Looking for a college town with small-town warmth and rich local history? Head to Indiana, PA! Known as the “Christmas Tree Capital of the World” and the hometown of Jimmy Stewart, Indiana blends outdoor adventure, historic charm, and artsy energy thanks to Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Whether you’re into film, forest hikes, or local food, Indiana makes a great year-round getaway.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Indiana is from spring through fall (April to October). If you enjoy festivals, college-town energy, and scenic trails, late spring and early fall are especially ideal. Winters can be cold, but December has a special charm thanks to the town’s holiday events and lights.
How to Get There
- By Car: Indiana is located off U.S. Route 422 and PA Route 286, about 1 hour from Pittsburgh and 2.5 hours from Erie or Harrisburg.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), approximately 1.5 hours away by car. Rental cars are available at the terminal.
- By Bus: Fullington Trailways and other regional carriers offer service to and from Pittsburgh and nearby towns. Indiana’s downtown is walkable once you’re there.
Where to Stay
- Hilton Garden Inn Indiana at IUP – Located on the university campus, this modern hotel is perfect if you're visiting students or attending events at IUP.
- Hampton Inn Indiana – A comfortable and reliable choice with free breakfast, a pool, and close proximity to shopping and restaurants.
- Bed & Breakfasts & Short-Term Rentals – For a more local experience, consider charming guesthouses near downtown or tucked into the hills surrounding town.
Top Attractions
⮕ Visit the Jimmy Stewart Museum
The Jimmy Stewart Museum is located in the local public library. The museum showcases famous actor’s accomplishments in film, TV and radio. Numerous displays show him not only as an actor but as war hero, bomber pilot, civic leader and family man.
There is a special room that tells the story of his family’s colorful history in Western Pennsylvania.
The displays include daguerreotype of his great grand-dad in Civil War uniform, rare baby photos of Jimmy, and his dad’s desk from the family’s hardware store. The museum describes the actor’s accomplishments as an actor and his roles in many movies including the 1946 classic It’s a Wonderful Life. The statue is located on the courthouse lawn. The museum occasionally offers film presentations and gallery talks.
835 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA 15701, Phone: 724-349-6112, Map
⮕ Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana University of Pennsylvania is a public research university in Indiana, Pennsylvania, about 55 miles northeast of Pittsburgh.
The university has branch campuses at Punxsutawney, Northpointe, and Monroeville, Pennsylvania. The university main campus covers 374 acres, with a mix of 62 old and new red brick buildings.
Its first, original John Sutton Hall building is an elegant Victorian structure that once housed the entire school.
Sutton Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It occupies the heart of campus and today houses many administrative offices and reception areas. The Victorian mansion that hosts Breezedale Alumni Center was once home to a Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The campus also includes a planetarium, University Museum, Hadley Union Building, black box theater, music library, a Cogswell Hall and Stapleton Library with over 900,000 bound volumes and over two million microform units
1011 South Drive, Indiana, PA 15705, Phone: 724-357-2100, Map
⮕ Hike in Blue Spruce Park
Blue Spruce Park is a verdant 650-acre public park located about six miles from Indiana, Pennsylvania.
The Park was established in 1966, but its site was used for recreation by locals since the early part of the century. Blue Spruce Park includes the Cummings Dam, a historical marker honoring Bernice Gera, a native of nearby town of Ernest.
Gera was the first female umpire to work in a professional baseball league.
There are more than five miles of mixed use trails that transect the park. The Park has a 12-acre lake stocked with trout for public fishing. There are four pavilions and two lodges available for rental. The park also has two playgrounds, a volleyball court, horseshoe court, and areas for sports.
Blue Spruce Park, 1128 Blue Spruce Rd, Indiana, PA 15701, Phone: 724-463-8636
⮕ Visit the Noble Stein Brewing Company
Noble Stein Brewing Company in Indiana, Pennsylvania, started out with a home brew kits in a five-gallon kettle, then grew rapidly to a mini brewing system featuring a 20 gallon hot liquor tank, mash/lauter tun, and boil kettle.
Experimenting with multiple varieties of hops, malts, yeasts and other elements resulted in a range of delicious brews, with 12 Noble Stein beers on tap and a cider from Arsenal Ciderhouse & Wine Cellar offered in their popular tap room. All regular brews are accompanied by seasonal and specially featured beers throughout the year. Noble Stein beer, are available in many local bars and restaurants from Indiana to Pittsburgh.
Noble Stein Brewing Company , 1170 Wayne Ave, Indiana, PA 15701, Phone: 724-801-8087
If you are traveling with kids
⮕ Learn about local history at the Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County
Since Indiana is the county seat of Indiana County, it was the obvious choice for a museum to celebrate and showcase the history of this particular rural county of Pennsylvania. The Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County was formed in 1938 and since then they have managed to put together an impressive collection of memorabilia and artifacts which tell the story of Indiana’s communities, past and present.
Important museum exhibits include a collection of 170 bibles and 38 quilts, the oldest of which dates back to 1838. The society also has an online research facility which is available to anyone who would like to delve into the history of Indiana County.
Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County, 621 Wayne Avenue, Indiana PA 15701, 724 463 9600
⮕ Go wildlife watching in the Waterworks Conservation Area
Located on a 10-acre stretch of land adjacent to the Two Licks Creek, the Waterworks Conservation Area is an important recreational facility for local residents and visitors to Indiana.
