Mooreland Garden Inn

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Things To Do

Carlisle is in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Cumberland Valley. The region offers a wide variety of places to visit, things to do, and sights to see – with plenty of dining and drinking options along the way. Carlisle’s locally owned shops are open with some restrictions as required by Pennsylvania’s COVID response. Most restaurants are open too and many have outdoor seating, in season. We especially recommend Miseno’s Ristopub II, a quick three-block walk from the inn for great pizza or pasta in a relaxed atmosphere.

Like most communities, Carlisle has been following regulations related to Coronavirus restrictions. Some of the nearby recommended attractions and activities may still be restricted during your visit, so we recommend checking websites for The Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau and The Downtown Carlisle Association to get latest status for things you plan to do in the Carlisle area.

*Header image provided by Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce

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Love to Learn about the Past?

Cumberland County is full of unique local history that highlights hidden stories. Carlisle itself was a prominent Civil War town, and has a deep and storied history dating back to the Revolutionary War. Dickinson College was the first College founded after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and its founder is Benjamin Rush. Whether you want to take a stroll through the Army Heritage Trail, explore the Historical Society’s museum and archives, or take a tour around Dickinson College – just a few blocks away from Mooreland Garden Inn, Carlisle has something for every history buff! 

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  • Visit the Cumberland County Historical Society and Museum to take a “tour through time.” As members of the Historical Society, Dawn and Bruce love to support Carlisle history. Carlisle was founded while Pennsylvania was still a British colony, and our town was the marshaling point for Washington’s quelling of the 1974 Whisky rebellion. Carlisle is also known for the Carlisle Indian Industrial Boarding School – a forgotten part of the United States’ history and an important landmark to recognize. It was in Carlisle where Gold Medalist Jim Thorpe grew up and trained. The Museum has thousands of artifacts and displays that showcase these fascinating local stories and many others. If you or your family has roots in Carlisle, you might be able to find a part of your family tree in their genealogical files. The free museum is open every Tuesday-Saturday from 10:00am-4:00pm and has something everyone can enjoy! 
  • The U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center is located in the Carlisle Army Barracks, and has lots of interesting landmarks you can explore. The Wayside Marker walking tour highlights where “History Happened” in Carlisle and is a fun immersive experience. Their archives are home to important military history documents – and provide information for New York City and Washington DC. We recommend touring the interactive “Soldiers Stories” at the Education Center to get a glimpse of life as a soldier throughout America’s history. The Education Center has free and public rotating exhibitions, galleries, and a research library and archives, as well as the Army Heritage Walking Trail. The center and all of its resources are open 10-5 Monday-Saturday, and 12-5 on Sundays. 
  • The Old Public Graveyard is Carlisle’s first burial ground. The site is home to Carlisle’s very own Mary Hays McCuly – better known as Molly Pitcher. Molly Pitcher is renowned for her bravery in the Civil War, and especially at the Battle of Monmouth. Tour these grounds and appreciate the local history through a self-guided tour any time of the day. 

Take a walking Wayside Markers tour around Downtown Carlisle to look at where “history happened.” The Old Courthouse column and the Confederate Army Cannon mark are among this self-guided tour’s interesting stops.

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Devoted to the Arts and Culture?

Carlisle is a creative center with many options for exploring, creating, and experiencing art. Whether you’re looking to tour around a gallery, relax while watching a play, or create something yourself – there are options for you!

