Explore The Quaint Town Of Boiling Springs
A short 10-minute drive southeast of Carlisle, youll find the adorable town of Boiling Springs. Named after the artesian well springs found in the area, the boiling factor is not based on their temperatures. Rather, its due to the unique hydrogeological feature of tough, basalt rock cutting through the limestone bedrock to form a v below the surface of the earth.
The most popular spot in town is definitely Childrens Lake where youll often find fisherman and paddlers enjoying the water. Youll see markers for the Appalachian Trail close by since it runs right through town. As such, Boiling Springs was named one of 40+ Appalachian Trail Communities who directly support the trail and those who hike it.
Across from Childrens Lake youll find Caffe 101, an adorable little spot for breakfast, coffee or a light meal. Youll often see patrons enjoying their coffee while soaking up the sun on their patio. Stop in for a bite to eat as they have a number of items ranging from oatmeal to bagels to wraps. I highly recommend their eggs benedict as its a bit different than most. They dont use a hollandaise sauce per se but rather a creamier version that really is a treat for the tastebuds!
Drink At One Of Carlisles Coolest Bars
Along with delicious restaurants, the city also boasts some trendy bars too. In fact, sipping a cocktail in the old part of town should be on everybodys list of things to do in Carlisle at night.
One of the most recommended places is The Lane Bar situated down a medieval brick lane in the historical quarter of the city. Here youll have plenty of space to spread out. From the bar, to the homely so-called Reading Room, to the cellar and the outdoor garden, all decorated in an old English feel.
For something more contemporary, try the Shabby Scholar, an award-winning family run establishment. It operates as a modern café serving fresh, quality meals during the day and transforms into a stylish cocktail and tapas bar of an evening.
Tour The Two Mile House
It’s hard to think of a finer example of a Federal limestone mansion than Two Mile House.
It was given its moniker because of its remoteness from the main square.
Mrs. Mary Wheeler King presented the house to the Cumberland County Historical Society in 1857 after being converted into a private dwelling for her.
From 1826 to 1857, the building served as a bar, providing food and lodging for passing visitors.
On five acres of beautifully manicured grounds, a charming old mansion has 12 rooms 11 of which have fireplaces.
In 1992, the Cumberland Country Historical Society received the building through a bequest.
Since then, the lovely old building has served as a location for various special occasions, including weddings.
The gardens are open every day of the year and are accessible to the public.
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Visit The Cumberland County Historical Society
In the heart of downtown, youll find the Cumberland County Historical Society. Founded in 1874, this team is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Cumberland County. Pop inside to check out their permanent exhibits and learn more about the area from folk art to the Revolutionary War. While I didnt have a chance to explore during my visit, I plan to pop in and experience their galleries on my next trip.
Admission is free but usage of the archives and library costs $5 per person. While tours are typically self-guided, guided group tours are available upon request but need to be booked in advance.
Do A Little Shopping In Carlisle
Carlisle is full of adorable local shops you dont want to miss! Wander around the downtown core and youll find a number of great stores. Youll find antique treasures, clothing, art galleries and much more! Be sure to look out for Made in Cumberland Valley signs so you know youre supporting local artisans from the area.
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Unleash Your Creativity At Create
A trip to Create-a-Palooza is a terrific option if you’re searching for something new to do or if you want to learn a new skill.
This intriguing-sounding location is essentially an art and activity center where adults and children alike can create one-of-a-kind crafts without needing to purchase a wide selection of supplies.
Ceramics, gourd crafts, canvas painting, and glass painting are just some of the possibilities.
Classes in the manufacturing of both candles and soaps are also available.
It also offers seminars, corporate team building, summer workshops, birthdays, baby and bridal showers, and other services.
It could be any kind of Palooza you can think of!
You or your child will need nothing to produce a work of art the completed items are yours to keep and display at home.
Bring Your Kids To Bent Pine Alpaca Farm
There are roughly 25-30 alpacas and a few llamas at the Bent Pine Alpaca Farm, located halfway between Carlisle and Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
The 16-acre farm was established in 1770 and passed down through the generations.
The alpacas are pretty friendly and enjoy meeting new people.
The whole family is welcome to meet them on Sunday afternoons or other times if you make an appointment in advance.
With the option to offer them a healthy carrot snack, children will enjoy getting up close and personal with these lovely creatures.
The on-site shop sells fashionable alpaca-fleece items, including scarves, mittens, and other accessories.
The alpaca dung is also composted for sale.
Thanks to this organic, chemical-free soil enhancer, your flowers and plants will blossom brighter than ever before!
Knitting and crocheting lessons are available as well.
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Carlisle Indian Industrial School
Located at the Carlisle Barracks, now home to the U.S. War College, the Carlisle Indian Industrial School was established in 1879 in an attempt to assimilate Indian children into colonial culture. The school served as a model for a further 23 such schools. It was a well-intended initiative which many now believe to have caused more harm than good. Interested parties can visit the remaining school buildings using a self-guided tour brochure or try and join one of the occasional guided tours offered by the Cumberland County Historic Society. The site is also home to a cemetery where 186 students who died at the school were buried.
