Visiting Central Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, the Capital of Pennsylvania, is a delightful city set on the banks of the Susquehanna River. Over history it has played important roles in the westward migration, the civil war, and the industrial revolution. Today it is an important cultural and arts hub for central Pennsylvania. 2010 is Harrisburg's 150th anniversary.

Sesquicentennial celebration events and festivities are scheduled through the year. Founders Day is planned for June, with a variety of activities for all ages.

Runners are serious in the area and have lots to keep them training. From easy to ridiculously challenging, there are event for everyone. March brings the Geisinger Humdinger, the first in the River Towns Race Series for 2010. This challenging race is 7.1 miles designed to test endurance. Rain, snow or shine, the race goes on, rain or snow just means the race is more exciting!

April brings some easier and more moderate running options. The Robbins Run features a 5K and 10K run on level ground with a few small hills. The trail is mostly off road and there is a kids run for the youngsters. The Tour de Tykes is a cross country mountain bike race. Distance varies by class from 5 miles for juniors up to 19 miles for the elite riders. This is a point to point race through some beautiful country and well worth the challenge.

Extreme runners wait for May when the ridiculous events begin. The Riverstown Marathon and Half Marathon begins the month starting and finishing in Danville. The good news, for non-participants is this is the official start of the Danville Spring Fling. This is a fun, free, family event which requires strolling among vendors offering local arts, crafts and food, now this an event.

Later in May bicycle riders beware, the Mon-Tour Seventy Five Mile race in on the schedule. A grueling race designed to travel just about every hill in the area. There will be a full weekend of fun and activities, no need to leave anyone back home.

Williamsport is the birthplace of Little League Baseball and home of the Little League World Series. Billtown hosts the world series in August. Spring is busy with graduation ceremonies for Lycoming College, Pennsylvanis College of Technology and Bucknell University. Plan for some fun in June at the Billtown Blues Festival, which permits food and beverage to draw family picnics. The Annual Juneteenth Celebration will be a full schedule of performances, bands, dancers, along with kids activities, a carnival and petting zoo.

Best Western Hotels in Central Pennsylvania are ready wherever you choose to go. With convenient locations and affordable prices, Best Western Hotels will make your travels simple and easy. Look for Best Western for your weekend getaway, a night away, or family vacation.