  • Take a class at the Carlisle Arts Learning Center on Pomfret Street and enjoy seeing some of the works of our local talent exhibited! The Center offers programming for children and adults ranging from ceramics to painting and beyond! Check out the website to find the perfect event for you. 
  • Attend a performance of the world-renowned Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB). George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® is one of the works performed each year.
  • Attend a “Hollywood on High” film at the Carlisle Regional Performing Arts Center. The restored 1930’s theater hosts high-quality, first-run, independent, foreign, and repertory films. In addition to film, they feature theater plays, and live music. The local troupe “Players on High” performances seasonal plays with local actors! 
  • The Playhouse at Allenberry is just down the road from Carlisle in Boiling Springs. The Playhouse has a long history of local theater and dates back to 1949. The Playhouse puts on rotating family-friendly plays all year round. While you’re out there, explore Allenberry’s beautiful grounds and indulge in a delicious dinner Wednesdays-Saturdays. 
  • Dickinson College’s Trout Gallery is an art museum featuring rotating collections of historical significance. The gallery works in tandem with the college to bring in lesser-known artists and involves both students and the Carlisle community. The Trout Gallery is just a few blocks away from the Inn and open Monday-Saturday 10-4. 
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  • Take a class at the Carlisle Arts Learning Center on Pomfret Street and enjoy seeing some of the works of our local talent exhibited! The Center offers programming for children and adults ranging from ceramics to painting and beyond! Check out the website to find the perfect event for you. 
  • Attend a performance of the world-renowned Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB). George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® is one of the works performed each year.
  • Attend a “Hollywood on High” film at the Carlisle Regional Performing Arts Center. The restored 1930’s theater hosts high-quality, first-run, independent, foreign, and repertory films. In addition to film, they feature theater plays, and live music. The local troupe “Players on High” performances seasonal plays with local actors! 
  • The Playhouse at Allenberry is just down the road from Carlisle in Boiling Springs. The Playhouse has a long history of local theater and dates back to 1949. The Playhouse puts on rotating family-friendly plays all year round. While you’re out there, explore Allenberry’s beautiful grounds and indulge in a delicious dinner Wednesdays-Saturdays. 
  • Dickinson College’s Trout Gallery is an art museum featuring rotating collections of historical significance. The gallery works in tandem with the college to bring in lesser-known artists and involves both students and the Carlisle community. The Trout Gallery is just a few blocks away from the Inn and open Monday-Saturday 10-4. 

 

  • If you’re feeling creative, paint a piece of pottery at Create-A-Palooza – A great place to make a family memory!
  • Wick and Pour Studio is a homemade candle workshop. Their cozy environment hosts private events, specialized workshops, team building activities, and date nights. Perfect if you’re planning ahead, or you can drop in to get a special Carlisle candle. 
  • Are you a foodie looking to enhance your talents? The Kitchen Shoppe offers specialized cooking workshops as well as a great array of fun kitchen utensils. 
  • A little down the road from Carlisle the Winery at Longchamp Farms hosts weekly seasonal activities and events. The beautiful scenery is inspiring and the perfect backdrop for their painting workshops and knitting clubs. 

 

  • Carlisle is home to many art galleries: 
    • Carlisle Arts Learning Center 
    • The Gallery at JN Studios (Open on Weekends) 
    • The Garden Gallery 
    • K Olson Ceramics 
    • Nancy Stamm’s Galleria 
    • The Pond Art Studios and Gallery 
    • The Penny Gallery 

 

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Love Good Food?

Carlisle is full of great dining options. Regardless of your tastes, Carlisle will have something for you, and below is a comprehensive list Carlisle’s tastiest spots!

Nice Night Out:  Whether you’re in town to celebrate a special occasion or are just interested in a scrumptious meal, Carlisle has the perfect dining option for you! These restaurants are some of our local favorites, known for their ambience, creative menus, and location: 

  • Cafe Bruges: A family favorite of ours, Cafe Bruges serves authentic Belgium food. The Owners, Ryan Twigg and Helena Twigg, Ross Morris, and Laura Portillo,  did their homework to emulate classic Belgian fare. Ask Dawn and Bruce about their romantic story both at Cafe Bruges and Bruges, Belgium!  
  • 113 Social: The elevated atmosphere of 113 Social is perfect if you are in town for celebration. The restaurant blends classics with innovation and is perfect for a foodie’s night out. 
  • Pitt Street Station: Under the same ownership as 113 Social, Pitt Street Station is a more casual atmosphere with the same great taste! A new staple in downtown Carlisle, this spot is perfect for elevated American Comfort. 
  • Miseno’s Pizzeria: Right down the street from Mooreland Garden Inn, this casual Italian spot is great for big gatherings. They serve Italian-American classics, and you’ll probably need a to-go box for their generous, delicious portions! 
  • Momma Spriggs:  Features a seasonal menu with fresh local foods, steaks, and outdoor seating for nicer warm days. The restaurant is BYOB and a great option for local seafood. 
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Downtown Carlisle: 

Downtown Carlisle is a short 5 minute walk away from our Inn and features dozens of delicious bites! A Carlisle Classic, Molly Pitcher Brewing Company is perfect for interesting Ales or elevated American Classics. 

