Things to do in Central Pennsylvania

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Central Pennsylvania which includes a square or plaza and heritage architecture
Central Pennsylvania which includes a square or plaza and heritage architecture
Harrisburg showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture
Central Pennsylvania showing fall colors
The Hershey Story Museum featuring interior views

Central Pennsylvania Attractions

Discover the best sights in Central Pennsylvania with some popular tours & day trips, or get through our list of {27 fun activities in Central Pennsylvania fun activities in Central Pennsylvania}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can relax and focus on planning your dream vacation.


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Central Pennsylvania must see attractions

1. Hersheypark

Plummet, splash and spin on the confectionery-themed coasters of Hersheypark, a destination inspired by the sweet produce of Hershey’s. Visitors of every age will find a ride to suit their tastes, with a wide array of high-speed, big-drop attractions sitting alongside gentler attractions for younger visitors. A water park and selection of chocolate-filled restaurants further add to the appeal of this exhilarating family destination.
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Hersheypark which includes a waterpark

2. Sight and Sound Theatre

If you’re a fan of live musical performance, be sure to include a show at the Sight and Sound Theatre in your visit to Lancaster County. The Ronks location, just outside of Strasburg, is the first of two operated by the entertainment company, which produces Broadway-style Christian stories live on stage. The second location is in Branson, Missouri.
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Sight and Sound Theatre

3. Hershey's Chocolate World

The town of Hershey thrived because of the beloved candy that is celebrated at Hershey's Chocolate World. Watch shows, explore a replica factory and take part in hands-on chocolate experiences. Spend an entire day learning about and tasting Hershey's candy and at the end of it all, you can decide whether there is ever such a thing as too much chocolate.
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Hershey\'s Chocolate World featuring signage and markets

4. Hersheypark Stadium

Hersheypark Stadium is an impressive open-air venue that hosts a variety of musical concerts and sports events. Lying between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, it is a cultural cornerstone of the region and has hosted many big names. Step into the rectangular arena and feel the excitement as the stadium lights up for night events.
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Hersheypark Stadium which includes night scenes, performance art and nightlife

5. Dutch Wonderland

Plan a day of fun on your visit to Dutch Wonderland. Brave the roller coasters and flying trapeze. Exploration Island and its dinosaur fossil dig will excite budding archaeologists in the family. On a hot Pennsylvania summer day, you’re likely to head to the water park to cool off. Designed with young children in mind, the park offers more than 35 rides, attractions and shows to delight the whole family.
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Dutch Wonderland

What to do in Central Pennsylvania

Things to Do in Central Pennsylvania with Kids

Central Pennsylvania is a terrific place for a family break. Bring the youngsters along and enjoy these family friendly experiences together:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Central Pennsylvania? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Central Pennsylvania

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Central Pennsylvania

Historic Downtown Lancaster

Historic Downtown Lancaster

Capital of the Colonies for just a single day, this central district offers a fascinating trip through American Revolutionary history.

Historic Downtown Lancaster
Cannons and a monument on the battlefield at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Gettysburg Historic District

If you're spending some time in Gettysburg Historic District, Gettysburg Museum of History and Majestic Theater are top sights worth seeing.

Gettysburg Historic District
The state capital of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg.

Downtown Harrisburg

3/5(4 area reviews)

Central core neighborhood with a lively "Restaurant Row" on North Second Street, Downtown Harrisburg offers attractions like City Island, Riverfront Park, and the Capital Area Greenbelt. Discover boutique shops in SoMa and the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts.

Downtown Harrisburg
Hershey Gardens opened in 1937 with Milton Hershey’s request to “create a nice garden of roses.” More than 75 years later, the small rose garden has blossomed into 23 acres of botanical beauty providing visitors with unique experiences and enriching opportunities.

North Hershey

While visiting North Hershey, you might make a stop by sights like Hersheypark and Hershey Gardens.

North Hershey
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Holmes-Foster

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Holmes-Foster and surrounding area, you can visit Penn State University's Blue and White Golf Courses and The Arboretum at Penn State.

Holmes-Foster
Park

Downtown Hershey

If you're spending some time in Downtown Hershey, Hersheypark and The Hershey Story Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Hershey

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Central Pennsylvania

Frequently asked questions

What is Central Pennsylvania famous for?
Take a family happy snap at Hershey's Chocolate World — it's a local icon.
What should I not miss in Central Pennsylvania?
Make your way to Hersheypark Stadium and Pennsylvania State Capitol, two leading sights that lure travelers from all around.
Are there cheap things to do in Central Pennsylvania?
What can you do in Central Pennsylvania for free?
Your vacation in Central Pennsylvania needn't send you broke with free things like these to keep you on the go:

  • Pennsylvania State University
  • Hollywood Casino
  • Gettysburg National Military Park
  • Indiana University of Pennsylvania

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