places to visit near indiana pa

Exploring The Hidden Gems: Top Things To Do Around Indiana, Pa

• Last updated Jul 09, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category United States

Are you looking for a unique adventure off the beaten path? Look no further than Indiana, PA! This charming town is not only known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes, but also for its hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys discovering new and exciting things, Indiana, PA has something for everyone. From its quaint downtown area filled with boutique shops and mouthwatering restaurants, to its scenic parks and walking trails, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this delightful town. So grab your camera, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to uncover the hidden gems of Indiana, PA!

What You'll Learn

Blairsville underground railroad history center, jimmy stewart museum, indiana university of pennsylvania campus, blue spruce park, yellow creek state park, hoodlebug trail, local wineries and breweries, downtown indiana, with unique shops and eateries, chestnut ridge golf resort & conference center, visit amish country in the surrounding areas.

Located in Blairsville, Pennsylvania, the Blairsville Underground Railroad History Center is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and those interested in learning about the region's rich past. The center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the story of the Underground Railroad and its connection to the local community.

The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses that were used by African-American slaves to escape to free states and Canada in the 19th century. Blairsville played a significant role in this network, providing a crucial stop for fugitive slaves on their journey to freedom.

At the Blairsville Underground Railroad History Center, visitors can explore exhibits that tell the story of the Underground Railroad and its impact on the local community. The center features interactive displays, artifacts, and historical documents that shed light on the experiences of fugitive slaves and the individuals who helped them along their journey.

One of the highlights of the center is the restored "safe room" located in the basement. This room was used to shelter fugitive slaves and is a powerful reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by those involved in the Underground Railroad. Visitors can enter the room and imagine what it must have been like for those seeking refuge.

In addition to the exhibits, the center also offers educational programs and events throughout the year. These programs are designed to provide a deeper understanding of the history of the Underground Railroad and its relevance to modern society. From lectures and workshops to guided tours and reenactments, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.

The Blairsville Underground Railroad History Center is an important cultural landmark that serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of those fighting for freedom. By visiting the center, visitors can gain a greater appreciation for the struggles faced by fugitive slaves and the role that communities like Blairsville played in the fight for equality.

Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for an educational and meaningful experience, the Blairsville Underground Railroad History Center is well worth a visit. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about an important chapter of American history and to reflect on the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality in our society. So, if you find yourself in Indiana, PA, make sure to include a visit to the Blairsville Underground Railroad History Center in your itinerary.

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Located in the quaint town of Indiana, Pennsylvania, the Jimmy Stewart Museum is a must-visit attraction for fans of the iconic American actor. This museum is dedicated to celebrating the life and career of one of Hollywood's most beloved stars, James Stewart.

The Jimmy Stewart Museum showcases a vast collection of memorabilia, including photographs, movie posters, personal artifacts, and even some of the awards Stewart received throughout his career. The museum features exhibits that highlight different aspects of his life, from his early years in Indiana, Pennsylvania, to his extensive filmography and service in the military.

Visitors to the museum can learn about Stewart's upbringing in Indiana and his time at Princeton University, where he began his acting career. The exhibits display the actor's transition from stage to screen and highlight some of his most iconic roles, such as George Bailey in "It's a Wonderful Life" and Elwood P. Dowd in "Harvey."

For fans of classic cinema, the Jimmy Stewart Museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in the films and life of this legendary actor. Visitors can view clips from Stewart's movies in the museum's theater and gain a deeper understanding of his contributions to the world of cinema.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts special events and screenings throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity for film enthusiasts to gather and celebrate Stewart's work together. The museum also offers educational programs and resources for students and researchers interested in studying the life and career of James Stewart.

Beyond the museum, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Indiana, Pennsylvania. Visitors can explore the charming downtown area, which is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The town also boasts beautiful parks and outdoor recreational areas, perfect for a stroll or picnic.

For those interested in history, the Indiana County Historical and Genealogical Society Museum is worth a visit. This museum showcases the rich history of the region and offers insight into the area's past through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.

In conclusion, a visit to the Jimmy Stewart Museum is a must for anyone interested in the life and career of this legendary American actor. From the exhibits and memorabilia to the special events and screenings, the museum offers an immersive experience that celebrates the legacy of James Stewart. Combined with the charm of Indiana, Pennsylvania, there is no shortage of things to do and see for visitors of all ages.

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If you are visiting or living in Indiana, PA, you might be wondering about the various things to do around the area. One of the main attractions of Indiana, PA is the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) campus.

The IUP campus is spread over 354 acres, making it a beautiful place to explore. Whether you are a student, a visitor, or a local resident, there are numerous activities and attractions to enjoy on and around the campus.

One of the highlights of the IUP campus is the Oak Grove. This scenic area is a great place to relax, take a walk, or have a picnic. The Oak Grove is lined with majestic oak trees and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts who can capture stunning shots of the surroundings.

If you are interested in art and culture, the IUP campus has several attractions for you to explore. The Kipp Gallery and University Museum showcase various exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works by local and regional artists. These spaces provide an opportunity to appreciate art and learn more about different cultures.

Sports enthusiasts can also find plenty of options at the IUP campus. The Kovalchick Complex is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts various sporting events, including basketball and volleyball games. The IUP Crimson Hawks football team also plays their home games at the George P. Miller Stadium. Attending a game can be a thrilling experience and a great way to support the local team.

In addition to these main attractions, the IUP campus offers a variety of dining options. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you can find a range of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds. There are also several cafes and coffee shops where you can relax and catch up with friends or study.

If you are interested in staying overnight or exploring the area beyond the campus, Indiana, PA has a range of accommodations available. From budget-friendly hotels to more upscale options, you can find a place to suit your needs.

Overall, the Indiana University of Pennsylvania campus offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for everyone. Whether you are interested in art, sports, nature, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, you can find something to suit your interests. So, if you find yourself in Indiana, PA, don't miss the chance to explore the IUP campus and all it has to offer.

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One of the main highlights of Blue Spruce Park is its extensive trail system. There are several miles of trails that wind through the park, offering scenic views of the surrounding forests, meadows, and wildlife. These trails are perfect for hiking, jogging, or simply taking a leisurely stroll. Be sure to bring your camera along as you might come across deer, birds, or even a picturesque waterfall!

For those who enjoy water activities, Blue Spruce Park has a lake where visitors can go fishing, boating, or even swimming. The lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish, making it a great spot for anglers of all levels. You can bring your own boat or rent one from the park office. If swimming is more your style, the park offers a designated swimming area with a sandy beach and lifeguards on duty during the summer months.

In addition to these activities, Blue Spruce Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors. There is a playground for children, as well as volleyball and basketball courts for those looking for some friendly competition. The park also has a pavilion available to rent for events such as birthday parties or family reunions.

If you're looking to explore beyond Blue Spruce Park, there are plenty of other attractions in the Indiana, PA area. The town itself is rich in history, with charming shops and restaurants that are worth a visit. For those interested in art and culture, the Indiana University of Pennsylvania boasts a renowned museum and art gallery.

Whether you're a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day in the great outdoors, Blue Spruce Park has something for everyone. Its beautiful trails, serene lake, and family-friendly facilities make it a top destination for both locals and visitors alike. So grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and get ready to discover all that Blue Spruce Park and the Indiana, PA area have to offer.

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With over 2,981 acres of rolling hills, lush forests, and a 720-acre lake, Yellow Creek State Park is a haven for hiking, picnicking, fishing, boating, and camping. The park features a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the park's diverse landscapes and encounter its abundant wildlife. Whether you're a casual walker or an experienced hiker, you'll find trails that suit your needs, from easy, paved pathways to challenging, rocky terrains.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Lakeside Trail, which offers scenic views of the lake and takes you through beautiful wooded areas. This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a jog, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of nature as you listen to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. For a more challenging adventure, you can hike the Ridge Trail, which takes you up the park's highest point and rewards you with stunning panoramic views.

Fishing enthusiasts will also find plenty of opportunities at Yellow Creek State Park. The park's lake is a great spot for anglers to cast their lines and try their luck at catching bass, trout, walleye, and catfish. There are several fishing piers located around the lake, providing easy access for individuals with disabilities. If you don't have your own fishing gear, you can rent equipment from the park office.

