Movies and Books Set in Harrisburg

Harrisburg, the captivating capital of Pennsylvania, brims with historic charm and scenic beauty. Its unique blend of urban vibrancy and rural tranquility has caught the attention of filmmakers, authors, and television producers alike, transforming it into a picturesque backdrop for numerous famous films shot in Harrisburg. If you’re a cinephile, a TV fanatic, or a literary enthusiast, join us on this comprehensive guide through Harrisburg’s iconic filming locations, prominent literary settings, and television landscapes.

The Silver Screen Legacy of Harrisburg

Harrisburg’s cinematic allure is undeniable. Its charming cityscape and surrounding pastoral landscapes have graced the screen in numerous films, creating captivating visual narratives. Here are some standout movies that have utilized Harrisburg’s unique settings:

1. “Girl, Interrupted” (1999): This critically acclaimed film, featuring Winona Ryder and Angelina Jolie, was partially shot in Harrisburg. Several scenes were filmed at the Harrisburg State Hospital, adding an authentic touch to this poignant drama.
2. “Lucky Numbers” (2000): This dark comedy, starring John Travolta and Lisa Kudrow, was set and filmed in Harrisburg. The story revolves around a TV weatherman and a lotto hostess who concoct a scheme to rig the state lottery system.
3. “Manhunt: Unabomber” (2017): Though a television series, it’s worth mentioning here due to its cinematic quality. The series, which chronicles the hunt for the notorious Unabomber, used Harrisburg as a stand-in for several other locations.

Television’s Take on Harrisburg: TV Shows Set in Harrisburg

While Hollywood movies have utilized Harrisburg’s scenic locales, the city’s appeal isn’t limited to the silver screen. Several television series have also chosen Harrisburg as their setting, weaving tales of drama, mystery, and intrigue amidst its city streets:

1. “Quantico” (2015-2018): This thrilling series about FBI recruits starred Priyanka Chopra Jonas and often featured scenes set in Harrisburg, showcasing the city’s diverse architecture.
2. “VEEP” (2012-2019): This award-winning political satire, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was set in the political corridors of Washington D.C. However, several episodes referenced and were set in Harrisburg, given its political significance as a state capital.
3. “The Office” (2005-2013): Although primarily set in the neighboring town of Scranton, this popular sitcom occasionally referenced Harrisburg, further emphasizing the city’s cultural relevance in Pennsylvania.

Animated Harrisburg: Animated Films Set in Harrisburg

Harrisburg’s charm has not only attracted live-action filming but also has inspired the world of animation. While there aren’t many animated films set in Harrisburg explicitly, several have been influenced by the city’s landscapes:

1. “Once Upon a Forest” (1993): This animated adventure film, while not explicitly set in Harrisburg, depicts lush forests and landscapes that closely resemble the beautiful countryside surrounding the city.
2. “The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!” (2004): This animated short film, based on the popular children’s book by Mo Willems, doesn’t specify its setting, but the cityscape bears a resemblance to Harrisburg’s charming urban scenery.
3. “Paw Patrol: The Movie” (2021): While not directly set in Harrisburg, the city of Adventure City depicted in the film shares similarities with Harrisburg, especially its warm community atmosphere.

Literary Harrisburg – Famous Books Set in Harrisburg

Harrisburg’s cultural richness and historic significance have made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. From classic novels to contemporary stories, the city’s spirit has been captured beautifully on paper. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Harrisburg:

Classic Books

1. “The Toll” by Neal Shusterman: This final installment of the Arc of a Scythe series features a dystopian world where Harrisburg serves as the capital of the MidMerican region.
2. “Kitty Foyle” by Christopher Morley: This novel tells the story of a white-collar girl who falls in love with a man from a wealthy family. The narrative frequently references Harrisburg, where Kitty Foyle was born and raised.
3. “The Great Santini” by Pat Conroy: A significant portion of this novel, which explores the life of a military man with a harsh parenting style, is set in Harrisburg.

Contemporary Books

1. “Pssst!” by Adam Rex: This children’s book, set in a fantastical version of Harrisburg’s zoo, is filled with quirky humor and vibrant illustrations.
2. “The Man from Primrose Lane” by James Renner: This gripping mystery novel involves a series of strange events and connections that lead the protagonist to Harrisburg.
3. “The Capital of Basketball” by John McNally: This non-fiction book explores the history of high school basketball in Harrisburg, emphasizing the city’s love for the sport.

Exploring Harrisburg Filming Locations – Where to Go

Embarking on a tour of Harrisburg’s filming locations offers a unique perspective of the city. Here are ten must-visit spots:

1. Harrisburg State Hospital: Featured in “Girl, Interrupted” and known for its imposing architecture.
2. Pennsylvania State Capitol: An iconic spot sometimes shown in the backdrop of political dramas.
3. City Island: A recreational hotspot that offers scenic views often captured in films.
4. Susquehanna River: This picturesque river and its surroundings have been featured in numerous films.
5. Riverfront Park: A favorite among filmmakers for its beautiful setting along the Susquehanna River.
6. Broad Street Market: One of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the United States, it’s been a setting for many local films.
7. Midtown Harrisburg: This vibrant neighborhood, filled with eclectic shops and eateries, has been a backdrop for several films.
8. Wildwood Park: This scenic park, known for its beautiful trails, has appeared in several local productions.
9. The Forum Auditorium: This historic auditorium has been featured in several productions due to its grand interior.

