North Middleton

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with North Middleton's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring North Middleton Park
morning
:

Start your day with a rejuvenating walk or bike ride through North Middleton Park, where you can enjoy the crisp morning air and the sounds of nature. Stop by the playground to let the kids play while you sip on your favorite morning beverage. Spend some time observing local wildlife along the trails, making for a peaceful and invigorating start to your trip.

afternoon
:

Head over to the park's picnic area for a delightful lunch surrounded by beautiful scenery. Afterward, engage in some recreational activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding at the nearby waterbody, making the most of your afternoon. Don’t forget to bring a book or a ball for a relaxing downtime on the grass.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll around the park, enjoying the scenic views and the cool evening breeze. Consider hosting a barbecue at one of the park's designated grill areas, where you can enjoy a cozy dinner with friends or family. After dinner, relax under the stars while sharing stories or roasting marshmallows over a fire pit.

day 2
Historical Tour of Carlisle
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the nearby town of Carlisle, known for its rich history and charming architecture. Take a guided walking tour through the historic district, where you will learn fascinating stories about the town’s past. Make sure to stop by the local café for a delicious breakfast and coffee to fuel your morning adventures.

afternoon
:

After your tour, spend the afternoon at the Cumberland County Historical Society to delve deeper into the local heritage through exhibits and artifacts. You can also explore the nearby historic buildings and shops, immersing yourself in the local culture. Grab a light lunch at a quaint deli and enjoy some people-watching while you eat.

evening
:

Visit one of Carlisle's local restaurants for dinner, where you can try regional specialties cooked with fresh local ingredients. After dining, catch a live performance at the Carlisle Theatre to soak in the local arts scene. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk through the vibrant downtown area, soaking up the atmosphere.

day 3
Outdoor Adventures at Blue Mountain
morning
:

Kick off your day with a scenic drive to Blue Mountain for a day filled with outdoor excitement. Arrive early to enjoy a sunrise hike on one of the many trails, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take your time exploring nature, capturing photos of the spectacular vistas as the sun rises.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the mountain's picturesque lookout points after your hike. Spend the afternoon trying your hand at mountain biking or riding the scenic chairlift for a different view of the area. If you're lucky, you might even spot some deer or other wildlife as you traverse the trails.

evening
:

After an adventurous day, unwind with a relaxing dinner at a nearby lodge or restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty meals and local brews. Gather your group and share stories about the day’s adventures around a cozy fireplace. If you’re up for it, sign up for a stargazing event that will allow you to marvel at the night sky, revealing the constellations above.

day 4
Cultural Day in Mechanicsburg
morning
:

Travel to Mechanicsburg to immerse yourself in the area’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Start your day with a visit to local galleries showcasing the work of talented regional artists, where you can appreciate everything from contemporary art to historical pieces. Make sure to grab breakfast at a local café known for its freshly baked goods.

afternoon
:

Continue your cultural exploration in Mechanicsburg by visiting the Mechanicsburg Museum Association to learn about the town's history through fascinating exhibits. Then, head to a nearby artisanal market to browse handmade crafts and local produce, perfect for a unique souvenir. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a bistro that highlights farm-to-table dining options.

evening
:

As evening draws near, attend a performance at a community theatre or live music venue for a taste of local talent. After the show, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a popular local restaurant, sampling dishes inspired by international cuisines. Finish the evening with a walk through the beautifully lit streets, reflecting on a day well spent.

day 5
Relaxing Retreat at Boiling Springs
morning
:

Make your way to the quaint village of Boiling Springs for a tranquil morning spent by the water. Start with a walk around the iconic yellow springs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while watching ducks swim peacefully. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for some freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries.

afternoon
:

After your relaxing start, enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake to take in the serene surroundings from the water. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Appalachian Trail, engaging in nature walks that showcase the area's natural beauty. Pack a light lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic spots along the trail.

evening
:

As the day winds down, indulge in a cozy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, savoring the delicious food while watching the sunset over the water. After your meal, enjoy a quiet evening by the lake, perhaps with a book or good company, reflecting on the beauty of nature. End your retreat by participating in evening wildlife spotting to see which creatures come alive at night.

day 6
Wine Tasting in Adams County
morning
:

Set out for a delightful day of wine tasting in the nearby Adams County, known for its stunning vineyards and wineries. Start your morning at the first vineyard of the day, engaging in a guided tour to learn about the wine-making process while enjoying the picturesque scenery. Be sure to indulge in a complimentary tasting, savoring the unique flavors of local wines.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon hopping between various wineries, each offering unique atmospheres and selections of wines. Take a break for lunch at one of the wineries that also serves gourmet meals, perfectly pairing food with their wines. Engage in conversations with winemakers and fellow visitors to enhance your experience.

evening
:

After a delicious day of tasting, choose a vineyard with outdoor seating for a charming dinner, watching the sunset as you enjoy your final glasses of wine. Share stories and laughter with your group while embracing the relaxed ambiance of the vineyard. End your evening by taking a leisurely stroll through the scenic vineyards, basking in the quiet of the countryside.

day 7
Family Fun at Hollywood Casino
morning
:

Start a fun-filled day at Hollywood Casino where you can enjoy various entertaining activities suitable for the whole family. Begin your morning at the arcade area, where kids can engage in exciting games and win prizes. Grab breakfast at one of the family-friendly restaurants located within the casino premises.

afternoon
:

After enjoying the arcade, try your luck at the casino games or watch live horse racing, depending on your family’s interests. If the kids need a break, take a trip to the nearby movie theater for a matinee show featuring the latest films. Enjoy lunch at a casual diner before heading back for more gaming fun.

evening
:

In the evening, experience live entertainment, whether it’s a musical performance or a comedy show that the whole family can enjoy. Share a delightful dinner at one of the casino’s upscale restaurants, relishing in the lively atmosphere after a bustling day. Wind down with some ice cream or dessert from a casino café while reflecting on a day full of excitement.

day 8
Nature Escape at King's Gap
morning
:

Begin your retreat by exploring King's Gap Environmental Education Center, where you can enjoy stunning views and well-maintained trails. Spend your morning hiking through lush forests and learning about the local ecology at various educational exhibits. Stop by their visitor center to grab a map that outlines the best routes for your day’s hike.

afternoon
:

After your adventurous morning, settle in for a peaceful lunch at one of the outdoor picnic areas surrounded by nature. Continue exploring the trails or choose to relax in one of the many scenic spots that King's Gap has to offer. Engage in bird watching or simply enjoy the tranquility of being immersed in nature.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, catch a glimpse of the sunset from one of the scenic overlooks, creating the perfect backdrop for memorable photographs. After enjoying the beautiful views, head back to the visitor center to round out your visit and perhaps join a nature program if available in the evening. Relax and reflect on the day’s experiences before heading back.

day 9
Shopping and Dining in Harrisburg
morning
:

Travel to the state capital, Harrisburg, for a morning filled with shopping and exploration in the bustling downtown district. Start with breakfast at a trendy café nestled among boutique shops before setting out to explore various local stores and boutiques. Discover unique clothing items, handmade crafts, and specialty goods offered by local vendors.

afternoon
:

Take a break from shopping and enjoy lunch at one of Harrisburg’s popular eateries that reflect the city’s culinary scene. Afterward, visit the Pennsylvania State Capitol building to admire the stunning architecture and learn about the state’s history through a guided tour. Spend the afternoon wandering through nearby parks or along the riverfront, enjoying the fresh air.

evening
:

Cap off your day with a delightful dinner at a restaurant featuring regional cuisine, where you can savor local flavors. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk along the Susquehanna River, highlighting the beautiful views of the water and city skyline at night. If you have time, check out any live music or events happening in Harrisburg’s vibrant nightlife scene.

day 10
Adventurous Day at Lake Tobias
morning
:

Spend your morning at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, where excitement awaits with close encounters with exotic animals. After arriving, kick off your day with a guided tour of the park, filled with opportunities to learn about various wildlife and their habitats. Enjoy a light breakfast at the park's snack bar before diving into your day of adventure.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the various attractions such as the safari tours, where you can see animals up close as you travel through their habitats. Engage in fun activities like feeding giraffes or petting farm animals, creating memorable experiences for the whole family. The park also offers picnic areas, so enjoy a packed lunch or grab a bite from the park cafe.

evening
:

As evening approaches, take a moment to relax by the lake or join a scheduled event that may include educational talks or demonstrations. Wind down your visit with a leisurely stroll around the park as you watch the sunset color the sky. Before leaving, consider stopping by the gift shop to get souvenirs or snacks to take home.

Discover North Middleton

Read more in our North Middleton 2025 Travel Guide.

North Middleton Travel Guide