Boating is another popular activity at Yellow Creek State Park. The lake is open to non-powered boats, such as canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, as well as electric-powered boats with a 20-horsepower limit. Boating is a fantastic way to explore the lake and its surrounding coves while enjoying the tranquility of the water.

In addition to outdoor activities, Yellow Creek State Park offers several amenities to make your visit more comfortable. The park has picnic areas equipped with tables and charcoal grills, allowing you to relax and enjoy a meal amidst the beauty of nature. There are also reservable and non-reservable picnic pavilions available for larger gatherings. If you're looking to extend your stay, the park offers camping facilities, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins for rent.

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If you're looking for outdoor activities to enjoy around Indiana, PA, then the Hoodlebug Trail is a must-visit destination. This beautiful trail offers a scenic and peaceful way to explore the area and take in the natural beauty of Pennsylvania.

The Hoodlebug Trail is a 10-mile long rail-trail that meanders through the Indiana countryside. It follows the path of the old Indiana Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad, providing a unique glimpse into the region's industrial history. The trail offers a variety of landscapes, from open fields and farmland to wooded areas and wetlands.

One of the highlights of the Hoodlebug Trail is its connection to the Ghost Town Trail. This 32-mile trail connects Indiana, PA, to Blacklick, and offers even more opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're biking, hiking, or walking, the Hoodlebug Trail provides a safe and scenic path for all ages and fitness levels.

Along the trail, you'll find a variety of amenities to enhance your experience. There are rest areas with benches and picnic tables where you can take a break and enjoy a snack. The trail is also well-maintained and offers a smooth surface, making it ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, and rollerblades.

Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting along the Hoodlebug Trail. The trail passes through several wetland areas, which are home to a variety of waterfowl and other species. Keep an eye out for herons, ducks, geese, and maybe even a bald eagle!

In addition to its natural beauty, the Hoodlebug Trail also offers access to nearby attractions. The trail passes through the heart of Indiana, PA, making it easy to explore the town's charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites. You can also use the trail as a starting point for exploring other outdoor areas, such as Blue Spruce Park or Yellow Creek State Park.

No matter the season, the Hoodlebug Trail offers something for everyone. In the spring, you'll be treated to blooming wildflowers and vibrant greenery. Summer brings warm temperatures and the opportunity for picnics and outdoor activities. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the trail is surrounded by colorful foliage. Even in winter, the trail can be enjoyed for activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

In conclusion, if you're looking for things to do around Indiana, PA, the Hoodlebug Trail is a fantastic option. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, you'll find something to enjoy along this beautiful trail. So grab your bike, lace up your hiking boots, or simply take a leisurely stroll – the Hoodlebug Trail awaits!

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If you find yourself in the Indiana, PA area and are looking for something fun and interesting to do, why not visit some of the local wineries and breweries in the area? Indiana, PA may be a small town, but it has a surprising number of options when it comes to craft beverages. Whether you are a beer lover or wine connoisseur, there is sure to be something that will tickle your taste buds.

One popular destination is the Ghost Town Brewing Company. Located in downtown Indiana, this brewery offers a range of unique and flavorful brews. With a focus on small-batch, handcrafted beers, Ghost Town Brewing is a must-visit for any beer enthusiast. They offer a variety of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, ensuring there is something for everyone. You can even take a brewery tour to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of their latest creations.

If wine is more your style, make sure to stop by the Walnut Hill Winery. This charming winery is located just a short drive from Indiana and offers a beautiful setting for wine tasting. With a variety of award-winning wines to choose from, including both reds and whites, Walnut Hill Winery is a perfect place to spend an afternoon. They also have a lovely outdoor patio where you can relax and enjoy a glass of your favorite wine.

Another great option for wine lovers is the Indian Springs Vineyard. Situated on a picturesque farm just outside of Indiana, this vineyard offers a serene and peaceful setting. Indian Springs Vineyard specializes in traditional European-style wines, including chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, and pinot noir. They offer guided tastings and tours, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard.

For those who want to try a little bit of everything, make sure to visit the Noble Stein Brewing Company. This unique establishment is both a winery and a brewery, offering a wide selection of craft beers and wines. Noble Stein Brewing Company uses locally sourced ingredients to create their delicious beverages, so you can be sure you are supporting local farmers and businesses. They also have a cozy tasting room where you can sample their products and learn more about the brewing and winemaking processes.

No matter if you are a beer lover or wine aficionado, Indiana, PA has plenty to offer. With its range of local wineries and breweries, you are sure to find something to suit your taste buds. So the next time you find yourself in the area, make sure to take some time to explore the craft beverage scene and indulge in some delicious drinks.

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Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Indiana is a small town that packs a big punch when it comes to things to do. One of the highlights of this charming town is the vibrant and bustling downtown area, which is home to a variety of unique shops and eateries. Whether you're a local or just passing through, downtown Indiana offers a little something for everyone.

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, downtown Indiana is the place to be. The town is known for its eclectic mix of boutiques and shops, offering everything from trendy clothing and accessories to locally made artisan crafts. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or something special for yourself, downtown Indiana has you covered. From the moment you step into one of these shops, you'll be greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about their products.

After a day of shopping, you'll definitely work up an appetite. Luckily, downtown Indiana is home to a wide range of eateries, offering something to satisfy every craving. Whether you're in the mood for pizza, burgers, sushi, or even vegan fare, you'll find it all in downtown Indiana. Many of these eateries source their ingredients locally, so you can rest assured that you're getting the freshest and most delicious meal possible. And if you're in the mood for a drink, there are plenty of options as well. Whether you prefer a craft beer or a classic cocktail, downtown Indiana has a variety of bars and breweries to quench your thirst.

But downtown Indiana offers more than just shopping and dining. The town also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, which attract visitors from near and far. From art fairs to food festivals, there's always something happening in downtown Indiana. These events not only showcase the town's vibrant culture and community spirit but also provide a great opportunity to meet new people and explore what the area has to offer.

If you're looking to spend a fun-filled day in downtown Indiana, there are plenty of things to do. Take a stroll down the streets, explore the shops, and try out some of the delicious local cuisine. Whether you're a foodie, a shopaholic, or just looking for a charming town to explore, downtown Indiana is well worth a visit. So come on down, support local businesses, and experience everything that downtown Indiana has to offer.

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Indiana, Pennsylvania is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. One popular destination for visitors and locals alike is the Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort & Conference Center. Located just outside of Indiana, this resort offers a unique combination of golf, lodging, and event facilities.

The Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort boasts two championship golf courses, the Chestnut Ridge Course and the Tom's Run Course. Both courses offer a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The Chestnut Ridge Course features rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, and well-manicured greens. Tom's Run Course, on the other hand, is known for its natural beauty and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Both courses offer a variety of holes that will test your skills and provide a memorable golfing experience.

In addition to golf, Chestnut Ridge offers a variety of amenities for guests to enjoy. The resort features a spacious clubhouse that includes a pro shop, locker rooms, and a restaurant. The pro shop offers a wide selection of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories. After a round of golf, guests can relax and dine at the resort's restaurant, which offers a menu of delicious American cuisine and a full-service bar.

For those looking to stay overnight, Chestnut Ridge has comfortable lodging options available. The resort offers cozy guest rooms and suites that are perfect for couples, families, or groups. Each room is well-appointed and features modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds. Guests can also take advantage of the resort's fitness center, indoor pool, and hot tub.

Another highlight of Chestnut Ridge is its event facilities. The resort offers a variety of venues that are perfect for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. The Grand Ballroom, with its elegant décor and spacious layout, can accommodate up to 400 guests. The resort also offers smaller meeting rooms and outdoor spaces that are perfect for more intimate events. The resort's professional event planning staff can assist with everything from menu selection to décor, ensuring a seamless and memorable event.

Located just a short drive from Indiana, Pennsylvania, Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort & Conference Center is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing getaway. With its beautiful golf courses, comfortable lodging options, and versatile event facilities, the resort offers something for everyone. Whether you're planning a golf outing with friends, a family vacation, or a special event, Chestnut Ridge is the perfect choice.

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If you find yourself in Indiana, Pennsylvania and are looking for something unique to do, consider making a trip to the surrounding areas to experience Amish country. The Amish community is known for their simple way of life and traditional values, and a visit to their settlements can provide a fascinating and educational experience.

