Best hotels in Harrisburg
Harrisburg Introduction
Harrisburg’s picturesque riverside setting and abundance of heritage attractions make it a popular choice for city breaks. Pennsylvania’s storied state capital was a major industrial powerhouse during the 19th century, resulting in many lavish civic buildings. The city’s proximity to the fertile Dutch Country, irrigated by the Susquehanna River that flows through downtown, also made it a nationally important center for agriculture, home to one of the oldest and largest farm shows in the U.S. From fascinating museums to tranquil parks, a stay in Harrisburg offers stimulation and relaxation in equal measure.Hotels in Harrisburg
There are many reasons to stay in hotels in Harrisburg, from convenient overnight business trips to adventure-packed family vacations and romantic city breaks. Decades of welcoming visitors from all corners of the U.S. and further afield have left Harrisburg hotels thoroughly primed to cater for all needs. You’ll find all the familiar national brands, offering comfort, convenience, and value for money. Enjoy the generous leisure facilities of a conference hotel, kick back in a cozy downtown inn, or max your budget in a friendly motel. For the best Harrisburg hotel deals, book well in advance and avoid the seasonal peaks around Thanksgiving and school vacations.Where to stay
Hotels in Harrisburg are evenly spread across the city center and suburbs, so location is just one factor among many when making your choice. The best selection of cheap Harrisburg hotels is to be found along Interstate 81, with popular budget brands and traditional motels conveniently situated off this busy thoroughfare. Stay on the Susquehanna riverfront for a romantic break with Harrisburg’s iconic skyline as your backdrop. Travel west of downtown in the direction of Mechanicsburg, the district that once housed the city’s industrial workforce, or let your sweet tooth set the satnav eastward towards Hershey, home of the world-famous chocolate manufacturer.Things to see
Feel the political pulse of Pennsylvania at the State Capitol, one of the city’s most iconic buildings, inspired by the design of St. Peter’s in Rome. This grand edifice is adorned with sculptures, murals, and stained glass windows that depict local themes or were made by local craftspeople. The State Museum of Pennsylvania showcases the region’s history and culture through displays of industrial and technological innovations, artworks, and a multimedia planetarium. Stroll through Reservoir Park to continue your history lesson at the National Civil War Museum, which presents an impartial overview of the conflict between the Union and Confederate causes. Soak up the buzz of Broad Street Market, one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the U.S., and get a taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Then complete your journey back in time with a nostalgic cruise on the ‘Pride of the Susquehanna’ traditional riverboat.How to get to Harrisburg
Busy Harrisburg International Airport is one of the main hubs for Pennsylvania, with direct flights to many domestic and international airports. There are various alternatives to reach downtown Harrisburg from the terminal, including taxis, limo services, and a public bus. Amtrak’s Keystone and Pennsylvanian routes link the city with Philadelphia and New York. Interstate 81 passes to the north of downtown and I-83 to the south, while Philadelphia is around 110 miles east on I-76. Travel in Harrisburg is provided by Capital Area Transit (CAT), which operates a network of bus services throughout downtown and the metropolitan area.
