TheBurg

26 | The Burg | 06.15 L iving here, you may take for granted the major tourist center that central Pennsylvania has become. Each year, millions flock to sites like Hersheypark, the state Capitol building, Amish country and the Gettysburg Battlefield, which are among the area's principal attractions. Locals also enjoy these destinations (we also know when to avoid them), but there are so many other places in the area perfect for a short break from the steamy city. Ice cream anyone? One of my favorite summertime escapes is a drive along winding country roads to Mount Gretna, elbowing up to the counter at the century-old Jigger Shop for a sundae or shake before a walk along the hilly grounds surrounding the playhouse. It makes for a terrific family afternoon, as do (depending on your kids' preferences) places like Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, Roundtop Mountain Resort and the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art. For more adult treats, wineries have popped up in abundance over the past few years. ree of the most recent entrants—the Vineyard & Brewery at Hershey, Spring Gate Vineyard and Bucks Valley Winery—are short drives away, ready to greet you with a refreshing glass amid a verdant country setting. When the weather warms, the al fresco dining starts, too. ere are many possibilities for outdoor eating, but let's be honest, outside of Harrisburg (which has a wealth of choices), most are nothing special. A clear exception is the Stoney Creek Inn in Dauphin borough, which boasts both good food and a large, scenic outdoors space. For the (very) casual-minded, you can't beat the Red Rabbit Drive-In in Perry County and Shakedown BBQ in Grantville for tasty fare, a picnic table and a bench. e garden at Bube's Brewery in Mount Joy also stands out as a pleasant outside setting for a bite and a beer. If you find yourself in Grantville (or even if you don't), don't forget about the Penn National portion of Hollywood Casino at Penn National. On a warm evening, it's fun to watch the ponies speed around the track, even if you don't bet. In fact, you might be surprised by the number of non-gambling options there (I was), from the restaurants to the entertainment. Summertime is also fair and festival time. is month, Jubilee Day, billed as the longest running, one-day street fair on the East Coast, returns to downtown Mechanicsburg. On the East Shore, Fort Hunter hosts several major festivals, including the Dauphin County Music and Wine Festival in June and the Dauphin County Brewfest in July. Come August, I never miss the Elizabethtown Fair. Living here means easy access to the many charming old towns that dot the central PA landscape. On a day nice, places like Newport, New Oxford, Lititz, Marietta and Annville are all worth a stroll. I suggest breaking out of your comfort zone and checking out a town or region you've never visited before. As per outdoor sports, well, it's your choice. Kayakers, hikers and anglers have an almost ridiculous number of options, including easy access to several major waterways and the Appalachian Trail. And don't forget the lazy Swattie (Swatara Creek), which, although sometimes overlooked, is well worth exploring. Nearby, I recommend the Conewago Trail for both walkers and runners who have grown tired of the old river route. Lastly, I want to put in a shout for a gem smack-dab in the heart of Harrisburg. I'm talking about City Island, which I regard as underused despite its central location and stunning setting. Check out a Senators game, have a picnic by the river, play some mini-golf, go for a ride on the Pride. It's easy to spend a breezy summer day without ever leaving the city, the Susquehanna rolling by on all sides, with can't-beat views of the Harrisburg skyline. at's a short list of some of my favorite summertime places, all within a short hop for most Burg readers. For other ideas, turn the page and discover yet more suggestions on local getaways from the viewpoint of a few of our writers. Lawrance Binda, Editor-in-Chief Special Section Dauphin County Music & Wine Fest Red Rabbit Bunny Burgers and Fries Hershey Park

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