Discover Harrisburg:

A Capitol Adventure & Historic Market Experience

Looking for a day trip that blends history, architecture, culture, and incredible local flavor? Join us for a captivating journey to Pennsylvania’s State Capitol—once praised by President Theodore Roosevelt as “the handsomest building” he ever saw—followed by free time to explore America’s oldest continuously operating market house, the iconic Broad Street Market. This is the kind of outing that turns a simple Friday into a story worth sharing.

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🏛️ Pennsylvania State Capitol Building Tour

Step inside one of the nation’s most breathtaking government buildings for a 30–45 minute guided tour that brings Pennsylvania’s history to life. Expert Capitol Tour Guides highlight the building’s extraordinary architecture, world‑class artwork, and the stories woven into every corridor.

Highlights of Your Capitol Visit

• Moravian Mosaic Tile Hunt: The Capitol’s rotunda floor features nearly 400 Moravian mosaic picture tiles—each one a tiny work of art. Make it a family challenge to see how many you can find.
• Interactive Welcome Center: Dive into Pennsylvania’s government through hands‑on exhibits designed for all ages. Explore:

The Welcome Center is fully accessible and open Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

• A LEGO-built Commonwealth statue
• Floor‑projection games packed with PA fun facts
• A chance to listen to debates and vote on mock legislation
• A virtual Capitol tour
• Interactive displays covering 300+ years of state history
• A photo op placing you “on top of the Capitol Dome”

🛍️ Broad Street Market: History, Flavor & Community

Just three blocks from the Capitol, the Broad Street Market has been feeding Harrisburg since 1860—originally serving Union soldiers at nearby Camp Curtin. Today, it remains a vibrant hub of local culture, small businesses, and culinary treasures.

Why You’ll Love the Market

• A living piece of history - With roots stretching back to the Civil War era, the Market has survived growth, decline, restoration, and even a devastating 2023 fire—emerging stronger thanks to community support.
• A foodie’s paradise - Enjoy time on your own to savor:
  • Locally grown produce
  • Amish and Mennonite baked goods
  • Fresh meats and artisanal foods
  • Global cuisine
  • Coffee, brews, and sweet treats
• A community cornerstone - The Market’s vendors—past and present—are the heart of this historic space, offering everything from farm-fresh eggs to handmade specialties.

📅 Trip Details

• Date: Friday, 6 March 2026
• Time: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• Cost: $20/person
• Reserve by: 27 February 2026
• Minimum: 8 passengers

🚌 Itinerary:

9 a.m. - Depart Outdoor Recreation parking lot

10 a.m. - Arrive State Capitol Building Tour (10:30 a.m.)

11:30 a.m. - Transfer to Broadstreet Market

11:45 a.m. -2:15 p.m. - Broadstreet Market On Your Own: Lunch and Shopping

2:15 p.m. - Return to van for pick up

2:30 p.m. - Depart for home

3:30 p.m. - Return Outdoor Recreation parking lot

Includes: roundtrip transportation, State Capitol Building Tour, and Broadstreet Market

Not Included: driver tip, meals, drinks, and souvenirs