Call nowBook Now
Loading...
Blog2021-12-28T16:36:29+00:00

Harrisburg Travel Guide

Explore City Island in Harrisburg on Vacation

Nestled in the Susquehanna River, City Island in Harrisburg offers something for everyone visiting the capital city. Cross the bridge to City Island and experience 63 acres of classic summer fun by catching a baseball game, cruising down the river, playing mini golf, and listening to live music. Find the perfect lodging for your Harrisburg getaway at The Central Hotel & Conference Center and take advantage of our guest services [...]

What to Do in Downtown Harrisburg on Vacation

During your getaway with The Central Hotel & Conference Center, we encourage you to get out and discover everything downtown Harrisburg has to offer. Downtown is home to the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex and some of the top restaurants, shops, and nightlife in town! Utilize the Downtown Guide put together by Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District for a complete list of things to do downtown: Downtown Harrisburg Attractions Discover the top [...]

Stay at Our Romantic Hotel in Harrisburg, PA, for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and if you are looking for the perfect place to celebrate your love, look no further than The Central Hotel & Conference Center. Our romantic hotel in Harrisburg, PA, offers the perfect base camp for Valentine’s Day celebrations throughout Central Pennsylvania. From chocolate tastings to live entertainment and romantic dinners, there is something for every couple visiting the Harrisburg area this Valentine’s Day: [...]

The Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg

The world’s largest outdoor show is back for another fantastic year! The Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, PA, will kick off this February, celebrating nine days of hunting, fishing, and outdoor traditions. We invite all outdoor lovers to browse over 1,000 exhibitors and participate in a jam-packed schedule of seminars, demonstrations, and celebrity appearances.  The Central Hotel and Conference Center offers the most convenient place to stay in Harrisburg [...]

What to Expect at the Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg

The Great American Outdoor Show is right around the corner in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This event is the largest outdoor show in the world that celebrates fishing, hunting, camping, and other outdoor traditions. From hundreds of exhibits to educational seminars, this event has something everyone can enjoy. Stay with us at The Central Hotel & Conference Center, and you will be a short drive away from the outdoor show.  General Information [...]

Looking for Hotels near the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex?

There’s always something happening at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex to compliment your Harrisburg vacation! Plan your getaway around the largest indoor agricultural expo in the nation, The Pennsylvania Farm Show. This annual Harrisburg event is back for another year, celebrating our state’s agricultural heritage from January 6-13, 2024. Whether you want to learn about agriculture through hands-on activities, watch one-of-a-kind competitions, or sample locally grown food, there is something [...]

Stay at our Pet-Friendly Hotel in Harrisburg, PA

At The Central Hotel & Conference Center, we understand that pets are part of the family, and no vacation is complete without your four-legged friend by your side. That’s why we offer a pet-friendly hotel in Harrisburg, PA, and the perfect basecamp for adventures throughout Central Pennsylvania. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or simply seeking a pet-friendly retreat, our hotel is your home away from home in Harrisburg! Pet [...]

Holiday Party Venues in Central Pennsylvania

Even though summer is just ending, it’s never too early to get into the holiday spirit. Start planning for the holidays now, bring your holiday party to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and celebrate the season with The Central Hotel & Conference Center. We are centrally located in Dauphin County, offering a convenient, hassle-free journey from several major cities such as NYC and Philadelphia. We offer the perfect holiday party venues for corporate [...]

Plan a Weekend Trip from Philadelphia to Harrisburg

Are you looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Philadelphia? Then look no further than The Central Hotel of Harrisburg, just two hours away from the hustle and bustle of the city! Travel from Philadelphia to Harrisburg and discover the rich history, outdoor recreation, family-friendly fun, and fascinating museums of Pennsylvania’s capital city! How to Get from Philadelphia to Harrisburg Traveling from Philadelphia to Harrisburg is easy, with easily accessible [...]