Carlisle Indian Industrial School, Carlisle Barracks, Carlisle, PA 17013
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Wander Around Kings Gap Environmental And Education Center
Kings Gap Environmental and Education Training Center is a 1,454-acre destination that offers various activities for the whole family.
People come here for hiking and picnicking, and it’s a favorite destination for families.
And if you’re a fan of nature and wildlife, you’ll be glad to learn that this region is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.
Mountain laurel and huckleberries may be found in the forests and gray squirrels, turkeys, and white-tailed deer.
On the other hand, the Cameron-Masland Mansion is one of the park’s most recognizable features.
About four miles from the main gate, the mansion offers a stunning perspective of the Cumberland Valley.
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Learn About The Us Military
Carlisle is home to the US Army Heritage and Education Center, the top facility for historical research on the US Army. Inside youll find an expansive collection of artifacts and stories from soldiers who served. Interactive exhibits make it easy for visitors to connect and learn about events from the Spanish-American War to the present day.
Make a stop at the visitor information desk for your very own dog tag so you can follow the life of a soldier who served. Outside youll find the Army Heritage Trail, a mile-long self-guided loop that takes you by full-scale exhibits. Here youll find a Huey helicopter, M-18 Tank Destroyer and more. For history buffs, this is definitely one of the Carlisle attractions you dont want to miss.
Not far from the US Army Heritage and Education Center, youll also find the Carlisle Barracks. One of the oldest military installations in the entire country, this is where youll find the US Army War College. You can visit to learn about the controversial history of the Carlisle Indian School , however youll need to pass a background check which can be obtained at the visitors centre in advance.
Fun Things To Do In Cumberland Valley
Need plans fast? If you are looking for something to do this weekend, an activity for visiting relatives, or just need to get out of the house with the kids check out these 50 fun-filled suggestions! Some weeks are hard. Weekend Easy in Cumberland Valley.
Cumberland County is fully re-opened. Our attractions, restaurants, shops, spas & salons, and hotels continue to follow recommended CDC guidelines to ensure the health and safety of their staff and guests.
1. Car Shows & Races
If you love things with engines and wheels, visit a Carlisle Events Auto Show or watch a sprint car race at Williams Grove Speedway.
2. Hiking
Take a hike on the famous and easily accessible Appalachian Trail and visit the only museum dedicated to hiking in the country.
3. Army Heritage Trail & Center
Walk through WWI trenches and explore a tank on the Army Heritage Trail at the U.S. Army Heritage & Education Center.
4. Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Relax by a lake, hike, bike or camp at Pine Grove Furnace State Park.
5. Civil War History
Discover Civil War history in downtown Carlisle with an self-guided walking tour.
6. Meadowbrooke Gourds
Learn the process of growing gourds and turning them into works of art at Meadowbrooke Gourds.
7. Cumberland Valley Rail Trail
Roll down the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail on a bike for scenic views of the Valley’s agricultural land.
8. Carlisle Indian Industrial School
9. Dine Along the River
10. The Playhouse at Allenberry
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Molly Pitcher Brewing Company
Brewing up an ever-changing range of new and innovative beers, the Molly Pitcher Brewing Company is a firm favorite with craft-beer enthusiasts. And its not just about enjoying a well-brewed beer or two the Tap Room serves up a delicious range of pub food to accompany your beer. You can choose from a selection of small sharing plates which include nachos, wings, pretzel bites and Poutine or delicious burgers, sandwiches, wraps and salads. The beers range from their brut-style IPA to pale ales, fruited sour beers and stouts and porters. Entertainment includes live music nights, Trivia nights and more. Check the website to see whats on tap today.
Molly Pitcher Brewing Company, 139 W. High St, Carlisle, PA 17013, 717-422-5591
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Best Things To Do In Carlisle Pa
No matter the season, you will find the best things to do in Carlisle, Pennsylvania will keep you entertained.
Located in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Carlisle is a borough and the county’s seat.
An agriculturally-rich area, the Cumberland Valley, lies to the north of Carlisle.
The HarrisburgCarlisle Metropolitan Statistical Area encompasses all Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Counties in South Central Pennsylvania.
Founded in 1751 by Scots-Irish immigrants, Carlisle served as the county capital of Cumberland County, which had just been established.
Carlisle, Cumberland , England, inspired the town’s name.
Carlisle has a lively downtown area with various cultural and commercial institutions, all within walking distance of Dickinson College, the country’s first college.
From art galleries, museums, antique stores, and farmers’ markets, you will fall in love with the small-town charm of Carlisle!
Here are the best things to do in Carlisle, Pennsylvania:
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Letort Spring Run Nature Trail
Named after French-Swiss trader James LeTort, LeTort Spring Run Nature Trail is a rail-trail in Carlisle, Pennsylvania spanning two miles from Carlisle Boroughs LeTort Park and a trailhead about two miles from South Spring Garden Street. The area, popular for many activities especially fly-fishing for limestone trout from the waters of the LeTort Spring Run, is featured in the book Fifty Places to Fly Fish Before You Die. Along with fly-fishing, visitors to the trail may also enjoy hiking and birdwatching for Common Yellowthroats and Carolina Wrens, among others.LeTort Regional AuthorityStuart Community Center
415 Franklin Street, Carlisle, PA 17013, Phone: 717-245-0508
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Catch A Show At Carlisle Theatre
In May of 1939, the Carlisle Theatre first opened its doors.
