Whether you live locally or are visiting the area, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has many places to visit. From parks and museums to theaters and indoor play areas, Harrisburg has something for every family member. Start your search for family activities in Harrisburg with these ideas, and explore everything the city offers. Plus, many of these spots are located only a few blocks apart, allowing you to plan a full day or weekend of events.
Discover What Family Activities Harrisburg, PA Offers
Need something to do with your family and kids in Harrisburg? Consider visiting these kid-friendly spots!
Pennsylvania State Capitol
The Pennsylvania State Capitol offers a fun way to learn about the state’s government. Start your visit at the Interactive Welcome Center, which uses a series of interactive exhibits to introduce you to the Capitol, teach you about laws, allow visitors to “vote” on bills, play games, watch videos, and take a virtual tour of the Capitol building. If you want to tour the Capitol in person, you can sign up for a guided tour as well.
The State Museum of Pennsylvania
The State Museum of Pennsylvania tells the complete natural and cultural history of the state. From William Penn and other state icons to archaeology and wildlife, the museum’s permanent exhibits showcase everything there is to know about what Pennsylvania is and has been. Younger kids can enjoy the museum through Curiosity Connection, which is designed for kids ages 1-5. Be sure to also check out the planetarium shows.
National Civil War Museum
If you want an entertaining and educational experience, plan to visit the National Civil War Museum. As one of the world’s largest Civil War museums, it tells the story of this time period and its deep effect on the nation. Your family can take a self-guided tour through the exhibits or attend one of the special programs.
Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
Located in an 1899 Victorian firehouse, the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum showcases exhibits dating back to Colonial days. The exhibits include a working Gamewell alarm system, parade hats, memorial plaques, and more. The museum also features nearly 3,000 patches from fire companies across the nation. If you bring a new patch, it could be added to the display!
Susquehanna Art Museum
The Susquehanna Art Museum is the area’s premier art museum. The museum consistently updates its exhibits, so there’s always something new for your family to check out. Spend time walking through the museum leisurely or sign up for an art class. The Kids Art Club class gives kids of various ages an introduction to the museum and encourages creativity through hands-on art activities.
Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center
The Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center hosts hundreds of events and shows annually, many of which offer family fun. For example, the PA Farm Show is the nation’s largest indoor agricultural exposition, featuring numerous shows, exhibits, vendors, experiences, and more for the entire family. Be sure to check out their calendar of events to find something coming up soon.
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts
The Whitaker Center offers everything from live performances and cinema to science design studios. The Harsco Science Center includes hands-on exhibits and programs that include all things STEM. The Digital Cinema makes movie experiences seemingly come to life. The Sunoco Performance Center hosts various acts each month. Your family is sure to find something to enjoy and learn when exploring what the Whitaker Center has to offer.
The Midtown Scholar
The Midtown Scholar is a bookstore and cafe with a collection of over 200,000 books for various readers, including a section for kids and young adults. When visiting, grab a drink and treat from the cafe while you and your family browse the wide selection of books. The Midtown Scholar also has an art gallery with changing exhibits, a poet’s corner, a classroom, and a stage for events like author talks. The bookstore hosts various events and book talks each month, so there’s always something new to experience.
City Island
City Island is a staple of the Harrisburg experience. Located in the Susquehanna River, you can access the island via bridges from either side of the river. The 63-acre island is home to numerous parks, playgrounds, and businesses, making it a popular destination among locals and tourists. Catch a Harrisburg Senator’s baseball game, take a riverboat tour, play minigolf, or relax in the parks. While you explore, enjoy scenic views of Harrisburg from across the water.
Broad Street Market
If you’re looking for something casual to do on a weekend, consider taking your family to browse the Broad Street Market. With almost 40 vendors, you’ll find various food options, flowers, jewelry, beauty products, and much more. The market is a great way for your family to experience different cultures, foods, and people.
Popcorn Hat Players Children’s Theatre
At the Gamut Theatre, kids and families can participate in the Popcorn Hat Players (PHP) shows. PHP performs and tells classic and unique stories through interactive theater. As the story unfolds, audience members can volunteer to help tell the story. Audience members use their own creativity to control aspects of the story and potentially alter the ending.
Wildwood Park
Looking for ways to get outside and experience nature as a family? Visit Wildwood Park and Olewine Nature Center for a refreshing and educational day. Whether you explore the various nature trails throughout the park, hang out in the children’s area, or spend time bird-watching in the Nature Center, spending time around nature is a great way to connect with your family.
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park are rich in Pennsylvania history and offer several things for your family to do. Take a walk or hike through the park, tour the mansion and learn about its history, or attend one of the many family-friendly activities and events held at Fort Hunter. Located along the Susquehanna River, your family will enjoy scenic views and great company.
Learn More About CCA’s Family Services
Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA) is a public cyber charter school for K-12 students in Pennsylvania. Our educational programs and services are personalized to you, giving your student more control over their education. Our family services include a variety of resources — such as family mentors and service centers — that will help your family adapt to online education.
If you’re visiting the Harrisburg area and want to learn more about CCA, we encourage you to visit our Harrisburg Family Service Center or request information online.
