Sunsets over the Susquehanna River are absolutely breathe taking!
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City Island Harrisburg

4.6
·267 reviews·Harrisburg, United States

Harrisburg's City Island offers a vibrant mix of recreation, from baseball games and mini-golf to scenic river cruises and picturesque walks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

All attractions open

CrowdHigh
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Sunsets over the Susquehanna River are absolutely breathe taking!

City Island Harrisburg

Best Time

Summer afternoons

All attractions open

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Harrisburg's City Island offers a vibrant mix of recreation, from baseball games and mini-golf to scenic river cruises and picturesque walks.

4.6
(267 reviews)

"City Island always shows off, offering great views and activities for everyone!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Schedules

City Island hosts festivals! Check for Native American festivals or baseball games to enhance your visit.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Water Golf

Water Golf

City Island

Tee off at this scenic 18-hole mini-golf course with stunning Susquehanna River views.

Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat

Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat

Walnut Street Station

Cruise the Susquehanna and enjoy panoramic views of Harrisburg and City Island.

FNB Field

FNB Field

City Island

Catch a Harrisburg Senators baseball game for classic American fun and stadium vibes.

Island Exploration

Island Exploration

City Island

Walk, bike, or take the trolley to discover the island's unique charm and riverfront scenery.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While City Island offers year-round appeal, many attractions like mini-golf and the riverboat are seasonal. Check operating hours, especially outside peak summer months, to avoid disappointment. Consider visiting during local events for a vibrant experience, but be prepared for larger crowds.

Parking Pointers

Parking can be a challenge, especially during events or peak season. While some spots offer up to two hours, they fill up fast. Arrive early or consider alternative transport if attending a major festival to ensure a smooth start to your visit.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
All attractions open
Crowd
High
When
Weekends during events
Why
Festivals & lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#SideArm#Wild#SenatorsBaseBall#CityIsland#harrisburgpa
@bearshockey24
94.3K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Check Event Schedules

City Island hosts festivals! Check for Native American festivals or baseball games to enhance your visit. TikTokReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

City Island…much more to it than meets the eye and a place I was lucky to call home!
@speccles
32.7K likes • 266.4K views
Spending a weekend in Harrisburg? Here’s your ultimate itinerary in PA’s capital city! First stop: @cityislandhbg 📍10 Championship Way, Harrisburg, PA Start with a round of mini golf at Water Golf on City Island, a scenic 18-hole course with gorgeous views of the Susquehanna River. Then walk over to the @harrisburgbeachclub a riverside bar with live music and signature cocktails right on the ...
scrantonmom
1.3K likes • 35.1K views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking can be tough. Arrive early or be prepared for limited 2-hour spots. Reddit

🛶 Kayak the Susquehanna

Explore the river from a different perspective by kayaking near the island. TikTok

Sunny or overcast, City Island always shows off! Some of the best views of @thecityofhbg are right here! Snap a pic, enjoy a picnic by the water, play a round of mini golf or just kick back at the @harrisburgbeachclub . Whether you’re here for the views or the activities, there’s something for everyone! #explorehbg #harrisburg #centralpa #visitpa #harrisburgpa #resofhbg #travel #pennsylvania #su...
explorehbg
104 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Schedules

City Island hosts festivals! Check for Native American festivals or baseball games to enhance your visit. TikTokReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking can be tough. Arrive early or be prepared for limited 2-hour spots. Reddit

🛶 Kayak the Susquehanna

Explore the river from a different perspective by kayaking near the island. TikTok

🍦 Sweet Treats Available

Grab ice cream after mini-golf or a river cruise for a perfect day. InstagramReddit

📸 Scenic Photo Ops

Capture stunning city skyline views from the island. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🚋 City Island Trolley Fun

Enjoy a charming trolley ride with family for laughter and memories. :bus: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(267 reviews)

Reviews Summary

City Island offers a mix of classic recreational activities like mini-golf and baseball, alongside scenic river views. While some areas show signs of wear, attractions like FNB Field and Water Golf remain popular draws. Visitors appreciate the ample parking and pedestrian access, though parking can be challenging during peak times and events.

