Road Trip: Harrisburg / Hershey

It was a little embarrassing to be a state political blogger who had never been to the state capitol so this summer I went not once but twice. The first time was with a group. We toured the Capitol building. If you haven't done this you should. It is truly beautiful. It even captivated the children in the group. The interactive game area was also very popular with them.

The second visit was just with family. We toured the Capitol and again I was deeply impressed with the grandeur of the building. Our original plan included visiting the State Museum of Pennsylvania but time got away from us. We headed on to the National Civil War Museum, on the edge of the city. Some of the exhibits, such as the photos of former slaves showing scars from a whip, and photos of prisoners in the Andersonville prison, are a little intense for younger kids. Older kids, though, might really soak it up.

We stayed overnight at the Four Points Harrisburg, between Harrisburg and Hershey. It fit my requirement (wireless) and also the kids' (pool). The room was comfortable. The pool was kid friendly. The staff was friendly and helpful. There is a shopping area nearby with a few restaurants to choose from, and a Giant grocery store that sells discounted Hershey Park tickets as well as foodstuffs for the road.

Hershey Park is a standard amusement park with a few add ons. We skipped the water park part this trip. In addition to the rides you can tour the animatronic chocolate factory and the 3-D Hershey show. The shop is full of Hershey products.

It was a great overnight trip, about 90 minutes or two hours away from the Philadelphia area, depending on where you are. Yes, I did use the Hershey Park part as a bribe for good behavior in the Capitol and museum part, but I think the kids enjoyed both parts, though perhaps not equally. It is definitely a good combination for a family getaway.