Things to do & places to visit in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, United States

With a long history dating back to before the American Revolution, it's not a surprise that Carlisle is full of historic treasures, including a church once attended by George Washington and a courthouse damaged by artillery during the Civil War. Despite this impressive heritage, the city is most famous for being Pennsylvania's "automotive capital," hosting ten annual car, truck, and motorcycle shows that are attended by a half a million people each year.

Carlisle city in Pennsylvania, United States. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Tuesday, May 07, 2024, 5:09.

Top things to do (25)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Cumberland County Historical Society (68 reviews)
- Outstanding Historical Museum
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM History Museums

We were in town for the IceFest and while in the visitor's center discovered it was located thru a courtyard out the back door of the center. It was free to enter and had 2 floors of wonderful Cumberland County history to explore. The Carlisle area has so much early American history, but we were stunned at how extensive and comprehensive the museum was. They took you on a time travel from the early founding's to the late 20th century. We loved the early American sections and the Indian School/Jim Thorpe reintroduction. There were wonderful maps, diagrams, and beautiful historic furniture and we can't say enough about how wonderful the staff was. This is the type of resource you expect at a larger metropolis. See more..
5.0 Castlerigg Wine Shop (51 reviews)
- Relaxing atmosphere
Tuesday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops

Castlerigg is a wonderful place to sit on the porch and share a bottle of wine with a friend or loved one. See more..
5.0 Mummert Chocolates (5 reviews)
- As Good As It Gets
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops
We discovered Mummert's 4 years ago while in town for the Christmas festivities and being back for IceFest we had it on our list to revisit. The place was ultra busy and we tried a fantastic dark chocolate sea salt caramel, dark chocolate lemon filled and a dark chocolate, chocolate infused center. Mummert's products are as good as any we have had, and it was nice to see a large staff on hand to efficiently handle the large crowds in their small shop. They had chocolates of all kinds, gift baskets and plenty of Valentine Day related items. See more..
4.5 United States Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC) (452 reviews)
- Only got to see some of the outside items - update - finally saw the inside, AMAZING
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • Libraries • History Museums

Premier facility for historical research on U.S. Army history & is dedicated to telling the Army story...one Soldier at a time. Open to the public, key features of the USAHEC include interpretive & interactive exhibits, the research library & archive, & multifunction facilities. Visit the USAHEC special exhibits, "Soldier Experience" interpretive gallery, art gallery, museum store, Army Heritage Trail (AHT), or attend an event, lecture, or workshop. The mile-long outdoor AHT allows visitors to experience history in a new way, through interactive and full-scale military exhibits. The U.S. Army War College Library is a component of the USAHEC and features one library system in 2 locations. In Ridgway Hall, the library & archives collection encompasses over 14 million historical items. The Root Hall collection covers subjects such as military strategy & operations, leadership & management, international relations, foreign policy, strategic studies, & economics. See more..
4.5 Carlisle Events Car Shows (179 reviews)
- Corvettes at Carlisle
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Convention Centers

Carlisle Events Car Shows take place at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds from Spring through Fall. Collector car events include Import & Performance Nationals, Ford Nationals, GM Nationals, Chrysler Nationals, Truck Nationals, and Corvettes at Carlisle. Each event features a massive field of collector cars on display, specialty indoor displays, an automotive flea market, car corral, activities, seminars, and great food. Our collector car events are also bookended by Spring Carlisle Automotive Flea Market at the end of April, and Fall Carlisle Automotive Flea Market at the end of September. Come see the best cars and trucks in the entire world, all in one place at Carlisle! See more..
4.5 Molly Pitcher Brewing Company (115 reviews)
- Awesome Beer and Eats!!!
Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

We are a microbrewery with 20 rotating taps and full service kitchen featuring seasonal outdoor seating and private rental room available. See more..
4.5 Dickinson College (103 reviews)
- Carbon-Neutral College
Historic Sites • Educational sites

Dickinson College It is a private school in Carlisle, PA. Old and new limestone buildings and modern architectural style complement each other and make for a beautiful campus. It is a great school for those seeking a small student population while at the same time receiving a top-notch education. The school offers a good number of study-abroad opportunities The directional signs on campus shows the global connections of Dickinson centers around the world. One of my grandchildren attended here and found the course work to be challenging but her professors were caring and supportive. Also, it is one of the first colleges to achieve carbon neutrality to slow climate change. See more..
4.5 Kings Gap Environmental Education and Training Center (95 reviews)
- Quiet, great view, love the mansion
State Parks • Parks