10.Harrisburg University: Its contemporary architecture and bustling atmosphere have been featured in several films and TV shows.

Where to Sleep in Harrisburg

From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, Harrisburg offers a wide range of accommodations. Here are some suggestions:

Luxury

1. Hilton Harrisburg: This upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites and is located close to many filming locations.
2. The Manor on Front: This bed and breakfast located in a historic mansion offers a unique and luxurious stay.
3. Crowne Plaza Harrisburg-Hershey: This hotel offers a high-end stay with excellent amenities.

Budget

1. Staybridge Suites Harrisburg: Offers spacious rooms and is located close to many attractions.
2. Red Roof Inn Harrisburg North: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms.
3. Quality Inn Riverfront: Located near Riverfront Park, it offers affordable rates and comfortable rooms.

Where to Eat in Harrisburg

Harrisburg’s culinary scene offers a diverse range of options. Here are some suggestions for both budget and luxury dining:

Budget:

1. The Millworks: A hip, artsy spot with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, offering a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.
2. Jackson House: Famous for its sandwiches, this is a great spot for a quick, budget-friendly meal.
3. Pho Kim’s Vietnamese Restaurant: Offers delicious and affordable Vietnamese cuisine.

Luxury:

1. Bricco: This upscale Mediterranean-Italian restaurant offers a fine-dining experience.
2. Home 231: Known for its farm-to-table new American dishes, it’s a great spot for a gourmet meal.
3. Char’s Tracy Mansion: Offers upscale American fare with river views, perfect for a luxurious dining experience.

Detailed Itinerary: A Cinematic Journey Through Harrisburg

Planning a film-themed trip to Harrisburg? Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Downtown Harrisburg

• Start your day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, a filming location for several films and TV shows.
• Head to Strawberry Square, a popular shopping and dining spot frequently shown in local productions.
• After lunch, explore the Broad Street Market and Riverfront Park, both of which have appeared in numerous films.
• End your day with dinner at Bricco, a restaurant that has been featured in several food and travel shows.

Day 2: Historic Harrisburg

• Begin your day at the Harrisburg State Hospital, the filming location for “Girl, Interrupted”.
• Visit the National Civil War Museum, which has been used as a backdrop for several historical films.
• After lunch, explore the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park, another historic location that has been featured in films.
• End your day with dinner at The Millworks, a restaurant housed in a former factory that has been featured in several local productions.

Day 3: Natural Beauty of Harrisburg

• Start your day with a visit to Wildwood Park, a favorite location for local filmmakers.
• Visit the beautiful Italian Lake Park, which has served as a backdrop for several films.
• After lunch, explore City Island, a recreational hotspot that offers scenic views often captured in films.
• End your day with a relaxing meal at Home 231, a restaurant featured in several food and travel shows.

Local Legends and Curiosities

Harrisburg is a city teeming with local legends and curiosities. From tales of cryptids lurking in the surrounding forests to rumors of haunted historic sites, there’s plenty of local lore to explore. A notable legend is the “Raystown Ray”, a Loch Ness-like creature rumored to inhabit Raystown Lake, a popular filming location for outdoor scenes. As for a curiosity, the Pennsylvania State Capitol building, a common filming location, was once referred to by President Theodore Roosevelt as the “handsomest building” he ever saw.

Hidden Gems in Harrisburg

Beyond the well-trodden tourist paths lie several hidden gems that have served as lesser-known filming locations in Harrisburg:

1. The Greenbelt: This 20-mile trail circling the city offers beautiful scenery and has been used in several local film productions.
2. Reservoir Park: Home to the National Civil War Museum, this park offers stunning views of the city and has been a filming site for several local productions.
3. Midtown Scholar Bookstore: This massive used bookstore is a paradise for book lovers and has been featured in several local films and TV shows.

What to Pack for a Trip to Harrisburg

Given Harrisburg’s varied climate, your packing list will depend largely on the time of year of your visit. Here’s a general guide:

• Spring and Fall: Pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate. Include a mix of short and long-sleeved tops, a light jacket, and comfortable shoes for exploring.
• Summer: Lightweight clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are essential. Don’t forget your sunglasses and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Winter: Warm clothing is a must. Pack a heavy coat, gloves, a hat, and scarves. Waterproof boots are highly recommended.

In all seasons, a camera is a must for capturing the cinematic sites of Harrisburg. Don’t forget to pack a good city map and a portable phone charger.

Transportation Tips for Exploring Harrisburg’s Filming Locations

Navigating Harrisburg’s filming locations can be done with relative ease thanks to the city’s size and transportation options:

• Walking: Many of the filming locations in downtown Harrisburg are within walking distance of one another.
• Biking: With the city’s bike-sharing program, you can easily cycle between filming locations.
• Public Transit: The city’s bus system, CAT, is a convenient way to reach farther locations.
• Driving: If you prefer to drive, be aware of the city’s street parking regulations.

Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a TV series fanatic, or a literary aficionado, this guide offers a comprehensive overview of Harrisburg’s role in these mediums. By exploring these locations, you’ll see this charming Pennsylvania city through a unique, cinematic lens. So get ready to step into the scenes of your favorite films, TV shows, and books in Harrisburg!