Visit the Annual Antique Auto Show in Hershey, PA

Every year during the first week of October, the sweetest place on Earth hosts one of the country’s largest antique auto shows and flea markets. The antique auto show in Hershey, PA, is an annual event hosted by the AACA designed to captivate the hearts of antique car enthusiasts. Stay with The Central Hotel & Conference Center and easily access the convention center just ten miles from your Harrisburg hotel [...]

America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA: 2023

Hershey, Pennsylvania, is home to exciting amusement parks and enthralling history, but did you know it is also home to one of the biggest RV celebrations in the world? America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA, is the leading event to shop and compare RVS, accessories, and upgrades! The Central Hotel and Conference Center offers the perfect lodging for the event, just ten miles away from the Giant Center. Read [...]

Best Western Harrisburg Hershey Hotel Room Renovations

Our Best Western Harrisburg Hershey Hotel is excited to announce that we have completed the renovations on our fantastic guest rooms! The Central Hotel & Conference Center is proud to have teamed up with Central Pennsylvania’s design specialists to revitalize the design and comfort of our guest rooms and suites. We invite you to stay in our new and improved rooms, complete with brand-new carpet, furniture, bedding, fixtures, and lighting, [...]

Looking for School Field Trips in Pennsylvania?

If you are an educator looking for field trips in Pennsylvania, you’ve come to the right place! The Central Hotel & Conference Center offers the perfect central location for school trips to the Pennsylvania State Capitol, Gettysburg, Hersheypark, Philadelphia, and more. We make it easy to plan group travels with our discounted hotel rooms, educational tours, complimentary bus parking, and breakfast buffet menus for groups. Read on to learn more [...]

Say “I Do” at Our Wedding Venue in Harrisburg, PA

Are you in search of the perfect Pennsylvania wedding venue? Look no further than The Central Hotel & Conference Center in historic Harrisburg! We offer a beautiful wedding venue in Harrisburg, PA, to accommodate weddings of all sizes, from small and intimate to elegant weddings with 300 guests. Our wedding specialists are here to help turn your vision into reality with our packages that include everything from reception dinners to [...]

Hersheypark Season Pass Perks & Spring Activities

The 2023 opening of Hersheypark is right around the corner, and now is the best time to save more than 40% on your admission tickets! Or elevate your experience with a Hersheypark season pass and enjoy perks like unlimited visits, free parking, and early access to the park. Stay with The Central Hotel & Conference Center and access everything the park has to offer just ten miles down the road. [...]

Spend St. Patrick’s Day in Harrisburg at O’Reilly’s Kitchen

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, and The Central Hotel & Conference Center invites you to celebrate with us at O’Reilly’s Tap Room & Kitchen! Our Harrisburg restaurant serves Irish specialties year-round, but we pull out all the stops during St. Patty’s, complete with corned beef, commemorative t-shirts, giveaways, and live music. Put on your best green attire, spend St. Patrick’s Day in Harrisburg, and get ready to [...]

Plan a Wellness Retreat at Harrisburg Spas

It’s time to take a break from the stress of daily life and unwind with a wellness retreat in beautiful Central Pennsylvania. The Central Hotel & Conference Center offers the perfect destination to focus on your wellness with our full-service amenities and proximity to Harrisburg spas. Feel your stress melt away with rejuvenating massages, facials, and body treatments. Take some much-needed time to focus on yourself this winter and treat [...]

Hersheypark Winter Activities Guide

The Sweetest Place on Earth may be known for its summer fun, but Hershey, PA, keeps the fun going year-round. Every season brings new and exciting events to Hersheypark, and this winter, we invite you to Christmas Candylane! Experience a magical wonderland with holiday rides, millions of twinkling lights, sweet treats, and memories to last a lifetime. The Central Hotel & Conference Center offers exceptional lodging less than ten miles [...]

Plan Your Holiday Gathering at Our Harrisburg Event Center

With the holiday season right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about where to plan your year-end celebration. If you live near historic Harrisburg, PA, we have the perfect place to host your event The Central Hotel & Conference Center. Our Harrisburg event center is located in the heart of Dauphin County, offering a centrally located venue to several major cities. We are within a three-hour drive of [...]