Great drive up the mountain and awesome view, getting a tour is a plus, love the "water closets" -- attended a wedding on the porch there, also an outdoor reception for another wedding. I have never hiked there but school groups use this all the time. A real treasure and interesting history. See more..
4.5 Lindt Chocolate Factory Outlet (78 reviews)
- Best chocolate ever
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

New! Click & Collect Pick up all your essentials and more at your local Lindt Chocolate Shop. See more..
4.5 Carlisle Barracks (56 reviews)
- Great Walk through History
Military Museums • Educational sites

The Barracks tells stories of our history dating back to the Revolutionary War timeframe to present. Having been the site of several agencies and events there is something of interest for all. The Civil War, Whiskey Rebellion, Indian School, Artillery School and currently home to the US Army War College. Enjoy a beautiful walk along the river and the historical buildings. See more..
4.5 Bedford Street Antiques (19 reviews)
- Gems are Found Inside
Spent 2-3 hours Antique Shops

I drove from Athens, GA to visit some of the shops that are featured on Youtube. This one was highly recommended by SueMe and Crazy Lamp Lady. It did not disappoint. There is something for everyone and the pricing is very reasonable. I was short on time, but I found treasure s to bring home. Now I want to go back next year. See more..
4.5 Cameron/Masland Mansion (13 reviews)
- Open House at the Mansion
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Wife and two kids went during the open house. The upstairs was open and got to see the rooms. Love the mansion and views. Strongly recommend if you want a place to relax and walk around. They have a big garden at the mansion and plenty of trails to hike. Go, take a picnic basket and enjoy yourself. See more..
4.5 LeTort Spring Run and Nature Trail (12 reviews)
- My happy place in Carlisle
Spent 1-2 hours Scenic Walking Areas

We lived a block away from this park for two months and were there almost every day for one reason or another. My husband and I would walk or jog the trail and take our son on his bike. It's a lovely, easy path through farmland and along the creek. You pass by old houses and barns. It's a safe place to get out during the COVID pandemic. We also enjoyed hanging out in the park, watching the baby ducks and goslings. There are picturesque spots for picnics and enough space to social distance. My son and I liked playing Pooh Sticks on the bridge. This is my favorite place in Carlisle, for good reason. See more..
4.5 American Artisan Gallery (12 reviews)
- Great store to visit!
Art Galleries

Be sure to check out this gallery in downtown Carlisle to see a unique assortment of fine arts and crafts fashioned by American artists from throughout the country. You'll be sure to find the perfect pieces among the beautifully crafted items. Most of the works are created by members of a guild and are the best in their respective fields. From leather cases to hand carved Santas & birds. See more..
4.5 Cumberland Valley Visitors Center (10 reviews)
- Make this your first stop!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Visitor Centers

Once you're here start your journey in downtown Carlisle at the Cumberland Valley Visitors Center. Pick up free helpful area attraction brochures and travel maps, such as the Official Cumberland Valley Visitors Guide & Map, the Local Farm Food & Outdoor Attractions Guide, self-guided walking tours and water trail guides. Our friendly, knowledgeable visitor services representatives would love to guide you to attractions, shops, restaurants, local events and more. The Visitors Center is also equipped with a meeting space to welcome large groups and bus tours to Cumberland Valley. See more..
4.5 Serendipity Antique Gallery (9 reviews)
- well organized
Spent 1-2 hours Antique Shops

We were greeted with friendly hellos as soon as we walked in. This 12,000 square foot place is very well organized with wide main aisles and neat, clean booths. You can find primitives, vinyl records, vintage jewelry, coins, collectibles, native american, rocks (geodes), sports memorabilia, glassware, pinball machines and jukeboxes, military, furniture, vintage clothes, art, industrial, and so much more. If you are an Elvis fan, there is one booth inside that is dedicated to him. I highly recommend this place. See more..
4.5 The Trout Gallery (7 reviews)
- Was glad I wasn’t being dragged to a fish museum
Art Galleries
My wife took my son and myself to the trout gallery in Carlisle to get a little culture. When I saw the name I was hoping I wasn’t going to be looking at a bunch of fish art. I was pleasantly surprised to see a nice collection of native displays. My son enjoyed the displays very much See more..
4.5 Saint Patrick Shrine Church (6 reviews)
- Historic
Cemeteries • Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Stop in and say a prayer. You will marvel at the amazing history of this incredible church. Beautiful beyond words. So well preserved. Built at a time when people valued time withThe Lord. I recommend you spend a few minutes here and I guarantee you will be moved. See more..
4.5 Carlisle Antique Mall (5 reviews)
- Great place to visit !!!
Antique Shops
The people who run this shop are very friendly and helpful. Their customer service deserves the 5 star rating I gave them ! They went out of their way to accomodate my wifes' needs and assist her with the purchase of a painting she hD fallen in love with. Please stop by there even if just to chat as they love to visit. See more..
4.5 Letort Falls Park (4 reviews)
- Pretty waterfall and nice boat launch
Parks