Fishing and boating are the main attractions at the conservation area although many people visit to enjoy a walk or run along the short trail which meanders around the wetland areas.
Paddlers can launch their kayaks or canoes at Waterworks and enjoy a very scenic 12-mile paddle to Saylor Park. Wildlife watching is excellent in this conservation area and if you are particularly lucky you may spot the very rare Wehrle’s Salamander during your visit.
Waterworks Conservation Area, 768 Waterworks Road, Indiana, PA 15701, 724 463 8636
If you are a first time visitor to Indiana, PA
- Downtown Indiana – Stroll through a lively mix of shops, cafés, galleries, and historic buildings. Great for a casual afternoon with small-town charm.
- Buttermilk Falls Natural Area – A peaceful spot to hike, picnic, and visit a scenic 45-foot waterfall. A short drive from town and especially beautiful in fall.
- Hoodlebug Trail – If you’re into biking or running, this scenic 10-mile rail trail connects Indiana to nearby towns with gentle grades and countryside views.
Where to Eat
- Caffe Amadeus – A cozy, European-style coffeehouse with strong brews, pastries, and a perfect study or chill vibe.
- Benjamin’s – An elevated yet relaxed American bistro known for steaks, seafood, and seasonal specials—ideal for a nicer dinner out.
- Twisted Jimmy’s – A lively college-town hangout for burgers, wings, and late-night eats, especially buzzing on game weekends.
- Roseanne’s Everyday Gourmet – For breakfast or lunch, this homestyle spot serves hearty classics, baked goods, and lots of local love.
If You’re Interested in Local Events
- It’s a Wonderful Life Festival (November–December) – Celebrate the holidays with a tribute to Jimmy Stewart, light displays, carriage rides, and a hometown Christmas vibe.
- Indiana County Fair (August) – Livestock, carnival rides, and classic fair food make this a family favorite each summer.
- Northern Appalachian Folk Festival (September) – A free downtown festival featuring local music, storytelling, and artisan vendors.
Day Trips from Indiana
- Punxsutawney (35 min) – Visit the famous home of Groundhog Day and meet Phil himself in Gobbler’s Knob and the town’s quirky museums.
- Johnstown (1 hr) – Explore flood history, ride the Inclined Plane, or catch a game at the historic Point Stadium.
- Laurel Hill State Park (1 hr 15 min) – Great for hiking, swimming, and year-round outdoor activities in the Laurel Highlands.
- Pittsburgh (1 hr 15 min) – Take a day trip for museums, stadiums, and dining in one of the most scenic cities in the U.S.
- Keystone State Park (40 min) – A peaceful lake for kayaking, fishing, or summer picnics just a short drive west of town.
FAQ
-
Question: Where is Indiana borough located?
Answer: Indiana is a borough in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, and part of the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. -
Question: Why is Indiana known as the "Christmas Tree Capital of the World"?
Answer: Indiana is surrounded by Christmas tree farms, earning it the nickname "Christmas Tree Capital of the World." -
Question: Who is a famous person born in Indiana, Pennsylvania?
Answer: Indiana is the birthplace of the famous actor Jimmy Stewart, whose memory is preserved in the Jimmy Stewart Museum. -
Question: What educational institution is located in Indiana?
Answer: Indiana is home to the main campus of Indiana University of Pennsylvania. -
Question: What is Blue Spruce Park, and why is it popular?
Answer: Blue Spruce Park is a popular local recreation area with a lake and open areas for hiking. -
Question: What is Hindostan Falls, and what is its historical significance?
Answer: Hindostan Falls is a nearby ghost town that was once home to 1,200 people.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather and blossoming scenery, ideal for exploring parks.
Hilton Garden Inn Indiana at IUP – Comfortable accommodations near downtown and campus.
Visit Blue Spruce Park – Enjoy scenic walking trails and peaceful nature views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather perfect for outdoor festivals and family activities.
Hampton Inn Indiana – Convenient and welcoming hotel close to local attractions.
Attend the Indiana County Fair – Experience local traditions, food, and entertainment.
Fall (September-November) – Colorful foliage and crisp temperatures, perfect for scenic drives and hiking.
Hilton Garden Inn Indiana – A modern stay offering easy access to downtown and IUP campus.
Explore Blue Spruce Park – Enjoy picturesque trails and vibrant fall colors.
Winter (December-February) – Cold weather with festive charm and seasonal events.
Quality Inn & Suites Indiana – Cozy accommodations suitable for winter stays.
Visit Jimmy Stewart Museum – Celebrate local history and holiday traditions in town.
More points of interest:
Visit the Buttermilk Falls Natural Area to admire the waterfall and scenic woodlands.
Indiana County Fair takes place the week before Labor Day.
Hindostan Falls are a great spot for a vacation photo.
The Blairsville Area Underground Railroad lets you learn about brave people who used this network to freedom.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Visit the Jimmy Stewart Museum
- 2. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
- 3. Hike in Blue Spruce Park
- 4. Visit the Noble Stein Brewing Company
- 5. Learn about local history at the Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County
- 6. Go wildlife watching in the Waterworks Conservation Area