Cleona Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cleona, Pennsylvania.
1. Cleona Community Park
RECREATION FOR ALL AGES
Cleona Community Park features a beautiful pavilion building, amphitheater, and various sports facilities including ball fields and courts. The park offers a 9-hole miniature golf course and diverse playground equipment suitable for children of all ages. Many shade trees and the Quittapahilla Creek, a popular fishing spot, make this one of the most beautiful small community parks in the area.
2. St. Paul The Apostle Church
SPIRITUAL HISTORICAL LANDMARK
St. Paul The Apostle Church stands as a spiritual and historical landmark in Cleona, providing a peaceful space for worship and reflection. The church has a longstanding presence in the community and serves as a gathering place for local residents. Its architecture and grounds offer visitors a glimpse into the religious heritage of Cleona.
3. National Night Out
COMMUNITY POLICE EVENT
National Night Out is an annual community-building event hosted by the Cleona Police Department in August at the Cleona Community Park. This family-friendly gathering aims to strengthen relationships between community members and law enforcement. Activities typically include demonstrations, games, food, and entertainment for residents of all ages.
4. Cleona Annual Fall Festival
SEASONAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Cleona Annual Fall Festival takes place every October in the Cleona Community Park, bringing together local residents for a celebration of autumn. Visitors can enjoy seasonal activities, food vendors, crafts, and entertainment throughout the day. The festival serves as one of the borough's signature events, highlighting community spirit and local traditions.
5. Memorial Lake
SCENIC NATURAL RETREAT
Memorial Lake offers visitors natural trails suited for walking, running, and biking in the area near Cleona. Families can enjoy cooking under pavilions, while the lake supports various water activities including kayaking and fishing. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the turtle platforms, duck and bat boxes, and the beautiful butterfly field surrounding the lake.
6. Lebanon Valley College
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Lebanon Valley College is a prestigious educational institution located within walking distance of Cleona, offering beautiful campus grounds and academic facilities. Founded in 1866, the college combines historic architecture with modern educational amenities across its 340-acre campus. Visitors can explore the campus, attend public events, or enjoy performances at the Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery and other venues.
7. The Gap Community Swimming Pool
PUBLIC AQUATIC CENTER
The Gap Community Swimming Pool is a public aquatic facility open to residents of the Cleona-Annville area and visitors. The pool provides a refreshing retreat during hot summer months with facilities for swimmers of all ages and abilities. It serves as a social gathering spot for local families looking to cool off and enjoy recreational swimming.
8. Soldiers Memorial
TRIBUTE TO FALLEN HEROES
The Soldiers Memorial near Cleona and Annville stands as a solemn tribute to fallen military personnel who served their country. Visitors can pay homage to these heroes while reflecting on their sacrifices and contributions to American freedom. The memorial serves as an educational landmark and reminder of the area's patriotic heritage.
9. Allen Theatre
HISTORIC MOVIE HOUSE
The Allen Theatre is a charming historic movie house in nearby Annville that shows both classic films and new releases. The venue has been lovingly preserved to maintain its vintage character while offering modern amenities and comfortable seating. Adjacent to the theater is MJ's Coffeehouse, making it a perfect destination for dinner and a movie experience close to Cleona.
10. Quittie Creek Nature Park
PEACEFUL WOODLAND TRAILS
Quittie Creek Nature Park offers visitors serene woodland trails along the Quittapahilla Creek just a short distance from Cleona. The park features a historic covered bridge, limestone outcroppings, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its 36 acres. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, photography, and seasonal wildflowers while exploring this tranquil natural setting.
11. Batdorf Restaurant
HISTORIC FINE DINING
Batdorf Restaurant occupies a beautifully restored historic building in Annville, just minutes from Cleona, offering fine dining in a charming atmosphere. The restaurant serves a diverse menu of American cuisine with creative touches, using locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Its warm ambiance and attentive service make it a popular choice for special occasions and casual dinners alike.
12. Harper's Tavern
HISTORIC COUNTRY RESTAURANT
Harper's Tavern is a historic restaurant located near Cleona that has been serving guests since 1804, making it one of the oldest continuously operating establishments in the region. The rustic tavern offers hearty American comfort food in a setting rich with local history and character. Visitors appreciate both the delicious homestyle cooking and the authentic ambiance of this rural Pennsylvania landmark.
13. Hersheypark
CHOCOLATE-THEMED AMUSEMENT PARK
Hersheypark is a world-famous chocolate-themed amusement park located just a short drive from Cleona, featuring over 70 rides and attractions including 14 roller coasters. The park offers water attractions at The Boardwalk, live entertainment, and numerous dining options serving chocolate-inspired treats. Visitors can extend their experience by exploring nearby Hershey's Chocolate World, ZooAmerica, and Hershey Gardens for a complete family vacation.
14. Cornwall Iron Furnace
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL SITE
Cornwall Iron Furnace is a remarkably preserved pre-Revolutionary War era iron furnace complex near Cleona that showcases early American industrial technology. Visitors can tour the imposing stone blast furnace, charging house, and other structures that operated continuously from 1742 until 1883. This National Historic Landmark provides fascinating insights into Pennsylvania's iron industry and the technological innovations that helped build America.
15. Mount Gretna Lake & Beach
HISTORIC SWIMMING DESTINATION
Mount Gretna Lake & Beach offers a pristine spring-fed lake with a sandy beach just a short drive from Cleona, providing a refreshing retreat during summer months. The historic swimming destination features diving boards, water slides, and floating platforms for aquatic fun, along with picnic areas and food concessions. Surrounded by towering trees and natural beauty, this family-friendly attraction has been a beloved regional destination since 1934.