  • 1794 Whiskey Rebellion: celebrates Carlisle’s role in this historically themed restaurant. Over 50 domestic and international whiskeys are available to accompany menu items such as the “Bourbon Bird” and the “Molly Burger”
  • George’s Pizza: a perfect neighborhood spot, the cozy atmosphere of George’s pairs perfectly with a hot slice! Authentic and fast, their pizza and subs are hard to beat. 
  • The Hamilton: Since 1938, home of the famed Hot-Chee Dog! The Hamiliton is an iconic Carlisle establishment and a fun part of the town’s history. After your meal, make sure to take a picture at the historic sign to document your visit!
  • Nona Ilva: An authentic Italian spot, this quaint restaurant specializes in interesting pizzas and housemade pastas! Perfect for pick up or cozy dining and known for their great lunch specials.  
  • Redd’s Smokehouse BBQ: This is a great BBQ spot in Carlisle featuring smokey ribs and tasty wings. If you’re here on a Thursday and feeling adventurous, make sure you stop by their all-you-can-eat taco special! 
  • North Hanover Grille: Features classic pub food and has great salads and wraps! With specials on Tuesday and Wednesday including Trivia night, this neighborhood spot is full of fun for everyone. 

Ethnic Foods: The diverse and interesting food scene of Carlisle features lots of excellent International Foods!

  • Issei Noodle: Issei’s menu has something for everyone – with fresh made ramen and cozy curry dishes, this Carlisle classic is perfect for a relaxed meal out. 
  • Chen’s:  A classic Asian comfort menu, Chen’s expansive menu features stir-frys, sushi, noodles, and warm soups! Perfect for dining in or take-out, Chen’s is a great choice!
  • Mt. Fuji: Featuring classic Japanese cuisine, Mt.Fuji’s atmosphere is perfect for sushi or soup lovers. 
  • Yak and Yeti: With their location right downtown, Yak and Yeti specializes in authentic Bhutanese and Nepalese cuisine. Interesting and adventurous, their menu is perfect for vegetarians. One favorite is the JHOL MOMO – a yummy dumpling soup! Check out their expansive lunch buffet to try a variety of their delicious foods! 
  • King Tut Egyptian: This new neighborhood spot is perfect for a quick falafel or gyro pita and has some of the best french fries in Carlisle! 
  • Taqueria Laurita Mexican: an adorable little spot in downtown Carlisle, the Taquiera is perfect for a quick, authentic, no-frills meal. 
  • B&L Caribbean: This fun spot on Pomfret Street has the best Mac and Cheese in town. It is perfect if you are looking for a delicious quick lunch and an interesting bite! 
  • El Rodeo: a classic Mexican restaurant and a family favorite for us! Great for sit down authenticity and a classic Mexican restaurant feel.
  • Passage of India: Is a super fun spot for tasty Indian food, or perfect for quick takeout. This authentic restaurant is great if you are searching for cozy Indian classics. Dawn and Lenore love their Butter Chicken and Palak Paneer! 

Best for Lunch or a Quick Bite: If you need a quick meal before you hit the road, or a mid-afternoon nosh, there are plenty of options for you. 