One of the most popular destinations in Amish country near Indiana is the town of Smicksburg. Located just a short drive away, Smicksburg is home to a thriving Amish community and is known as the "Lucerne of America." The town is a great place to explore Amish culture and craftsmanship, with numerous shops offering handmade furniture, quilts, and other traditional Amish goods. You can also take a horse and buggy ride through the scenic countryside, visit working farms, and even have a traditional Amish meal at a local restaurant.

Another nearby Amish community worth exploring is located in the town of New Wilmington. This small town is home to a large Amish settlement, and visitors can take a step back in time as they walk through the picturesque streets. The Amish here are known for their woodworking skills, and you can find beautifully crafted furniture and other handmade items in the local shops. The town also hosts an annual celebration of all things Amish, called the "Amish Furniture Festival," where you can enjoy live entertainment, traditional food, and demonstrations of Amish crafts.

If you're interested in learning more about Amish history and culture, a visit to the Amish Heritage Farm and House in nearby Lancaster County is a must. This living history museum offers guided tours that take you through a fully furnished Amish house, a blacksmith shop, and a one-room schoolhouse. You can also learn about Amish customs, traditions, and beliefs as you explore the farm and interact with the knowledgeable staff. There are also many other attractions in the area, including a buggy ride through Amish farmland and a visit to the Amish Village, where you can experience firsthand how the Amish live and work.

In conclusion, if you're looking for something unique to do around Indiana, Pennsylvania, a visit to the surrounding Amish country is highly recommended. Whether you're interested in learning about Amish culture, shopping for traditional Amish goods, or simply enjoying the peaceful beauty of the countryside, there are plenty of things to do and see in Amish country. So take a break from city life and immerse yourself in the simple and traditional way of life in the Amish community.

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Frequently asked questions.

Indiana, PA offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. You can explore the beautiful scenery and hiking trails at Yellow Creek State Park, which also offers picnic areas and fishing opportunities. If you're a fan of water activities, you can go boating, swimming, or kayaking at Blue Spruce Park. Additionally, the Hoodlebug Trail provides a scenic route for biking, walking, or running.

Yes, Indiana, PA boasts several cultural attractions for visitors to enjoy. The Indiana County Historical Museum showcases the rich history of the region through exhibits and artifacts. The Jimmy Stewart Museum pays tribute to the famous actor, James Stewart, who was born and raised in Indiana. The museum houses memorabilia, rare photographs, and even an Oscar statuette. Another popular cultural attraction is the Artists Hand Gallery, which features local artwork and unique crafts.

Indiana, PA offers a range of family-friendly activities guaranteed to keep everyone entertained. The Jungle Odyssey Miniature Golf Course is a popular choice with its challenging holes and tropical-themed decor. For a fun and educational experience, you can visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, which has interactive exhibits and displays about dinosaurs and fossils. If you're looking for some outdoor fun, check out the Pine Ridge Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails suitable for all ages.

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10 BEST Places to Visit in Indiana

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Top attractions in indiana.

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What travellers are saying

• The Jimmy Stewart Museum
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• Iup Indiana pa
• Noble Stein Brewing Company
• Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County
• Getty Heights Park
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• White Township Recreation Complex

• Last Minute

Best Things to Do in Indiana, PA

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 25, 2024

835 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA 15701, Phone: 724-349-6112 , Map

1011 South Drive, Indiana, PA 15705, Phone: 724-357-2100 , Map

Blue Spruce Park , 1128 Blue Spruce Rd, Indiana, PA 15701, Phone: 724-463-8636

Noble Stein Brewing Company , 1170 Wayne Ave, Indiana, PA 15701, Phone: 724-801-8087

642 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA 15701, Phone: 724-465-8082 , Map

Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County , 621 Wayne Avenue, Indiana PA 15701, 724 463 9600

Located on a 10-acre stretch of land adjacent to the Two Licks Creek, the Waterworks Conservation Area is an important recreational facility for local residents and visitors to Indiana. Fishing and boating are the main attractions at the conservation area although many people visit to enjoy a walk or run along the short trail which meanders around the wetland areas. Paddlers can launch their kayaks or canoes at Waterworks and enjoy a very scenic 12-mile paddle to Saylor Park. Wildlife watching is excellent in this conservation area and if you are particularly lucky you may spot the very rare Wehrle’s Salamander during your visit. Waterworks Conservation Area , 768 Waterworks Road, Indiana, PA 15701, 724 463 8636

• 1. Jimmy Stewart Museum
• 2. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
• 3. Blue Spruce Park
• 4. Noble Stein Brewing Company
• 5. The Coney Restaurant
• 6. Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County
• 7. Waterworks Conservation Area

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Indiana

Things to do in indiana, tours near indiana.

Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take

Punxsutawney Groundhogs, Weather, Bill Murray & More in Self-Guided Walking Tour

Black & Ghost Tour

Fire in the Valley- Carnegie Steel and the Town That Built America

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Pittsburgh Penguins Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PPG Paints Arena

Whiskey Walking Tour

Bike the Burgh Tour

Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob - Two Visions of Frank Lloyd Wright

Top attractions in indiana.

Other Top Attractions around Indiana

What travellers are saying

• The Jimmy Stewart Museum
• Blue Spruce Park - Indiana Parks and Trails
• Iup Indiana pa
• Noble Stein Brewing Company
• Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County
• Getty Heights Park
• Optimist Park
• White Township Recreation Complex

Top Things to Do in Indiana

Things to do in indiana, tours near indiana.

Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take

Punxsutawney Groundhogs, Weather, Bill Murray & More in Self-Guided Walking Tour

Black & Ghost Tour

Fire in the Valley- Carnegie Steel and the Town That Built America

Best of the Burgh Walking Tour

New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk

Pittsburgh Penguins Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PPG Paints Arena

Whiskey Walking Tour

Bike the Burgh Tour

Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob - Two Visions of Frank Lloyd Wright

Top attractions in indiana.

Other Top Attractions around Indiana

What travelers are saying

• The Jimmy Stewart Museum
• Blue Spruce Park - Indiana Parks and Trails
• Iup Indiana pa
• Noble Stein Brewing Company
• Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County
• Getty Heights Park
• Optimist Park
• White Township Recreation Complex

Hometown of Jimmy Stewart

The christmas tree capital of the world.

• Documents, Forms, and Agendas

Visit Indiana, Pennsylvania

Things to do in indiana county.

This page consists of all resources for those who want to visit us here in Indiana County or if you live here and want to explore — we hope you find these links helpful! Whether you are looking to go hiking and exploring or whether you want to come see the many historical riches of our county, we trust you will have a great time!

Please note any external sources are provided for informational resources and are not managed or endorsed by Indiana County.

Buttermilk Falls

The 48-acre natural area was donated to Indiana County Parks in 1995 by the Keystone-Conemaugh Group, owners of the nearby Conemaugh Generating Station. As a natural area, the site has been set aside to protect both typical and unique plant and animal communities and to protect outstanding examples of natural beauty. 

Jimmy Stewart Museum

The Jimmy Stewart Museum, located in Indiana, Pennsylvania (Jimmy’s hometown) highlights its namesake’s accomplishments in film, radio, and TV. His roles as a military hero, civic leader, family man and world citizen are also woven into displays, film presentations, and gallery talks. There’s even a special room dedicated to his family’s long and colorful history in Western Pennsylvania

Indiana County Fair

Mission: The Indiana County Fair shall promote the growth and improvement of agriculture sciences; educate and provide for the exchange of information between the producers and consumer of food, fiber, and energy; and educate and provide a venue for the exchange of agricultural sciences among governmental agencies, local businesses and non-profit organizations.

Underground Railroad

Blairsville's location along the Conemaugh River at the southern edge of Indiana County provided many opportunities for growth. From its beginning in the early 1800s, the town benefitted from road, canal and railroad traffic. Many of the people who settled in the area had strict religious convictions and they became a strong force in the Underground Railroad movement.

Smicksburg, PA

Tucked away in a secluded section of Southwestern Pennsylvania are the communities of Smicksburg and Dayton. Though small in size, these towns have much to offer. Beautiful, country scenery, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, is just one of the attractions. These two small communities and the surrounding area are home to over 325 Old Order Amish families. 

