Why Harrisburg: Living and Learning in the Capital Region
Widener Law Commonwealth’s location as the only law school in the capital of the nation’s fifth most populous state presents a world of opportunities for our students. Harrisburg offers the best of two worlds—the energy and convenience of an urban center with all the advantages of a small town.
Learning in Harrisburg
The PA Capitol
Widener Law Commonwealth's campus lies just six miles from the heart of Pennsylvania’s Capitol Complex, which includes the houses of the legislature, many state agencies, state courts, and federal courts.
Networking
Our graduates work in every branch of state government, practice with firms and corporations of every description, and look for opportunities to open doors for fellow—and future—Widener Law Commonwealth alumni.
Law and Government
Harrisburg is particularly ideal for our Law and Government Institute and students completing its certificate programs. They enjoy access to the processes of legislation and policymaking that no other school in the capital region can match.
Living in Harrisburg
Nearby Attractions
There is so much to discover—educational and nightlife options abound! Harrisburg's vibrant downtown boasts great restaurants, theaters, museums, and bars. Hershey, famous for its amusement park and chocolate, and historic Gettysburg are a short drive away.
Outdoor Recreation
When you are ready to escape the urban environment, nature is minutes away. Take your choice of outdoor recreational activities on the Susquehanna River and nearby Appalachian Trail or explore Riverfront Park, one of the most scenic inland waterfronts in the nation.
Cost of Living
With approximately 600,000 people, Central Pennsylvania features the attractions of a major population center: cultural institutions, plentiful shopping, and fabulous eateries. However, the cost of living is much lower than in New York City, Philadelphia, or Washington D.C.
#1
Harrisburg is ranked as the #1 Best Place to Live in Pennsylvania for 2021-2022.
VIDEO: Becoming a Lawyer and a Leader in Harrisburg
Widener Law Commonwealth students share how learning the law in Harrisburg has shaped their futures.
TOP AREA ATTRACTIONS
Nightlife
Harrisburg
Appalachian Brewing Company
Midstate Distillery
McGrath's Pub
Lancaster Brewing Company
Zeroday Brewing Co
Millworks
Spring Gate Vineyard & Brewery
Harrisburg Improv Theatre
Carly’s Ristorante and Piano Bar
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
Open Stage Theatre
Harrisburg Senators Baseball Team
Camp Hill
Oyster Mill Playhouse
Dave and Buster's
The Coliseum
New Cumberland
Harrisburg Comedy Zone
Hershey
Penn Hotel Sports Bar
Troegs Independent Brewery
Iron Hill Brewery
The Vineyard at Hershey
Hershey Theatre
Hersheypark Stadium
Hershey Bears Hockey Team
Hershey Area Playhouse
Family Friendly
Harrisburg
The Capitol Complex
Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex
City Island
The Civil War Museum
Broad Street Market
Whitaker Center
Midtown Cinema
The State Museum of Pennsylvania
Open Stage Theatre
Harrisburg Senators Baseball Team
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
Susquehanna Art Museum
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
Dauphin County Parks and Recreation
Keystone Trails Association
Get Air Harrisburg
Lake Tobias
Camp Hill
Oyster Mill Playhouse
The Coliseum
Visit Cumberland Valley
Hershey
Hersheypark/Chocolate World
Troegs Independent Brewing
Hershey Gardens
Zoo America
Hershey Bears Hockey Team
Hershey Theatre
Hersheypark Stadium
Antique Automobile Club of America Museum
Hershey Area Playhouse
Adventure Sports
Carlisle
Carlisle Theatre
U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center
Carlisle Events
Downtown Carlisle Association
Carlisle Sports Emporium
Gettysburg
Destination Gettysburg
Gettysburg National Park
Lancaster
Lancaster Central Market
Sight and Sound Theatre
The Fulton Theatre
Amish Country
Spooky Nook Sports