Payless Car Hire
Harrisburg

On arrival at Harrisburg International Airport, head to the baggage reclaim area on the lower level of the terminal. From there, follow the prominent overhead signs for "Rental Cars" or "Ground Transportation." The rental car desks, including Payless, are located within the main terminal building, a short walk from baggage reclaim. After completing the paperwork at the desk, you will be directed to the adjacent car park where the rental vehicles are staged for collection.

Arriving outside standard business hours is common for many travellers. It is good practice to check the specific opening hours for the Payless location at Harrisburg International Airport on their website or in your rental confirmation. Many airport rental desks adjust their hours to accommodate the day's final arriving flights. If you have a confirmed reservation for a late arrival, staff are typically aware and prepared for your collection, ensuring a smooth transition from the terminal to your vehicle.

The most straightforward route from MDT to downtown Harrisburg is to take PA-283 West. Follow the signs for Harrisburg as you leave the airport, which will lead you directly onto this route. Continue on PA-283 West until it merges with I-283 North, then take the exit for I-83 South. From I-83 South, the exits for Second Street (Exit 43) or Front Street will take you directly into the heart of downtown, minimising complex interchanges and city traffic.

Under normal conditions the drive from Harrisburg International Airport to Hersheypark is short, typically around 15 to 20 minutes. However, during peak periods such as summer weekends, bank holidays or major events, expect significant delays. Traffic can become very heavy on US-322 East and on the local roads leading into the park entrance and car parks. It is wise to allow at least 45 to 60 minutes for the journey at busy times to avoid stress.

To reach the Pennsylvania State Capitol from MDT, take PA-283 West to I-283 North, then merge onto I-83 South. Use Exit 43 for Second Street, which will bring you directly into the downtown area. The Capitol Complex will be on your right after several blocks. For visitor parking, the South Street Garage and the 5th Street Garage are popular public options a few blocks from the Capitol. Metered street parking is also available but can be limited during business hours.

For travellers heading to Mechanicsburg or Camp Hill on the West Shore, the simplest river crossing from the airport area is typically the I-83 South bridge. After leaving MDT and joining I-83 South, you will cross the Susquehanna River via the John Harris Memorial Bridge. Once across, key routes like US-11 (the Carlisle Pike) or PA-581 (the Capital Beltway) are easily accessible to reach your destination without using downtown bridges.

Yes, downtown Harrisburg’s street grid can be challenging for newcomers due to a number of one-way streets. Key thoroughfares like Front Street (southbound), Second Street (northbound) and Third Street (northbound) are all one-way. It is important to use a sat-nav and pay close attention to signage, especially around the Capitol Complex and the restaurant district. Plan your turns in advance, as being in the wrong lane can force you to circle several blocks to correct your route.

A day trip to Lancaster from MDT is manageable and scenic. The most direct route is PA-283 East, a straightforward highway drive of about 30–40 minutes to the Lancaster area. To maximise your time, focus on a specific area such as Bird-in-Hand or Intercourse rather than trying to see everything. Be prepared for slower-moving traffic on rural roads, including horse-drawn buggies, and allow extra time for unplanned stops at farm stalls or craft shops.

Yes, a half-day trip to Gettysburg from Harrisburg is realistic. The drive takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes via US-15 South, a direct and generally smooth route. For easier arrival and parking, aim to arrive in the morning, ideally before 10:00, particularly on weekends or during busy summer and autumn seasons. This increases the likelihood of securing a space at the National Military Park Museum and Visitor Centre before the larger crowds.

The best choice depends on your itinerary’s focus. If your main aim is visiting Hersheypark, Chocolate World and other Hershey attractions, staying in or near Hershey is more convenient and minimises daily driving and parking hassles. If you plan to explore a wider range of regional sights such as the State Capitol, City Island and restaurants in Harrisburg, basing yourself in the city and making the short drive to Hershey for a day can be more flexible and oftentimes more economical.

Drivers should be aware of several congestion spots in the Harrisburg area. The I-83 bridge crossing the Susquehanna River often experiences slowdowns during morning and evening rush hours. The interchange where I-81, I-83 and US-322 converge, sometimes called the "Eisenhower Interchange," can be complex and busy at all times. Additionally, US-322 heading east towards Hershey can become very congested on weekends and during events, particularly near the exits for the park and the Giant Center.

The Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex is conveniently located just off the Cameron Street exit of I-81, providing a direct approach from most directions. During major events like the Pennsylvania Farm Show or the Great American Outdoor Show, on-site car parks fill extremely quickly. Organisers typically operate large off-site lots with continuous shuttle bus service to the complex, which is often the most efficient and stress-free parking option.

The drive to Ski Roundtop from Harrisburg takes about 30–40 minutes and involves travelling on I-83 South before switching to smaller rural roads such as PA-74. While the main highways are well-maintained in winter, the final few miles on local roads can be hilly and may become icy or slushy. After an evening session, these unlit country roads require extra caution: reduce speed and be alert for changing road conditions and wildlife.

Driving to Ricketts Glen State Park from Harrisburg is a significant but rewarding day trip, taking about two hours each way via I-81 North and state routes. The drive is not difficult, but it is lengthy. The critical factor is arrival timing: on summer or autumn weekends the parking lots for the popular Falls Trail can fill by mid-morning, so an early start from Harrisburg is essential to secure a space and enjoy the trails before they become crowded.

During major events like the Farm Show or a concert at Hersheypark Stadium, you should adjust your travel expectations considerably. Plan to leave for your destination much earlier than usual, as traffic on main routes such as I-81, I-83 and US-322 will be unusually heavy. For parking, follow official event signage to designated lots, which may be off-site with shuttle services. Trying to find closer, unofficial parking often leads to stress, long walks or towing.

When driving from Harrisburg towards the Poconos the route primarily uses I-81 North. A convenient and popular area for a break is around the town of Hazleton, roughly halfway through the drive. The exits in this area offer a wide variety of familiar fast-food restaurants, petrol stations and coffee shops located just off the motorway. This cluster of services allows for a quick and efficient stop without a major detour into a busy town centre.

The drive from Harrisburg to Washington, D.C. typically takes about two hours without traffic. To avoid the worst congestion, plan travel outside weekday peak hours, roughly 06:30–09:30 and 15:30–18:30. The most significant bottlenecks occur on I-270 and the I-495 Beltway as you approach the D.C. area. A mid-day drive between 10:00 and 14:00 or travelling on a weekend morning usually offers the smoothest experience.

A good strategy for a Philadelphia day trip is to drive to one of the suburban SEPTA train stations and take regional rail into the city. The drive from Harrisburg via the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) is straightforward. Stations such as Paoli or Exton on the Paoli/Thorndale Line offer ample parking and frequent service into Centre City stations like Suburban Station or Jefferson Station. This approach removes the stress and cost of navigating and parking in central Philadelphia.

The difference between a weekday and a busy summer Saturday at Hersheypark is substantial. On a Saturday, expect to arrive much earlier to avoid the longest lines of cars entering the car parks, which can back up onto the main roads. The parking areas are extensive, so be prepared for a longer walk or a tram ride to the entrance. In contrast, a weekday visit, especially outside July or August, typically involves less traffic, easier parking closer to the entrance, and a generally more relaxed arrival.

City Island offers a large amount of on-site parking, which is the most convenient option for events. Access to the island is via the Market Street Bridge. To avoid delays, especially after a game or concert when everyone leaves at once, consider arriving early. When leaving, patience is key. Some visitors prefer to park in a downtown car park on the mainland and enjoy the scenic walk across the Walnut Street Bridge (a pedestrian bridge) to and from the island.

A scenic drive along the Susquehanna River is easy and accessible from Harrisburg. Heading north on Front Street, which becomes River Road (US-22/322), offers attractive views. A popular and convenient stop is the series of overlooks just north of the I-81 bridge, providing a wide panorama of the river and the Rockville Bridge. For a longer break, Fort Hunter Mansion and Park lies on this route and offers historic buildings, walking paths and pleasant riverfront access.

For a beautiful fall foliage drive that doesn’t require a full day, consider heading north of Harrisburg toward Perry County. Taking US-322 West to routes such as PA-274 or PA-74 leads through rolling hills, picturesque farmland and wooded areas that display vibrant autumn colours. Another excellent option is driving north along the Susquehanna River on Route 147 towards Sunbury. Both routes offer classic central Pennsylvania scenery and can be enjoyed in just a few hours.

During heavy rainstorms, certain areas around Harrisburg are prone to localised flooding and standing water. Low-lying sections of I-83, particularly near the Paxton Street exit, and some interchange ramps can collect water quickly. It is crucial to reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and avoid driving through large puddles where you cannot see the road surface. If a road appears flooded, do not attempt to cross it; find an alternative route instead.

A common mistake when leaving MDT is not getting into the correct lane early enough for the PA-283 interchange. The exits for Harrisburg, Lancaster and the Pennsylvania Turnpike come up quickly. To avoid this, programme your final destination into your sat-nav before you start the car. Listen to the audio prompts and look at the map preview to understand which lane you’ll need in the next mile or two, which helps prevent sudden, stressful manoeuvres.

After collecting your car, it is often sensible to make a quick stop to adjust car seats and get everyone settled. Rather than pulling over on busy airport roads, a good strategy is to drive a few minutes to a nearby shopping centre. High Pointe Commons or the areas along Highspire Road in Middletown, a short drive from the airport, offer large, safe car parks. Here you can take your time getting the kids comfortable before starting the main part of your journey.

The drive between Harrisburg and Hershey convention venues such as the Hershey Lodge is straightforward. The primary route is US-322 East, easily accessed from I-83 or downtown Harrisburg. The drive typically takes about 20–25 minutes. During major conventions, allow extra time for traffic, especially in the morning as attendees converge on the venues. The route is well signed, making it an easy commute for visitors staying in the capital.

The drive from Harrisburg to Carlisle is straightforward, primarily following I-81 South for about 20–25 minutes. However, during a major car show weekend, the final approach to the Carlisle Fairgrounds can become extremely congested. Traffic typically backs up on the I-81 exit ramp and on PA-34 (Hanover Street), the main road to the event. To minimise frustration, plan to arrive very early in the morning or consider using a less-common backroad approach if you know the area.

While most modern public car parks in downtown Harrisburg can accommodate standard SUVs and people carriers, it is sensible to be cautious if you have hired a larger vehicle such as a full-size van. Older or smaller private garages may have lower clearances. Always check the posted height-clearance signs at the entrance of any car park before entering. The main municipal car parks, such as those on Market Street or Walnut Street, are generally suitable for most rental fleet vehicles.

For travellers planning multiple day trips, staying in a hotel just outside the downtown core offers the best motorway access. Areas along I-81, or near the junction of I-83 and PA-581 on the West Shore (in Camp Hill or Mechanicsburg), are ideal. These locations allow quick access to major routes heading towards Gettysburg, Carlisle or Hershey without navigating downtown’s one-way streets and traffic lights each morning and evening, saving time and hassle.

On weekend evenings the area around Hershey’s Chocolate Avenue and entertainment venues like the Giant Center and Hersheypark Stadium can be very busy. Traffic moves slowly and finding on-street parking can be challenging. It’s often best to use the designated car parks for the attractions or the free car park for the Hershey Story Museum. Arriving a little early for your dinner reservation or show is a good strategy to allow ample time to find a spot and walk to your destination.

A day trip to Knoebels Amusement Resort from Harrisburg is very feasible and popular with families. The drive takes about 90 minutes each way, travelling through scenic rural countryside. To make the most of your day, plan to leave Harrisburg early in the morning to arrive shortly after the park opens. For the return journey, consider leaving the park slightly before closing time to get ahead of the main exodus of cars, which can cause delays on the two-lane roads away from the park.

Driving to State College on a Penn State football weekend requires significant planning. The route via US-322 West will be extremely congested, particularly on Saturday morning. The 90-minute drive can easily stretch to three hours or more. Plan to leave Harrisburg very early, well before kick-off, to allow for slow-moving traffic and time to access the game-day parking fields. The return trip after the match will also be slow, so prepare for long delays.

The Harrisburg Transportation Centre, which houses the Amtrak station, is located at 4th and Chestnut Streets in the city centre. The easiest approach is typically from I-83, taking the Second Street exit and then turning right onto Chestnut Street. For a quick drop-off, there is a designated passenger loading and unloading zone directly in front of the station’s main entrance. This allows you to pull over briefly without having to find a parking space or impede traffic flow.

To avoid backtracking between Harrisburg and Hershey hotels, plan your sightseeing geographically. For example, after arriving at MDT you could visit Hershey attractions first and check into your Hershey hotel, then explore that area. The next day, check out and drive to Harrisburg via US-322 West, see the city’s sights such as the Capitol and Riverfront Park, and then check into your Harrisburg hotel. This linear progression minimises redundant driving.

The drive from Harrisburg to Pittsburgh is primarily on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). The Turnpike has excellent service plazas spaced regularly along the route, which are ideal for family breaks. Plazas such as Sideling Hill or South Somerset offer large restrooms, multiple food options and petrol stations all in one stop. This removes the need to exit the motorway and search for services, making for a quick, safe and convenient rest stop.

In winter, bridges and overpasses are always the first surfaces to freeze, so exercise extreme caution when crossing the Susquehanna River bridges on I-83 or the Harvey Taylor Bridge. Hilly, less-travelled rural roads in the surrounding counties can also become slick quickly. It is essential to reduce speed, allow much longer stopping distances, and check the weather forecast before heading out. If conditions are poor, sticking to major motorways like I-81 and I-83 is the safest plan.

Driving on rural two-lane roads outside Harrisburg at night requires heightened awareness. These roads are often unlit, winding and can have narrow verges. The biggest hazard is wildlife, particularly deer, which are very active after dusk, so it is crucial to scan the sides of the road continuously. Drive at a moderate speed, use your main beam when there is no oncoming traffic, and be prepared for unexpected stops or sharp turns.

Whether you are coming from Harrisburg or Hershey, follow the main airport exit signs for Harrisburg International Airport (MDT). As you enter the airport road system, move into the lanes designated for "Rental Car Return." The signage is prominent and will guide you away from the departures and arrivals terminals. Following these specific signs will lead you directly to the entrance of the car park where all rental car returns are processed.

During peak travel times like Monday mornings or holiday periods, it is wise to add at least 30 extra minutes to your car return schedule. This buffer accounts for potential traffic delays on the way to the airport, a possible queue of cars at the rental return check-in area, and a longer wait for the final receipt. Building in this extra time ensures a stress-free experience and helps you get to your airline check-in desk with plenty of time to spare.

The road system at MDT is designed as an easy loop. First, follow the signs for "Departures" to drop your friends off at the upper-level kerb for their airline. After they have their luggage, simply continue following the roadway as it circles around. The signs will then direct you to "Rental Car Return" without forcing you back onto the main road. This simple, one-way loop makes it easy to go from the departures kerb to the rental return car park in just a couple of minutes.