Ghost Town Trail

The Ghost Town Trail totals 36 miles in Indiana and Cambria Counties, Pennsylvania. The trail was originally established in 1991 when the Kovalchick Salvage Company donated 16 miles of the former Ebensburg & Black Lick Railroad to Indiana County.

Visit Us Resources

Indiana county visitors bureau, historical and genealogical society, jimmy stewart airport.

Things To Do In Indiana, PA: Weekend Getaway

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Our first visit to Indiana, PA sort of happened by accident. With a plane obsessed toddler, a friend and I were looking around for a small airport that we could tour. The Indiana Airport was brought to our attention, and our love for the area started from there. Being from Eastern PA originally, I had heard of IUP, but my knowledge of Indiana County didn’t go much beyond that. It wasn’t until we started looking into things to do in Indiana, PA that I realized how much this adorable town has to offer.

With the proximity from Pittsburgh and Central Pennsylvania, Indiana County is the perfect place for a day trip or quick weekend getaway. Whether you want a little bit of history, outdoors or great restaurants, there’s something in Indiana County for the whole family.

Sponsored Post: We were hosted by the Indiana County Tourist Bureau. As always, all opinions are gladly our own. Be sure to contact Visit Indiana County, PA at 724-463-7505 if you’re planning to visit the area.

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Getting Around Indiana, PA

A car is definitely needed if you want to fully explore the Indiana County area. Downtown Indiana has metered parking and it is closely monitored. Be sure to bring extra quarters and change with you, since you likely will need to park on the street at least once.

Indiana also offers public bus transportation through IndiGO , the Indiana County Transit Authority.

The closest major airport is Pittsburgh International, located about 75 miles East of Indiana, PA. The Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Latrobe also offers access to the region from certain locations across the US. Arnold Palmer Airport is about 35 miles from Indiana, PA.

Things to Do in Indiana, PA

Whether you’re visiting Indiana, PA with kids or without, there’s really something to do for everyone. The downtown area is packed with locally owned shops and restaurants. Plus it has a friendly, small town feel you’d expect from this Western PA town. Indiana County is also rich in history, with several museums and historic buildings to tell the story of the area’s past.

Fun Fact: Indiana, PA is also known as the “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.” It was given this name for the extensive number of Christmas trees Indiana, PA grows and ships annually.

The Jimmy Stewart Museum

I heard of Jimmy Stewart, the Academy Award-winning actor, before visiting Indiana County. It wasn’t until I visited the museum, however, that I realized how important he was to both the history of Hollywood and Indiana, PA. Not only was he a decorated general and war hero, but he starred in so many great movies. A few of Jimmy Stewart’s most notable films included It’s a Wonderful Life , Harvey and Rear Window . We had a great time exploring the museum, and some of the highlights included:

• The actual door from Jimmy Stewart’s home on Roxbury Drive in Beverly Hills. (This serves as the starting point for the museum’s displays.)
• A number of photos telling Jimmy Stewart’s story, including several from his Hollywood days.
• Extensive information about the history of Jimmy Stewart’s upbringing in Indiana. There’s also a section with several items from his father’s former Hardware Store.
• Original movie posters from several movies Jimmy Stewart starred in.
• A remake of Jimmy Stewart’s office with his desk and several notable artifacts.
• A replica of Jimmy’s childhood bedroom. Includes the matching pair to his original bed, model airplanes and a globe.
• Movie theater with old Jimmy Stewart movies running daily.
• Several old uniforms and costumes belonging to Jimmy Stewart.

If you’re visiting Indiana, PA on a nice day, you can also walk up to Vinegar Hill to see Jimmy Stewart’s childhood home. The staff at the Jimmy Stewart Museum can point you in the right direction!

Know Before You Go: The Jimmy Stewart Museum is located at 835 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA. Admission is $9 for adults, $8 for Seniors and Military, $7 for children 7-17 and kids 6 and under are FREE. For more information on visiting the museum, including ticket pricing and hours, go to jimmy.org .

Indiana County Jimmy Stewart Airport

As mentioned previously, the Indiana County Jimmy Stewart Airport was actually what drew us to Indiana, PA in the first place. This public-use airport serves the surrounding area of Indiana County and has been operating as a public airport since 1959. Flying was especially significant the airports namesake, Jimmy Stewart, given his role in the U.S. Army Air Corps for years.

Our tour of the airport consisted of visiting several hangers to see a number of airplanes, including many from the mid 1900s. We learned a lot about different types of smaller planes, including some of the upkeep and maintenance required. The airport was fairly busy on the day that we were there, and the kids loved seeing a number of planes taking off and land.

The General Manager, Fred Fuellner, gave us the tour personally. It was clear that he loves sharing his passion and knowledge of flying with others. Tours are available upon request, and you can contact the Indiana County Jimmy Stewart Airport at 724-463-3883 or [email protected] to inquire.

Jimmy Stewart AirShow

The Indiana County Airport also started an airshow in recent years, with the 2019 show being held on June 8th and 9th. The Jimmy Stewart AirShow offers a ton of activities for people of all ages. This includes tethered hot air ballon rides and helicopter rides in addition to the airshow itself. There are also several activities specifically geared toward kids, including a jungle gym, obstacle course, parachute games and face painting. (Plus, admission is free for children 12 and under!) For more on Indiana County’s AirShow, see here .

Know Before You Go : The Jimmy Stewart Airport is located at 398 Airport Road, Indiana, PA 15701. Parking is free, and there is a large main building that offers restroom facilities and waiting area.

Nature Works Farm & Nursery

We were introduced by this farm in Homer City by the lovely staff at the Indiana County Tourist Bureau. We were so glad we visited, (especially my toddler-aged son who LOVED the farm.) Nature Works Farm is owned by the sweetest couple, Bob and Cassandra Madden. They had dreams of running their own farm after being actively involved with small scale farming, sustainability and education efforts. The primary business of this 35-acre farm is its nursery. Nature Works offers a huge variety of beautiful cut flowers and plants for sale, including many plant species I hadn’t seen before.

The main draw for my son was the number of animals on the farm, with a dog and a number of cats, chickens, goats, sheep, pigs and cows. There were several baby animals when we were there, including chicks, goats and piglets. The owners are deliberate about moving the animals around so they can play a key role in restoring the land. (Just one of many things we learned on our tour!)

Bob and Cassandra love giving tours of the farm and educating others on their practices. If you’re interested in a tour, contact them at 724-769-3276.

You can also find Nature Works selling produce seasonally at the Indiana County Farmers Market .

Know Before You Go: Nature Works Farm is located at 3741 Route 56 Highway East, Homer City PA 15748. They hold regular hours during the warmer months and are open daily from from mid April to June. Current hours are 9am- 6pm Monday- Saturday and 9am-1pm on Sundays.

Buttermilk Falls Natural Area

Prior to visiting the Indiana, PA area, I had no idea that that Buttermilk Falls existed. I’m so glad we made the 30 minute drive from Indiana, PA to stop there on our way home. Buttermilk Falls was originally owned by Fred McFeely. You may recognize McFeely as the grandfather to the famous Fred Rogers. (Yes, from *the* Mister Roger’s Neighborhood.) The actor often referenced his time on the property growing up.

The walk to the 45 foot waterfall is an easy 1/4 mile hike. There’s a scenic overlook of the Falls shortly after entering the trail. From there, the downhill path leads you to the bridge and steps to get down to the Falls. In 2017, Indiana County built a bridge and stairs that includes a grated walkway behind the Falls. So many people were walking back that they decided to make it safer for visitors to do so. Such a great move on their part!

Note: There’s a gate near the entrance to the triangle bridge. It appears closed, but it can be accessed by walking around it.

Visiting Buttermilk Falls with Small Children?

My son just turned 2, so I used our ergo360 carrier to hold him backpack-style for the hike to the waterfall. If I hadn’t done that, our short hike probably would’ve turned into hours! The stairs are easy enough for people of almost any age and physical ability to access, so realistically it would have been feasible even at 2. (With close supervision, of course.) Be prepared to get a little wet walking under the Falls.

Located next to Buttermilk Falls is the McFeely Trail. It’s more of a walking trail that my toddler son and his friend were able to hike independently. It’s well shaded and a great starter hike with children (or adults) of any age. There are also restrooms available and a covered area with picnic tables. We found a grassy area near the parking lot and had a picnic lunch, which I highly recommend!