Nice small park on the water. Pretty view of the small falls, usually ample parking, and a big boat launch. See more..
4.0 Carlisle Sports Emporium (90 reviews)
- Awesome!!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Game & Entertainment Centers • Miniature Golf

The Carlisle Sports Emporium is Central PA's year-round indoor & outdoor entertainment complex. Known as "The Place to Play," we are the perfect destination for all ages & every occasion. Our interactive fun features indoor & outdoor go-karts, a 7,500 sq. ft. 2-tier LED LASERTRON laser tag arena, two 18-hole themed miniature golf courses, HOLOGATE virtual reality, batting cages, a roller-skating rink, Victory Lane Café, & the largest arcade in the area! We provide multiple venues for hosting team building events, business meetings, birthday parties & group outings. Due to this broad array of exciting activities & multiple meeting spaces, we specialize in parties, track rentals, & group outings of any size. The Carlisle Sports Emporium is easily accessible from all the major highways of South-Central PA. We're located just off Interstate 81 and the PA Turnpike, making us just minutes away from Camp Hill, Harrisburg, Hershey, York, Gettysburg & Lancaster. See more..
4.0 Carlisle Theatre (45 reviews)
- Old Theatre with Flare...
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Theaters

The historic downtown Carlisle Theatre features live concerts, films, children's programs and community theatre. See more..
4.0 The Kitchen Shoppe Cooking School (26 reviews)
- Great cooking demonstration!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Cooking Classes

Over 200 avocational cooking classes offered, taste what's cooking this week. The Kitchen Shoppe is also a gourmet super store with other 20,000 items and 200 cooking classes. A perfect stop for fun & practical gifts. See more..
4.0 Georgie Lou's Retro Candy (21 reviews)
- Cute and unique, but a bit pricey!
Tuesday: 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops

Forget the housework and mortgage and immerse yourself in nostalgia that will make you giggle at Georgie Lou's Retro Candy! Georgie Lou's specializes in childhood favorites from the past alongside candy kids love today. From Bit-O-Honey to Turkish Taffy and from Airheads to Warheads, our 800 kinds of candy will give kids of all generations a sugar rush! We carry 120 varieties of unique and nostalgic glass bottle sodas and a nice selection of gourmet chocolate bars. Our retro gifts gives a nod to the past with a wink and a smile. Here you'll find metal signs and lunch boxes, toys and games, cards and notepads, purses and shopping totes and so much more, featuring humorous sayings or pop culture icons, such as Star Trek, Star Wars, and Wonder Woman. Georgie Lou's makes their own delicious fudge, barks, chocolate pretzels, and other specialty treats. We host parties, bus tours, fundraisers, do on site events, and design and deliver custom gift baskets and have online shopping. You're going to love it here so much that you laugh out loud, and that's the way we like it! See more..
4.0 Northgate Antique Mall (12 reviews)
- Interesting finds
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Antique Shops • Shopping Malls

I stopped in to look for a gift for mom and ended up leaving trying to figure out how I could possibly fit a giraffe statue in my car. See more..
4.0 Carlisle Country Market (8 reviews)
- Quite The Variety
Tuesday: Spent 2-3 hours Farmers Markets

We're Carlisle's only year-round, indoor Farmers Market! Come in for coffee and fresh-baked pastry! Come in for a hot lunch or a fresh sub sandwich, home-made salads or soups to take home! Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to our candy stand. Need a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special? Take a look at our vendors' hand-crafted jewelry and other items. We have plenty of parking, including handicapped parking. Check our website for special events and new vendors. We look forward to serving you! See more..
4.0 Old Public Graveyard (4 reviews)
- Molly Pitcher Burial Site
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Cemeteries

It is a very quick stop, but seeing the grave site for the famous Revolutionary War hero Molly Pitcher is a must see. Parking is limited but just turn on the flashers. Walk in and visit a very nice memorial. See more..
Congregation Beth Tikvah (0 review)
Religious Sites
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Lutz's Antiques (0 review)
Spent < 1 hour Antique Shops
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G.B. Stuart History Workshop (0 review)
Spent < 1 hour Children's Museums • History Museums
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