A Trip To This Pennsylvania City Isn’t Complete Without Visiting This 4-Story Museum
By Beth Price-Williams|Published January 16, 2024
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Pennsylvania boasts a long and storied history that we can experience by visiting the many historic attractions and sites throughout the state. But what happens when we want a glimpse into the past but we simply don’t have the time or the funds to travel all over the state? We head over to this four-story museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. It promises plenty to see and do for the whole family.
Get a fascinating glimpse of Pennsylvania’s cultural and natural history at the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg. The four-story museum features permanent and changing exhibits, a planetarium, and the hands-on Curiosity Connection for little ones.
Before you head into the museum, find parking at one of the metered spots or parking lots near the museum.
As you stroll through the museum, you’ll come to several permanent exhibits (which are spread out on different floors), including a tribute to Pennsylvania’s icons. The more than 350 artifacts provide insight into the contribution of Pennsylvanians to society.
The Village Square, described as a “life-size streetscape,” will take you back to the 19th century with its general store, tin store, and other storefronts.
With its changing exhibits, the museum is a must-visit more than once. Changing exhibits have honored African American veterans in Pennsylvania, the women in Pennsylvania who have made history, and Benjamin Franklin.
Try to time your visit to coincide with one of the events at the planetarium. The museum itself also hosts a variety of events, including story time and homeschool programs.
Kiddos five and younger can explore and have a ton of fun at Curiosity Connection. The hands-on exhibits allow kids to climb, play with toy trucks, and explore.
The museum, which is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, charges an admission fee and an additional, nominal fee for the planetarium. Memberships are also available.
Have you been to this four-story museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Do you have any tips for those who plan to visit? Let us know in the comments! While you’re in Harrisburg, why not explore a bit outdoors, too? Slip on your hiking boots for an adventure at Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area, a natural wonder in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
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