Road trips are always fun, giving you the opportunity to explore somewhere completely new. And whether you’re using Harrisburg as your main base or as part of a wider journey, it’s a joy to discover.

As with the rest of the US, you’ll be driving on the right side of the road. There are quite a few one-way streets in Harrisburg, so it’s always good to keep an eye on signs and plan your trip in advance.

The speed limit varies per road, with the majority of freeways in the state having a 65 or 70mph maximum speed, out of town highways often 55mph, while limits in the city will be much lower – typically 35mph in urban districts, 25mph in residential areas and 15mph near schools, but always check the signs as these can vary.

One of the important things to prepare for is street cleaning days, as one side of the street will be closed and this reduces parking availability. This only happens twice a month however, and you can check the cleaning schedule and street signs to ensure you’ll be able to find a space.

Apart from that, parking is good in Harrisburg. You’ll find parking machines that accept both coins and cards all around the city, with costs of around $3 an hour typical.

There’s plenty of sights to see and museums to explore in this great destination, all of which are within driving distance of each other.

The fascinating metropolitan city has the perfect combination of natural beauty and modern amenities – discover it all with car hire in Harrisburg.

Sail the Susquehanna

There’s nothing more relaxing than sitting back on a boat and enjoying the sights that go by. So take the opportunity to tour the Susquehanna River on a riverboat cruise.

Especially exciting is a trip on The Pride of the Susquehanna – one of seven authentic stern-driven paddle boats remaining in the US. You’ll get a great view of Harrisburg, too.

Get a glimpse of the past

There are many museums worth exploring during your time in Harrisburg, all of which are easy to drive to. Start at The State Museum of Pennsylvania to immerse yourself in the history of Harrisburg itself. Exhibits include an engaging life-size streetscape that is made to look like a realistic 19^th-century town.

Once you’ve finished learning more about the historic city, drive just ten minutes up State Street and visit The National Civil War Museum, home to revealing insights into the conflict that once tour the nation apart. Drive a further fifteen and you can pay your respects at the poignant Harrisburg Holocaust Monument, dedicated to those who lost their lives during the darkest days of the 20^th century.

Often referred to as a ‘Palace of Art’, meanwhile, the Pennsylvania Capitol is a building of beauty. With its mix of ornamental Renaissance and Beaux-Arts designs, it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate unique architecture. The inside is awe-striking, with regal artwork covering the walls and lavishly designed ceilings that you simply can’t miss.

This architectural masterpiece is actually a functional seat of government, but visitors are welcome on weekdays to explore the extraordinary building and even pick up a souvenir from the Capitol Gift Shop.

Get in touch with nature

If you want a walk on the wild side, Wildwood Park is perfect. With trees sprawling over 210 acres of rolling hills and a stunning 90-acre lake, it is a breath-taking place to enjoy a hike.

In fact, there are well over six miles of trails to enjoy. Why not visit the Capitol before driving ten minutes away to this nature park for a picnic? It’s a great day out and allows you to make the most out of just a few hours when soaking up the sights of the city.

A bit of a brew

Need a bite to eat? If you’re parked up for the night, experience the local beer while doing so by visiting the Appalachian Brewing Company.

Known to be one of America’s largest brewpubs, the ABC made itself home in an abandoned 100-year-old building which they restored to be a hip hangout – and food and drink can now be enjoyed at this popular local venue.

The brewery offers free guided tours every Saturday afternoon (check their website for more details), and they make their own craft sodas too.

When you hire a car in Harrisburg, all this and more is at your fingertips. Book direct with us today.