A special place to live or visit...
A moment in time, for all time...
A hidden treasure...
A magical place of splendid serenity...

These are just some of the phrases used to describe the community of Mount Gretna. Here are a few more.

A Chautauqua Community

Originally founded in the 1890's, Mt. Gretna was established as a Chautauqua community. The stated mission was to provide for… "The advancement of literary attainment and the promotion of popular culture." For well over 100 years, the community of volunteers has continued to fulfill this mission. Today you will find ...

• Art Gallery: showings and offerings from local artists
  
• Bible Festival: inspirational lectures, services, musical performances
  
• Community Library: books, group discussions & presentations, arts & crafts
  
• MG Duplicate Bridge Club: biweekly events
  
• Men's Club/Tennis: Tournaments and lessons
  
• Heights Enrichment Activities: Arts, Tai Chi and Yoga Playhouse, an open sided theater offering diverse productions
  
• MG Playhouse: live summer equity productions & theater classes
  
• Gretna Music: live world class jazz and classical music productions
  
• Winterites: programs on health, cooking, fitness, gardening, nutrition, government affairs travel and hobbies.
  
• PA Chautauqua summer programs: art and craft classes, nature and scientific presentations, book reviews and discussions, meet the author sessions, philosophy and social science presentations, old time movies and live musical presentations, home organ recitals and multi denominational worship services.
  
• Socrates Cafe: a facilitator led discussion on the great questions of the day
  
• Timbers Dinner Theater: live musical productions with buffet dining.

A Historical Community

The Mount Gretna Area Historical Society was formed to preserve and provide educational facilities and programs. The area has a rich history that includes ...

• Residential homes that date back to the early 1900's
  
• Buildings still in use that were part of the original Chautauqua settlement: the Hall of Philosophy, now the Community Hall and the Hall of Science, now an antiques and gift shop
  
• A Museum that displays various rotating displays of historic artifacts. This includes the original calliope that is still played on special occasions. The museum itself is one of the oldest cottages in Mt. Gretna.
  
• An extensive military history dating back to when Mount Gretna was the original home of the - now headquartered at Fort Indian Town Gap.