As the end of summer draws near and the first day of school approaches, it’s the perfect time to squeeze in a day trip near Harrisburg for a few more fun-filled adventures with your kids. These day trips are not only entertaining but also offer a great mix of learning and hands-on experiences. From creative exploration at the Crayola Factory to discovering marine life at the Baltimore Aquarium, these trips will create lasting memories for your family. Here are five fantastic day trips to enjoy before the school bell rings.
1. Crayola Experience in Easton, PA
The Crayola Experience in Easton is a colorful and creative adventure for kids of all ages. Just a short drive from Harrisburg, this interactive factory is where your children can unleash their artistic side and learn all about the process of making Crayola crayons. It’s perfect for a day trip near Harrisburg or even a quick overnight trip for some added fun!
Highlights:
- Crayon Factory Show: Watch how crayons are made from start to finish. This live demonstration is both educational and fascinating.
- Art Stations: With over 25 hands-on activities, kids can create their own masterpieces using crayons, markers, and other Crayola products.
- Wrap It Up: Design and print your own personalized crayon label to take home as a souvenir.
- Drip Art: Create swirly, whirly masterpieces using melted crayons.
A trip to the Crayola Experience is a perfect blend of fun and learning, making it an ideal way to spark your children’s creativity just before heading back to school.
2. Baltimore, MD: National Aquarium and Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Baltimore offers a double dose of adventure with the National Aquarium and Port Discovery Children’s Museum. Both attractions provide unique, engaging experiences that will captivate your kids for hours.
National Aquarium:
- Shark Alley: Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks and other marine life, offering a thrilling underwater experience.
- Jellies Invasion: Marvel at the mesmerizing movements of jellyfish in this stunning exhibit.
- Dolphin Discovery: Enjoy a presentation about the playful dolphins and learn about their behaviors and habitats.
Port Discovery Children’s Museum:
- Adventure Expeditions: Embark on a journey through ancient Egypt, solving puzzles and exploring a pharaoh’s tomb.
- The Diner: Kids can role-play as chefs, waiters, and customers in this 1950s-style diner.
- KidWorks: A three-story urban treehouse where kids can climb, crawl, and slide through various levels.
Combining a visit to the aquarium with a few hours at Port Discovery makes for an exciting and educational day trip that your kids will love.
3. Washington, D.C.: Museums and the National Zoo
Washington, D.C. is a treasure trove of museums and the National Zoo, all of which offer free admission, making it a budget-friendly option for a day trip. The Smithsonian Institution’s museums are perfect for curious minds eager to learn about history, science, and art.
Highlights:
- National Air and Space Museum: Discover the history of aviation and space exploration with exhibits featuring real spacecraft, aircraft, and interactive displays.
- National Museum of Natural History: From dinosaur skeletons to the Hope Diamond, this museum offers fascinating exhibits about the natural world.
- National Zoo: Home to over 2,000 animals, including giant pandas, the zoo is a fun place to learn about wildlife conservation and see exotic animals up close.
A day trip to D.C. offers endless opportunities for exploration and education, making it a fantastic way to prepare your kids for the new school year.
4. Hands-on House Children’s Museum in Lancaster, PA
Hands-on House in Lancaster is a children’s museum designed for kids ages 2-10, offering interactive exhibits that make learning fun. This museum encourages hands-on exploration and imaginative play, making it a hit with younger children.
Highlights:
- Martian Maze: Navigate through a space-themed maze filled with fun challenges and surprises.
- Right in Your Own Backyard: Explore a miniaturized version of a neighborhood with houses, gardens, and even a grocery store.
- Engineer’s Workshop: Build and test structures using various materials, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Our Town: A child-sized town where kids can role-play as firefighters, postal workers, and more.
Hands-on House is an excellent choice for a day trip that combines play and learning, providing a stimulating environment for young minds.
5. Lancaster Science Factory
Also located in Lancaster, the Lancaster Science Factory is an interactive science center with hands-on exhibits that encourage kids to experiment and explore various scientific concepts. It’s perfect for sparking an interest in STEM subjects.
Highlights:
- Electricity and Magnetism: Experiment with circuits, magnets, and other interactive displays to learn about the wonders of electricity and magnetism.
- Forces of Nature: Discover the principles of physics through exhibits that demonstrate gravity, motion, and energy.
- Construction Zone: Build and test structures using blocks, gears, and other materials, fostering engineering skills.
- Water Table: Explore the properties of water with various interactive elements, teaching kids about fluid dynamics and buoyancy.
The Lancaster Science Factory is a fantastic destination for a day of scientific discovery and hands-on learning, making it an educational and enjoyable trip for the whole family.
Conclusion
These five day trips offer a mix of creativity, exploration, and education, providing the perfect way to enjoy the last days of summer with your kids. Whether you’re getting creative at the Crayola Factory, exploring marine life at the National Aquarium, or delving into science at the Lancaster Science Factory, each trip is sure to be a memorable adventure that will help prepare your children for the upcoming school year. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and set off on these exciting day trips before the school bell rings!
Kate McCord is an award winning newborn and family photographer based out of Central PA. With a focus on fun and family connection, Kate’s photos will leave your family feeling the love and fulfillment from your session that only a true professional can provide. If you’re looking for family memories to be capture this summer or fall, look no further than Kate!
