

Saturday, October 21, 2023: Exploring Downtown Harrisburg

Start your family-friendly journey in downtown Harrisburg, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of the city. In the morning, head to the State Capitol building for a guided tour and marvel at its stunning architecture. Afterward, make a stop at the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, an interactive museum featuring educational exhibits and a digital cinema. For lunch, try some local flavors at The Millworks, a unique restaurant housed in a former industrial space that also showcases local art.

• State Capitol: Free guided tours available, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts: Entrance fee: $15 per adult, $11 per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• The Millworks: Estimated cost for lunch: $15-25 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Riverfront Park. Enjoy the scenic views of the Susquehanna River and let the kids play in the splash pad or explore the playgrounds. As the evening sets in, head to City Island for some family-friendly fun at City Island Arcade or a relaxing boat ride on the paddlewheel riverboat, Pride of the Susquehanna.

• Riverfront Park: Free admission, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• City Island: Costs vary depending on activities chosen, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 22, 2023: Outdoor Adventures and Culture

On your second day, embrace the natural beauty around Harrisburg. Start with a visit to Wildwood Park, a picturesque nature reserve. Take a leisurely hike on the park's trails, enjoy birdwatching, and explore the Benjamin Olewine III Nature Center for educational exhibits on local flora and fauna.

• Wildwood Park: Free admission, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Afterward, head to the National Civil War Museum to learn about the pivotal role Harrisburg played during the Civil War. Explore the museum's vast collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and immersive presentations.

• National Civil War Museum: Entrance fee: $15 per adult, $9 per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours

For lunch, visit Broad Street Market, one of the oldest continuously operating farmers' markets in the country. Enjoy a variety of food stalls offering delectable treats from different cuisines.

• Broad Street Market: Estimated cost for lunch: $10-20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

In the afternoon, make your way to Fort Hunter Mansion and Park, a historic site with beautiful gardens and a museum. Explore the mansion, which showcases artifacts from the 1800s, and take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque park.

• Fort Hunter Mansion and Park: Entrance fee: $5 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Looking for off-the-beaten-path attractions? Check out Hershey Gardens, located just a short drive from Harrisburg. This picturesque botanical garden offers stunning displays of flowers, including a breathtaking butterfly atrium. Another family-friendly gem is ZooAmerica, adjacent to Hersheypark. Explore the zoo to encounter native North American species, including bears, wolves, and interesting reptiles.