  • Helena’s Creperie : perfect for a rainy day or a sweet treat – Helena’s features sweet and savory crepes as well as french patisserie! 
  • The Sunrise Cafe: a great breakfast-food spot, The Sunrise Cafe features some of Carlisle’s best bagels. Make sure to sip on your coffee while enjoying their soups and wraps. 
  • Denim Coffee: Whether you go downtown or to The Quarry at Dickinson, Denim Coffee is a local staple. For a quick caffeine fix or delicious sandwiches, it’s the perfect casual stop. 
  • Playa Bowls: Great for warm days and refreshing snacks, Playa bowls feature fun acai bowls and delicious smoothies! 
  • The Grazery: Is a light and healthy option if you are a classic lunch lover! Their sandwiches and soups are classic, and we especially love their kale salad. Located right on the edge of downtown, this healthy spot is perfect for a tasting and refreshing bite!
  • Farm Works: A Dickinson College establishment, Farm Works uses fresh farm ingredients to specialize in soups and salads. With a rotating weekly menu, Farm Works is a great way to get a taste from the Dickinson College Farm. 
  • Pizza Grille: A Carlisle Classic, Pizza Grille has an extensive list of original  pizzas, great salads and pasta dishes. 
  • Seve-n-Dots: A neighborhood pizza place, Seve-n-dots features some of the best pizza in Carlisle. Dickinson students receive a 10% discount, and their garlic knots are a must-try!
  • Eclipse Gaming Cafe: This interactive spot features lunch specialties with a side of board games. If you are looking for fresh soups, salads, and sandwiches – check out this shop on Pomfret Street. 

Fun Night Out: 

  • Market Cross Pub: An English-style Pub with over 250 beers and ales to choose from – including their own brews! Make sure to check out this spot for Magical Thursdays, and Fridays, and Saturdays for live music. Our favorites are the fish and chips and Shepherd’s pie. 
  • Hook and Flask: The first distillery in Carlisle after Prohibition. They feature plenty of spirits and cocktails that pair nicely with their themed menu. 
  • Back Porch Brewing: A new local spot that got its start literally on a back-porch in Newville. This local brew pub is on Hanover Street and features interesting and seasonal ales. Check out their website to learn more about fun events like open-mic nights, trivia, and other live music. 
  • The Gingerbread Man: The “G-man” has been a Friday-night hangout for locals for decades. The large bar features pool tables as well as lots of seating options. 

Sweets and Treats: Have a sweet tooth? Carlisle has great options from Ice Cream to local chocolate shops! 

    • Long-standing neighborhood Ice Cream shops, Leo’s and Massey’s have a friendly rivalry. Make sure to check out both to decide your favorite. Leo’s is cash-only and features delicious hand-scooped flavors, whereas Massey’s has classic shakes and malts!
  • Dough and Arrows: This fun and inventive edible cookie dough stop is fun if you’re looking for something different to satisfy a sweet craving! 
    • Pennsylvania is known for its chocolate, and Carlisle is no different. Mummert’s on Pomfret Street is a family-owned business and has the most delicious white-chocolate popcorn around the holidays! Check out our Instagram to learn more about their story. Exquisite Chocolates of Carlisle  is an upscale candy store – make sure to check out their fun events! Feeling nostalgic, Georgie Lou’s Retro Candy is perfect for finding all those candy classics! 
  • Beeman’s Bakery:  Is an iconic homemade bakery in Carlisle. They specialize in custom cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, and their delicacies are hard to beat. Make sure to check them out for all your celebratory needs! 
  • Crazy Glazed: a gourmet donut shop, this early morning special features tons of fun and creative flavors made fresh daily!`

 

 

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Have Work to Do?

