Overview
Pennsylvania has always been a center of tradition, heritage, and history. A city in Cambria County has effectively combined this with economic activity. One such proof is the structures of the High Tech business district and the Johnstown Flood Museum, found alongside one another. This and a friendly neighborhood make Johnstown unique among other cities in Pennsylvania. The principal city of the Metropolitan Statistical Area, Johnstown has been recognized as one of the most progressive cities in the state. The big city has also been set against the rural mountains of the region, with the Stonycreek and Conemaugh Rivers found along developed neighborhoods.
When to Visit
The Friendly City Polka Fest is a celebration of fun, food, and music. The much-awaited event in during the summer features free live entertainment, ethnic foods, and live bands in St. Mary’s Church Pavilion. The yearly event is organized by the city’s Visitors Bureau. Fairgoers include motor coach groups, clubs, families, who are all seeking great food and a weekend of pure fun.
Things to Do
The confluence of Stonycreek, Conemaugh, and Little Conemaugh make ice boating a favorable sport. As Lake Rowena readies for winter, ice skating becomes a popular pastime. Fishing is also frequented by many anglers. Johnstown’s rivers and lakes becomestocked with adult trout during the regular season. Tourists can also form their own self-guided walking tour in Johnstown’s downtown. The plaques guide tourists and highlight classic buildings that withstood several flood waters. Tourists can also ride the steepest vehicular inclined plane. Several incline cars carry tourists through a 71.9% grade incline, which is around 9000-feet tall. The incline also features its own observation deck, which offers breathtaking views of the whole city. Tourists can ride cable cars and see the Appalachian Mountains, or stroll through the souvenir shop. A variety of activities, including interpretive programs, nature walks, cross-country skiing, picnicking, hiking, and bird-watching activities can be found in Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site. Book your Johnstown Hotels with Reservations.com.
Tourist Attractions
Located at the South Fork Dam’s ruins, the Flood National Memorial commemorates the floods that almost destroyed the city’s original splendor. Exhibits and a debris wall can be found in the memorial. The wall illustrates the initial flood that devastated the entire city. Interpretive programs and trails are available on site. Tourists may also learn about Johnstown’s South Fork Hunting and fishing Club, or visit the Club House. Experience a memorable trip deep in to the pits of the Seldom Seen Mine. Retired miners guide tourists and share their stories along the way.
Best Museums
Recreating the 1889 Flood is the historic Johnstown Museum, which features the Johnstown Flood, a film that garnered several Academy Awards. The museum has exhibits such as the Oklahoma House, and traveling displays. If you’re visiting the memorial, stop by the Miners Memorial Museum. Found along Lake Road, the seasonal museum proudly boasts of the region’s rich coal mining heritage. A newly-renovated Portage Station Museum and Theater features an award-winning video, train viewing, exhibits, and Pennsylvania Railroad artifacts. Stories of the Sonman Mine Disaster in 1940 are commemorated by the galleries.