Know Before You Go: Buttermilk Falls is located at 570 Valley Brook Rd, New Florence, PA 15944. The entrance and parking lot is located is accessed via a rural road that narrows to one way. Be careful to watch out for other cars as you get closer to the entrance. Check out the Buttermilk Falls brochure for more.

Mack Park and Indiana Community Garden

Mack Park is a great place for families in the area, and it has a big and colorful playground. There are several different components of the playground, including a separate toddler playground. If your kids are interested in skate boarding, there’s a huge skate park located on the premises as well. There is also a public pool at the park that’s available during the summer months.

Next to Mack Park is the Indiana Community Garden . Just like it sounds, it includes several flower beds maintained by the local community. The Community Garden holds group gardening and other events to teach the local community more about gardening. We were also there on a warm day, and the kids loved watering the flowers with the available watering cans.

Know Before You Go: Mack Park and the Community Garden are located at 750 South 6th Street, Indiana, Pennsylvania 15701. There are also restroom facilities available for public use at the park.

Indiana Free Library

We’re huge fans of our local library and love checking libraries out whenever we travel. The Indiana Free Library is housed in the same building as the Jimmy Stewart Museum. We were glad we made the stop after touring the museum, and my son loved the play area there. The employees working there were all extremely nice and helpful during our stop.

One of the great things about the Indiana Free Library is that their children’s programs don’t require registration. If you happen to be in the area, you can just drop-in to one of several story times and activities available for kids. Head to the Indiana Free Library website for more.

Know Before You Go : The Indiana Free Library is located at 845 Philadelphia Street, Indiana, PA 15701. Hours vary by day, and they’re open every day but Sunday.

If you’re interested in inspiring travel with your kids through reading, check out our children’s travel books page.

Indiana, PA Fire House

The Indiana Fire House isn’t technically an attraction, but I have to mention it since it’s honestly one of the nicest fire stations I’ve seen. We were lucky enough to get a tour of this beautiful fire station with one of the volunteer firemen. It’s definitely worth a stopping by if your kids love fire trucks like mine, especially since it’s located right in downtown Indiana. Just walk past the large windowed garage doors to see a few fire trucks up close.

Know Before You Go: The Indiana Fire House is located at 501 Philadelphia Street, Indiana, PA 15701.

Additional Things to Do in Indiana, PA

Below are a few other ideas of things to do in Indiana County. While we didn’t get to them on our recent trips to the area, they’re on our list for future visits.

• Smicksburg to experience Amish Country in Northern Indiana County.
• Self-guided covered bridge driving tour to see the 4 covered bridges in Indiana, PA.
• Underground railroad tour in Blairsville, PA
• Kart racing at Blairsville Speedway on Saturday nights
• Palace Drive-In Movie Theater
• Hiking on one of many Rails-to-Trails in Indiana County

Restaurants in Indiana, PA

With so many great places to eat around Indiana, PA, a couple of days just wasn’t enough time. In addition to the great restaurants, the locally owned coffee shops in Indiana, PA far exceeded my expectations. Not only did they have really good coffee, but they were all very kid-friendly. (So much that I would consider the coffee shops attractions for families in themselves!)

Commonplace Coffee

You may recognize the name of this coffee shop given its locations all over Pittsburgh. You may not realize though, that Commonplace actually started in Indiana, the town that the owners and their family call home. They treat coffee like an art form here, and everything I saw served from the barista looked almost too good to drink. (My cold brew coffee was also perfect for a hot day!)

Given that the owners have 3 boys, there’s also a huge selection of toys available to play with. My 2-year old also highly recommends the sugar cookie jam-packed with sprinkles.

• Location: 1176 Grant Street, Indiana, PA
• Website : https://commonplacecoffee.com/indiana-penna/

The Artist’s Hand Gallery

This mixed use space is both a gallery for local artists to showcase their work and a cafe. We stopped here for lunch, and I had a freshly prepared panini for lunch and an Italian soda. (Both of which were tasty!) We loved the added touch of the daily quote that came with our lunch. The Artists Hand Gallery also offer a full espresso bar as well as baked goods from the local bakery, Six Hands Bakery . While you’re there, take the time time to browse the artwork displaced throughout the gallery. There are many items available for sale as well.

If you’re visiting the Artists Hand Gallery with kids, be sure to seek out the bookshelf by the coffee bar. It’s filled with Legos, crayons and a few other things to keep the kids occupied.

• Location : 732 Philadelphia Street, Indiana, PA
• Website : https://www.theartistshandgallery.com

Caffe Amadeus

Caffe Amadeus makes you feel like you’re stepping into a European cafe from the moment you enter its doors. Its namesake, the composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is the inspiration for much of the decor. In addition to the full service barista, Caffe Amadeus roasts its own coffee beans. (My friend also swears by their chai tea!) This cafe also sells a variety of baked goods and other food for sale.

Despite the air of sophistication when you first enter, Caffe Amadeus is super kid-friendly. There are several seating areas throughout this large coffee shop. Plus there’s a big kids area in the back that includes so many toys and games for kids of all ages. (So parents can actually drink their coffee before it gets cold!)

• Location : 628 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA
• Website : https://www.restaurantji.com/pa/indiana/caff-amadeus-roast-and-brew-/

Philly Street Station

Philly Street Station is a newly opened restaurant located in an old train station. This original train station building dates back to 1901 and the restaurant maintained many of the original features. Be sure to read the book found on each table, which shares the history of the Indiana B R&P Rail Station.

The interior of the restaurant is filled with train memorabilia and pictures, making it the perfect place to dine if you love trains. My son also had a chance to wear the special conductors hat to “turn on” the model train. The train runs around the interior of the dining room, and he was super excited to see it at the end of our meal.

The menu at Philly Street Station is expansive, and I had the fish tacos at the recommendation of the server. The tacos were super flavorful and the blackened Walleye was cooked perfectly. My son picked the pizza and tater tots from the kids menu. He loved it so much that he ate more than I’ve ever seen him eat out to dinner!

• Location: 1125 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA 15701
• Website: https://www.phillystreetstation.com

Benjamin’s Restaurant

This lunch and dinner spot has a unique mix of vintage decor in a Victorian house. Even the ladies’ room is fully decorated, with vintage hats and a clawfoot tub. There is also ample dining outdoors, with a mix of umbrella covered tables and covered patios. We were fortunate to be there on a nice day and enjoy the seating on the outside patio.

If you’re visiting with kids, be prepared that the inside comes across as a little formal. The entire restaurant is still kid-friendly, though! The service and food were both great, and they offer a large menu with a huge variety.

• Location: 458 Philadelphia Street, Indiana, PA 15701
• Website: http://benjaminsindianapa.com

The Meadows Frozen Custard

No trip to Indiana is complete without a stop at Meadows for a frozen treat. This frozen custard stop has a number of rotating daily flavors in addition to its staple menu. Our vanilla and pistachio custard was delicious and the portions are huge. The store offers both indoor seating and ample benches and tables to sit outside. The Meadows is a franchise, but the location at Indiana has been around for almost 30 years.

• Website: http://meadowsfrozencustard.com/columns/indiana/

When dining in Indiana, PA, know that some restaurants are closed on Sundays. (Always check the website or call first!) A few other restaurants on our list for next time include: Steel City Sammiches, Josephine’s Pizzeria & Enoteca and Ninth Street Deli. Indiana, PA also has a number of wineries and breweries that can be found here .

Where to Stay in Indiana, PA

We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn, Indiana at IUP during our latest visit and can’t say enough good things about this hotel. The hotel is conveniently located on the edge of IUP’s campus, just behind the football stadium. It’s also a quick drive to downtown Indiana and in close proximity to other attractions in Indiana County.

The check in process at the hotel is super easy and my 2-year old was thrilled to be greeted with a basket of toys to choose from. (Something the hotel does for all kids staying there.) These added touches make the Hilton Garden Inn at IUP a great place for families. There’s also a great indoor pool at the hotel.

To book the Hilton Garden Inn at IUP, click here .

Rooms and Dining at the Hilton Garden Inn Indiana at IUP

We stayed in a 1-Bedroom King Suite, and the separate bedroom and huge living room area is perfect for families. The room comes with a jetted bathtub and a 1/2 bath, plus a wet bar area with a fridge. Our room was extremely clean and recently remodeled, with all the features you need for a home away from home.

