Things to do in Central Pennsylvania

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Visit Central Pennsylvania

Types of activities

Where to stay

Central Pennsylvania Travel Guide

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

National Civil War Museum showing a statue or sculpture

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

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.

Learn more

2. 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.

Learn more

3. 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.

Learn more

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.

Learn more

Hersheypark Stadium which includes night scenes, performance art and nightlife

5. 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.

Learn more

Hershey\'s Chocolate World featuring signage and markets

6. Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg National Military Park is a sprawling, verdant area that commemorates the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg. The cemetery and museum here provide information on the fascinating battle during the American Civil War. Inspect the many memorials and statues that adorn this scenic park.

Learn more

Gettysburg National Military Park featuring a garden and heritage elements

What to do in Central Pennsylvania

Discover the most popular places to visit in Central Pennsylvania

Hersheypark

4.5/5(1,254 reviews)

Ride roller coasters in this action-packed candy-themed park filled with thrilling water slides, child-friendly rides and opportunities to dine with actors dressed as Hershey products.

Pennsylvania State University

4.5/5(767 reviews)

Walk around the campus of Pennsylvania State University, a top college in State College. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.

Dutch Wonderland

4.5/5(236 reviews)

With plenty of thrill rides, attractions, shows and water activities, this award-winning amusement park is one of the best in the state.

Sight and Sound Theatre

5/5(686 reviews)

Bible stories come to life on stage in spectacular fashion at this renowned theater and entertainment company in Lancaster County.

Hersheypark Stadium

4.5/5(409 reviews)

Enjoy a sports competition or a musical concert under the bright lights with beer and snacks in this historic arena.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort

4.5/5(111 reviews)

Hit the slopes in Champion with a visit to Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Take in the art scene and countryside in this romantic area.

Knoebels Amusement Resort

5/5(115 reviews)

Enjoy an outing to Knoebels Amusement Resort during your stay in Elysburg. Discover the festivals and theme park in this trendy area.

Hershey's Chocolate World

4.5/5(1,291 reviews)

Feed your sugary fantasies in attractions dedicated to all things cocoa-related at this chocolate-themed attraction.

Gettysburg National Military Park

5/5(799 reviews)

Take a tour with a licensed guide in your own car and visit two museums providing information on the Battle of Gettysburg.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Central Pennsylvania

Historic Downtown Lancaster

Historic Downtown Lancaster is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Central Market or Fulton Theatre.

Gettysburg which includes heritage architecture and a bridge

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.

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.

Prospect Heights

While there might not be top attractions in Prospect Heights, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Fulton Theatre and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square.