WELCOME TO THE HERSHEY HARRISBURG REGION!

The Sweetest Destination for events

Best of luck to all runners lacing up their sneakers for the YMCA Halfity Half Marathon in April. After you've set a new PR, celebrate by experiencing world-class attractions and dining throughout the Hershey Harrisburg Region.

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO WHILE YOU'RE HERE

1. Explore the state capitol & local history

Did you know that Harrisburg is Pennsylvania's capital city? Schedule a free tour of the state capitol building which is often considered one of the most beautiful in the nation. Harrisburg offers a variety of museums such as the State Museum of Pennsylvania and the National Civil War Museum. Hershey is also home to several museums, including The Hershey Story, Museum on Chocolate Ave and the AACA Museum which is a car lovers paradise. Get the full guide on museums in the region here. 

2. Enjoy a day of sweet family fun in Hershey

Hershey, The Sweetest Place On Earth®, is a short 15 mile drive away and offers iconic family-friendly entertainment at Hersheypark® and Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction. Go on a free simulated chocolate factory tour & shop exclusive candies at Hershey's Chocolate World. Hersheypark typically opens for Spring Weekends starting in early April.

You can also enjoy a few hours go-karting, miniature golfing, taking a swing in the batting cages, enjoying a friendly game of outdoor laser tag, testing your skills in the mini escape rooms and playing in the new expanded state of the art arcade at Adventure Sports in Hershey. There is no admission fee, you just pay for the activities as you go!

3. Indulge in sweet treats and local libations

Follow the Sweet Treat Trail to indulge in artisan chocolates, cupcakes, baked goods, coffee, milkshakes, and other tasty treats throughout the Hershey Harrisburg region. Download the Hershey Harrisburg Trails & Experiences app to access your self-guided tour.

Pennsylvania is the leading craft beer producer, and the Hershey Harrisburg Region is a flourishing beer destination with more than 25 craft breweries and locations. From hazy IPAs and tried-and-true lagers to sweet stouts and fruity sours, we have a beers for every palate. Follow the Brew Barons Beer Trail to experience our local breweries while checking in to earn prizes.

4. Explore the Harrisburg Arts District

The Harrisburg Arts District is a walkable area encompassing parts of the Capital City’s downtown, midtown, and riverfront. You'll find murals and public art, theatres, museums, galleries, and performance venues that bring the city to life. We recommend taking a stroll to see the colorful murals while making a few pit stops at local coffee shops and restaurants along the way - this is the perfect time of year to do it! Learn more about the Harrisburg Arts District here.

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5. Choose an outdoor adventure

At Hershey Gardens, early April brings signs of spring like conifers, while mid-to-late April features the peak of the spring bulb display with tens of thousands of colorful tulips. You can also walk among hundreds of butterflies from around the world in the year-round butterfly atrium.

Hike forested ridgelines with sweeping views of the Susquehanna Valley. Hawk Rock in nearby Duncannon offers one of the best views along the Appalachian Trail in Pennsylvania. When you're done, don't miss a stop at Lindgren Brewery - the only brewery located directly along the Appalachian Trail.

Bike 21 miles of beautiful scenery on the Capital Area Greenbelt or go mountain biking on rugged singletrack terrain. The region also has disc golf courses and beautifully maintained local parks.