Things To Do
in Johnstown
Johnstown, Pennsylvania sits at the confluence of the Conemaugh and Stonycreek Rivers in the Allegheny Highlands. It carries a rich industrial legacy and a resilient spirit shaped by dramatic floods and ambitious rebuilding. The downtown is compact and accessible, with museums, scenic overlooks, and a frontier feel.
Nearby hills and reservoirs invite outdoor exploration year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Johnstown and settle into your hotel near downtown. Stroll along Broad Street to get a first glimpse of local architecture. Grab a cup of coffee at a cozy cafe and chat with friendly locals.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a classic diner. Wander over to the Johnstown Trail to take in riverside views. Snap photos of historic buildings and public art installations.
Dine at a local brewpub known for craft beers and pub fare. Take an evening walk in Portal Park to watch the sun dip behind the mountains. Unwind at your hotel or sample live music at a nearby venue.
Start at the Johnstown Flood Museum to learn about the catastrophic 1889 flood. Explore interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts that tell the community’s story. Take time to reflect on the resilience of the survivors.
Drive to the Johnstown Flood National Memorial along the Little Conemaugh River. Hike the gentle trails and visit the Sand Station ruins. Enjoy a riverside picnic while admiring the natural landscape.
Return downtown for dinner at an Italian restaurant overlooking the river. Stroll along the riverwalk under the soft glow of street lamps. Consider joining a ghost tour to hear eerie flood legends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🚗Taxi or rideshare (short ride) | $8-25 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich industrial and railroad history with accessible river scenery
- Compact, walkable downtown with family-friendly attractions
- Nearby outdoor recreation like Twin Lakes Park and surrounding forests
- Affordability relative to larger urban areas in the region
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with big cities
- Limited commercial flight options; may require driving to a larger airport
- Weather can be variable in the hills, especially in shoulder seasons
- Some areas have uneven sidewalks and older infrastructure
Places to Visit in Johnstown
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic funicular offering sweeping views of the valley, perfect for sunrise or sunset shots.
Statues, plaques, and riverside scenery that capture the city’s complex history.
Open-air gallery walls with colorful murals reflecting local heritage and community spirit.
Historic storefronts and early-20th-century buildings that provide classic urban photography backdrops.
Food in Johnstown
Johnstown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic PA Dutch treat—two soft cake halves with a creamy filling, found in bakeries and markets around town.
Must-Try!
A rich molasses crumb pie that appears in many local diners and coffee shops.
Polish-inspired dumplings served with grilled kielbasa, sauerkraut, or onions at family-run eateries.
Hearty, slow-cooked beef paired with potatoes—comfort food common on many local menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks in downtown Johnstown.
A cluster of food stalls near the river showcasing regional fare and street-style eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is customary; maintain friendly eye contact and a courteous tone when addressing people, using formal names until invited to be more casual.
Small talk is common; queue patiently at markets and shops, and say please and thank you in interactions.
Respect private property and quiet hours in residential areas; avoid loud confrontations in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Johnstown
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 15-20% of the bill is standard; for bar service and coffee shops, rounding up or leaving a small tip is common. Taxi drivers and tour guides typically expect 10-20% depending on service quality.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in most venues. ATMs are available in town, and some shops may offer mobile wallet options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional heat and humidity; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Bring water, sun protection, and a light jacket for cooler evenings on the hills.
Crisp days and vibrant fall foliage; great for scenic drives and outdoor photography. Pack layers and be prepared for rain.
Cold with snow possible; hills and riverside areas can be icy. Dress in layers and plan for shorter daylight hours.
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes and sporadic rain. Good for outdoor walks and market visits.
Johnstown at Night
Hiking in Johnstown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wooded loops and lakeside paths offering accessible hikes for all levels.
Historic rail-era routes with scenic viewpoints and interpretive signs.
Expansive forest trails with creek crossings and rolling hills suitable for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Johnstown by plane.
Small regional airport located just north of downtown Johnstown, serving private flights and limited commercial service.
Located in Latrobe, about 40 miles west; larger regional airport with multiple carriers and more frequent service.
Major international and domestic gateway about 70-80 miles southwest; broad flight options and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong family presence with community events and parks.
Significant elderly population, with healthcare services and quiet neighborhoods.
People connected to nearby colleges and local industries, contributing to a steady but smaller urban scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community and high school football are popular in the fall, with local games drawing families and neighbors to stadiums.
Youth and adult leagues are common in parks and recreation areas.
Indoor rinks provide winter sports and local leagues for residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Johnstown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie entrees, salads, pierogi, and sides; ask for meat-free versions and sides such as potatoes, vegetables, and bread alternatives.