Known as “streamlined moderne” in the art deco lexicon, the Theatre was constructed in this manner.
Art Deco influences can be found throughout the building, from the glitzy contemporary marquee to the ornately decorated interior.
The historic Carlisle Theatre, located in the center of Carlisle, has been referred to as “the jewel of downtown.”
The Carlisle Regional Performing Arts Center hosts various events, including plays, musical performances, films, and family-oriented activities.
There’s always something intriguing to see at Players on High, whether an independent film or a new international release, a stage performance, or a cinematic experience.
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Cumberland County Historical Society Museum
If you want to learn more about the region, take a trip to the Cumberland County Historical Society Museum. Located in downtown Carlisle, the museum showcases the history of the region and offers a great look into what life was like here during past decades.
The museum also does a great job highlighting local residents and industries and offers insight into how they shaped the region and the entire country.
Grab A Drink From The Only Distillery In Town Since Prohibition
I guarantee all the walking will make you thirsty and luckily there are plenty of places to wet your whistle! Head to Hook and Flask Still Works for some seriously delicious cocktails. Grab a table with friends or a seat at the bar and make new ones as you sip the night away.
I highly recommend the Firemans Mule, a mixture of Mutual Aid Whiskey, orange syrup and lime juice topped with ginger beer. Its a perfect choice if youre looking for a refreshing drink thatll warm you up on a chilly evening. However if youre looking for an eternal taste of summer, you have to try The Water Tender. This gin drink is bursting with watermelon flavour that even non-gin drinkers like me will enjoy. Hook and Flast Still Works may be a newcomer to Carlisle but this local grain to glass distillery is a must-stop on any Cumberland Valley itinerary!
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Best Things To Do In Carlisle Pennsylvania
Set in south-central Pennsylvania, the historic town of Carlisle was founded in 1751. The charming community features a thriving downtown area complete with cultural organizations, restaurants, bars, and stores, all of which are nearby Dickinson College, the first college after the United States was formed, and the U.S. Army War College. There are quite a number of points of interest to discover, from antique shops to an Art Deco-style theater, a local gastropub and the natural splendor of the pristine park, known as the Kings Gap Environmental and Education Training Center, among others. We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.
From The Medieval Castles Steeped In History To Fun Museums For The Whole Family To Tasty Trendy Restaurants Here Are The Best Things To Do In Carlisle
Im going to stick my hand up now and say I really love Carlisle. Usually its a city that people pass through on their way to the Lake District or to Southern Scotland, but there are loads of things to do in Carlisle to keep you busy for days.
An impressive 2,000-year-old city thats steeped in history, Carlisle is one of Northern Englands most popular places to visit. From the old castle dating back hundreds of years to places like the aviation museum, theres fun for the whole family. In this post youll find what to in Carlisle for a few days including a couple of the best restaurants and bars too. Hopefully this post will inspire you to visit Carlisle!
Carlisle is known as the Border City being the last frontier in England before reaching Scotland. Because of this unique location, Carlisle became an important defensive city throughout English history. Basically, that meant it was always attacked first by the Celts. Life up here was very hard!
You can learn all about this fascinating history by exploring Carlisle Castle, the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrians Wall, as well as one of the many museums. Hadrians Wall is a proper bucket list activity but more on that one later.
Along with its historical sites, the areas natural beauty being close to the Lake District make it an incredible place to visit. Add in cool restaurants and trendy bars and its easy to see why this is one of the top places to visit in England.
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Take A Stroll Around Downtown Carlisle
I highly recommend starting your trip with a slow meandering around town to get familiar with the area. It wont take long to realize just how picturesque Carlisle is! Admire the beautiful architecture of buildings that date back hundreds of years like the old Victorian firehouse built in 1888. Dont miss Carlisles historic district which is roughly around Penn, East, Walnut and College Streets.
INSIDER TIP: In the area of High Street, Hanover Street and West Pomfret youll notice parking meters along the road. However, if you go a little further away from the core towards College Street, youll be able to park for free!
Drink Your Way Along The Cumberland Valley Beer Trail
If youre unsure of where to go in the Cumberland Valley, a beer trail is often a great place to start! With locations across the area, this ale trail is unique in that it doesnt only include breweries! There are a number of restaurants and other boozy establishments like cideries, meaderies and wineries. Our friends at Hook and Flask Still Works are included, too!
Grab a trail passport from the tourism office or and take it with you. Youll be rewarded for your adventures! Collect 5 stickers to get a bottle opener, 15 for a bottle opening and t-shirt, and 20 for both items along with a cooler. Youll also receive coupons for the establishments included no matter what tier you complete! Take a look at the Cumberland Valley website to see what locations are on the beer trail. This is easily one of my favourite Carlisle activities as I just love enjoying the local tastes while making new friends!
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