Things to do in Carlisle
Carlisle Barracks
Carlisle Barracks is 1 mi. n. on US 11. One of the oldest Army posts in the United States, it was the site of a Revolutionary War forge. The Hessian Powder Magazine Museum is in a structure built by Hessian soldiers in 1777. Also on the grounds is the Omar N. Bradley Museum, which displays personal items and military memorabilia of the five-star general who was chairman of the joint chiefs of staff 1949-53. Call (717) 245-3971 for more information.
222 Ashburn Dr., Carlisle, PA 17013
Cumberland County Historical Society
Embarking on a new chapter in its 128-year history. The chapter begins with the opening of an addition that doubles the size of the society's headquarters at 21 N. Pitt Street in Carlisle. Dedicated to preserving, collecting and interpreting county history, the CCHS maintains a library and museum at Pitt Street and the Two Mile House on the Walnut Bottom Road. Call 717-49-7610 for more information.
21 North Pitt Street, Carlisle, PA
State Museum of Pennsylvania
State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North St., chronicles Pennsylvania's history from the Earth's beginning to the present. Exhibits relate to Earth science, dinosaurs, natural science, archeology, military and political history, industry, technology and fine art. “The Battle of Gettysburg: Pickett's Charge” is displayed; the painting is said to be one of the world's largest. Planetarium shows are offered on weekends. Call (717) 787-4980 for more information.
300 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120
The National Civil War Museum
The National Civil War Museum, at 1 Lincoln Cir. in Reservoir Park, is reportedly the only museum in the nation to cover the entire American Civil War from beginning to end. In bringing history to life, the museum includes collections of Union and Confederate artifacts, life-size dioramas and audiovisual presentations. Seventeen galleries focus on the multitude of human experiences that made up the war. From slavery, to camp life, to the turmoil of 19th-century politics, the museum immerses visitors in the Civil War, with an equal emphasis given to both sides of the conflict. Call (717) 260-1861 for more information.
1 Lincoln Cir., Harrisburg, PA 17013
Union Fire Company #1
The Union Fire Company No.1 was organized in 1789 to provide fire protection to the citizens of Carlisle. Today the Union continues to provide service to the area. In honor of all the men and women who have faithfully served the company, a portion of the 4th Fire Station has been dedicated to preserving their history. The original Meeting Room and Engine Room have been maintained in near original condition and today contain a large portion of our proud history. The Engine Room houses a 1929 American LaFrance engine, along with other equipment and pictures from our past. The Meeting Room is filled with many items, some of which date back to our origin, which any fire fighting buff will find extremely interesting. Call 717-243-2123 for more information.
35 West Louther Street, Carlisle, PA