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Messiah University
Messiah University

Whether small-town is your thing or you crave big-city life, Messiah University is an ideal backdrop to experience it all!

Situated on 375 beautiful acres in south-central Pennsylvania, Messiah University is located minutes from the state capital city of Harrisburg. Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or can stay a little longer—choose from vibrant locales ranging from the quaint, quirky, historic or urban—where you can dine, shop, play, explore and create your own adventure. And we are only a day-trip away from the exciting offerings of metropolitan centers like Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and New York City. So whether small-town is your thing or you crave big-city life, Messiah University is an ideal backdrop to experience it all!

No need to leave campus. There's lots to do.

At Messiah, we’re all about community. It’s kind of our thing. You’ll find lots of ways and places to enjoy the friendships you create. Grab a quick bite to eat with friends in Lottie, the Falcon or the Union Café. On a beautiful day, linger beside (or go tubing or kayaking in!) the Yellow Breeches Creek that flows through our campus. Compete in one of Messiah’s club or rec sports leagues. Take a Pilates class in the Falcon Fitness Center. Check out a thought-provoking art exhibit, lecture or concert. Enjoy a pick-up game of spikeball on the campus green. On weekends, take in a free movie in Parmer Cinema. You’ll quickly realize Messiah’s campus is full of activity and that there’s always something to do!

 

A women’s soccer match in a packed stadium, with a player wearing jersey number 10 standing on the field facing a lively crowd. Teammates and spectators line the sidelines, many in white shirts, while the stands behind them are filled with bundled-up fans. A large banner above the bleachers celebrates past national championships. The whole scene buzzes with energy—like everyone collectively decided, “Yes, today is the perfect day to yell enthusiastically at a ball.”

Sporting events

Get ready to cheer loud and lose your voice—Messiah’s sporting events are where school spirit goes pro!

Three smiling young women sit around a café table, leaning in like they’re starring in a commercial for friendship. They have bowls of food, fruit cups, water bottles, and phones scattered across the table—classic “we totally meant to study but got distracted by snacks” energy. Bright natural light comes through a window behind them, giving the whole scene cheerful “campus hangout vibes.”

Campus Dining

Hang with and grab a bite to eat in Lottie Nelson Dining Hall, the Union Cafe, or The Falcon, and Cafe Diem (yum!).

Two smiling students crouch on a sidewalk petting a large black dog who looks very pleased with its newfound fan club. One student holds the leash while the other gives the dog a gentle shoulder pat—basically the canine equivalent of a VIP meet-and-greet. Trees and campus buildings blur softly in the background, making the trio look like the cover photo for “Reasons College Is Better With Dogs.”

Dogs!

Cuddle with our sweet campus pups from Academic Accessibility and the Engle Center!

A young musician sits onstage with an acoustic guitar resting across her lap, leaning toward a microphone as purple stage lights make everything look extra magical. A drum set glints behind her like it’s waiting for its big moment. She appears calm and ready to play—kind of like she’s about to drop the most soothing banger in acoustic history.

Coffeehouse and live music

Sip, sway, and sing along—Messiah’s coffeehouse nights brew the perfect blend of caffeine and creativity.

A lively group of students dances and laughs together outdoors, packed closely like they all simultaneously heard their favorite song. One person holds a large speaker over their shoulder—full “human boombox” mode—while others gesture, smile, and groove. Sunlight reflects off nearby windows, adding a festive glow to the already high-energy scene, as if the whole crowd collectively decided, “Yep, this is now a music video.”

Dances and activities

From glow dances to game nights, Messiah’s campus events keep the fun moving and the memories grooving!

Two students lounge in wooden chairs around an outdoor fire pit, chatting and smiling like they’ve just discovered the secret to eternal relaxation. Soft yellow flames flicker in the foreground, giving the scene major “cozy brochure moment” vibes. A glass-front campus building glows behind them, completing the aesthetic of “homework? never heard of her.”