Autumn Getaways in PA: Lancaster Fall Festivals

As summer comes to a close, we say farewell to fun in the sun in exchange for cooler and calmer days. Fall in Pennsylvania is pure magic offering crisp weather, fewer crowds, flowing waterfalls, colorful foliage, pumpkin patches, haunted history, and harvest festivals. After you have spent time exploring our favorite fall activities in Harrisburg, we encourage you to make the short drive to the charming city of Lancaster. The [...]

Learn About American History at Museums in Harrisburg, PA

As the state capital of Pennsylvania, it’s no surprise that Harrisburg is home to some fascinating and intriguing history. Our historic city played a significant role in Westward expansion, the Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution. Many museums in Harrisburg, PA, preserve this history through engaging exhibits and treasured artifacts. In addition to our history museums, you can browse beautiful art collections at the Susquehanna Art Museum or learn something [...]

Shop Local at the Farmers’ Markets Near Harrisburg, PA

Visiting farmer’s markets is one of the best ways to explore and support local communities during vacation. The farmers’ market in Harrisburg, PA, has been a community staple since 1860, bringing people together for over 150 years! The Central Hotel of Harrisburg invites you to keep this tradition going and shop local for produce, meats, baked goods, and freshly prepared meals. If you are looking for local gifts and crafts, [...]

Join Us for Harrisburg & Gettysburg 4th of July Celebrations

The 4th of July is all about backyard barbecues, festive parades, and dazzling fireworks for many Americans. But, the 4th of July is also all about celebrating American Independence, and where better to spend the holiday than in historic Gettysburg? Reenactors bring one of the most significant events in American history, The Battle of Gettysburg, to life every 4th of July weekend. When you combine American history with music, food, [...]

Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Harrisburg, PA

Before heading out for a day of fun at Hersheypark, make sure you start the morning with a hearty breakfast in Harrisburg, PA. Whether you are craving a stack of syrup-drenched pancakes or a veggie-filled breakfast burrito, there is something for everyone’s taste buds! The Central Hotel Harrisburg offers lodging in the heart of Harrisburg, equipped with an on-site restaurant serving delicious breakfast items. Start your day at O’Reilly’s Tap [...]

Purchase Your Hersheypark Tickets Now!

Are you ready for another season of fun at Hersheypark this year? We know we are! The Central Hotel & Conference Center is a short 20-minute drive away from the exhilarating rides and signature sweet treats at Hershey. Experience brand new roller coasters during Springtime In The Park along with attractions you already know and love, such as ZooAmerica and Chocolate World. Make your getaway sweet from the start with [...]

Tee Off at the Golf Courses Near Harrisburg, PA

Golf has always been a popular American pastime, but the sport has skyrocketed in popularity in the last few years. Not only are golf courses a great socially distanced activity, but it is also a great way to keep physically and mentally active! Next time you visit Central Pennsylvania, check out some of the golf courses near Harrisburg, PA. At The Central Hotel & Conference Center, we offer a Sportsman's [...]

St. Patrick’s Day Events Near Me at O’Reilly’s Taproom

March is right around the corner, and if you are searching for St. Patrick’s Day events near me, you’ve come to the right place. At The Central Hotel and Conference Center, we have our very own Irish Pub where you can kick off St. Patty’s Day in Harrisburg, PA. Our O’Reilly’s Taproom and Kitchen is the perfect place to enjoy Irish food, great music, and delicious drinks! After celebrating at [...]

Attend Motoroma at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex

No matter what time of year you visit Harrisburg, you can always find new and exciting events at the Farm Show Complex. Every February, the complex hosts the largest indoor racing event in the country. Motorama is the best place for motorsports fans to gather and celebrate all things racing. Stay with us at The Central Hotel & Conference Center and you will be a short drive away from Motorama [...]

