WACA
Wildcat Academy of the Creative Arts
WACA
Wildcat Academy of the Creative Arts
At Wildcat Academy of the Creative Arts, our mission is to make exceptional arts education available to people of all ages. Offering a dynamic and inclusive environment where creativity flourishes, we empower individuals to explore their full creative potential in the visual, literary and performing arts.
OUR MISSION
CREATIVITY
Encouraging artistic expression in all forms.
INCLUSIVITY
Welcoming people from all walks of life to participate in our events and programs.
PRESERVATION
Honoring the history and beauty of the mansion, while adapting it for modern use.
COMMUNITY
Building connections through shared experiences and storytelling.
SUSTAINABILITY
Maintaining the property with respect for the environment and future generations.
HISTORY OF WILDCAT MANSION
Wildcat was brought to life by Disney screenwriter and UCLA Writers Studio teacher Jon Bernstein who found this one-of-a-kind property and took 4 years of renovations and remodeling to turn it into a dynamic arts and entertainment complex with lodging.
Passionate about the arts and historic preservation, Jon purchased the property in 2021 with a dream of creating a destination retreat venue for artists, storytellers and adventurers. His journey began as a labor of love—restoring the mansion to its former glory while weaving in modern amenities to host a variety of unique events, including weddings, festivals and immersive theater productions.
His mission was clear from the start: to create an exuberant space where art and creativity flourishes, history is honored, connections are forged and memories are made.
Jon has recently formed a nonprofit arm of Wildcat called the Wildcat Academy of the Creative Arts (WACA), solidifying his commitment to offer outstanding arts education to everyone and continuing to shape the Wildcat legacy.
THE PROPERTY
Wildcat Mansion is nestled on 24 private acres of lush woodlands, offering guests an exclusive retreat from the bustle of everyday life. Located in northwest Pennsylvania, known for its scenic beauty and rich history, the property is an ideal destination for those seeking both tranquility and adventure.
THE MANSION
A lovingly restored mansion with a Ballroom, Saloon, Game Parlor, Tea Room, Veranda, Commercial Kitchen and 14 bedrooms.
THE GLEN SPEAKEASY
A clandestine speakeasy hidden inside the mansion.
CARRIAGE HOUSE SHOPPES
A boutique offering unique gifts, antiques, and home decor.
SECRET CHAMBER LOUNGE
A secret chamber that requires ingenuity to find.
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THE CARRIAGE HOUSE
The Carriage House is next to the Mansion and features shops, teaching kitchen, Sim Room, Secret Chamber Lounge, and screening room.
OUTDOOR
SPACES
Hiking trails, springs and waterfalls, with the Allegheny River and Samuel Justus bike path across the street.
THE SIM ROOM
A full motion sim racing experience.
THE CINEMA
A 20-seat screening room located in the Carriage House.
Nearby attractions include charming downtown Franklin, with a variety of restaurants, pubs and shops. For nature lovers, the surrounding area offers hiking trails, waterfalls, cycling, kayaking and scenic drives through rolling hills to nearby Freedom Falls and Indian God Rock.
