a close up of a pink background with a striped pattern

Things to Do in Harrisburg in the Winter


Things to Do in Harrisburg in the Winter

As the winter months roll in, you don’t have to stay indoors! Venture out, and you’ll find there are plenty of things to do in Harrisburg in the winter. From outdoor adventures to warmer, indoor activities, Central PA has something for everyone in this colder time of year.

Read on for some of the best things to do in Harrisburg in the winter. Whether you’re looking for day trips during the season or want to experience what the area has to offer on a winter vacation, you’ll find plenty to do and see in Harrisburg.

Visit the National Civil War Museum

Stay warm inside one of the best things to do in Harrisburg in winter. The museum is one of the largest in the world dedicated to the American Civil War, and portrays different experiences during the era. Since the National Civil War Museum is open every season, you can visit any time, but a winter visit is worth it. Get out of the house or enjoy a winter break, all while learning something about the past.

Explore the State Museum of Pennsylvania

Learn about the state in this cultural and natural history museum. Some of the State Museum of Pennsylvania’s permanent exhibits include:

  • Memorial Hall
  • Pennsylvania Icons
  • Anthropology and Archaeology Gallery
  • Objects of Valor: Commemorating the Civil War in Pennsylvania
  • Hall of Geology

The museum features changing exhibits, as well, meaning you can visit multiple times to see something new! Along with its fascinating educational exhibits, the State Museum of Pennsylvania offers year-round events, so be sure to plan your winter visit around what’s happening.

Have Adventures at Roundtop Mountain Resort

Things to Do in Harrisburg in the Winter

If you enjoy spending time outside during the winter, Harrisburg has plenty to offer beyond its wonderful museums. Roundtop Mountain Resort is open year-round, but for fans of snow sports, be sure to visit for popular things to do in Harrisburg in winter. With a 30-minute drive south of the city, you can visit the resort and have tons of fun:

  • Skiing
  • Snowboarding
  • Tubing
  • Paintballing

Get your fill of outdoor adventure even in the colder months. Roundtop Mountain Resort creates artificial snow, meaning that once the temperatures are right, you can head here for winter activities in Harrisburg.

Tour Hershey’s Chocolate World

Only 30 minutes east of Harrisburg, you’ll find the sweet town of Hershey. Hershey’s Chocolate World is open year-round and offers plenty of fun experiences for adults and children alike. Check out some of the best attractions at Hershey’s Chocolate World when you’re wondering what to do in Harrisburg when it’s cold. You’ll find exciting and tasty options, like:

  • Hershey’s Chocolate Tour
  • Creating a candy bar
  • The 4D Chocolate Movie
  • Hershey’s Unwrapped: A Chocolate Tasting Journey

Get your hands on some Hershey’s chocolate or sample seasonal flavors in the food hall. No matter what you do on your visit, you’re sure to have a sweet time.

Take in the Scenery at Hersheypark

For an even sweeter time when it’s cold in Harrisburg, head to Hersheypark. While you won’t be able to ride one of the thrilling attractions at the park, you can enjoy the lovely scenery.

Hersheypark is open year-round, and during the wintertime, it lights up with over 4 million twinkle lights. Take the little ones to see Santa or enjoy a stroll in the brisk weather as you and your partner marvel at the dazzling light display. No matter what you enjoy, you’ll find a visit to Hersheypark is one of the top things to do in Harrisburg in the winter.

Enjoy 3rd in the Burg

For winter things to do in Harrisburg, PA, you have to take in some art and culture. Whether or not you’ve had a chance to enjoy a 3rd in the Burg event, you could always check it out in the winter. 3rd in the Burg runs year-round and takes place on the third Friday of every month. During the arts-focused event, you can enjoy:

  • Art exhibits
  • Live performances
  • Events at local restaurants and cafes
  • And more!

Scheduled events will likely take place at cozy indoor venues during the winter, but be sure to keep an eye on their site for the latest information, performances and events.

Go Shopping

Things to Do in Harrisburg in the Winter

Buy some winter essentials at the shopping locations throughout the city. Whether you get together with friends or treat yourself to a solo shopping trip, it’s one of the most popular things to do in Harrisburg in winter. Check out some fantastic shopping locations, including:

Shop for holiday gifts or get yourself a pick-me-up at any of the exciting shops around the area. Make a day of it with friends or head out shopping anytime you don’t know what to do in Harrisburg in winter.

Warm up With a Coffee

Start your winter morning or warm up after a chilly adventure with some of the best coffee shops in Harrisburg. Some favorites throughout the city include:

  • Little Amps Coffee Roasters
  • Brew Crumberland’s Best
  • Elementary Coffee Co.
  • And plenty more!

Fuel up for your day or cozy up with friends and family while you spend some time together, getting warm over a delicious cup of coffee in Harrisburg. Grab some other treats while you’re there that make for the perfect comfort food during the winter.

Grab a Bite

You’ll find something delicious that’ll please any palate in Harrisburg. No matter the meal, you can fill up on something mouthwatering that’s sure to fight away the winter blues. Check out some of the best restaurants in the city, like:

  • Ad Lib Craft Kitchen and Bar
  • Millworks
  • Alvaro Bread and Pastry Shoppe
  • Summit Family Restaurant
  • And lots, lots more!

No matter what area of the city you’re in, you’ll find delicious dining. While you’re enjoying your meal, you can figure out what there is to do in Harrisburg in the winter and plan a season of exciting adventures and outings.

Browse Rental Properties in Harrisburg

If seeing what to do in Harrisburg when it’s cold has opened your eyes to how much the city has to offer, don’t just visit! If it isn’t already, make Harrisburg your home with our help at Triple Crown Corporation.

We offer rental communities throughout the city, so you can find a location that’s perfect for you. You’ll find some of the most desirable amenities in our properties. If you don’t feel like heading out into the winter weather, you can always cozy up in your lovely Triple Crown rental property.

rental communities and contact us with any questions! Move to the city with so much to offer during the winter or tell your friends and family members looking to make a move about Triple Crown Corporation.