We also had a chance to enjoy the hotel’s breakfast during our stay. There’s a buffet of fresh fruit and pastries with make-your-own waffles. Unlike some other hotel breakfasts, it’s fully serviced and they also offer eggs and pancakes made-to-order. We had veggie omelets and the special of the day, which was yummy chocolate pancakes.

Every employee we encountered during our stay was super friendly and helpful. From the staff to the rooms and amenities, we definitely recommend the Hilton Garden Inn Indiana at IUP.

To book the Hilton Garden Inn at IUP hotel, click here .

Please share in the comments if you’ve been to Indiana County and have additional favorites that should be added for our next trip!

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14 thoughts on “Things To Do In Indiana, PA: Weekend Getaway”

You son is adorable! I’m always looking for family friendly places to go and this is only a 4-5 hour drive away.

Thanks so much! Indiana PA is such a cute town and the waterfall hike his beautiful too!

What a fun little town! it’s not too far from us, so we could easily do an overnight there. thanks for sharing!

Thanks for reading! Indiana is adorable and definitely worth an overnight trip!

What a fun read! I played a few volleyball matches at IUP back in college. It seemed like such a charming town even just driving through! Thanks for all the info! Next time I’m up north I’ll have to make it a point to stop by again! 🙂

That’s so awesome! Indiana, PA is definitely worth the stop!

Love that you also check out libraries when you travel! We do too. We just left a town in Nova Scotia, Canada with one of the best kid’s libraries I have ever seen: a slide, play kitchen, puzzle table, ipads with educational games, dollhouse, wii, lego, a baby area, a sensory area, and oh yeah, a great collection of books. We went three times! Great way to entertain kids for free and to have a chance to sit down for an hour 🙂

Absolutely!! That library sounds amazing!

Indiana looks so pretty, me and my daughter would love to try that airport tour!

The Jimmy Stewart Airport was pretty great! My son was in heaven.

Indiana looks like the next place to visit. This post is making me fall in love!

Glad to hear that! Indiana, PA is definitely a great little town!

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My mother was born in Indians, PA in 1912 and family friends with the Stewart family. I have never been there, but feel I should visit after reading this.

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Top Things to Do in Indiana, PA

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Walking and Driving Tours

Home » Explore Indiana County » Walking and Driving Tours

Lush countryside and scenic back roads are the backdrop to Indiana County’s driving and walking tours.   There are scheduled tours on select dates for people who enjoy guided tours as well as “do-at-your-own-pace” tours for those that would rather have a little more freedom and flexibility.

Maps are available for select tours. Contact our office for more assistance: [email protected] or 724.463.7505 

WalkWorks of Indiana County, PA!

Guided & self-guided tours with pre-designed routes available! In   2015 ,  Indiana County was selected to participate in the  WalkWorks program.  WalkWorks provides numerous community-based walking routes and other self-guided tours as well as information on walking groups.  An annual decathlon also occurs, highlighting the area.  Examples walks include: Jim Nance Memorial Walk, White’s Woods Scavenger Hunt Bingo, a self-guided tour of Oakland Cemetery plus more!

Covered Bridge Driving Tour

Drive the 36-mile round-trip scenic tour. At one time there were more than 48 covered bridges Indiana County, PA.  Now, the 4 remaining covered bridges, constructed in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Underground Railroad and Historic Walking Tours

Step back in time on a self-guided walking tour of downtown Indiana’s historic sites. Learn about the area’s rich history, whether it be the ties to the Underground Railroad and the fight for freedom, or the business and industry that propelled the town into its golden age.

Blairsville Area Underground Railroad (UGRR) Blairsville UGRR Walking Tour Map   Blairsville Area Historical Society   Historical & Genealogical Society of Indiana County   Indiana Historic 6th Street Walking Tour Map

Mural & Sculpture Walking Tours

In 2020, Spruce Arts collaborated with Dripped on the Road to paint murals in downtown Indiana, PA.  In 2021, murals then came to Blairsville, PA.

Indiana Mural Walking Tour Blairsville Mural Walking Tour Blairsville Sculpture Walking Tour

Jimmy Stewart Hometown Tour

Famous Hollywood actor, Jimmy Stewart was born right here in Indiana County, PA!  Take a hometown tour to see places such as where his family’s hardware store once stood, the church he attended, the childhood home he once lived  – and much more!  Conclude your tour with a visit to the Jimmy Stewart Museum!

Schedule an official Jimmy Stewart Hometown Tour       Self-Guided Hometown Walk

IUP Campus Tour

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers an amazing tour available for perspective students, visitors, current students, parents and anyone else interested in exploring everything available on the campus, including the Kovalchick Complex, the Lively Arts and much more.

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Ecotour GeoTrail

A Self-Guided Tour: The EcoTour GeoTrail consists of 20 geocaches hidden at sites of environmental significance to help you learn more about Indiana County and the environment. Each geocache contains a “codeword”. Collect all 20 geocache codewords for a GeoCoin! Evergreen Conservancy

Potters Studio Tour

A Self-Guided Driving Tour: Held annually in October, the potters located in Indiana County, PA open their studios for visitors to drive from studio to studio and discover the talents of many artisans, each specializing in their own style and genre of pottery.

Explore the Saltsburg Area

Visit Canal Park in Saltsburg to learn about the industrial heritage of the area, which is conveniently located by the West Penn Trail, a 12 mile path following the route of the West Penn Rail Road from near Blairsville paralleling the Canal Park through Saltsburg.

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News, Updates & Information

Iup offering footlight players summer youth theatre program this summer, statler foundation news & economic impact report, hilton garden inn indiana at iup partners with lively arts to present premier international dance ensembles.

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Things to Do with Kids in Indiana, PA

• TripBuzz found 27 things to do with kids in or near Indiana, Pennsylvania, including 15 fun activities for kids in nearby cities within 25 miles like Johnstown and Latrobe .
• From Mohawk Lanes to Indiana Skating Center, the Indiana area offers 37 different types of family activities, including: Theaters, History Museums, Bowling and Movie Theaters.
• Indiana is a small borough in Pennsylvania's Indiana County. Home to many Christmas Tree farms, the city is the self-proclaimed Christmas Tree Capital of the World. The area features a charming historic downtown district with many historical buildings including an old jail, courthouse and market. Other points of interest in the areas small town charm and laid back pace.

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Indiana skating center, s&t bank arena, james m. stewart museum, jimmy stewart museum, carmike cinema 4, james m stewart museum foundation, white township recreation complex, palace gardens drive-in theatre, philadelphia street playhouse.

More From Forbes

438 places in the u.s. to get free solar eclipse glasses—starting monday.

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Eye care company MyEyeDr. will give away free solar eclipse glasses ahead of the solar eclipse on ... [+] April 8.

Corrected, Mar. 25. 2024: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated said that MyEyeDr. was giving away free eclipse glasses to customers in Texas who purchase a complete pair of glasses or contact lenses.

Eye care company MyEyeDr. has announced that it will give away over 90,000 free solar eclipse glasses ahead of the total solar eclipse on April 8.

That giveaway begins Monday. The vision care company is partnering with volunteer charity Prevent Blindness to provide thousands of free solar eclipse glasses to over 400 locations in 20 U.S. states from March 25-April 8 while supplies last.

Free Solar Eclipse Glasses

The company has announced that from March 25, “prospective patients and community members” can visit their local MyEyeDr. to get a pair of free solar eclipse glasses—while supplies last.

The 438 participating locations are in 12 of the 15 U.S. states touched by the path of totality (numbers of stores are in brackets):

• Arkansas (5), Illinois (37), Indiana (44), Kentucky (8), Michigan (62), New Hampshire (13), New York (6), Ohio (31), Oklahoma (8), Pennsylvania (33), Tennessee (15), Texas (90) and Vermont (3).

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As well as eight other U.S. states:

• Alabama (11), Connecticut (33), Louisiana (1), Massachusetts (18), Maryland (7), Virginia (3), Wisconsin (2) and West Virginia (8).

Everyone in North America will see a partial eclipse of the sun on April 8.

