Visiting Central Pennsylvania

Central Pennsylvania is home to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's state capital and center of government. Harrisburg also serves as a cultural and arts center for the region. From the relaxed pace of the Susquehanna River Valley or the Allegheny Mountains to the south where visitors can fish, hike and bike. Enjoy the amazing scenery and outdoor adventures of the Pennsylvania wilds in north central Pennsylvania where outdoor enthusiasts can bike the Pine Creek Gorge, Pennsylvania's grand canyon. Pennsylvania Dutch country offers a glimpse of a simpler life, with quaint Amish communities or the excitement of Hershey Park's eleven roller coasters and other amusement rides. Central Pennsylvania has sights and fun for visitors of all ages.

Central Pennsylvania hosts 4thFest, an all volunteer fourth of July celebration. The 2010 4thFest themed a Star Spangled Spectacular, promises to be better than ever. Events begin with the morning 4K race. This ninth annual race is held on the Penn State campus. Prizes will be awarded in eight different age groups for top male and female runners. Both runners and walkers are encouraged to participate.

Events continue through the afternoon and evening with three stages featuring live entertainment, a midway carnival, exhibitions and even free hot dogs, chips and cake. The fireworks show is rated one of the top three in the country begins after dark, followed by a street dance. Enjoy a traditional fourth of July with a full day of fun and entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display.

The Best Western Nittany Inn Milroy, the Best Western University Park Inn & Suites in State College and the Best Western Lock Haven are convenient locations for lodging in the State College area. All three are pet-friendly, so no need to leave the family dog at home alone.

Home Made Days in Williamsport is a terrific weekend to browse one of the largest arts and crafts shows in Pennsylvania. July 9th and 10th, you can enjoy Susquehanna State Park, see the best local and regional crafts and even ride the Hiawatha Riverboat. Convenient and affordable, the Best Western Williamsport Inn is ideal for a weekend getaway. Enjoy Home Made Days and stay a few nights longer to explore the historic downtown area and enjoy some time outdoors.

Runners, set your target for the LATA Sprint Triathlon in Lewisburg on August 21st. Families can make it a weekend with the LARA Kids Triathlon on August 20th for youth ages 7 to 14. The kids event is geared to introduce children to the sport of triathlons in a relaxed and positive way. The kids event is non-competitive. The sprint triathlon is a shorter triathlon featuring a 300 yd pool swim, 15 mile bike and 3.1 mile run. The Lewisburg Best Western country Cupboard Inn makes a great home away from home. Have a great nights sleep, wake up to a complimentary continental breakfast, and relax after the race at the pool.

Celebrate the end of summer on Labor Day Weekend at Kipona in Harrisburg. The 2010 event is September 4th through the 6th and includes the 13th Annual Native American Pow Wow and the 31st Annual Giant Pennsylvania State Chili Cook-Off. Kipona is one of Pennsylvania's largest festivals featuring arts, fun and entertainment. With over 150 artisans and over 100 scheduled performances, Kipona is a full weekend of entertainment. With five Best Western Hotels near Harrisburg there are great lodging options in the area.