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 new with the kids at Whitaker Center. Whatever piques your interest, The Central Hotel Harrisburg is conveniently located near the best museums in Harrisburg.
National Civil War Museum
Harrisburg is home to one of the largest museums chronicling the history of the Civil War. The museum incorporates around 4,000 artifacts and over 20,000 archival documents. The museum is meant to be explored in order of the timeline of events and features exhibits on anything from Civil War music to the Battle of Gettysburg. And if you want to visit Gettysburg in person, it’s less than an hour’s drive from Harrisburg!
The State Museum of Pennsylvania
If you are interested in learning about Pennsylvania’s cultural and natural history, we recommend paying a visit to the State Museum. Permanent exhibits include exhibits on Native American history, geology, ancient flora and fauna, Pennsylvania icons, and our role in the Civil War and Industrial Revolution. You can also find activities for kids here at the hands-on Curiosity Connection center.
Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum focuses on the history of the fire service in America. The museum itself is an artifact, built-in 1899 and once an active firehouse in Harrisburg. Their permanent exhibits include a 1920s alarm system, parade hats, 3,000 patches, and two original Harrisburg fire trucks.
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
This fort was initially built by the British during the French and Indian War in 1755. In addition to the fort, there is a 40-acre park with ten structures on the National Register of Historic Places that can be seen on a self-guided walking tour. You can also tour the Fort Hunter Mansion while you’re here to learn more local history and information about 19th-century life in Harrisburg.
Art & Science Museums
If history isn’t your interest, you can visit one of our art and science museums instead. The Susquehanna Art Museum features four exhibition galleries regularly rotating to feature new artists. The Whitaker Center is the best museum for families visiting Harrisburg. Several hands-on exhibits are available in the Harsco Science Center, and educational films are available at the Digital Cinema.
Stay at Our Harrisburg Hotel
Spend your vacation delving into American history and learning something new at the museums in Harrisburg, PA. After you have spent an afternoon marveling at fascinating exhibits, return to your room at The Central Hotel Harrisburg. Take advantage of our local packages like the Civil War Experience, which includes two tickets to the National Civil War Museum with the price of your stay. Browse our collection of premier guest rooms at our Harrisburg hotel, and plan your vacation to the capital of Pennsylvania today!