Safety Tips for the Total Solar Eclipse

As well as announcing the giveaway, MyEyeDr published some safety tips for the eclipse:

• Never look directly into the sun.
• Carefully inspect your solar filters or eclipse glasses before using them. Do not use if damaged or scratched.
• Make sure you cover your eyes fully with your eclipse glasses or solar viewer before looking up. Do not remove while looking at the sun.
• Be careful when purchasing the various’ eclipse glasses’ found online .
• Not even your darkest, UV-blocking sunglasses can completely protect your eyes from damage caused by looking directly at the sun during the eclipse.
• There are ways to enjoy the eclipse safely without solar eclipse glasses, such as building an eclipse-viewing box (pinhole camera).

If you’re in the path of totality, you’ll also need to know when it’s safe to remove your eclipse glasses during totality .

“There’s no better time to do so than this historical and exciting event that can have real eye health implications,” said Artis Beatty, Chief Medical Officer at MyEyeDr.

For the latest on the total solar eclipse—including travel and lodging options— check my main feed for new articles daily.

Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.

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If I miss this eclipse, when is the next solar eclipse after 2024?

According to NASA , the next solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States will be visible in 2044 .

What is the path of the solar eclipse?

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Where are the best places to view the eclipse?

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See USA TODAY’s April 2024 total solar eclipse guide

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Little Rock, AR

Jonesboro, AR

Pine Bluff, AR (city is outside the path of totality, residents will want to head toward Little Rock, Hot Springs, Conway or nearby areas.)

Missouri solar eclipse:

Poplar Bluff, MO

Charleston, MO

Perryville, MO

St. Louis, MO (city is outside the path of totality, residents will want to head toward Saint Francois, Perryville, Tilden, Pinckneyville or nearby areas.)

Kentucky solar eclipse:

Paducah, KY

Morganfield, KY

Louisville, KY (city is outside the path of totality, residents will want to head toward Jennings, Hitchcock, Bloomington, Indianapolis or nearby areas.)

Illinois solar eclipse:

Pinckneyville, IL

Carbondale, IL

Harrisburg, IL

Mount Vernon, IL

Indiana solar eclipse:

Evansville, IN

Terre Haute, IN

Bloomington, IN

Indianapolis, IN

Fort Wayne IN (city is outside the path of totality, residents will want to head toward St. Marys, Jefferson, Munch, Indianapolis or nearby areas.)

Ohio solar eclipse:

Springfield, OH

Jefferson, OH

Findlay, OH

Cleveland, OH

Cincinnati, OH (city is outside the path of totality, residents will want to head toward Dayton, Springfield or nearby areas.)

Columbus, OH (city is outside the path of totality, residents will want to head toward Paris, Dayton, Springfield or nearby areas.)

Youngstown, OH (city is outside the path of totality, residents will want to head toward Akron, Auburn, Cleveland, Meadville, PA, or nearby areas.)

Michigan solar eclipse:

Only a small patch of southeastern Michigan near the Ohio border will be in the path of totality. Detroit residents will want to head toward Toledo, OH.

Pennsylvania solar eclipse:

Meadville, PA

Bloomfield, PA

New York solar eclipse:

Jamestown, NY

Buffalo, NY

Niagara Falls, NY

Rochester, NY

Syracuse, NY

Watertown, NY

Plattsburgh, NY

Vermont solar eclipse:

Burlington, VT

Enosburg Falls, VT

St. Johnsbury, VT

Newport, VT

New Hampshire solar eclipse:

Colebrook, NH

Maine solar eclipse:

Rangeley, ME

Jackman, ME

Troutdale, ME

Lincoln, ME

Pine Knoll, ME

Millinocket, ME

Danforth, ME

Canada solar eclipse:

Leamington, Ontario

Brantford, Ontario

Brighton, Ontario

Kingston, Ontario

Cornwall, Ontario

Montreal, Quebec

Granby, Quebec

Sherbrooke, Quebec

Saint-Georges, Quebec

Lac-Megantic, Quebec

Is it safe to view the solar eclipse?

Not without protection. Here’s what NASA advises :

“Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s bright face, it is not safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing. Viewing any part of the bright Sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury. When watching the partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must look through safe solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times. You can also use an indirect viewing method, such as a pinhole projector.​”

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Look up —

Seeing this eclipse is probably the highest-reward, lowest-effort thing one can do in life, don't not see it..

Eric Berger - Mar 25, 2024 1:32 pm UTC

If you enter "how to see the eclipse" into your favorite search engine, you're bound to see thousands—millions?—of helpful guides. Some of these are extremely detailed and thorough, almost as if the author were getting paid by the word or augmented by AI.

In reality, seeing a solar eclipse is just about the easiest thing one can do in one's life. Like, it's difficult to think of anything else that has the greatest reward-lowest effort ratio in life. You just need to know a couple of things. For the sake of simplicity, here is Ars' four-step guide to having a four-star eclipse-viewing experience. Steps are listed in order of ascending importance.

Step 1 : Identify the path of totality. This is where the total solar eclipse will be visible on April 8. The National Solar Observatory has a good map here . Click on the map to get the exact timing. It's time and place sorted.

Step 2 : Obtain solar eclipse glasses. These will be for sale everywhere, but don't forget them, and make sure they're ISO certified so your eyes don't get fried. A pair should cost about $2. You don't need to pay more than that.

Step 3 : Check the weather forecast. This is the second-most important step, after step 4. Seriously, nothing sucks worse than an eclipse with cloudy skies. (Well, an eclipse with cloudy skies and a car wreck on the way home sucks worse, so drive carefully.) Generally, the further southwest one goes on the path of totality, the greater the chance of clear skies. But that's climatology, not weather forecasting. As a meteorologist, I'm watching this closely, but it is still way too early to make a sensible forecast for which locations will see clear skies and which ones will be cloudy two weeks from now. We should have a better sense of things in about a week, especially for areas where high pressure will dominate. But for some locations, we may not really have a good handle on the forecast for days, or even hours, before totality. Yes, cloud cover can be that tricky.

Step 4 : Look up.

That's it. Really. You can go to a special eclipse party to see it, but the experience is going to be the same whether you're parked alongside a rural road in Arkansas or watching with thousands of friends in Indianapolis.

In reality, a total solar eclipse is probably going to be the most spectacular celestial event most of us see in our lifetimes. Certainly, there could be more spectacular ones. A supernova within 100 light-years of Earth would be amazing. Witnessing a large asteroid streaking through Earth's atmosphere before impact would be incredible.

Unfortunately, those would also be lethal.

reader comments

Channel ars technica.

Solar eclipse path 2024: Search for best viewing time for any city by ZIP code

• Published: Mar. 22, 2024, 4:41 p.m.

An interactive online tool from NASA allows you to search by ZIP code to determine the exact viewing time for you to see the April 8 solar eclipse. This map shows the path of totality the eclipse will take as it crosses North America, passing over Mexico, the United States and Canada. NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio

• Robert Higgs, cleveland.com

WASHINGTON – The solar eclipse that will sweep across North America on Monday, April 8 will be visible in some form in virtually every part of the United States, including a belt that covers millions of Americans who will be able to see a total solar eclipse.

But just how much will you be able to see from your front doorstep? NASA has an online tool to help you find out.

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a narrow track stretching from Texas to Maine on April 8, 2024. A partial eclipse will be visible throughout all 48 of the contiguous states.

The tool prepared by NASA can help you determine just how much of the sun will disappear behind the moon during the eclipse, based on your ZIP code location, and when.

The tool provides a map showing the belt of total coverage, breaking down just how long that totality of the eclipse will last. For areas outside that belt of totality, it provides estimates for how much of the sun will be covered by the moon.

For example, Cleveland, which is in the belt, will have a total eclipse that will last 3 minutes and 49 seconds beginning just before 3:34 p.m. on April 8, the NASA tool shows.

Cincinnati, which is just outside the belt of the total eclipse, will have maximum coverage of 99.8% at 3:09 p.m.

To the east in Washington, maximum coverage of 87.4% will be visible about 3:20 p.m.

An accompanying map details the percentage of the sun that will be covered for points all across the country.

NASA expects the eclipse to begin over the Pacific Ocean. The first point where it will pass over land is on the western coast of Mexico. The total solar eclipse then will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States and Canada.

The path of the total eclipse across the United States will pass over Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

The eclipse will enter Canada in Southern Ontario, and continue through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton and Newfoundland before moving over the Atlantic Ocean.