January 24th, 2022|Categories: Harrisburg Pennsylvania, Things to Do in Harrisburg PA|

Pennsylvania Winter Getaways: Holiday Gatherings at Central Hotel

The holidays are right around the corner and if you are still searching for the perfect place to gather the family, then look no further! Pennsylvania is a premier winter destination with a variety of seasonal attractions and events in the area. Visit the sweetest place on Earth at Hersheypark during your Pennsylvania winter getaway, or check out the festive events at Stone Gables Estate. Then choose The Central Hotel [...]

5 Fall Activities in Pennsylvania: Visit Harrisburg

The weather is cooling down, leaves are changing, and apples are ready to be picked, which can only mean one thing: fall has finally arrived. The fall activities in Pennsylvania have something for everyone, from trick or treating at Hersheypark to sampling pumpkin beers at local breweries. And when you choose the Central Hotel Harrisburg for your getaway, you will be centrally located next to the best activities in town. [...]

Plan a College Visit: The Top Colleges near Harrisburg, PA

Located on the banks of the Susquehanna River is the state capital of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg. Harrisburg is known for its arts and history, along with its natural beauty. With a multitude of colleges near Harrisburg, PA, the city has become a thriving community for young professionals. The summer months are a popular time to schedule campus visits, which means booking a room ahead of time is a must. Luckily you [...]

Hiking near Harrisburg, PA: The Area’s Top Trails

Temperatures are rising and planning a vacation is on everyone’s minds. Head to Harrisburg, PA this summer and embark on a vacation full of opportunities. The most popular attraction that brings people to Harrisburg is Hersheypark, the theme park full of thrilling rides and delicious treats. But, Harrisburg is also a great destination to immerse yourself in nature. An abundance of trails offers great hiking near Harrisburg, PA. And our [...]

A Guide to Hershey’s Top 5 Attractions

Hersheypark is a theme park located in the model town of Hershey in Pennsylvania. This theme park was founded in 1905 by Milton S. Hershey, as a leisure park for the employees of Hershey’s Chocolate Company. Now, Hersheypark is one of the best family theme parks in the country with many rides and attractions, like roller coasters, water slides, and more! Thus, today, we are going to explore some of [...]

A Comprehensive Guide to the Spring Carlisle Auto Show

A stay here at The Central Hotel & Conference Center places you among some of the best entertainment and events the state of Pennsylvania has to offer. Whether you’re planning a trip to the world-renowned Hersheypark, visiting the state capital building, or are trolling the waters of the Susquehanna River, there is something for everyone here. Car enthusiasts are no exception! With the Carlisle Car Show just around the corner, [...]

Treat Yourself at a Bakery in Harrisburg, PA

The process of baking is a delicate one. It is considered more chemistry than anything else; with so many factors going into each item you prepare, you have to be sure of what you’re doing. Fortunately, with the number of bakeries in Harrisburg, PA, you won’t have to stress over your next batch! The assortment of bakeries close by us here at The Central Hotel & Conference Center means you [...]

A Comprehensive Harrisburg Escape Room Guide

Harrisburg can fit many molds. It can be a romantic destination, a family-friendly hot spot, and a haven for craft beer lovers. From all of those, an overlooked offering might be the area’s threshold for mystery and adventure. What better way to explore that side of you than in an escape room, where you’ll be locked in an enclosed area, debriefed, and have just 60 minutes to escape! So grab [...]

The Top 3 Bars in Harrisburg, PA

Whether you’re looking for that great spot to catch the game or a place to get a bang for your buck during happy hour, it’s always good to know where the best bars in your area are. Luckily for you, not only are there a slew of excellent bar options in Harrisburg, PA, but also within the confines of The Central Hotel & Conference Center! If you’re going to grab [...]

