Looking for a small-town destination with deep history and mountain scenery? Head to Johnstown! Tucked in the Laurel Highlands of western Pennsylvania, Johnstown is known for its steel roots, flood resilience, and one-of-a-kind incline railway. Whether you're a history buff, outdoor adventurer, or just looking for a unique weekend escape, Johnstown makes a memorable stop.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Johnstown is from late spring through early fall (May to October). If you want to explore outdoor trails, museums, and events in mild weather, aim for late spring or early autumn. Fall foliage in the surrounding hills is especially beautiful, while summer offers more festivals and activities.
How to Get There
- By Car: Johnstown is located along U.S. Route 219 and PA Route 56, about 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh and 2.5 hours from Harrisburg.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Pennsylvanian line stops in Johnstown daily, connecting to Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. If you enjoy scenic rail travel, this is a convenient and relaxed option.
- By Air: John Murtha Johnstown–Cambria County Airport (JST) offers limited regional flights. For more options, Pittsburgh International Airport is about 2 hours away.
Where to Stay
- Hampton Inn Johnstown – A reliable and modern hotel with free breakfast and easy access to shops and restaurants.
- Holiday Inn Johnstown-Downtown – Walkable to attractions, with an on-site restaurant and comfortable rooms—perfect if you're attending events at the arena or heritage venues.
- B&Bs & Guest Houses – For a cozier stay, look for small inns and short-term rentals near the Cambria City Historic District.
Top Attractions
⮕ Ride the Historic Johnstown Inclined Plane for Sweeping City Views
The Johnstown Inclined Plane makes a perfect first stop for visitors to the area. Not only is it on the Register of Historic Places and a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, but it also tells Johnstown’s story through pictures and 3D models, including images from the two occasions the plane acted as an evacuation route for flood escapees and transportation back into the flooded area for rescue and relief personnel and their vehicles. The Visitors Center offers detailed information about other attractions in Johnstown, and the ice cream shop, gift shop, and Asiago’s Tuscan Italian Restaurant make perfect bookends to the 90 second ride up or down the plane.
711 Edgehill Drive, Johnstown, PA 15905, Phone: 814-536-1816
⮕ Explore Immigrant Heritage at the Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Discovery Center
Known as the Heritage Discovery Center for short, this attraction was established in 2001 by the Johnstown Area Heritage Association (JAHA) and is home to permanent and varying exhibits highlighting local culture and history, as well as a café, social club, and the Johnstown Children’s Museum. Purchasing a ticket to the Heritage Discovery Center also grants entrance to the Children’s Museum and one visit to other Johnstown historical museums, several of which on this list! The Heritage Discovery Center also hosts special events year-round, so every visit is guaranteed to be different and exciting.
Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center , 201 Sixth Ave., Johnstown, PA 15906 Phone: 814-539-1889 x311
⮕ Catch a Hockey Game or Event at Cambria County War Memorial Arena
Built in 1950, Cambria County War Memorial Arena has been the home stadium for many sports teams over the years. A hockey stadium first and foremost, it is now home to the Johnstown Tomahawks, the UPJ Icecats, the Laurel Mountain Hockey League, the Cambria County Student Hockey League, and the PA Interscholastic Hockey League. The Arena also hosts comedians, live music, and family-friendly specials like Sesame Street Live! In addition to hosting events people can attend, the Arena is also “The Home of Slap Shot,” a hockey film based in the 1970s and now a cult classic.
326 Napoleon Street, Johnstown, PA 15901, Phone: 814-536-5156
⮕ Cheer from the Stands at Sargent's Stadium at the Point
If you prefer a warmer historical, famous sports venue, Sargent’s Stadium at the Point is for you. Home to the All-American Amateur Baseball Association national tournament every year, Sargent’s Stadium was originally built in 1926 and often sold out its 17,000-seat capacity during Greater Johnstown High School football games. Visitors can still watch high school football and college baseball in the stadium or see where scenes from the 1983 film All the Right Moves were filmed. The stadium has undergone lots of renovations over the years, including a complete demolition is 2005. It now holds up to 7,500 excited fans every game.
100 Johns St, Johnstown, PA 15901, Phone: 814-533-5511
If you are looking for something romantic
⮕ Step Into 19th-Century Life at the Wagner-Ritter House and Garden
The Wagner-Ritter House and Garden are open every Saturday for the general public and any time for scheduled group tours. Unlike many museum houses that feature architectural marvels or belonged to famous people, the Wagner-Ritter House and Garden illustrate the common life of people living in the 19th century what is now Cambria City. In addition to original furnishings, historical records of the families and community, and out buildings (including a bake house and a privy), the museum has a historically accurate, German raised-bed vegetable garden created by the Johnstown Garden Club. This extension of the Johnstown Discovery Network is an important part of its history and should not be missed.