Firepit at the student union

Where stories spark and friendships glow—gather ‘round the Union firepit for warmth, laughter, and late-night chats.

A group of students sits at a long table packed with gaming PCs, headsets, and keyboards, fully locked in like they’re competing for the title of “Most Intense Clicking.” Several large screens on the wall display a colorful multiplayer game, and everyone looks focused—except the one guy who seems to be mid–tech troubleshooting, the eternal hero of every gaming session. The room has strong “esports command center” energy, complete with the unspoken agreement that snacks are absolutely allowed.

Esports game night

Grab your controller and your crew—Esports Game Night is where friendly competition meets full-on bragging rights!

A group of students floats on a calm river in inflatable tubes, soaking up the sun like professional relaxation athletes. One person lounges in a tiny raft shaped like a couch, while others drift nearby in colorful inner tubes. Sunlight sparkles on the water, giving the whole scene peak “summer break energy,” as if their biggest responsibility today is not spilling their snacks.

Hammocking and tubing

Kick back in a hammock or float down the creek—Messiah’s version of relaxation is basically a postcard come to life.

Get in, we’re taking a road trip!

 If leaving campus is your thing or you’re wanting to explore, Messiah’s location makes road trips easy—from quick getaways to nearby towns and attractions to scenic spots perfect for hiking, history and a change of pace.

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I came for the academics… I stayed because the Union smoothies became my emotional support beverage.

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Chapel at 9 a.m. taught me two things: God is faithful, and so is my alarm clock—eventually.

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I joined a campus intramural team for fun. Now I’m 90% sure we’re accidentally training for the Olympics.

Messiah Student Picks

15 places to visit in 20 miles

No worries about how to get around. Students (including first-year students) can have a car on campus.

A cozy café-style room with wooden floors, a round table with dark chairs, and a seating area of cushy brown armchairs arranged for maximum “let’s pretend we’re productive” comfort. A large chalkboard wall features a handwritten Bible verse surrounded by leafy doodles, giving the space major artsy-coffeehouse vibes. In the background, a small counter area and menu board peek through a doorway, while part of someone’s shoulder enters the frame like they’re making a dramatic cameo.

Cracked Pot Coffee Shop

Cracked Pot Coffee Shop gives students a cozy spot to study or unwind, with handcrafted drinks that make any morning—or late-night paper session—feel a little more inviting.

A bright, tidy café-style dining area with several empty tables and chairs arranged neatly across a tiled floor. Small vases with red flowers sit on the tables, adding a touch of “we tried to be fancy” charm. Large windows let in lots of natural light, showing an outdoor patio with red umbrellas.

Chick-fil-a

Chick-fil-A is a quick, comforting stop for students, offering familiar favorites that make refueling between classes easy—and just tempting enough to turn “a quick bite” into a mini outing with friends.

A weathered trail marker painted on a chunky, upright rock sits at the edge of a pine forest, surrounded by reddish fallen needles and scattered stones. Tall trees stretch into the misty distance, creating a peaceful woodland vibe—like the rock is proudly saying, “Yes, I am the official tour guide of this forest. Please admire my paint stripes.”

Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail gives students a refreshing escape into nature, offering scenic hikes that make it easy to recharge, explore, and enjoy a dose of adventure just minutes from campus.

Workers in a bright, modern cookie shop prepare baked goods behind a glass counter while one employee stands at the register beside a tray of perfectly arranged cookies—each one looking like it’s auditioning to be “cookie of the month.” The walls feature cute cookie-face decorations, large mixers hum in the background, and the kitchen bustles with staff assembling ingredients like a highly coordinated dessert-making orchestra.

Crumbl Cookies

Crumbl Cookies gives students a fun, flavorful break from campus life, offering warm weekly treats that make any study session—or celebration—feel a little sweeter.

