Southmont PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO


Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Southmont, Pennsylvania.



1. Johnstown Flood National Memorial

HISTORIC FLOOD SITE


The Johnstown Flood National Memorial preserves the remains of the South Fork Dam, the former Lake Conemaugh lakebed, and the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club properties that were involved in the historic 1889 flood. Visitors can explore the visitor center and stand at the exact location where the catastrophic flood originated, gaining insight into one of America's most devastating natural disasters.


2. Yellow Creek State Park

OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA


Yellow Creek State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural setting with a 720-acre lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating activities. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the park's extensive hiking trails and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the seasons.


3. Hinckston Run Falls

ROADSIDE WATERFALL VIEW


Hinckston Run Falls is a picturesque man-made waterfall formed by the outflow of the Hinckston Run Reservoir near Johnstown. This convenient roadside attraction requires no hiking, making it a perfect quick stop for travelers looking to experience a waterfall view without extensive effort.


4. Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

TRANSPORTATION HERITAGE SITE


The Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site commemorates the first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains, a crucial link in the canal system connecting Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. Visitors can explore the visitor center exhibits, restored engine house, and historic Lemon House tavern while learning about this engineering marvel that operated from 1834 to 1854.


5. Southmont Gardens

LIVE MUSIC VENUE


Southmont Gardens is a popular local bar and entertainment venue known for its vibrant live music scene and social atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of events including live bands, trivia nights, and other entertainment while socializing with locals and tourists alike.



6. Abandoned Cresson State Prison

HAUNTED HISTORICAL SITE


The Abandoned Cresson State Prison, also known as the Haunted Cresson Sanatorium, offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past as a tuberculosis sanatorium, state hospital, and eventually a state prison. This unique attraction now caters to those interested in exploring abandoned historical sites with a reputation for paranormal activity and eerie ambiance.


7. Johnstown Flood Museum

DISASTER HISTORY ARCHIVE


The Johnstown Flood Museum offers a comprehensive look at the devastating 1889 flood through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and an award-winning documentary film. Visitors can learn about the causes, consequences, and recovery efforts of this catastrophic event that claimed over 2,200 lives and shaped the history of the region.


8. Northmoreland Park

FAMILY RECREATION AREA


Northmoreland Park provides visitors with extensive outdoor recreation options including hiking trails, sports fields, and picnic facilities in a scenic natural setting. Families can enjoy the playground areas, fishing opportunities, and seasonal events that make this park a popular destination for locals and tourists throughout the year.


9. Palmer Imaging Arena

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT VENUE


Palmer Imaging Arena serves as a premier venue for ice sports, concerts, and community events in the Johnstown area. Visitors can catch exciting hockey games, figure skating competitions, or live entertainment performances in this modern multi-purpose facility.


10. Chestnut Ridge Golf Course

SCENIC MOUNTAIN GOLF


Chestnut Ridge Golf Course offers golfers a challenging experience with its well-maintained fairways and stunning mountain views in the Laurel Highlands region. Players of all skill levels can enjoy the picturesque 18-hole course while taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.



11. Johnstown Inclined Plane

HISTORIC FUNICULAR RAILWAY


The Johnstown Inclined Plane is the steepest vehicular inclined plane in the world, originally built after the 1889 flood to connect downtown Johnstown with the higher ground of Westmont Borough. Visitors can ride this historic transportation system and enjoy spectacular views of the Johnstown area from the observation deck at the top.


12. Heritage Discovery Center

CULTURAL IMMIGRATION MUSEUM


The Heritage Discovery Center explores the rich cultural heritage of the region's immigrants and their contributions to America's industrial development. Visitors can experience interactive exhibits, including the 'America: Through Immigrant Eyes' exhibition that simulates the journey of immigrants who came to work in the area's coal mines and steel mills.


13. Path of the Flood Trail

HISTORIC HIKING ROUTE


The Path of the Flood Trail follows the historic route of the devastating 1889 Johnstown Flood, allowing hikers to walk in the path of this catastrophic event. The trail features interpretive signage explaining the flood's progression and impact while offering scenic views and connections to several other historic sites related to the disaster.


14. Sandyvale Cemetery & Memorial Gardens

HISTORIC BURIAL GROUNDS


Sandyvale Cemetery & Memorial Gardens serves as the final resting place for many victims of the 1889 Johnstown Flood and features historical monuments commemorating this tragic event. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds that include a memorial garden, educational panels, and a demonstration vineyard maintained by local volunteers.


15. Rock Run Recreation Area

OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE PARK


Rock Run Recreation Area offers outdoor enthusiasts over 140 miles of trails for ATV riding, dirt biking, and off-road adventures in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains. Visitors can enjoy camping facilities and scenic overlooks while exploring the extensive trail system that caters to various skill levels and vehicle types.