
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Broad Street Market
A historic public market established in 1854, offering local produce, unique eateries, and artisanal goods.
- Historic Significance: One of the oldest continuously operating markets in the U.S.
- Culinary Variety: Features a variety of ethnic foods and specialty vendors.
- Community Gathering Space: Serves as a hub for local events, classes, and live music performances.
2. City Island
A small, residential island on the Susquehanna River offering unique riverfront homes and a scenic view of Harrisburg.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers panoramic views of the Susquehanna River and downtown Harrisburg.
- Residential Experience: Provides a glimpse into unique riverfront living in Harrisburg.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities.
3. Rail Trail Cafe
A unique cafe located along the Susquehanna Valley Rail Trail, offering coffee, snacks, and bike rentals.
- Bike-Friendly: Adjacent to the Susquehanna Valley Rail Trail, perfect for a post-ride refreshment.
- Coffee and Snacks: Serves fresh coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
- Bike Rentals: Offers bike rentals for exploring the rail trail.
4. Governor's Residence Park
A historic park that hosts Pennsylvania's official governor's residence and offers guided tours.
- Historic Architecture: Showcases Victorian-era architecture and elegant gardens.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the governor's residence and grounds.
- Pennsylvania History: Provides insights into Pennsylvania's political history.
5. National Civil War Museum
A world-class museum dedicated to the American Civil War, featuring interactive exhibits and artifacts.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes immersive experiences such as a live telegraph station.
- Artifact Collection: Houses an extensive collection of Civil War artifacts and uniforms.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for both adults and children.
6. Millworks
A creative hub featuring art studios, shops, restaurants, and live performances.
- Artistic Atmosphere: Offers a unique blend of art, culture, and creativity.
- Local Shops and Restaurants: Features a variety of local businesses including shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Live Performances: Hosts live music, theater, and dance performances.
7. Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
A historic mansion surrounded by a park, offering guided tours, exhibits, and events.
- Historic Architecture: Features a Victorian-era mansion and beautiful gardens.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the mansion and exhibits.
- Events and Programs: Hosts events such as concerts, festivals, and historical reenactments.
8. Broad Street Art Gallery
A non-profit gallery showcasing contemporary art, workshops, and classes.
- Contemporary Art: Features rotating exhibitions of contemporary artwork.
- Workshops and Classes: Offers workshops and classes for all skill levels.
- Community Engagement: Provides opportunities for community engagement through art.
9. City Adams Memorial Park
A memorial park honoring soldiers who lost their lives in WWI, offering a peaceful and scenic respite.
- Historical Significance: Dedicated to the memory of Harrisburg soldiers who served in WWI.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a serene, park-like setting along the Susquehanna River.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational resources and programs about WWI.
10. Strawberry Square
A unique urban park featuring shops, restaurants, and events in a beautiful setting.
- Urban Park Experience: Offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and green space in the heart of Harrisburg.
- Shopping and Dining: Features a variety of retail shops and restaurants.
- Community Events: Hosts community events, concerts, and farmers markets.
11. Capital Area Greenbelt Association
A non-profit organization that maintains over 60 miles of trails in the Harrisburg area.
- Trail Accessibility: Provides access to numerous trails for outdoor activities.
- Environmental Conservation: Works towards the conservation and improvement of local green spaces.
- Community Engagement: Offers opportunities for community members to get involved in trail maintenance and events.
12. Wildwood Park
A nature preserve featuring hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and a historic cabin.
- Nature Preserve Experience: Offers a peaceful escape into the wilderness with hiking trails.
- Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities to observe local wildlife such as deer and birds.
- Historic Cabin: Features a historic log cabin, built in the early 19th century.
13. The Midtown Scholar Bookstore
An independent bookstore offering new and used books, events, and a cafe.
- Independent Bookseller: Supports local authors and independent publishing.
- Cafe and Events: Features a cafe and hosts literary events such as book signings and readings.
- Community Engagement: Provides opportunities for community members to engage with literature and authors.
14. The Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts
A multidisciplinary arts and science center offering educational programs, exhibits, and live performances.
- Educational Programs: Offers a variety of educational programs for all ages.
- Science and Art Exhibits: Features interactive science and art exhibits.
- Live Performances: Hosts live performances in music, theater, and dance.
15. Dauphin County Agricultural Center
A venue hosting farmers markets, expos, and events related to agriculture and rural life.
- Local Produce and Products: Features fresh produce and locally made products at its farmers market.
- Agricultural Education: Offers educational programs about agriculture, rural life, and sustainability.
- Community Events: Hosts events such as farmers markets, expos, and agricultural fairs.