Although it is often overshadowed by larger and more populous cities in the state, Harrisburg is the prominent capital of Pennsylvania, and stands as a unique and thriving city. Harrisburg lies on the east banks of the Susquehanna River and is nestled along the Cumberland Valley. It also enjoys stunning views of the Blue Mountain Ridge, which is part of the Appalachian Mountains.
Harrisburg is a centre for the region's arts and culture and offers all of the pleasures of an urban metropolis, while still maintaining the warmth and charisma of Pennsylvania. The city is graced with a colour and intriguing history, and the multiple places to visit and exciting events make this a great place to spend your next car hire family holiday.
1. The Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is one of the country's most famous treks and passes through Pennsylvania, just north-east of Harrisburg. This stunning trail follows the ridge crests and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning views of surrounding cities and landscapes.
This truly is the 'People's Path' and "America's First National Scenic Trail". It stretches for a total of 2,175 miles and spans across 14 of the eastern states. The section near Harrisburg is perfect for a day of hiking and will allow you to get back in touch with nature!
2. The State Museum of Pennsylvania
Every state must have a museum to document its history and heritage, and the State Museum of Pennsylvania is located in no other than Harrisburg. The museum covers all aspects of Pennsylvania history and is home to many significant collections that relate to some of America's most well known events. The artefacts that are housed in this museum represent the foundations of American industry, giving visitors an idea of the country's great triumphs. This 4-storey institution demonstrates Pennsylvania's past and present and offers the perfect historical experience.
3. Susquehanna Art Museum
For all those art and culture lovers out there, the Susquehanna Art Museum is sure to please. This art gallery regards itself as a 'museum without walls' and features some of the country's most unique and interesting artworks.
Featuring four season exhibits each year, the museum is continuously changing, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Harrisburg. The art museum "exhibits, interprets, and preserves art to educated, inspire and enrich the public" Visitors can view the work of nationally and internationally recognised artists and gain a true appreciation of fine art.
4. Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
For a taste of history and nature, all in the one place, you simply cannot go past the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park. The park enjoys magnificent views of the Susquehanna River and the Blue Mountains, and is a perfectly pleasant place to spend an afternoon. Take a guided tour of the stunning mansion, pay a visit to the Tavern House or barns, and take a leisurely stroll to the Covered Bridge.
The park also provides beautiful recreational facilities that embrace the mansion and estate-style grounds. There are also exciting activities on offer such as the archaeological excavations taking place, to uncover the remains of the French and Italian war fort. It is fun activities such as this that make the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park an essential to add to your Harrisburg itinerary.
5. Pennsylvania Farm Show
If you are in town, mid-January, I would definitely recommend that you pay a visit to the Pennsylvania Farm Show. This is the largest indoor agricultural event held in the United States, and draws in about 400,000 visitors annually. This year's theme is 'Keep Pennsylvania Growing' and this will be extremely evident through the countless animals and displays that will be on exhibit. Visitors will have the chance to see nearly 6,000 animals and 10,000 competitive exhibits, with the baby chicks a family favourite.
Christine Barton
