Fall is certainly a beautiful season in Pennsylvania, but that doesn’t change the fact that no one wants to think about the end of summer! Ready or not, summer eventually comes to an end, and if you’re anything like the rest of the world, you’ll wish you had done at least a dozen more things before fall comes around.
Lucky for you, there are tons of things to do in Central Pennsylvania before the end of summer. Whether you check out summer activities in Harrisburg or travel around this area of Pennsylvania, you’ll have plenty to add to your summer bucket list. The region even offers activities to enjoy that will take your mind off current events and make it easier to maintain social distance during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping you make the most of summer during these times. We’ve gathered a list of fun and safe activities to enjoy throughout the region, so learn what to do this summer and get ready for some fun in the Keystone State.
The capital of Pennsylvania has so much to offer its residents and visitors, especially during the warmer months of the year. Enjoy the outdoors and head over to some of Harrisburg’s neighboring areas, like New Cumberland, Mechanicsburg or Camp Hill, for even more fun summer things to do. Check out these summer activities in Harrisburg and surrounding areas before the season ends:
You could easily spend many summer days and nights on the city’s island of fun. City Island offers plenty of summer things to do in Harrisburg, like:
This destination is also considered one of the best summer activities in New Cumberland, thanks to how close it is to the area. While you’re there, take in the view of the Susquehanna, the Harrisburg skyline and the other islands that call this scenic river home. Those activities can help you maintain a safe social distance while still enjoying what Harrisburg has to offer, and there are plenty more things to do before the end of summer on City Island, so plan a whole day to explore.
Surround yourself with summer scenery and head out on the waters of Central Pennsylvania. Kayaking or canoeing is a great way to get some adventure and maintain a safe distance from others who are spending time on the water. Rent equipment from a kayak or canoe outlet in the region or head out with your own equipment. Be sure to research any restrictions or dangers where you plan to go if you’re creating your own trip on the waterways.
Swatara Creek, the Susquehanna River and other bodies of water throughout the area offer outdoor adventure for anyone from beginners to experienced kayakers and canoers, and outlets in the area can help you pick the best trip for your skill level. When you want to head out on the water, consider outlets in the region like:
Those seeking adventure on the water can also stop for a picnic along the banks or try fishing in some hot spots along the waterways. If you’re traveling with an outlet, they can recommend some of the best spots to picnic or fish, so grab your gear and get ready for a day in the great outdoors.
If you’re looking for summer activities in Pennsylvania that get your heart pumping, take a bike ride! Central Pennsylvania has plenty of trails to explore, and Harrisburg is no exception. One popular spot for cyclists is the Capital Area Greenbelt, a 20-mile loop that takes you along the Susquehanna, past urban areas and through scenic wooded spots.
Want to get out of the city with some summer things to do in Camp Hill? Sacred Rides Michaux tailors mountain bike rides to suit your abilities. You’ll get to tour the best trails and secret spots that Central Pennsylvania has to offer. Their one and two-day tours offer perfect opportunities for thrill-seekers and sightseers. Plan your trip during the week to avoid busy times, and maintain social distance from other bikers.
Prefer to spend your summer in Pennsylvania relaxing? Want to spend some time outside enjoying summer activities in PA? Harrisburg and the surrounding areas are home to plenty of green spaces to explore, including:
Visiting a park is a great way to get outside, but to maintain safe social distance, you may want to walk or relax in green areas instead of using playground equipment or picnic shelters, just to stay safe while still enjoying your summer.
Summer may mean school’s out, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn something new. If you’ve got kids in your family or you want to educate yourself on history, art or something new, take a trip to one of these enriching museums:
If you can’t visit these museums in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic, bad weather or any other reasons, check out online exhibits. The State Museum of Pennsylvania offers virtual exhibits on their website, but you can also check out museums throughout Pennsylvania, the country and the world that are hosting virtual exhibits for you to enjoy without stepping foot outside.
Less than 30 minutes from Harrisburg is another area full of summer things to do in Central PA. Make the end of your summer a little bit sweeter with some of the fun activities in Hershey, from well-known attractions to exciting events:
If you’ve been waiting to visit Hersheypark, now’s your chance! Hersheypark features thrilling coasters, relaxing family rides and plenty of delicious food. Pack your swimsuit and cool off on some water park rides — you’ll find classic slides, rides, pools, a lazy river and more.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hersheypark delayed its 2020 opening but plans to reopen in June. Explore the rides and things to do at the park, so you can plan for your next visit and look forward to a sweet day of thrills and excitement.
ZooAmerica is a great activity to add to your summer bucket list, especially if you have little ones wanting some fun. The zoo hosts plenty of programs and events, many tailored to younger visitors, that feature interactive excitement and hands-on activities. Even if you don’t plan your visit around one of the fun events, you’ll get to see over 200 animals from regions all over the world.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the zoo delayed opening but plans to open in June 2020. If you have younger kids, you can even create your own zoo exhibits at home with stuffed animals or watch nature documentaries together to learn about the animals you’ll see at ZooAmerica before your next trip.
Want to see live music during the summer? Hershey Stadium, an outdoor concert venue in Central Pennsylvania, offers something for every music fan during the summer. Whether you’re into country, pop, classic rock or other tunes, you’ll find a show for you at Hershey Stadium. Get your tickets and plan for a day full of music and fun, and get there early to tailgate across the street before musicians take the stage.
Can’t make it to a live concert? Try going virtual! Turn up your speakers and watch live performances from Central Pennsylvania musicians or popular acts from around the world. The Susquehanna Folk Music Society has hosted virtual events in the past and is continuing to search for ways to support the local culture and community, so share your support and join the virtual entertainment sessions.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of excitement in the city with just as much fun in picturesque Lancaster. There’s plenty to do in this area, from shopping to historical tours, so don’t leave it off your summer bucket list. Check out some of these popular activities to enjoy in and around Lancaster:
Head out on the green with the wide variety of golf courses and clubs throughout the region. Golf courses in the area are open during the COVID-19 pandemic because it’s an activity that gets you outdoors and helps you maintain a safe social distance from others. Play a game at scenic courses like:
There’s something about the fun, vintage vibe of a drive-in theater that says summertime. Pack your favorite snacks and catch a summer blockbuster with the family while you’re under the stars. Check out one of these drive-ins in Central Pennsylvania:
Drive-in theaters throughout the region plan to be open for the 2020 season thanks to the possibility of maintaining social distance as you watch a movie from inside your vehicle. If you can’t make it to any of those theaters, create your own theater at home. Stay indoors and stream a movie on your TV, or use a projector on a blank wall inside or outside your home or onto a white sheet for a movie theater feel.
Get outside and keep a safe distance from others, thanks to the hiking trails in Central Pennsylvania. Check out these trails that run through the area and range in difficulty for beginners to experts:
With so much to do in Harrisburg and surrounding areas, Central Pennsylvania is a wonderful place to be during the summer and every other season. So why just visit? Call this area your home to get close to the fun, and let us at Triple Crown Corporation help you settle in. Our rental communities in Harrisburg, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, Middletown and New Cumberland will help you call Central Pennsylvania home, and the desirable amenities throughout our communities will make the move even better.
Check out our rental communities today, and contact us with any questions. At Triple Crown Corporation, we’d be delighted to welcome you to Central Pennsylvania, so you can enjoy what the area has to offer during the summer and year-round!
