Appell Center for the Performing Arts in York The Appell Center unites two theaters with deep local roots: the Capitol Theatre, a former dance hall dating back to 1906, and the Italian Renaissance-style Strand Theatre, opened in 1925. These spaces played a central role in York’s early film era and a major restoration brought both back to life in 1980. Today, they host music acts, regional theater, and movie screenings — best enjoyed alongside an evening exploring downtown York’s galleries and restaurants. Appell Center for the Performing Arts, York Mr. Smalls Theatre in Millvale Originally a Catholic church, Mr. Smalls Theatre was transformed into one of western Pennsylvania’s most distinctive performance venues. Tall arched windows, balcony seating, and exposed wood beams remain, but they now frame indie shows, comedy nights, and acts like Jack White, Yo La Tengo, and Snoop Dogg. Beyond the main stage, visitors can hang out in the cafe, stop by the recording studio, or catch smaller sets in the Funhouse. Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts Set on the edge of Fairmount Park with skyline views stretching beyond the stage, Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts hosts a packed summer lineup of national tours, symphonies, and city festivals. The pavilion has tiered seating and booming acoustics, and the lush hillside lawn draws crowds who arrive early with blankets to order drinks and chat before the show starts. On a warm night, it’s one of the best places in the city to hear live music outdoors and watch the sunset with the city skyline in view. Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts, Philadelphia Where Music Meets the Mountains These festivals pair standout music with striking natural settings. Endless Mountain Music Festival This fest in the Wellsboro region features everything from chamber ensembles to symphonic performances. They unfold in cozy community spaces surrounded by forested hills, spring-fed streams, and quiet lakes. Laurel Hill Bluegrass Festival This free, family-friendly event takes place each August in Somerset’s Laurel Hill State Park, with live bluegrass on an outdoor stage framed by tall trees. Alongside the music, check out heritage demonstrations and regional food and craft vendors. Big Dub Festival Tucked into a remote valley in the Appalachian Mountains, Big Dub is a multi-day electronic music festival where performances often go all night long. The wooded grounds in Artemas feature four themed stages connected by trails and art installations. Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival HAYMAN CREATIVE STUDIO; MICHAEL OSWALD Set just outside the historic Civil War battlefield, this music fest draws some of the country’s most respected bluegrass performers for spring and summer editions each year. See it all on two stages with panoramic views of rolling farmland. 114 visitpa.com
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Travel Guide 2026: Page 114