  • Adjacent to Penn State Dickinson Law, and less than a block from Dickinson College’s Campus, and a few blocks from Historic Downtown Carlisle, the Mooreland Garden Inn is a great home base for your work in and around town. Harrisburg is 25 miles to the East and Shippensburg and Chambersburg are 20 miles to the West. We are located 25 minutes via Route 76 from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT).
  • UPMC Carlisle Hospital is two miles away.
  • Each guest room includes a well-lit desk with outlets and USB ports. The inn has high-speed Internet and Wi-Fi for guest use.
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  • Need to hit the gym? Carlisle Family YMCA is three blocks from the Mooreland Garden Inn and your Y membership will work here.
  • When your work day is done, change into your running shoes and stroll or jog along our tree-lined streets in the Old Mooreland Neighborhood-where the inn is located.
  • Visit one of our great locally owned restaurants or have a delivery to the inn. We’ll be happy to set a place for you on the porch or dining room table complete with china and silverware.
  • Plan on a great night’s sleep! Mooreland Garden Inn offers peace and quiet, high-quality bedding on comfortable mattresses, and complimentary snacks, and hot and cold beverages.
  • Dawn creates a daily menu with several options based on the guest’s diet and preferences. You will be asked to make some choices the night before and Dawn will work to ‘wow’ you with breakfast in the morning.
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Prefer to Shop Until You Drop?

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Events, Festivals and Parades

The Mooreland Garden Inn is a fantastic home base for Carlisle’s activities. Here is a sampling of what happens in Carlisle:

  • Carlisle Events Car Shows (April-October) take over the 840 acres of Carlisle Fairgrounds to showcase one of the largest automotive flea markets, auctions, collector shows in the world. Between April and October Carlisle annually hosts seven action packed weekends for car and truck enthusiasts. Mooreland Garden Inn rooms fill up quickly on these weekends. Book early!  We love our car show guests!
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  • Downtown Carlisle’s First Friday (May-October) is a fun family evening the first Friday of the month May through October. Look for the DCA information booth on the square in Carlisle to get a map and schedule of activities for the evening.
  • Farmers on the Square is Carlisle’s farmers’ market open every Wednesday from 3 PM until 7 PM. The outdoor market is located on Carlisle’s Square at the intersection of Hanover and High Streets. Cumberland Valley boasts of some of the richest farm soil in the world, and this is a great place to find our local produce, baked goods, meats, nuts and cheeses and fresh flowers!
  • First Night Carlisle (returning Dec 31 2021) is a family-oriented, non-alcoholic celebration of the arts held on New Year’s Eve on the streets of downtown Carlisle. It is a major visual and performing arts festival created by and for the community to welcome in the New Year. It is a public celebration that revives the ancient tradition of marking the passage of time with art, ritual, and festivity in a present-day context.
  • Ice Arts Fest (February) Fun for the whole family! Come downtown and enjoy seeing over 70 ice sculptures representing downtown businesses. From thrones to photo ops, there is something for everyone. It is a weekend you don’t want to miss.
  • Downtown Carlisle Bunny Hop (late March or early April) is a day of Spring fun that centers around a downtown-wide “egg hunt”, where children 12 and under will frolic from business to business collecting eggs and treats. Children are encouraged to dress in their Sunday best. It’s fun to watch even if you are not under 12 or don’t have a child to bring!
  • Amani Festival (May) is a daylong celebration of culture and diversity. The event features authentic ethnic foods, crafts, art, and music. Taking place in downtown Carlisle, the festival is a five-minute walk from the
  • Carlisle Summerfair (early July) is a ten-day community-wide celebration featuring a variety of free family-friendly activities. This annual event includes activities such as open pool nights, concerts, musicals, kids’ crafts, an ice-cream social, and the popular Anything Floats Contests. Most activities are within walking distance from the inn.
  • Bluegrass on the Grass Festival (mid-July) is a free day-long bluegrass concert featuring several of the top bands from around the country. You can borrow inn lawn chairs and walk to hear the upbeat music that will make you smile and tap your feet!
  • Harvest of the Arts (September) is a day-long festival on West High Street (a couple blocks from the inn) that features over 100 artisans, plus food vendors, a Kids’ Alley, farmers’ market, and entertainment. And yes – you can walk there from the inn.
  • Halloweekend (mid- October) is a weekend of Spooktacular fun in Downtown Carlisle. A pumpkin path, decorated window displays, photo ops, and a treat-not-trick activity hosted by our downtown merchants make this a really fun weekend.  Don’t miss it!
  • Santa Comes to Town (early December) to light the trees on the square. Carriage rides, a town parade, caroling, and special events in the shops make this a magical time for families.

*Image provided by the Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce

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