There’s something special about the Alleghenies. This beautiful mountain range has helped shape the culture, lifestyle, and economy of southwestern Pennsylvania and the surrounding region—and it’s even led to the establishment of a few charming cities and towns.
Johnstown is the perfect example. Tucked into a lush valley south of Route 22 and west of Route 219, Johnstown is a historic town that was critical to the railroad, coal, and steel industries that rushed through the area in the 1800s and 1900s.
Today, though, Johnstown has reinvented itself. While the town honors its industrial past through museums, it’s now a hotspot for the arts and other attractions. Plus, it’s only a quick drive from our home in Cresson, PA, so we’re listing off the best things to do in Johnstown!
Table of Contents
6 Best Things to Do In Johnstown, PA
1. Johnstown Flood Museum
2. Johnstown Inclined Plane
3. Heritage Discovery Center
4. Johnstown Stone Bridge
5. Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center
6. Art Off the Rails Trail
Find Seasonal Events In Johnstown, PA
Where to Stay Near Johnstown, PA
6 Best Things to Do In Johnstown, PA
Johnstown is quite close to Cresson, PA, so we often make it down there for a fun night out. Here are some of the best reasons to visit Johnstown (and don’t forget to check out our Explore the Area page for more ideas):
1. Johnstown Flood Museum
Johnstown is known throughout the region for a lot of reasons. It traces its history back to 1770. It’s the biggest metro in Cambria County. It was a once-great industrial town built on iron, steel, and coal.
But Johnstown is best known for its history of devastating floods—it’s even nicknamed Flood City. These deadly floods occurred in 1889, 1936, and 1977.
The Johnstown Flood Museum details the stories, factors, and people behind these terrible moments in the city’s history, while also serving as a testament to the region’s indomitable spirit.
Address: 304 Washington St, Johnstown, PA 15901
Phone: 814-539-1889
Website: http://www.heritagejohnstown.org/
2. Johnstown Inclined Plane
The famous Johnstown Inclined Plane is a funicular—a type of railway meant to transport cars up and down steep hills using cables instead of a train engine.
This incline first underwent construction way back in 1890, with the Cambria Iron Company intending to use it for people, horses, and wagons into the new community of Westmont.
While it was essential to the area’s economic growth, it also proved to be a life-saving method of transportation. During the devastating flood of 1936, the Johnstown Inclined Plane lifted 4,000 residents to safety!
Today, you can visit the incline both as a historical landmark and as a fun, charming way to travel up Yoder Hill.
Tip: Check out our Railroad page for more insights and information about local railroading attractions.
Address: 711 Edgehill Dr, Johnstown, PA 15905
Phone: 814-536-1816
Website: https://www.inclinedplane.org/
3. Heritage Discovery Center
Johnstown’s Heritage Discovery Center is the driving force behind many of the town’s preservation efforts. Here, you’ll find exhibits honoring past immigrants, the iron and steel industries, and even the Johnstown Flood.
As a family-friendly destination, the Discovery Center also features an exciting children’s museum with colorful exhibits that make learning about the local history truly delightful.
While you’re here, be sure to ask for the Center’s recommendations on other local stopping points.
Address: Broad St, Johnstown, PA 15906
Phone: 814-539-1889
Website: https://www.heritagejohnstown.org/
4. Johnstown Stone Bridge
You probably didn’t expect to see a simple stone bridge on this list, but don’t scroll by just yet! We have a good reason to highlight this local landmark!
Sure, there’s the impressive architectural history. This stone bridge spans more than 400 feet across seven arches and was opened all the way back in 1888.
But what really makes this bridge exciting for folks staying at The Station Inn is the photo ops. The Johnstown Stone Bridge is home to an active railway, and many of our guests capture some of their best photos of the trip right here!
Be sure to check out the bridge during the day and at night—when multi-colored lights turn this stone structure into a dazzling one-of-a-kind view.
Address: 26 Walnut St, Johnstown, PA 15901
5. Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center
The historic Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center is the home base for the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown campus, where you’ll find terrific shows at affordable college prices.
This multi-million dollar theater features a 200-seat black box theater, a 1,000-seat concert hall, and office spaces, and it’s well known for its student shows, the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra, and more.
Address: 450 Schoolhouse Road, Johnstown, PA 15904
Phone: 814-269-7200
Website: https://www.upjarts.pitt.edu/
6. Art Off the Rails Trail
Johnstown might be a small city when compared to major PA metros like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, but it has a vibrant arts scene that celebrates the visual, literary, and performing arts.
The Art Off the Rails Trail is a self-guided walking tour that shows you the best of Downtown’s artists—wth 27 unique stopping points.
Pick a handful to visit or spend the day enjoying everything Johnstown has to offer!
Website: https://www.visitjohnstownpa.com/play/arts/art-off-the-rails-trail
Find Seasonal Events In Johnstown, PA
Like many towns throughout Pennsylvania, Johnstown has a strong sense of local pride, and it frequently hosts community events for neighbors to come together.
Keep an eye on the Visit Johnstown’s events calendar to keep an eye on can’t-miss events like Johnstown PolkaFest, the Annual Art in Bloom Spring Show, the Ghost Town Trail Challenge, and much more.
Where to Stay Near Johnstown, PA
One of the most exciting destinations near Johnstown is only 30 minutes away: The Station Inn! As a railroad-themed bed and breakfast, we’ve become a home away from home for both families who are simply passing through and diehard fans of railroading and railroad photography.
Enjoy watching the passing trains from the comfort of our shaded front porch, or swap railfan journeys with fellow guests—all after enjoying a hearty home-cooked breakfast at our kitchen table.
Come see what makes us so special! Book your room today in preparation for your next trip to Johnstown!