The Central Hotel: A Premier Romantic Destination

Love is in the air in Harrisburg, and who else better to give you the tools to make the most of your romantic getaway in Pennsylvania than The Central Hotel & Conference Center? Our on-site amenities, convenient luxuries, and numerous dining options nearby make us an ideal choice for your romantic retreat. But, if you want to get out and explore, you’ll have any number of options at your disposal. [...]

Harrisburg Coffee Shops: A Cup of Joe and a Side of Dough

For many, there is no better way to start off your morning than with a fresh cup of coffee. The steamy aroma fills your nostrils with the promise of a productive day. There is much to see and do around Hersheypark, but, if you’re not feeling up to the challenge, it can be a long day. Luckily for you, The Central Hotel & Conference Center places you within a short [...]

The Top 3 Wineries near Harrisburg, PA

For those unfamiliar with the sprawling, historic Susquehanna Valley, there are nearly two dozen wineries near Harrisburg, PA, set amid rolling hills and serpentine grapevines. O’Reilly’s Tap Room & Kitchen, the pride of The Central Hotel & Conference Center, is known for its extensive tap list. But patrons are often pleasantly surprised to discover a cellar filled with continent-spanning wine labels. We love fine vino as much as any other [...]

A Comprehensive Susquehanna Valley Guide

Spending one or two nights in the Susquehanna Valley just doesn’t cut it. There are too many attractions, historical landmarks, and thrill rides and too little time. This low-lying region is not only chockful of historical significance and unique, family-friendly attractions, but it’s also incredibly scenic, especially during autumn’s peak. As summer graciously concedes to fall, the rolling hills that enclose the Susquehanna River (which snakes past Downtown Harrisburg) transform [...]

Plan a Visit to Wildwood Park and Nature Center

Along the northern rim of Harrisburg, PA, only a short stroll from the wide Susquehanna River, lies a startlingly peaceful conservation area, known simply as Wildwood Park. Very rarely do city dwellers find such uniquely pristine acreage within four miles of a bustling downtown district. At its core, Wildwood Park is an outdoor recreation mecca for those with a penchant for hiking, biking, and picnicking. However, the Nature Center, named [...]

Visit the State of Pennsylvania Museum

When you visit Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, you’ll see that there’s plenty of history that played a key role in the industrial development of the United States. There are plenty of sights to see and places to visit to learn more about the history of the state, such as the State of Pennsylvania Museum. For a fun and educational afternoon, consider bringing your family to the State of Pennsylvania Museum, just minutes [...]

Visit the Coolest Flea Market in Harrisburg: The HBG Flea

Take shopping to a new level and support all of the local vendors that create The HBG Flea. At one of the most popular flea markets in Harrisburg, you’ll find an array of vendors that sell a variety of handmade goods like jewelry, hand knits, clothing, art, foods, and more. If you’re looking for gifts, keepsakes, a delicious snack, or if you just want to see what this Harrisburg flea [...]

Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling

Staying healthy is always important, but it’s especially important to stay healthy while traveling. When you travel, you expose yourself to lots of germs - in the airport, in an Uber, in a hotel, and all the other surfaces you’ll come in contact with while traveling. There are many precautions that you can take to make sure that you stay safe and healthy. Review our tips for staying healthy while [...]

The Top 3 Breweries in Harrisburg, PA

As summer rapidly approaches here along the Susquehanna River in historic Harrisburg, PA, we cannot help but look ahead to sipping on local craft ales with the sun beaming down from high above. And there’s no better locale in Pennsylvania to welcome summer’s arrival than The Central Hotel & Conference Center of Harrisburg, a Premier Best Western Hotel. We take craft beer very seriously, primarily because many guests choose the [...]

The Best Brunch in Harrisburg, PA

Harrisburg, PA, is the vacation destination you’ve been waiting for, and when you stay at The Central Hotel, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous and luxurious accommodations that will make you feel right at home. Here, you’ll be, well, central to everything you might want to do in or around Harrisburg, PA, and with comfortable and clean guestrooms, you truly can’t ask for anything more during your stay in Harrisburg. Brunch [...]

