Like a mosaic, it’s the little things that bring the culture of the Hershey Harrisburg Region to life. By little things, we mean small businesses run by generations of families or a few good friends who have a creative vision and a passion for sharing a taste of our region with guests. While you’re here, make time to visit that little shop around the corner, take a detour to explore a multi-story antique treasure trove, or pack a few jars of local jam into your suitcase.These are a few of our favorite places to pick up unique souvenirs! Hint: no goofy hats and t-shirts in sight
Art & Jewelry
There’s something exciting about owning a piece of original artwork or handcrafted jewelry because you know you’re the only one in the world with that exact piece. This personal touch makes all the difference!
There’s no better place to find eclectic, locally made goods than in Midtown Harrisburg, the arts and culture epicenter of the city. One of Midtown’s most popular destinations is the Millworks, an art gallery/restaurant/brewery that provides a trendy atmosphere for food and art within the walls of a historic Harrisburg building. 32 regional artisans rent studio space on the second floor of the Millworks, and customers can watch the masters at work from the restaurant and the courtyard. You can browse the first-floor art gallery to see their work up close or shop their handcrafted items like jewelry, pottery, and more.
Another exciting thing about shopping small is the get-it-now-before-its-gone approach to purchasing. Once a month The HBG Flea hosts a pop-up market featuring local artists, handmade commodities, and vintage finds. Each month brings a new location and new vendors. Coffee mugs and coffee beans, goat’s milk soap and bath bombs, necklaces and neckties, candles and ceramic lamps are just a few of the quirky, unique, and made-with-love items you can find.
Adventures in Antiquing
When you’re antiquing, there’s an art to finding the perfect pieces to compliment your décor. You can be a professional picker like the pros on HGTV, or go with your gut when you spot something that stirs your nostalgia.
Get ready to browse for hours at Crossroads Antique Mall in Hershey, a filled-to-the-rafters antique co-op. Their impressive collection includes vintage furniture, glass and china, toys, knick-knacks, clothing, pop culture memorabilia, and treasured collectibles that'll have you saying “Oh wow!” or “Hey, come look at this!”
Venture north of Harrisburg to explore two more treasure troves. Simply Country in Shermansdale features 3 full floors of unique home décor, gifts, and Amish-made furniture that are perfect for adding a little rustic charm to your home. Their lower level is filled with vintage finds and antiques and dozens of craft vendors selling one-of-a-kind pieces. Old Sled Works in Duncannon is known for its size (30,000 square feet of antiques and crafts), its namesake sled museum, an operational mid-century soda fountain, and a classic pinball arcade.
Jams, Jellies, and Other Snackable Souvenirs
Maybe you’d prefer scrumptious souvenirs for your kitchen! Our proximity to farms and orchards allows us to maintain a steady supply of locally made artisan food. And when you’ve eaten them all, you’ll just have to come back for more!
Known by many as the cultural heartbeat of Harrisburg is the Broad Street Market. In addition to their ready-made, delicious smelling lunch and dinner menu items, you can purchase Pennsylvania-made food and goods to go. Radish & Rye is a food hub that brings organic, artisan, and small family farm food to the city, and everything’s labeled, so you know exactly where it was made. Pick up raw honey, jam, peanut butter, just to name a few. Another vendor that sells consumable souvenirs is Vie Chevre (goat life) specializing in all-natural goat milk soaps, candles, and other beauty products.
For the Kids
There’s a little toy shop in the center of Hummelstown, aptly named Toys on the Square, that specializes in educational, screen-free toys and games. Here you can browse aisle after aisle of engaging toys designed to challenge children through imagination and outdoor play. You’ll see some brand names, but many of their toys are distinctive and unusual and make perfect gifts for the kid that has everything! If you have some extra time in your getaway, visit their Pottery Painting studio to create your very own masterpiece!
When you get home, you can look at your unique souvenir, smile, and daydream about when you’ll be back again!