Table of Contents
Cumberland County Pa Property Mapper
Discovering the Gems of Cumberland County
Top Attractions
Cumberland County is home to many top-rated attractions, including the Carlisle Theatre, the Army Heritage Center Foundation, and the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail. The Carlisle Theatre hosts a variety of shows, from live music to Broadway-style productions. The Army Heritage Center Foundation features interactive exhibits that showcase the history of the U.S. Army. The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail is a popular spot for hiking, jogging, and biking.
Hidden Gems
For those looking for something off the beaten path, Cumberland County has plenty of hidden gems to discover. The Kings Gap Environmental Education Center offers nature trails, a butterfly garden, and stunning views from the mountaintop mansion. The Whiskey Rebellion Trail is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the historic sites of the Whiskey Rebellion, a tax protest that took place in the late 18th century.
Food Scene
Cumberland County is known for its diverse food scene, with options ranging from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine to international flavors. The Market Cross Pub & Brewery in Carlisle offers a unique selection of craft beers and pub fare, while Cafe Bruges in Carlisle serves up Belgian-style waffles and frites. For a taste of Pennsylvania Dutch cooking, head to the Pennsylvania Bakery in Camp Hill for homemade whoopie pies and shoofly pie.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Cumberland County has plenty of affordable options. The county is home to many state parks and natural areas, which offer free admission and activities like hiking and birdwatching. The Army Heritage Center Foundation also offers free admission, and the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail is a great option for free outdoor recreation.
Outdoor Adventures
Cumberland County is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with options like hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. The Yellow Breeches Creek is a popular spot for fly fishing, while the Appalachian Trail runs through the county for those looking for a multi-day hike. The Opossum Creek Trail in Kings Gap Environmental Education Center is a great option for a scenic hike.
Historical Landmarks
Cumberland County is rich in history, with many landmarks and sites to explore. The Carlisle Indian School, a former boarding school for Native American children, is now the site of the Army War College. The Cumberland County Historical Society offers exhibits and guided tours of historic buildings, while the Old Courthouse in Carlisle is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities
Cumberland County has plenty of activities for families, from amusement parks to museums. Hersheypark, located just a short drive from the county, offers roller coasters, water rides, and live shows. The Children’s Museum of Harrisburg features hands-on exhibits and interactive activities for kids of all ages. The Carlisle Sports Emporium offers go-karts, mini-golf, and laser tag.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for unique experiences, Cumberland County has plenty to offer. The Carlisle Barracks Golf Course is a public course located on the grounds of the Army War College, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Carlisle Ribbon Mill is a historic industrial building that has been converted into a mixed-use space, featuring apartments, offices, and retail shops.
Natural Wonders
Cumberland County is home to many natural wonders, from rolling hills to scenic waterfalls. The Conodoguinet Creek is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, while the Pole Steeple Trail in Pine Grove Furnace State Park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch is a great spot for birdwatching, with hundreds of raptors passing through during migration season.
Vibrant Nightlife
For those looking for a night out, Cumberland County has plenty of options. The Gingerbread Man in Carlisle offers a lively atmosphere and a selection of craft beers, while the Cafe Bruges in Carlisle features live music and a cozy atmosphere. The Market Cross Pub & Brewery is a great spot for a nightcap, with a variety of craft beers and pub fare.
Local Markets
Cumberland County is home to many local markets, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. The Farmers on the Square in Carlisle is a seasonal outdoor market, featuring local farmers and producers. The West Shore Farmers Market in Lemoyne is a year-round indoor market, offering a variety of fresh products.
Beaches and Mountains
Cumberland County is located in the heart of Pennsylvania, with easy access to both beaches and mountains. The county is just a short drive from the Jersey Shore, with options like Ocean City and Cape May. The Pocono Mountains are also within driving distance, offering skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.
Cultural Immersion
Cumberland County is home to many cultural institutions, from art galleries to performance venues. The Carlisle Arts Learning Center offers classes and exhibits in a variety of mediums, while the Carlisle Theatre hosts a variety of shows, from live music to Broadway-style productions. The H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center at Shippensburg University features performances by national and international artists.
Art and Music Scene
Cumberland County has a vibrant arts and music scene, with events and performances happening throughout the year. The USAHEC Annual Reenactor Recruitment Day features living history demonstrations and reenactments, while the Carlisle Summerfair offers a variety of events, including a street festival and a juried art show. The Messiah College Performing Arts Series features performances by world-renowned artists in a variety of genres.
Walking Tours
Cumberland County has many historic districts and neighborhoods that are perfect for exploring on foot. The Carlisle Historic District features homes and buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, while the Mechanicsburg Historic District offers a glimpse into the town’s industrial past. The Shippensburg Historic District features a variety of architectural styles, from Federal to Victorian.
Architectural Marvels
Cumberland County is home to many architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern masterpieces. The Cumberland County Courthouse is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, while the Carlisle Barracks Historic District features a variety of buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Harsco Science Center at the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts in Harrisburg is a modern masterpiece, featuring interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Historical Sites
Cumberland County is full of historical sites, from the earliest Native American settlements to the modern day. The Fort Hunter Mansion and Park in Harrisburg features a restored 18th-century mansion and a historic tavern. The Cumberland County Historical Society offers exhibits and guided tours of historic buildings, while the Gettysburg National Military Park is just a short drive away.
Biking Routes
Cumberland County is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with a variety of routes and trails to choose from. The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail is a popular spot for biking, with 11 miles of paved trail running along the former Cumberland Valley Railroad. The LeTort Spring Run Nature Trail in Carlisle is a great option for a leisurely ride, with scenic views of the LeTort Spring Run.
Wellness Retreats
Cumberland County is a great destination for wellness retreats, with options like yoga studios, spas, and wellness centers. The Yoga at Simply Well in Lemoyne offers a variety of classes, from gentle yoga to power yoga. The West Shore Wellness Center in Camp Hill offers a variety of services, including acupuncture and massage therapy.