If you’ve followed me for any length of time, you’ve heard me talk about Harrisburg’s arts scene. I believe it’s one of the city’s greatest assets — and yet it’s often overlooked.
From murals and public art to theaters, galleries, live music venues, and cultural institutions, the city offers a rich creative landscape packed into a highly walkable downtown.
Now, new resources are making it easier than ever to explore.
What’s new with the Harrisburg Arts District
Visit Hershey & Harrisburg recently unveiled updated Harrisburg Arts District materials, including a redesigned printed map and a new interactive audio walking tour available through the Harrisburg Arts District app.
The updates reflect several changes to the city’s cultural landscape in recent years. New additions include Coronet Park and Capital City Music Hall, along with expanded coverage of Riverfront Park’s monuments, gardens, and historic points of interest. The resources now showcase more than 50 murals and monuments, as well as more than 20 theaters, museums, galleries, and performance venues throughout the district.
The new audio tour goes a step further, offering stories behind the art, architecture, artists, sculptors, and historical moments that have helped shape Harrisburg over time.
As conversations continue around downtown revitalization and economic development, these updates serve as a reminder that Harrisburg’s cultural assets are not a future goal — they’re already here.
Why this matters
For decades, public art, local theaters, music venues, festivals, and community organizations have helped define the character of the city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived in the region your entire life, there’s always something new to discover by slowing down and looking a little closer.
The Harrisburg Arts District was originally established to connect and promote the city’s arts and cultural destinations, helping residents and visitors navigate everything from murals and museums to performances and public spaces. These updated tools continue that mission while highlighting how much the district has grown.
If you’re planning a day in the city this summer, consider downloading the free app, following one of the walking tours, and exploring a few places you’ve never visited before.
Learn more and download the app at hbgartsdist.com. Plus, you can always get event updates every week in The Weekend Roundup. Sign up here.
