12 Fun Family Friendly Things to Do in Harrisburg with Kids
Harrisburg, also known as the Capital of Pennsylvania, is a city located in the Central part of the state. The town was founded in 1785 and has a rich history that visitors can explore today. Harrisburg has several activities, from touring historical sites to exploring its vibrant arts scene. Plus, there’s always something happening in Harrisburg, thanks to its vibrant community spirit. So if you’re looking for an electrifying and fun destination to visit, here is a list of 12 fun things to keep you entertained!
- National Civil War Museum
The museum opened to the public in 2001 and is dedicated to the American Civil War. The museum contains over 24,000 artifacts, making it one of the world’s largest collections of Civil War artifacts.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The museum is full of exciting and interactive exhibits that kids will love. They can learn about the Causes of the Civil War, life as a soldier, and explore a replica of an Underground Railroad station.
Recommended Ages
The history can best be understood by those aged seven and above.
- Pennsylvania State Capitol
This state was designed by architect Joseph Millsom and completed in 1906. The Pennsylvania State Capitol is a three-story, Neoclassical-style building with a granite base and a marble façade.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The Capitol building contains interesting architectural details, and the Rotunda is awe-inspiring. Families can explore the outdoor sculptures and learn about the stories behind them.
Recommended Ages
Those aged five and up will be able to appreciate the Capitol building.
- Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
The site includes a Georgian-style mansion built in 1787 and a park with various walking trails, gardens, and scenic views.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The manor dates back to the 18th century and is full of history. Kids will love learning about people who lived there and what life was like in the past. In addition, the park has several activities, such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
Recommended Ages
It is an activity for kids aged three and above.
- Wildwood Park
Wildwood Park is a large park with plenty of trees and a few ponds. There’s a strolling trail that goes around the perimeter of the park.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The park is domestic to various flora and fauna, and its scenic walking trails are perfect for a stroll or an invigorating hike. Wildwood Park also offers a variety of amenities, such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports courts.
Recommended Ages
This park is fantastic for all age groups.
- State Museum of Pennsylvania
The State Museum of Pennsylvania has a wide range of exhibits that cover the state’s history from its initial days to the present, with millions of objects in its collections. The museum also has a research library and archives open to the public.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
It is a great place to explore with your family and learn about the state’s history, geology, and natural history. The museum has hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a library.
Recommended Ages
Children from all age groups can explore the wonders of this museum!
- City Island
City Island is also a popular destination for fishing, boating, and bird watching. The island is accessible via car or public transportation.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
There’s plenty to do, including miniature golf, batting cages, go-karts, and more. Or, if you’re considering something unique, check out the City Island Railway! This mini train runs through the island, giving passengers a tour of all the sights.
Recommended Ages
Kids of all ages will find the City Island exciting.
- Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center
This yearly event began in 1916 and is the largest indoor agricultural event in the world. The complex covers 1.6 million square feet and houses more than 12,000 animals.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The complex has various exhibits, including a petting zoo, hayrides, and an agricultural history museum. It is an excellent opportunity to teach them about farming and where their food comes from.
Recommended Ages
All will enjoy the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center, whether young or old.
- Riverfront Park
The park offers scenic views of the Susquehanna River, great walking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
There’s plenty of green space to explore, and the playground is perfect for little ones. The park also has a walking trail and a pond, both great for exploring.
Recommended Ages
This is another park that’s perfect for all ages.
- Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts
The Whitaker Center is also home to the Institute for Popular Science Information (IPSI), which is dedicated to public outreach and education about science and technology.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
This center has something for everyone in the family: a theater, an IMAX theater, an aquarium, and many interactive exhibits. The theater presents a variety of shows, including educational films, musicals, and children’s shows. The IMAX theater shows documentaries about nature and space, and the aquarium has a wide variety of fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
Recommended Ages
If your family consists of kids aged two and above, this is the place to go!
- The Midtown Scholar
The Midtown Scholar is a used bookstore located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a popular destination for book lovers.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The center features a large selection of books, toys, and games, a cafe, and an outdoor play area. Families can also take advantage of the center’s many educational programs, which include story time, art classes, and science experiments.
Recommended Ages
The books here are best suited for those aged four and up, but the cafe and play area are perfect for all ages.
- City Island Water Golf
City Island Water Golf is an 18-hole, executive-length golf course located on City Island in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The island offers breathtaking views of the river and downtown Harrisburg.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
City Island Water Golf is an excellent place for beginners to learn the game or for experienced golfers to practice their short game. The course landscapes have well-groomed fairways and greens, and the staff is always available to offer instruction and assistance.
Recommended Ages
This can best be appreciated by those aged five and above.
- Susquehanna Art Museum
The museum has a collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and video.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
One of the most surprising things about this museum is that it’s constantly changing and adding new exhibits, so you can come back every time and never get bored.
Recommended Ages
Susquehanna Art Museum offers art classes, workshops, and camps that are great for kids of all ages.
