Recreation

Visitors are drawn to Franklin’s unique combination of cultural and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Barrow-Civic Theatre, originally built as a vaudeville house in 1913, underwent a $2 million restoration. It now features 497 seats, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and a special stage floor – all of which give it the flexibility to stage plays to rock concerts.

DeBence Antique Music World was recognized as one of the Top Ten Travel Destinations in Pennsylvania, and received the Travel Industry Award of Excellence. Guided tours are provided through this extraordinary collection of more than 100 antique automated music machines from the Gay Nineties and Roaring Twenties.

In many communities, band concerts in the park are a thing of the past, but the tradition has continued for over 140 years in Franklin. Founded in 1856, the Franklin Silver Cornet Band is one of America’s oldest volunteer community bands.

Biking, running, rollerblading, cross-country skiing or just a leisurely walk can be enjoyed on the scenic trail that stretches for 27 miles along the Allegheny River.

Two Mile Run County Park (the largest county park in western Pennsylvania) has facilities for camping, picnicking, swimming, fishing, snowmobiling, boating, hiking and miniature golfing.

Applefest®, the region’s largest festival, is an annual three-day festival that begins on the first Friday in October. It features entertainment for all ages, a 5K race, an Antique and Classic Car Show that draws more than 500 participants, and over 350 food and craft vendors. There’s plenty to do and see and lots to eat – especially apple pies, dumplings, strudel and Franklin’s own Apple Dapple Cake.