The front entrance of Capital City Mall, featuring a wide staircase leading up to large glass doors beneath blue awnings. A few people walk up the steps, and tall flagpoles frame the scene against a clear blue sky. The building’s curved facade and big block letters give it strong “come inside and maybe buy things you don’t need” energy.

Capital City Mall

Capital City Mall offers students an easy getaway for food, shopping, and just-for-fun hangouts—from grabbing a quick bite at Taco Bell or Cinnabon to competing at Dave & Buster’s or treating themselves at Bruster’s.

The exterior of a Trader Joe’s store with large red lettering and a red awning, set against a partly cloudy sky. A few shoppers walk out with grocery bags while rows of bright red shopping carts wait by the entrance, all giving off the classic “come for one thing, leave with twelve snacks you didn’t plan on” atmosphere.

Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s is a go-to stop for students looking to stock up on affordable favorites, discover new snacks, and make grocery runs feel a little more like an adventure than a chore.

A charming, pastel-colored café decked out with chandeliers, floral garlands, and all the cozy décor a Pinterest board could dream of. Behind the counter, a staff member works at a register surrounded by trays of pastries, tiny French flags, and handwritten signs on the mirror. Shelves display teacups, décor, and Eiffel Tower art, giving the whole place strong “welcome to Paris, but make it extremely adorable” vibes.

Downtown Camp Hill

Downtown Camp Hill gives students a charming place to unwind—whether it’s a cozy pick-me-up from Cornerstone Coffee, a delicious stop at Chef de Crêpe, browsing local boutique shops or grabbing a bite at one of the area’s great restaurants.

A wide aerial view of a riverside baseball stadium during a game, with the field glowing under stadium lights as players look tiny enough to be action figures. Beyond the outfield, a calm river stretches across the scene, with bridges connecting to a downtown skyline full of tall buildings basking in golden-hour light. The whole landscape gives off strong “postcard you’d buy because the city looks extra photogenic today” energy.

City Island

City Island gives students a fun riverside escape—whether they’re playing a round of mini golf or cheering on the Senators like it’s a major-league moment. It’s an easy way to unwind, hang out, and enjoy a little hometown excitement.

An aerial view of a grand government complex with a massive domed capitol building at the center, flanked by matching wings and surrounded by meticulously arranged gardens and walkways that look like they were designed with a protractor. A bright pink fountain sits in front like it’s trying to be the star of the show. Beyond the complex, the city stretches toward a wide river and a long bridge, giving the whole scene strong “dramatic establishing shot in a political drama” energy.

Downtown Harrisburg

Harrisburg offers students a lively mix of arts, food, and city charm—from exploring Millworks and the Susquehanna Art Museum to strolling the river walk or getting lost (in the best way) at Midtown Scholar Bookstore. It’s an easy spot for culture, coffee, and a change of scenery.

A ski lift carries riders above a snowy slope lined with bare winter trees, all under a bright blue sky so clear it feels like nature’s screensaver.

Roundtop Mountain Resort

Roundtop Mountain Resort gives students a chance to dive into winter fun with skiing and snowboarding—or switch gears and take on paintball when the snow melts. It’s a great way to get outdoors, try something new, and enjoy a little adventure just down the road.

An indoor market viewed from an upper level, showing multiple vendor stalls arranged in rows beneath exposed metal beams and industrial lighting. Produce stands display a variety of fruits and vegetables, while other booths offer prepared foods and goods. Several shoppers and vendors are visible throughout the space. An American flag hangs from the upper level, and signage for different stalls, including “Smucker’s Produce,” is prominently displayed.

West Shore Farmers Market

West Shore Farmers Market invites students to wander through fresh local foods, homemade treats, and Amish specialties—all perfect for a relaxed morning outing or grabbing something delicious before heading back to campus.

A street-side view of a small storefront at dusk, featuring a lit hanging sign that reads “Urban Churn Craft Creamery.” The building has light-colored siding with dark trim, and a bright “open” sign glows in the front window. Nearby buildings, streetlights, and pedestrians are visible along the sidewalk, with tree branches partially framing the scene.

