Firmly anchored on the banks of the Susquehanna River, between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, Harrisburg gracefully stands as Pennsylvania's capital. The hustle and bustle of government and commerce blend with small-town calm to create a vibrant atmosphere where you can go from the big thrills of a roller coaster ride to the peaceful quiet of a riverfront park without missing a beat.
Seasons for Sure
Warm, summery weather prevails from June through mid-September, peaking in July, when the average high is well above 80 degrees, occasionally reaching into 90-degree territory. High humidity often accompanies warmer weather, and thunderstorms pop up from time to time. Spring and autumn highs fluctuate from the mid-40s to the mid-70s, and the nights can be downright chilly. A warm coat and mittens are the perfect attire through much of winter, when the temperatures hover near freezing and passing snowstorms bring a sparkling cover of white to the region.
High Culture, History and Hersheypark
Warm, summery weather prevails from June through mid-September, peaking in July, when the average high is well above 80 degrees, occasionally reaching into 90-degree territory. High humidity often accompanies warmer weather, and thunderstorms pop up from time to time. Spring and autumn highs fluctuate from the mid-40s to the mid-70s, and the nights can be downright chilly. A warm coat and mittens are the perfect attire through much of winter, when the temperatures hover near freezing and passing snowstorms bring a sparkling cover of white to the region.
High Culture, History and Hersheypark
The tall dome and white granite facade of the Pennsylvania capitol are impressive, but you'll get to see even more remarkable architectural detail, art and sculpture on a guided tour of its interior. A block from the capitol's park-style grounds, you'll find boutiques, dining and entertainment at Strawberry Square where you can relax with a meal after a long day or touring. Want to shop? Head to Harrisburg Mall, the region's mecca of shopping. The National Civil War Museum and Fort Hunter Mansion and Park, both atop hills with scenic vistas, keep history buffs engaged for hours. After a bit of history, visit City Island for a riverboat ride, a round of miniature golf, a carousel ride for the kids or a home game of the Harrisburg Senators baseball team. Hersheypark, less than a 30-minute drive from downtown Harrisburg, is filled with water park fun and roller coaster thrills.
Government with a Candy Chaser
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is the largest employer in the state's capital region, followed closely by the U.S. government, with over 37,000 employees between them. The region is a major health care hub, with Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Pinnacle Health Systems, Holy Spirit Health System and Select Medical Corporation at the forefront. The sweetest big business is a household name—the Hershey Company. Its headquarters and the nearby Hershey Entertainment and Resorts provide employment to more than 14,000 people.
Getting There
Harrisburg sits at the crossroads of several interstate highways. If you're traveling between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia on Interstate 76, on I-86 that runs from Canada in the north into the Southern states, or I-83 from Baltimore, the city is easily accessible via multiple exits. Five major airlines fly in and out of Harrisburg International Airport. A convenient ground transportation center attached to the airport terminal is where you can pick up a vehicle from one of the major car rental agencies, catch a taxi or hop on a bus to get into town. Amtrak's Keystone line connects Harrisburg with Philadelphia and New York. The Pennsylvanian train line also makes a stop at the beautifully renovated 19th-century train station downtown.
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