Cumberland County Historical Society Travel Forum Reviews

Cumberland County Historical Society

Description

If you’re even a tiny bit curious about American history, the Cumberland County Historical Society is like a little time machine right in the heart of Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Okay, maybe not an actual time machine (I wish), but this place really does let you step back into the layered stories that make up the region’s past. And you don’t have to be a total history buff to feel welcome here—honestly, half the fun is just unexpectedly stumbling across something quirky or jaw-dropping.

Let me break it down a bit: The main hub is the historical society’s building, which houses a rich research library and a museum to get lost in. (And you will get lost in it if you aren’t careful—trust me, I once spent thirty minutes marveling at old hand-written letters when I’d only meant to peek in for a second.) The exhibits are thoughtful, beautifully curated, and never stuffy. Each room unfolds a different chapter—Civil War relics, tales of railroad innovation, portraits that seem to wink at you from another century. You can practically smell the ink and hear the clatter of typewriters echoing through history.

But it’s not just for history nerds and genealogy geeks. The Historical Society’s reach is broader than you might expect. There’s History On High, their gift shop, packed with locally-made goods, crafts, and souvenirs you’ll actually want to bring home. (No tacky mugs, thank goodness.) And tucked inside is the Cumberland Valley Visitors Center—a handy bonus for out-of-towners wondering what to do next.

Now, here’s something a bit off the standard museum path: the Two Mile House. Built in 1820, this former tavern is a stunner with thick limestone walls and a wraparound porch that practically whispers, “pull up a chair.” Throughout the year, the house throws open its doors for festivals, local gatherings, and, honestly, some of the best small-town parties you’ll stumble across in Pennsylvania. It’s even rentable for weddings and private parties—imagine swapping vows in a spot where horse-drawn carriages once clattered to a stop!

In my opinion—and I know I can be fussy about these things—what really makes the Cumberland County Historical Society stand out is how it blends small-town warmth with surprisingly rich resources. The staff are genuinely passionate, the collection is deep (yet approachable), and the vibe? Let’s just say, you won’t be shushed for laughing a little too loud during a fun discovery. For families, solo travelers, and history hunters alike, it’s equal parts enlightening and inviting.

Key Features

  • Extensive Museum and Research Library: Explore thousands of artifacts, detailed collections, photographs, and maps—perfect for history buffs and the ancestry-curious alike.
  • Local Artisans in the Gift Shop: Find one-of-a-kind crafts, books, gifts, and treasures, all made by hands that know Cumberland County best.
  • Historic Two Mile House: Experience 19th-century hospitality at a restored tavern, with regular community events and festival fun.
  • Guided Tours and Special Events: Regularly scheduled walking tours, lectures, and hands-on workshops put the “live” back in local history.
  • Genealogy Assistance: Staff and volunteers really go above and beyond for anyone sleuthing their roots or tracking down old family stories.
  • Family-Friendly and Accessible: Fully wheelchair accessible facilities, kid-friendly experiences, and a generally easy-going, welcoming atmosphere.
  • High Ratings from Visitors: Most guests leave raving reviews thanks to the engaging staff, sparkling clean spaces, and ever-changing displays.
  • Wi-Fi and Restrooms Available: No need to worry about comfort or staying connected while you visit.
  • No Restaurant, but Carlisle Eats Nearby: While there’s no onsite café, you’re just steps away from great local food options.

Best Time to Visit

If you want my honest take—any time is a good time for a dash of local heritage! But if you like your museums a little livelier, try spring or fall when the town hums with events and the weather encourages exploring on foot. Early autumn has always been my personal favorite. There’s a certain crispness in the air, folks are extra friendly, and the festivals at Two Mile House (especially the annual McLain Festival) really capture that small-town charm that’s getting rare these days.

During summer, you’ll see the area around the museum come to life with walking tours, street fairs, and sometimes special evening events. If you’re a parent, school holidays are a solid bet—the museum has family programming covered with scavenger hunts and history-themed crafts. Winter can be quieter, but that just means you get the staff’s full attention when you’ve got a burning genealogical puzzle to solve.

Insider’s tip: Aim for weekday mornings to beat the crowds and get more space to appreciate the exhibits—sometimes you even catch a local historian sharing informal stories in the reading room. Could you craft a better backdrop for a deep dive into Pennsylvania history? I think not!

How to Get There

I’ve trekked to the Cumberland County Historical Society a few times now—by car, by bike, and even once on a drizzly Carlisle walk. If you’re coming from Harrisburg, it’s a straight shot—about 30 minutes by car. Ample parking’s not hard to find, which is always a relief for someone (like me) who gets parking anxiety.

Carlisle’s walkable downtown means you can pair your museum visit with a coffee-run or a lazy stroll past the brick-lined streets and pretty storefronts. If you’re coming from out of state or flying in, Harrisburg International isn’t too far off; you’d just rent a car or hop a rideshare into town.

For my eco-minded friends: the public transit here is limited, so plan accordingly. But if you’re a fan of train travel or love a classic road trip, the highways make the journey pretty painless. Don’t be surprised if you stumble on railroad memorabilia tucked into the museum—the region’s railroad roots run deep, and you’ll see tracks and tributes all throughout town on your way in.

Once inside, everything’s set up for easy exploring. And if you get turned around—even for a second—the front desk crew is consistently warm, patient, and happy to help (not always a given in museums, right?). Your adventure basically begins the second you cross Pitt Street.

Tips for Visiting

Let’s get practical for a moment, because there are a few tricks I’ve picked up from my own trips and from chatting with the staff and locals. Here’s a not-so-secret recipe for making the most of your time at the Cumberland County Historical Society: