Ok guys, I scoped out some things for those visiting Carlisle this month.
Directions: You can go to the web site for directions, but to simplify things, I found two main ways to try depending on the traffic flow, which should be heavy with 200,000 people there (arrive early). We need to get to Gate 3 on Spring Road (aka Carlisle-Springs Rd) to the registration cabin where they tell us where to go (perhaps literally). This is the main entrance for driving into the fairgrounds, with gate 1 being the main walk-in entrance.
1) Route 11 south into town to a right on Clay and then right on Spring Road past Gate 2 (which is unmarked) to gate 3 which is marked by overhead signs saying "Fairgrounds ->", the registration cabin is directly on your left after the turn. There's an alternate way by turning right on Cavalry Rd before getting into "downtown" Carlisle, go past gates 4-5-6-7 over the PA turnpike to the dead-end light at Springs Rd (Rt 34) making a left, then under the turnpike to gate 3, now on your left.
2) What may work a lot better is to go all the way up to Exit 57 off I-81 to Rt 114 (New Willow Mill Rd) north to a left on Rt 944 (Wertzville Rd) to a left on Spring Rd into gate 3. It's a long way around, but this would avoid all the people trying to park in the aforementioned gates 4-5-6-7 and those going through town.
3) For anyone coming from the south traveling I-81 North, you can get off at Exit 47, Hanover St (also Rt 34 at that point) and go north to Spring St which becomes Rt 34 at that point. This does take you right through town though, best of luck.
There are other possibilities listed here
www.carsatcarlisle.com/pdf/Alt_Carlisle_Directions.pdfCar washes: They have car washing at the fairgrounds, but it's crowded and they never have enough hoses. Alternates are Triangle Car Wash on S. Hanover St (717) 249-0375, Subway Car Wash on 900 W. High St (Rt 11 west end of town) (717) 249-6263, and Holly Car Wash on Trindle Rd, just east of Exit 49 off I-81 which might be the easiest to get to. Bring lots of supplies and some quick detailer, there are more bugs here than even Canada.
The Grounds: Very nice with paved roads throughout and an excellent cover of thick grass to park on. I was very impressed with the upkeep and layout. No bare or nasty areas anywhere. A fairly large semi-covered central grandstand for events, but no so big that it doesn't fill early. There's a large bathroom facility in the middle of the grounds, but for the most part it's portajohnny. The one I sampled was new and perfectly clean and fresh.
Restaurants: Slim pickin's here boys. Several cheap looking Mom and Pop diners, some bars, several chains like Eat 'n Park and Cracker Barrel. The best I know of is Sunnyside's on Route 11 near the fairgrounds, bound to be packed. However there is an abundance of expensive, greasy, show food stands with the premier spot being a Subways, so we'll be just fine. Does anyone have a small portable barbecue? Otherwise bring cold-cuts and soft-drinks.
Parking: I don't know if any latecomers can still register, the website still has a listing for registration so you can check. If you need outside parking there are lots available off Cavalry Rd at gates 5 and 6, as well as many private homes in the area. Some had driveways set up for in and out show parking(!).
Motels: Good luck. The only decent rate I found was at the Super 8 in Etters' PA off of I-83. It's ok, not great, not bad, and about 17 miles from the fairgrounds. If I go more than one day I've decided it's cheaper and easier to go back and forth from home. Most of us are fairly local or going only for Saturday, if Jim, Amanda, or any others still have plans I would book rooms today.
All Others: It's not too late, come on aboard. Take a lark for a weekend and visit lovely central Pennsylvania. We would love to see you all!
www.carsatcarlisle.com/schedule/gm/index.aspPA Turnpike Roadway and Weather Conditions - (800) 331-3414. Press 2 and follow the prompt
PA State Roadway Conditions - (888) 783-6783