St Patrick’s Day Activities in Harrisburg, PA

For Central Hotel in Harrisburg, St. Patrick’s Day isn’t a single day party—St. Patrick’s Day is an entire month celebration! All of Harrisburg comes alive the second our calendar reads March. Whether you’re searching for festive Harrisburg bars, mouth-watering dishes at Harrisburg restaurants, or a traditional Harrisburg St. Patrick’s Day Parade, we know the St. Patrick’s Day activities for you! Start planning your Harrisburg getaway with our favorite activities listed [...]

Spend a Day at Hersheypark

Pennsylvania is full of hidden gems, but the most popular gem of all is one made of pure chocolate: Hersheypark, a chocolate-themed amusement park just ready to be explored. A visit to Hersheypark is one that’s sure to be remembered by the whole family. When you stay at The Central Hotel Harrisburg, you’ll not only be perfectly close to the park so that you can experience all there is to [...]

Harrisburg’s Dog Bucket List for Pet-Loving Travelers

If you’re a dog parent, then you know just how hard it is to leave your furry friend behind while going on vacation. Few destinations and hotels allow guests to take trips with pets, which can make planning a vacation challenging. However, The Central Hotel Harrisburg understands that your pets are a part of your family and leaving them behind can be a traumatic experience for everyone. Our hotel [...]

National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg

Harrisburg, PA, is known for its many attractions, but the largest of them all is the Civil War Museum. This local institution seeks to share the entire story of America’s most troubling moment in history, while still focusing on the people who were affected. Visitors should expect to see a visual explanation of the causes/consequences of the Civil War, while fairly representing both Northern and Southern viewpoints. The museum [...]

Chocolate and Love in Harrisburg, PA

If you often find yourself thinking, “Wow, I love chocolate,” then Harrisburg, PA, is the vacation spot for you! Harrisburg is located just 20 minutes away from world-renowned, Hershey Park, Hershey’s Chocolate World Museum, Hershey Story Museum, and much more! Harrisburg and the surrounding towns have a deep appreciation for Hershey’s Chocolate. But one thing is sure: No hotel will ever love Hershey’s Chocolate as much as The Central Hotel [...]

Visitor’s Guide to Hersheypark in the Dark

Many children and adults celebrate Halloween all month long. Whether you plan on trick-or-treating, designing a spooky costume, braving haunted houses, or hosting a costume party, there are Halloween activities for everyone. This year, bring your Halloween spirit to The Central Hotel Harrisburg; we’re located near the ghoulishly delightful, Hersheypark. This all-ages amusement park celebrates Halloween all month long with new and traditional activities. Take a unique vacation and [...]

Fall in Love with Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

It’s never too early to start planning a fall family vacation, especially when there’s so many things to do in Harrisburg, PA, during the autumn months. Tucked within the Appalachian Mountains’ hills and valleys, The Harrisburg Region morphs into a kaleidoscope of fall colors. The trees are dressed in vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves; you name it! When staying at The Central Hotel of Harrisburg, you’ll never have to [...]

Best Restaurants in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

While on vacation, it’s essential to treat yourself to a nice meal. Harrisburg, PA, dishes out some of the best meals in the country, many of which are close to Best Western Premier: The Central Hotel & Conference Center. Fine Dining If you’re looking to celebrate something special…Bricco is the restaurant for you! Bricco is known as one of Harrisburg’s best fine dining restaurants. The menu offers Italian-inspired dishes crafted [...]

Independence Day in Harrisburg Pennsylvania

The Central Hotel and Conference Center is a Best Western Premier property with a distinct style, luxurious amenities, friendly staff, and outstanding service in Harrisburg, PA. Unlike many other hotels near Harrisburg, PA, we’re conveniently located within a short drive of Hershey, PA, and in the heart of Harrisburg, PA. Our central location allows you to experience Pennsylvania's most popular destinations, like the state capital.  Whether you're looking for a [...]

Go to Top