You won't find another community in Pennsylvania quite like Mount Gretna: It is as charming as it is unique. From B.F. Hiestand House, Mount Gretna is a 30-minute drive north into neighboring Lebanon County. There, nestled in the woods by Conewago Lake, you'll find this quaint borough that comes alive in the summertime with theatre, music, festivals, outdoor recreation, shops and eateries.
Mount Gretna was founded in the 1890s as part of the Chautauqua movement to promote the arts, academics, religion and culture. It's based on the philosophy that summers should be spent focusing on self-improvement through reflection, learning and recreation. Now, 125 years later, the Pennsylvania Chautauqua draws thousands of visitors to its quiet retreat every summer for lectures, workshops and special events.
The Chautauqua centerpiece is its open-air auditorium, built in 1892 and now known as Mount Gretna Playhouse. Not only are present-day Chautauqua programs held here, but it is also home to Gretna Theatre and Gretna Music. Gretna Theatre, one of America's oldest summer theatres, has been producing shows since 1927. Each summer, it brings Broadway-caliber shows to audiences young and old. Gretna Music features a performance lineup of critically acclaimed classical and jazz artists from around the globe. There's even more music to be had August 8-15 at the Mount Gretna Cicada Music Festival, with tribute shows to popular musicians from the 1960s through the 1980s.
Summer is jam-packed with outdoor activity in Mount Gretna. There’s hiking and biking on the 18-mile Lebanon Valley Rail Trail, or swimming and picnicking at Mount Gretna Lake and Beach. Be sure to climb the Governor Dick Tower in Clarence Schock Memorial Park, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. This forested park is also home to 16 miles of trails and an environmental center.
Mount Gretna itself is all about the tree-lined streets and colorful historic cottages with enormous wrap-around porches. From May through September, it's bustling with visitors who come to be surrounded by the art, music, nature and sense of community. A visit to Mount Gretna wouldn't be complete without a stop at the famous Jigger Shop. This iconic ice cream parlor has been serving up cones and sundaes for 100 years. Other favorites for a bite to eat include the Mount Gretna Hide-A-Way Cafe and Porch and Pantry Cafe.
The Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show is one of the largest events of the year, featuring the unique creations of artists from around country including painters, potters, sculptors, metal and wood workers, photographers, jewelry makers, and more. The art show, now in its 48th year, is set for August 20-21 in the heart of downtown. Frequently ranked as one of the best art shows in the country, the Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show is an incredible opportunity to support masters in their craft by purchasing one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted items and bring home a memento of your Central Pennsylvania getaway.