Eclipse 2024 coverage

• Does your dog need solar glasses for the eclipse?
• Airfare, hotel rates spike in Cleveland in advance of solar eclipse
• How to be a stellar host or guest for solar eclipse visits
• Eclipse fervor gives Cleveland-area astronomy clubs chance to shine, attract new members
• Watch Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, others discuss April 8 solar eclipse at 1 p.m. (live stream)

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Follow a mile-by-mile map of the total solar eclipse

On April 8, the sun, moon and Earth will enter the precise alignment of a total solar eclipse. The moon will block the sun, casting a shadow across a strip of North America from the Pacific Ocean west of Mexico, through 15 U.S. states, to the Atlantic off Canada.

This strip, roughly 4,000 miles long and 115 miles wide, is called the path of totality. For a short while, everyone and everything in this path will experience midday darkness.

The beginning

2:07-2:11 p.m.

Total time eclipsed

Historic cloud coverage

The moon’s shadow makes landfall in Mexico at 2:07 p.m. Eastern time, casting the first region into darkness. Here, darkness lasts for about four minutes near the center of the path, but decreases in time toward the edges.

A populous path

Nearly 32 million people live in the path of totality this year. The eclipse crosses the homes of more people in Texas alone than the 2017 eclipse crossed nationally.

Eagle Pass, Tex.

2:27-2:31 p.m.

The eclipse crosses into the United States in Eagle Pass, Tex. The border town will be dark for 4 minutes and 23 seconds — over a minute longer than the 2017 eclipse lasted anywhere.

2:35-2:39 p.m.

A 195-mile stretch of Interstate 35 between Austin and Dallas is in the path. Texas officials are already warning drivers not to stop on roadways during the eclipse. You'd have to drive 1,950 miles an hour to keep up with the moon's shadow.

2:40-2:44 p.m.

The nation’s second busiest airport, Dallas Fort Worth International, lies in the path of totality. The airport said flights will not be affected. Some airlines are even offering special flights timed to the eclipse to extend your time in totality.

Hot Springs National Park

2:48-2:53 p.m.

In Arkansas lies Hot Springs National Park, one of two national parks in the path of totality. Parks across the country, even those not in totality, are planning livestreams, shows and talks for the eclipse.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

2:55-2:59 p.m.

Just like many humans, Smokey Bear is also traveling into the path of totality. A 97-foot-tall hot air balloon bearing Smokey’s face is traveling from New Mexico to the Ozarks to remind visitors how to prevent wildfires.

Carbondale, Ill.

2:59-3:03 p.m.

Just past the Mississippi River is Carbondale, Ill., which has billed itself the “Eclipse Crossroads of America” because it sat in the path of the 2017 eclipse.

Check the forecast

At this point in the path, the weather forecast becomes critical for eclipse seekers. The areas from here on are typically cloudier in April than the previous areas, according to an analysis of cloud cover data.

3:13-3:17 p.m.

The eclipse crosses the Cleveland Guardians’s baseball stadium on the team's home opener at about 3:15 p.m. But rather than be interrupted by nearly four minutes of darkness, the game will start two hours after the moon’s shadow passes by.

An influential eclipse

The eclipse next passes over land historically populated by the Haudenosaunee, also known as the Iroquois. Researchers disagree on when the Iroquois Confederacy was established. But tribal oral history indicates the Seneca joined the alliance shortly after witnessing a solar eclipse, which researchers suggest occurred in this area in 1142.

Burlington, Vt.

3:25-3:28 p.m.

About 13,000 schools are in the path of totality, including more than 300 in Vermont. Some plan to incorporate experiencing the eclipse into their lessons, but others plan to let kids out of school early to help avoid traffic bottlenecks.

Piscataquis County, Maine

3:30-3:34 p.m.

The final 150 miles of the Appalachian Trail lie in the path of totality, including Mount Katahdin, the highest point in Maine.

Gulf of St. Lawrence

3:32-3:35 p.m.

The eclipse finally passes over Prince Edward Island before its last hurrah over Newfoundland in Canada, completing its North American journey in a bit more than two hours.

Totality at 2:07 p.m. EDT

About this story

Population calculated by summing 2020 population estimates in 30 arc-second grid cells within the path of totality. Distance covered calculated from the centerline of the path.

Sources: NASA, European Space Agency, U.S. Geological Survey, Natural Earth Data, Census Bureau, OpenStreetMap, GOES imagery analysis by University of Wisconsin at Madison Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies, Center for International Earth Science Information Network

Szu Yu Chen and Lauren Tierney contributed to this report. Editing by Emily M. Eng, Tim Meko and Victoria Jaggard. Copy editing by Angela Mecca.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Northern lights predicted in US and UK on Monday night in wake of solar storms

Spectacular aurora borealis caused by geomagnetic storms on sun’s surface may be visible in North America as far south as the midwest

• Northern and southern lights: share your pictures

Solar eruptions are sending a stream of particles towards Earth, creating spectacular auroras in both hemispheres.

The aurora borealis – in the northern hemisphere – will be potentially visible on Monday night in the US as far south as the midwest. The northern lights, more commonly seen within the Arctic Circle, could also be visible in Scotland.

In the southern hemisphere, the aurora australis could be visible in southern Australia, from Victoria to Western Australia.

The shimmering spectacle comes on the same night as a penumbral lunar eclipse, which will be visible around the world.

Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology’s space weather forecasting centre issued an aurora alert on Monday morning, saying a severe solar storm was in progress and the southern lights could be visible.

The storms are caused by coronal mass ejections, when clouds of plasma erupt from the sun’s outer atmosphere. Particles stream towards Earth, creating the spectacular display as they strike the Earth’s magnetic field.

In Australia, the storm peaked at 6 on the Kaus Index, a scale of one to eight measuring geomagnetic activity, meaning auroras will potentially be visible across Tasmania, along Victoria’s coastline and even on Western Australia’s south-west coast.

Both types of aurora are more commonly seen near the magnetic poles, in northern Canada and off the coast of Antarctica. Magnetic poles drift, and are not the same as the geographic poles.

The more severe the storm, the further away from the poles the auroras appear.

Severe storms can disrupt power networks and the satellites that provide navigation, surveillance and communication services. They can also pose a radiation risk to astronauts and people in high-flying aircraft.

A BoM spokesperson said significant space weather had “the potential to impact technology and critical infrastructure assets on Earth and in the near-Earth space environment”.

The BoM advises people hoping to see the aurora australis to find somewhere dark, like a beach or a hill with an unobstructed view south. Dark, moonless, cloudless skies away from city lights are ideal, and the best viewing time is between 10pm and 2am.

Last year, there were reports of shimmering night skies from Busselton in WA, to Ballarat and Canberra.

Macquarie University astronomer Dr Stuart Ryder said the 11-year solar cycle was likely nearing its peak this year.

“It goes from a relatively benign, calm state with very few sunspots on the surface to a very active phase about five or six years later, with a maximum number of sun spots,” he said.

“It’s much more likely to release huge flares of energy, enormous quantities of charged particles radiating away from the sun … their characteristic colours are green or red but people report blues, yellows, even purples.

“The more powerful the flare and the more it puts out, the greater the chance that people who live more towards the equator might get to see them.”

The BoM spokesperson said the current cycle began in 2019.

“The original prediction … was that solar maximum for this cycle would be reached in 2025, however, recent consensus amongst space weather researchers is that this cycle is likely to peak earlier, potentially in 2024,” the spokesperson said.

“This implies a higher level of solar activity over the next few years, but significant space weather can occur at other times in the cycle too.”

Meanwhile, at about 7pm tonight in Sydney and 7.30pm in Melbourne, the Earth’s shadow, or penumbra, will dim the moon.

The eclipse will be visible in spots including parts of Europe, North and South America, as well as parts of Asia and Africa. The details for people hoping to catch it are published on timeanddate.com .

Ryder said the eclipse will be half over by the time the moon clears the horizon. “Even when it does, the moon won’t pass through the deepest part of the Earth’s shadow,” he said. “It will be a full moon, and the upper part could appear a bit darker, because it’s deeper into the Earth’s shadow.

“Then the moon will move out of the shadow that it’s in and will be restored to full brightness … which unfortunately could ruin people’s chances of seeing the aurora.”

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