Recreation resources
Local community members enjoy numerous benefits related to having Messiah University in their region, including access to fitness facilities like the University’s outdoor track, tennis courts and the two-mile scenic Stabler Fitness Trail. In addition, the University’s location along the Yellow Breeches Creek provides an ideal spot for wading, picnicking and tubing (note: seasonal usage and access to the Yellow Breeches varies based on the University’s summer conference schedule.).
Athletic Events
Intercollegiate athletics at Messiah set standards for excellence in NCAA Division III athletics. Characterized by outstanding facilities and competitive scheduling, the Falcons have emerged as a highly respected entity among peer institutions. In addition, teams excel at the national level, with Messiah’s teams and athletes earning 28 national NCAA Division III national championships. The majority of Messiah athletic events are free and open to the public.
Activities for Children and Youth
Messiah’s annual calendar is packed with opportunities for children of all ages in central Pennsylvania to connect with Messiah University. Students with a particular athletic strength can hone their skills at one of many summer athletic camps led by the University’s championship coaches and players. The University offers a wide variety of academic summer camps to strengthen students’ specific academic areas of interest. In addition, students with curiosities related to the sciences can participate in Curator Club, a program run by the on-campus Oakes Museum, a 10,000-square foot museum home to a collection of Smithsonian-quality African and North American mammals, bird eggs, fish, seashells, minerals, insects and fossils. The museum also provides learning opportunities for regional homeschool programs, scout programs and school field trips.