Touring Franklin & Marshall this winter? Whether it’s your first time on campus or you’re back for a return trip, make the most of your visit and browse the list below for ideas to fill a one-day voyage to Lancaster (or longer). 

Before you go: Please note that campus tours are by appointment only. They are currently offered Monday through Friday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m, and select Saturdays. Note: There is no 11 a.m. tour on Thursday. On-campus info sessions are held Mondays and Fridays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Register for tours and info sessions here.

For virtual tours and info sessions, see our current virtual offerings. 

1. Find a Cozy Cafe

Downtown Lancaster is home to dozens of coffee shops and unique cafes. 

• See the most cozy spots on campus.
• Browse the full coffee shop and cafe list to find your new favorite java spot. Our very own Diplomatic Cafe (pictured above) is a great place to start. 
• The county is also home to many farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants. Students and their families love venturing to Central Market, the oldest continuously operated farmers market in the country. For the best farm-to-table cuisine, check out this local list. 

2. Cheer on the Dips

Catch the Diplomats in action. In-season winter varsity sports include basketball, squash, swimming, track and field and wrestling. F&M is home to 28 varsity sports teams and eight club sports teams.

3. Catch a Concert or Show

Warm up indoors with local theater and music – in the city or beyond. For a full list of performance venues, see upcoming shows in Lancaster. 

• The Fulton Theatre, a national landmark, is the nation's oldest continuously operating theater.
• Allegro Orchestra Lancaster, directed by F&M Conductor of Instrumental Ensembles Brian Norcross, makes music accessible to the Lancaster community in modern and playful ways. 
• Prima Theatre bridges contemporary music with musical theater. 
• Enjoy a beverage and bite to eat with live music at one of Lancaster’s many nightlife venues. 

 

4. Explore Lancaster on Foot or by Car

• Get to know Lancaster with a driving or walking mural tour. Or, take a stroll down historic Lancaster Gallery Row to meet established and emerging artists and a bite to eat.
• The Safe Harbor railroad trestle offers a sweeping view of the Susquehanna River – a particularly awe-inspiring view when the river is coated in ice.
• The annual snow geese migration at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area attracts flocks of tourists between mid-February and mid-March. Stop by the visitors center for maps and viewing advice from the staff.

 

5. Catch an Event on Campus

The semester is back in full swing on Jan. 16 – find the full schedule of campus events here. 

• Visit the Phillips Museum of Art (exhibits open Jan. 23). 
• Catch a Common Hour lecture (this weekly event features renowned speakers discussing social and political issues). 
• Attend the Emerging Writers Festival (April 3-5) for author craft talks, book signings and open mic nights.
• Watch a student-produced musical or music ensemble performance.