"Time has really made this place dilapidated. FNB Field and Water Golf are the only things keeping this place alive. The parking lot is super deteriorated along with the wall and mural. There are a few safety hazards in the children’s play area. Sad to see things overgrown and abandoned."

Olivia Schatt

"Tons of parking spots around here, you can probably park for up to two hours. But nobody pays attention to that. And that bridge is handy, you can walk right into downtown."

Salaadino

"I've been coming here on Labor Day weekend with the Native American Festival for nearly 20 years to meet old and new friends. It's a great weekend of dancing, open fire cooking demonstrations, and tomahawk throwing. The ice cream shop and train ride is also popular with the kids.

Stop and visit our camp during this fun filled weekend."

Moto Professor

What People Like

Mini-golf and baseball games
Scenic river views
Walkable and bikeable access

What People Dislike

Dilapidated areas
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

City Island is accessible by car via the Market Street Bridge or the Walnut Street Bridge, offering direct access to parking. It's also a walkable and bikeable destination from downtown Harrisburg, with a pedestrian bridge connecting the two. :world_map: Reddit

While direct bus routes to the island itself might be limited, you can take public transport to downtown Harrisburg and then walk or bike across the bridge. The City Island trolley offers a fun way to get around once you're on the island. :bus: Instagram

City Island offers parking, but it can be limited, especially during events or peak season. Some spots are designated for up to two hours, but these fill up quickly. Arriving early is recommended. :car: Reddit

Absolutely! City Island is very pedestrian and bike-friendly. You can easily walk or cycle across the Market Street Bridge or Walnut Street Bridge from downtown Harrisburg, enjoying scenic river views along the way. :bike: :walking:

The main pathways and many attractions on City Island are generally accessible. However, some older structures or specific areas might have limitations. It's always a good idea to check with individual attractions if you have specific accessibility needs.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to City Island itself is generally free. However, individual attractions like the Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat, FNB Field for baseball games, and Water Golf will require separate tickets or admission fees. :ticket:

Operating hours vary significantly by attraction and season. Water Golf, for example, has different hours in the fall. The riverboat and baseball games have specific schedules. It's best to check the official websites for each attraction before your visit. :clock:

Yes! Simply walking, biking, or enjoying the riverfront views are free activities. You can also explore the island's general atmosphere and enjoy the open spaces without purchasing tickets for specific attractions. :moneywithwings:

For events like Harrisburg Senators baseball games or specific riverboat tours, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during popular times. For Water Golf, you can typically purchase tickets on-site. :computer:

While City Island is free to enter, special events like the Native American Festival may have an admission fee. It's best to check the event's specific details for pricing and ticketing information. :scroll:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

City Island offers a variety of activities including mini-golf at Water Golf, catching a Harrisburg Senators baseball game at FNB Field, taking a scenic cruise on the Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat, and enjoying walks or bike rides along the Susquehanna River. Instagram+1

Yes, City Island is very family-friendly! Kids often enjoy the mini-golf, the train ride (if available), and the general open space for running around. The riverboat cruises are also a hit with families. InstagramReddit

The island provides excellent vantage points for views of the Harrisburg skyline, the Susquehanna River, and the surrounding bridges. Sunset views from the island are particularly beautiful. Instagram+1

Yes, there are several areas along the riverfront that are perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food and enjoy a meal with a view of the water and the city. :sandwich:

City Island hosts various events throughout the year, including baseball games, festivals like the Native American Festival, and seasonal activities. It's a hub for community gatherings and entertainment. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there might be seasonal concessions or bars like the Harrisburg Beach Club, dedicated full-service restaurants directly on City Island can be limited. Many visitors opt to bring their own picnic or dine in downtown Harrisburg. Instagram

When attending a Harrisburg Senators game at FNB Field, you can expect typical ballpark fare, including hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, and other stadium snacks. :hotdog:

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option for City Island. It's a popular way to enjoy the scenic surroundings without relying on limited on-site dining. :apple:

Yes, there are often ice cream vendors or shops available, especially during warmer months and alongside other attractions like mini-golf. It's a perfect treat after a day of activities. InstagramReddit

The Harrisburg Beach Club typically offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, often with a focus on refreshing options suitable for a riverside setting. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The riverfront offers fantastic angles for capturing the Harrisburg skyline, bridges, and the Susquehanna River. The area around FNB Field and the mini-golf course also provide scenic backdrops. Instagram+1

Absolutely! City Island is a prime location for sunset photography, with the sun setting behind the city skyline, casting a beautiful glow over the river and the island itself. Instagram

Yes, the Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat offers unique perspectives for photography, allowing you to capture City Island and the Harrisburg waterfront from the water. Instagram

Keep an eye out for interesting natural elements like the 'shell island' mentioned by some visitors, or the historic architecture of the bridges. The trolley also makes for a fun, quirky photo subject. TikTokInstagram

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography. However, the vibrant atmosphere during events or a sunny afternoon can also yield great shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

City Island is a fantastic destination for families. The Water Golf mini-golf course is a guaranteed hit, offering hours of fun with beautiful river views. Instagram+1 Don't miss the chance to ride the City Island trolley for a delightful journey around the island – it's a memorable experience for younger children. Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, and if attending a Harrisburg Senators baseball game, it's a classic family outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, City Island offers plenty of free enjoyment. Walking and biking across the bridges and exploring the island's scenic riverfront are completely free activities. InstagramReddit You can also enjoy the atmosphere and views without spending a dime. Bringing your own picnic is a great way to save on food costs, and you can still enjoy the sights and sounds of the island. :moneywithwings:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

City Island provides a picturesque backdrop for photographers. The Susquehanna River and the Harrisburg skyline offer stunning compositions, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1 Capture unique angles from the Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat or frame shots of the historic bridges. The island itself, with its blend of nature and recreation, offers diverse photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Stroll Through History

City Island, originally known as 'Shell Island,' has a rich past dating back to the Lenape people. Thomas Pell acquired the land in 1654, and over time, it evolved from a natural landscape to a recreational hub. While some historical elements might appear 'dilapidated' to some visitors, the island retains a sense of its past, especially when considering its role in local events and community gatherings. TikTokReddit

Today, the island serves as a vital recreational area for Harrisburg. It's a place where history meets modern leisure, offering a unique blend of activities that draw locals and tourists alike. The presence of FNB Field and Water Golf are testaments to its enduring appeal as a destination for fun and entertainment. Reddit

Island Activities & Entertainment

City Island is packed with activities for all ages. Water Golf offers a fun mini-golf experience with scenic river views, perfect for families and casual outings. Instagram+1 For sports enthusiasts, FNB Field is home to the Harrisburg Senators, providing a classic baseball game experience. TikTok

The Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat offers a relaxing cruise along the river, showcasing the Harrisburg skyline and surrounding areas. Instagram Additionally, the island is a popular spot for biking and walking, with paved paths that allow for leisurely exploration of the natural beauty and city vistas. InstagramReddit Special events, like the Native American Festival, add a cultural dimension to the island's offerings, drawing large crowds for dancing, demonstrations, and more. Reddit

Navigating City Island: Parking & Transport

Getting around and parking on City Island can be a point of consideration for visitors. While the island offers parking, it's frequently cited as being 'terrible' or limited, with many spots restricted to a two-hour maximum that are often occupied. Reddit This can be particularly challenging during popular events or peak summer days. Reddit

To mitigate parking issues, arriving early is a common recommendation. Alternatively, visitors can consider walking or biking across the bridges from downtown Harrisburg, which offers a more relaxed approach and scenic views. Reddit Once on the island, the City Island trolley provides a charming and convenient way to traverse the area, especially for families looking for a bit of fun and ease of movement. Instagram

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