Harrisburg
| Official name | City of Harrisburg |
| Type | Capital city |
| Harrisburg skyline and Susquehanna River | |
| State | Pennsylvania |
| Country | United States |
| Established | 1791 |
| Population | 50,000 |
| Area (km²) | 29 |
| Time zone | Eastern (EST/EDT) |
| ZIP code(s) | 17101–17113 |
| Area code(s) | 717, 223 |
Harrisburg is the capital of the U.S. state of Pennsylvania and the county seat of Dauphin County. Located along the Susquehanna River, it plays a central role in Pennsylvania's government while also offering historical charm, outdoor recreation, and riverfront development.
Overview
- Designated the state capital in 1812
- Small in population but influential politically and historically
- Located in South Central Pennsylvania near Hershey and Lancaster
History
- Founded in the 18th century as a trading post and ferry stop
- Grew as a transportation hub with canals and railroads
- Played a logistical role in the Civil War and industrial era
- Faced financial collapse in the early 2010s but has since recovered
Government
- Home to the Pennsylvania State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark praised for its grand architecture
- Seat of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, Governor’s Office, and numerous state agencies
Landmarks and Attractions
- Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex – known for its Beaux-Arts design and large dome
- National Civil War Museum
- City Island – a riverfront recreation area with baseball stadium, mini golf, and walking paths
- Broad Street Market – one of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the U.S.
- Nearby attractions: Hersheypark, Indian Echo Caverns, and Appalachian Trail segments
Economy
- Dominated by state government, healthcare, and education
- Growing sectors include logistics, tech services, and tourism
- Capital Blue Cross and UPMC are among top employers in the area
Education
- Harrisburg University of Science and Technology – focused on STEM degrees
- Nearby institutions: Penn State Harrisburg, Dickinson College, and Messiah University
- Served by Harrisburg School District and several private academies
Transportation
- Located near the intersection of I‑81 and I‑83
- Served by Amtrak, Capital Area Transit (CAT), and Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)
- River bridges and walkways connect the city to surrounding communities
Fun Facts
- One of the few U.S. state capitals not the largest city in its state
- The 1979 Three Mile Island nuclear incident occurred just outside Harrisburg
- Capitol dome modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome