Harrisburg Local Guide

Attractions

Capitol Building Tours

Explore Pennsylvania government at work through guided tours of Pennsylvania's Capitol which are offered every half hour Monday through Friday. School groups can experience the "Pass the Bill" skit which is specifically designed for children between the ages of 8 and 12. The Welcome Center is also a wealth of information and provides opportunities for reading, listening, touching and interacting with 18 colorful, informative exhibits.

State Museum of Pennsylvania

The State Museum of Pennsylvania tells the story of Pennsylvania history and houses significant collections that relate to some of America’s most important and historical individuals. From its outstanding Civil War exhibits to notable artifacts representing the foundations of American industry, as well as political history dating to the early republic, The State Museum is the only museum in the Pennsylvania where the public can experience the full expanse of the state’s heritage and its connections to the national experience.

Strasburg Railroad

All aboard America's oldest short-line railroad, where visitors ride authentically restored passenger cars pulled by a huge, coal-burning steam locomotive. See Amish neighbors up close as they work and play on nearby farms. You'll depart from the circa 1915 East Strasburg Station of shops, a restaurant, rail car displays and historic buildings. Take a Noon Shop Tour and watch trains being built and refurbished.

Hershey Museum

Experience the fascinating life and stories of Milton Hershey, the man behind the chocolate candy empire. See the model town he founded as well as a variety of exhibits, original working machinery, unique artifacts and much more. Just steps away from HERSHEYPARK® and HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE WORLD®, this sweet retreat allows visitors of all ages to explore the town "built on chocolate."

The John Harris/Simon Cameron Mansion

The home of John Harris, Jr., the man who founded Harrisburg, is built out of Pennsylvania limestone in the year 1766 and sits high above the Susquehanna River. In 1863, Harris’ home was purchased by Simon Cameron, then President Lincoln’s first Secretary of War, who converted the homestead into a resplendent home. Today the mansion serves as a museum housing furnishings and other memorabilia from both the Harris and Cameron families.

National Civil War Museum

The National Civil War Museum portrays America’s struggle during the Civil War from the time period preceding the conflict through the war's conclusion at Appomattox Court House. Nowhere can you find a better understanding of the Civil War, its effect on the nation and on the people. Walk our halls and experience the rise and fall of two valiant armies in such conflicts as Bull Run, Shiloh, Vicksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, Antietam and Gettysburg. The National Civil War Museum incorporates collections of artifacts, manuscripts, documents, photographs, and other printed matter that exceed 24,000 items.