Places to visit in Johnstown, PA.
If you’re lucky enough to have visited the area before, you understand why so many people fall in love with Johnstown. This small city is rich with history, culture, and—of course—beauty. So, if you’re looking for some getting-to-know-you activities the next time you visit, we’ve compiled a list of things to do in Johnstown, PA. We hope they will enrich your experience of this beautiful city.
Johnstown Flood Museum
The Johnstown Flood Museum is housed in the former Cambria Public Library in downtown Johnstown, Pennsylvania. It was converted into the Johnstown Flood Museum in 1973. It is now the center of efforts by the city of Johnstown to preserve and promote its historical legacy. The museum includes a movie theater, a collection of artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the disaster.
The museum’s main exhibit is a sixty-foot-long dimensional relief map that gives visitors a detailed look at the 14-mile path of the flood. An animated light map also shows the towns along the way and the obstacles that temporarily slowed the water.
The museum also features an award-winning film. The movie tells the story of the flood using original special effects.
The Johnstown Inclined Plane
Located in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, the Johnstown Inclined Plane has become a significant tourist attraction in the city. This historic piece of Pennsylvania infrastructure is a funicular that carries over 100,000 passengers each year.
The Johnstown Inclined Plane has been operating since 1891. It connects the downtown area with the higher grounds of the city. This makes it ideal for people in the downtown area and those traveling to the town.
The Johnstown Inclined plan is owned and operated by the Cambria County Transit Authority, or CamTran. This organization is currently working with the state to transform the hillside surrounding the incline. The incline has been used for 40 million rides since its inception.
The Cambria Iron Works began work on the incline in 1890. In the years to follow, the pitch became a significant tourist attraction.
Heritage Discovery Center
The Frank and Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center is a five-story museum showcasing the area’s history in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. This museum offers interactive exhibits covering various history areas, including immigration and the steel industry. The museum is a must-see when you’re in the area.
The center is run by the Johnstown Area Heritage Association (JAHA), a membership-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the historical and cultural heritage of the Greater Johnstown area. In addition to protecting the area’s history, the JAHA provides high-quality educational experiences, cultural experiences, and recreational experiences in unique historic settings. The JAHA also operates a historical collection and serves as a clearinghouse for community revitalization efforts.
The center offers permanent and temporary exhibits. In addition, the museum features an Iron and Steel Gallery focusing on the area’s steel industry. The center also features a cafe and social club.
Greenhouse Park
Located on the Stonycreek River, Greenhouse Park is an outdoor paradise. With pavilions for rent, a walking track, a volleyball court, and a plethora of activities, this is one of the top party venues in the region. The park has received an average rating of 4.6 stars from 274 reviews.
There is a reason why Greenhouse Park is considered a must-visit in the borough of Johnstown. Among the 20 most prominent parks in the borough, the 3.4-acre park boasts ample green space for family fun. Its best features include a pavilion, a fire pit, and a walking track. Among the park’s many attractions is the Stonycreek River, which offers a wide variety of aquatic sports.
Stonycreek Park’s tame water is ideal for beginners, while more experienced boaters will appreciate the opportunity to try their hand at hydraulics and tubing.
Staple Bend Tunnel Park
In Mineral Point, Pennsylvania, Staple Bend Tunnel was the first railroad tunnel built in the United States. It is 901 feet long and is located on the level between Inclines 1 and 2. The National Park Service operates this trail.
The Staple Bend Tunnel and Trail is an excellent hike for families. It takes about an hour to complete the walk. Visitors can expect to see a variety of plant species along the way. The trail also has information signs and is surrounded by beautiful trees.
The Staple Bend Tunnel is part of the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site. Visitors can learn about the railroad, the tunnel’s construction, and the area’s history.
The trail starts on a paved path to the left of the restrooms. After a few hundred feet, the trail turns into a gravel path. The way continues for two miles. Beautiful trees and shrubbery surround the trail.
Best Things to Do in Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Places to visit in Johnstown, PA:
- Johnstown Flood Museum
- The Johnstown Inclined Plane
- Heritage Discovery Center
- Greenhouse Park
- Staple Bend Tunnel Park