Harrisburg is the capital of the state of Pennsylvania. It has a history that dates back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannock and Shawnee. European settlement began when John Harris, Sr., an English trader, established a trading post and ferry service along the Susquehanna River around 1719. His son, John Harris, Jr., laid out the town in 1785, naming it Harrisburg. The town briefly changed its name to Louisbourg in honor of King Louis XVI of France, but reverted to Harrisburg in 1791. Harrisburg was designated the state capital in 1812, replacing Lancaster, and the cornerstone for the new capitol building was laid in 1819.

Throughout the 19th century, Harrisburg grew as a transportation and industrial hub due to its strategic location along the Susquehanna River and the construction of the Pennsylvania Canal and later the Pennsylvania Railroad. The city played a significant role during the American Civil War, serving as a major Union supply center and the site of Camp Curtin, the largest Union Army training camp. Harrisburg continued to develop in the 20th century, with the construction of a new capitol building in 1906 and the expansion of its park system, which once boasted more parks per square mile than any other city in America.

The most iconic building and most well-known landmark of Harrisburg is the Pennsylvania State Capitol. The capitol is the seat of government for the state of Pennsylvania, and it was designed by architect Joseph Miller Huston in 1902 and completed in 1906 in a Beaux-Arts style with decorative Renaissance themes in the design. The present building is the third capitol in Harrisburg, and it is an impressive edifice with a grand dome inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The interior is adorned with murals and sculptures that celebrate Pennsylvania’s history and achievements. You can join a guided tour to explore the building’s rich history and architectural beauty.

Pennsylvania State Capitol is the centerpiece of the Capitol Complex, which unfold on the eastern side of the capitol. A large plaza surrounded by impressive office buildings forms an urban space. The buildings are governmental offices and all built in Classical Revival style. Of all the complex buildings, there are other architecture and eras represented as well. The oldest structure is the Matthew Ryan Legislative Office Building from 1893, and the Northwest Office Building from 1939 was influenced by the style of the 1930s. You can finalize the walk at State Street Bridge to the east, where you have a panoramic view of the Capitol Complex.

You can visit the State Museum of Pennsylvania. It is run by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the state. The museum opened is its present building in 1964, and the central hall features a large statue of William Penn, who founded the Province of Pennsylvania in 1681 during the colonial era. There are extensive collections of artifacts and exhibitions related to the American Civil War, industrial and technological innovations, artwork, and much more.

Harrisburg’s downtown and historic district is also interesting places for a stroll. The downtown area is the modern commercial district with a mix of architecture. If you walk to the north and thereby to Midtown, you can head for the Broad Street Market from 1860. It is now one of the oldest continuously operating farmers’ markets in the United States. The historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere make it worth a visit. The John Harris Mansion a bit south is another significant heritage site. Built in 1764-1766, this Georgian-style mansion was the home of John Harris, Jr., the founder of Harrisburg, and later, Simon Cameron, a prominent politician and Lincoln’s Secretary of War. The mansion now serves as a museum, offering insights into the lives of its notable residents and the history of Harrisburg.

Harrisburg also offers beautiful outdoor spaces, such as Riverfront Park, which stretches along the Susquehanna River and provides scenic views and recreational opportunities. The park is home to the Harrisburg Sunken Gardens, a peaceful spot perfect for a leisurely stroll. From the riverwalk you can also take a look up State Street to the Pennsylvania State Capitol. When in State Street, you can visit Cathedral of Saint Patrick, completed in Gothic Revival style with a beautiful interior in 1907. A bit to the north along the river, you pass the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence, the official residence of the governor of Pennsylvania.