Penn State Harrisburg Campus Map: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
If you’re planning a visit to Penn State Harrisburg, you’ll want to make the most of your time on campus and in the surrounding area. From top attractions to hidden gems, from budget-friendly tips to outdoor adventures, this comprehensive travel guide will help you explore everything that this vibrant and diverse community has to offer.
Top Attractions
Start your visit by checking out the top attractions on campus. The Penn State Harrisburg Library is a great place to start, with its extensive collection of books, journals, and other resources. The gallery in the library also features rotating exhibits of art and photography. The Olmsted Building is another must-see, with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, be sure to check out the Penn State Harrisburg Arboretum. This hidden gem features more than 200 species of trees, shrubs, and other plants, as well as walking paths, a pond, and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. Another hidden gem is the Japanese Garden, which is tucked away behind the library and features a koi pond, a tea house, and a traditional Japanese gate.
Food Scene
When it comes to food, Penn State Harrisburg has plenty of options to satisfy any craving. The campus features several dining halls, including the Redifer Commons and the Stacks Food Court, which offer a wide range of options from pizza and burgers to salads and sushi. Off campus, you’ll find plenty of local restaurants to explore, including the Hershey Pantry, which is known for its delicious breakfasts and homemade baked goods.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying all that Penn State Harrisburg has to offer. One great option is to take advantage of the free events and activities that are offered on campus throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and movie screenings. Another option is to explore the area by bike or on foot, which is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for adventure at Penn State Harrisburg. The campus features several parks and green spaces, including the Capital Area Greenbelt, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails. You can also explore nearby nature preserves, such as Wildwood Park and Boyd Big Tree Preserve, which offer opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and fishing.
Historical Landmarks
Penn State Harrisburg is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks and monuments to explore on campus and in the surrounding area. One must-see is the Pennsylvania State Capitol Building, which is located just a few miles from campus and features stunning architecture and beautiful artwork. Another option is the National Civil War Museum, which is located in nearby Harrisburg and features exhibits on the Civil War and its impact on the nation.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy at Penn State Harrisburg. The campus features several playgrounds and parks, as well as a children’s museum, which offers hands-on exhibits and interactive learning experiences. You can also take the kids to nearby Hershey Park, which features amusement rides, water parks, and live shows.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to enjoy at Penn State Harrisburg. One option is to explore the nearby Susquehanna River by kayak or canoe, which offers scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Another option is to visit the nearby Indian Echo Caverns, which feature stunning underground caves and rock formations.
Natural Wonders
If you love the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of natural wonders to explore at Penn State Harrisburg. The area is home to several state parks, including Pine Grove Furnace State Park and Gifford Pinchot State Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, swimming, and boating. You can also explore nearby nature preserves, such as the Conewago Trail and the Susquehanna Riverlands, which offer opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out, Penn State Harrisburg has plenty of options to choose from. The campus features several bars and pubs, including the Student Center Bar and Grill, which offers live music and drink specials. Off campus, you’ll find plenty of local bars and nightclubs, including the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center, which features live music, comedy shows, and other performances.
Local Markets
If you’re a fan of local food and crafts, be sure to check out some of the local markets in the area. One must-see is the Broad Street Market, which is located in nearby Harrisburg and features dozens of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and meats to handmade jewelry and pottery. Another option is the Carlisle Farmers Market, which is located just a few miles from campus and features a wide range of local products.
Beaches and Mountains
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, Penn State Harrisburg is located just a short drive from both the beach and the mountains. You can head east to explore the beaches of the Jersey Shore or the Delaware beaches, or head west to explore the mountains of the Appalachian Trail and the Poconos.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in learning about different cultures, Penn State Harrisburg has plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. The campus features several cultural centers, including the Latino Hispanic American Cultural Center and the Asian American Pacific Islander Cultural Center, which offer events, workshops, and other programs throughout the year. You can also explore the nearby International House, which features programs and events that celebrate diversity and promote cultural exchange.
Art and Music Scene
If you’re a fan of art and music, you’ll find plenty of options to explore at Penn State Harrisburg. The campus features several galleries and performance spaces, including the Student Center Art Gallery and the Kunkel Auditorium, which host exhibits, concerts, and other events throughout the year. Off campus, you’ll find plenty of local theaters and galleries, including the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, which features exhibits, performances, and films.
Walking Tours
If you want to explore the area on foot, there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. One option is to take a self-guided tour of the Penn State Harrisburg campus, which features several historic buildings and landmarks. Another option is to explore the nearby city of Harrisburg, which features several walking tours that highlight the city’s history and architecture.
Architectural Marvels
If you’re a fan of architecture, you’ll find plenty of marvels to explore at Penn State Harrisburg. The campus features several buildings that showcase different architectural styles, including the Olmsted Building, which features stunning Gothic architecture, and the Science and Technology Building, which features sleek modern design. You can also explore the nearby city of Harrisburg, which features several notable architectural landmarks, including the Harrisburg State Hospital and the State Museum of Pennsylvania.
Historical Sites
Penn State Harrisburg is located in a region that is rich in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore in the area. One must-see is the Gettysburg National Military Park, which is located just a short drive from campus and features historic battlefields, monuments, and museums. Another option is to explore the nearby Hershey Historic District, which features historic homes, museums, and gardens.
Biking Routes
If you want to explore the area by bike, there are plenty of routes to choose from. One option is to explore the Capital Area Greenbelt, which offers more than 20 miles of paved trails that loop around the city of Harrisburg. Another option is to explore the Conewago Trail, which offers scenic views of the Susquehanna River and the surrounding countryside.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Penn State Harrisburg has plenty of options to choose from. The campus features several fitness and wellness centers, including the Fitness and Wellness Center and the Intramural Building, which offer a wide range of exercise classes and activities. You can also explore nearby wellness retreats, such as the Mellow Minded Cafe and Wellness Center, which offers yoga classes, meditation sessions, and other wellness programs.
Adventure Sports
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you’ll find plenty of adventure sports to enjoy at Penn State Harrisburg. The area offers opportunities for rock climbing, zip lining, and white water rafting, as well as skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. You can also explore nearby adventure parks, such as Roundtop Mountain Resort and Ski Roundtop, which offer a wide range of outdoor activities.
With so much to see and do, Penn State Harrisburg is the perfect destination for anyone looking for adventure, culture, and fun. Whether you’re exploring the campus or venturing out into