Urban Churn craft creamery

Urban Churn craft creamery gives students a sweet reason to head off campus, serving up inventive ice cream flavors crafted by a proud Messiah alum—making every scoop feel like supporting family (the really tasty kind).

A close-up of a shaggy, golden-haired Highland cow standing on grassy ground, with trees and a blue sky in the background.

Local Orchards and Farms

Local orchards and farms like Mt. Airy, Paulus Farm Market, and Oak Grove Farms give students a taste of small-town charm—with fresh produce, homemade treats and beloved fall festivals that make autumn in the region feel especially memorable.

A young person drives a red and black go-kart around a curved track bordered by tires and metal rails. They are seated upright, holding the steering wheel with both hands, and wearing a safety belt. A traffic light in the background shows a green signal, and the track surface and barriers are clearly visible in bright daylight.

Carlisle Sports Emporium

Carlisle Sports Emporium gives students a high-energy break from homework, with go-karts, arcade games, and laser tag offering plenty of friendly competition. It’s an easy spot to laugh, let loose, and enjoy a night of pure fun.

Entrance plaza of Hersheypark on a sunny day, with crowds of visitors walking toward the gates. A large “HERSHEYPARK” sign sits above the entrance lanes, and a roller coaster with a train of riders loops behind it. In the foreground, a sign reading “Hershey’s Chocolatetown—Where Fun Meets Chocolate” stands among landscaped plants and pathways.

Hersheypark

From roller coasters and seasonal attractions at Hersheypark to concerts, shows and Hershey Bears hockey at the GIANT Center, students are just a short drive from some of the region’s best entertainment.

Fun in all four seasons

Whichever seasons are your favorite, you’ll get to live them all at Messiah! Can’t figure out the best time to visit? No worries, our campus is stunning year-round. Visit more than once, if you can!

 

Two young men play cornhole on a grassy lawn. One stands in front, mid-throw, with his arm extended as a blue beanbag flies toward the wooden board in front of him. The second stands slightly behind him holding a phone and watching the throw. Tall trees and greenery fill the background.
Four college students stand outdoors on a campus walkway lined with autumn trees, laughing and talking together. One wears a sweatshirt with “Messiah University” on the front, and the ground around them is covered in fallen leaves.
A large crowd of spectators lines the edge of a lit sports field at night while players stand on the grass. Above them, a bright burst of red and white fireworks illuminates the dark sky.
A group of people play an outdoor game of ultimate frisbee on a wide grassy field. One player throws the disc while others run or prepare to catch it, with dense green trees and a colorful, dramatic sky in the background.
Two people stand outdoors in the snow, smiling and mid-throw during a playful snowball fight. Both wear winter coats, gloves, and hats or scarves, with snow covering their clothing and the ground around them.
A small group of students stands chatting on a sunny campus lawn. One person holding two drinks smiles while talking, and others around her sip beverages or listen. A brick academic building and trees are visible in the background.
A group of people paddle brightly colored kayaks—orange, yellow, and blue—down a shallow, fast-moving river. They wear life jackets and hold yellow paddles as they navigate the water, with dense green trees lining both sides of the river.
Four people in winter coats and hats stand in the snow posing beside a snowman with stick arms, a gray knit hat, pebble eyes, and a carrot nose. A snowy field with other people playing in the background stretches behind them.
Four people play Spikeball on a sunny grassy lawn, focused on a small yellow ball in midair above the round net. Campus buildings, trees, and a few people sitting on benches are visible in the background.
Three people stand talking and laughing along a sidewalk lined with blooming cherry trees and yellow flowers on a campus. Two other people walk past in the background, with brick buildings partially visible behind the trees.
Four people sit talking on an outdoor set of concrete steps covered with fallen autumn leaves. Above them, tree branches with orange and yellow foliage frame the scene. A modern glass-front campus building stands in the background.