418 Broad St, Johnstown, PA, 15906, Phone: 814-539-1889 x311
Where to Eat
⮕ Enjoy Hearty American Fare at The Boulevard Grill and Warehouse
The structure of The Boulevard Grill and Warehouse is almost as diverse as Johnstown history. It has bits and pieces of historical places dating back to 1939, when it was constructed from the remains of two floors previously from the Merchant’s Hotel in downtown Johnstown. As The Boulevard grew, so did its collection of interesting décor. There are doors from a school and a synagogue, as well as ivy from Wrigley Field! The five-page dinner menu is just as eclectic as the decorations, too. With everything from burgers and pizza to steaks and seafood and everything in between, there’s something for everyone.
165 Southmont Blvd., Johnstown, PA 15905, Phone: 814-39-5344
⮕ Grab a Homemade Meal at Clark's Corner Store and Catering
Open every day of the week for breakfast through dinner, Clark’s Corner Store and Catering is best known for its famous sub sandwiches. The main element that sets Clark’s subs apart is the fresh bread baked daily right there in the store. Clark’s also doesn’t stop at the typical 12-inch sub. Standard Clark’s sizes are 6, 9, and 18 inches! As Clark’s grew and began meeting the culinary desires of more and more people, it added wings, salads, strombolis, tacos, and more to its menu. Now guests can stop in for a bite or order for a large group from the catering menu.
1003 Menoher Boulevard, Johnstown, PA 15905, Phone: 814-255-5735
If you are a first time visitor to Johnstown, PA
- Johnstown Flood Museum – Learn the gripping story of the 1889 flood through exhibits, artifacts, and a documentary film. If you're interested in engineering, disaster history, or human resilience, this is a must-see.
- Heritage Discovery Center – Explore immigrant stories, regional industries, and hands-on history across several museum levels, including the Iron & Steel Gallery.
- Staple Bend Tunnel Trail – Walk or bike a peaceful rail trail to the first railroad tunnel built in the U.S., complete with interpretive signs and mountain views.
More Places to Eat
- Asiago’s Tuscan Italian Restaurant – Dine with a view! Located atop the Inclined Plane, this Italian restaurant offers great pasta and sunset scenery.
- Press Bistro – A modern downtown spot with craft cocktails, fresh takes on American dishes, and a lively atmosphere.
- Back Door Café – An intimate fine-dining experience with creative cuisine and an ever-changing menu. Ideal for date nights or special occasions.
- Coney Island Lunch – If you're in the mood for a quick bite, grab a classic chili dog from this local favorite that’s been serving since 1916.
If You’re Interested in Local Events
- Flood City Music Festival (August) – Enjoy national and local acts across multiple stages downtown. If you’re into music festivals with small-town charm, this is the one.
- Thunder in the Valley (June) – A massive motorcycle rally with rides, vendors, and live entertainment drawing bikers from all over.
- PolkaFest (Summer) – A lively, family-friendly event with traditional music, food, and dancing in Cambria City’s heritage-rich streets.
Day Trips from Johnstown
- Flight 93 National Memorial (40 min) – A powerful and moving site honoring the passengers and crew of Flight 93. The visitor center and memorial plaza are both deeply impactful.
- Ohiopyle State Park (1.5 hr) – If you're looking for waterfalls, whitewater rafting, and hiking, this beautiful park is well worth the drive.
- Horseshoe Curve & Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum (1 hr) – Train enthusiasts will appreciate this engineering marvel and the history that surrounds it.
- Laurel Hill State Park (1 hr) – Swim, hike, or picnic in this peaceful park tucked into the Laurel Highlands.
- Pittsburgh (1.5 hr) – Head west for big-city attractions, stadiums, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods like the Strip District or Mount Washington.
FAQ
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What is the historical background of Johnstown, PA?
- Johnstown, PA has an incredibly rich history, from its early days as an Algonquin settlement before colonization to its anglicized roots from German settlers who arrived in 1770.
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What major events shaped Johnstown’s history?
- Throughout the late 1800s and 1900s, Johnstown citizens faced both devastation and opportunities for perseverance due to three major floods in 1889, 1936, and 1977.
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How did Johnstown respond to these disasters?
- These tragedies led to innovation and new technology, including the construction of a giant inclined plane to help with flood relief efforts.
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How has Johnstown’s economy evolved over time?
- After the decline of steel production and coal mining, Johnstown saw new growth in the health care and high-tech defense industries.
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What makes Johnstown a unique place to visit?
- Johnstown is a quaint little place full of big surprises, offering a mix of history, innovation, and resilience.
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