Cassandra Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cassandra, Pennsylvania.
1. Cassandra Railroad Overlook
HISTORIC RAILFAN VIEWPOINT
The Cassandra Railroad Overlook is a pedestrian-only bridge spanning the train tracks in Cassandra, offering prime views of Norfolk Southern's busy Pittsburgh Line. Once part of Pennsylvania Route 53 until 1936, this overlook was transformed in the late 1990s into a park with picnic tables and benches. Rail enthusiasts from around the world visit this vantage point to witness the majesty of modern railroading.
2. Portage Station Museum
LOCAL RAIL HISTORY
The Portage Station Museum showcases the rich railroad history of the region with engaging exhibits and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the fascinating development of rail transportation in the area and its impact on local communities. The museum offers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of railroading through its carefully preserved collections.
3. Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
REVOLUTIONARY TRANSPORTATION HISTORY
The Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site commemorates the first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains, a critical link in the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal system. Visitors can explore the Lemon House, an original tavern that served travelers, and see a recreated engine house with a full-size replica of a steam-powered inclined plane. The site features hiking trails and exhibits explaining how this engineering marvel helped open the American West to trade and settlement.
4. Gallitzin Tunnels Park & Museum
ENGINEERING MARVEL SHOWCASE
Gallitzin Tunnels Park & Museum highlights the impressive railroad tunnels that cut through the Allegheny Mountains. The museum exhibits detail the incredible engineering feats required to construct these tunnels in the 19th century. Visitors can watch active trains passing through the tunnels from safe observation areas while learning about the railroad's impact on the region's development.
5. Cresson Railroad Observation Platform
EYE-LEVEL TRAIN WATCHING
The Cresson Railroad Observation Platform offers one of the best eye-level railroad overlooks near Altoona. Located right next to the railroad tracks, visitors can see and literally feel the passing trains from this elevated deck. The platform provides an immersive railfan experience that attracts train enthusiasts from across the country.
6. Sunken Gardens at Mount Assisi
SERENE HISTORIC GARDENS
The Sunken Gardens at Mount Assisi are part of the beautifully manicured grounds of the Saint Francis Friary in Cambria County. Open to the public from dawn until dusk and free of charge, these gardens comprise 3.5 acres of fountains, statues, and gorgeous landscaping. Some elements of this tranquil retreat date back more than 100 years, offering visitors a peaceful escape into natural beauty and history.
7. Spider-Man Mural in Johnstown
COMIC LEGEND TRIBUTE
The Spider-Man mural in Johnstown is a tribute to Johnstown native, legendary comic-book artist, and Spider-Man co-creator Steve Ditko. This vibrant public artwork celebrates the city's connection to one of the most iconic superheroes in popular culture. The mural has become a popular photo spot for both comic book fans and tourists exploring Johnstown's cultural attractions.
8. Johnstown Flood Museum
HISTORIC DISASTER MEMORIAL
The Johnstown Flood Museum commemorates the devastating 1889 flood that claimed over 2,200 lives and destroyed much of the city. Housed in the former Johnstown library, the museum features exhibits including a relief map showing the path of the flood and the Academy Award-winning documentary 'The Johnstown Flood'. Visitors can experience an immersive understanding of this catastrophic event that changed American attitudes toward disaster relief and liability.
9. Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
ENGINEERING WONDER VIEWPOINT
The Horseshoe Curve is a famous railroad engineering landmark that allows trains to gradually climb the steep grade of the Allegheny Mountains. Completed in 1854, this marvel features a visitor center with exhibits explaining the curve's construction and significance in American transportation history. Visitors can climb 194 steps or take a funicular to the viewing area where they can watch trains navigate the impressive curved track.
10. Prince Gallitzin State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Prince Gallitzin State Park offers 6,249 acres of outdoor recreation centered around the 1,635-acre Glendale Lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and hiking across the park's extensive trail system. The park is named after Prince Demetrius Augustine Gallitzin, a Russian nobleman who became a missionary priest and founded the nearby community of Loretto.
11. Rock Run Recreation Area
ATV ADVENTURE PARADISE
Rock Run Recreation Area features over 140 miles of trails specifically designed for off-road enthusiasts across 6,000 acres of rugged terrain. The park offers trails for all skill levels, from beginner paths to challenging routes with steep climbs and technical obstacles. Visitors can enjoy camping facilities, events throughout the riding season, and some of the best ATV, UTV, and dirt bike experiences in the northeastern United States.
12. The Station Inn
HISTORIC RAILFAN LODGING
The Station Inn is a bed and breakfast specifically catering to railroad enthusiasts, located just minutes from multiple train-watching spots including the Cassandra Railroad Overlook. This historic inn offers comfortable accommodations with train-themed decor and amenities designed for the serious railfan. Guests can enjoy front-row views of passing trains, railfan camaraderie, and easy access to numerous railroad attractions in the region.
13. Johnstown Inclined Plane
STEEPEST VEHICULAR INCLINE
The Johnstown Inclined Plane is the steepest vehicular inclined plane in the world, carrying both passengers and cars up a 71.9% grade. Built after the devastating 1889 flood, it served as both transportation and an escape route from potential future flooding for residents living on Westmont Hill. Visitors can ride the historic funicular and enjoy panoramic views of Johnstown from the observation deck at the upper station.
14. Coal Country Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Coal Country Brewing is a craft brewery celebrating the region's coal mining heritage through its atmosphere and uniquely named beverages. The brewery offers a rotating selection of house-made beers along with a menu of pub fare featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Visitors can enjoy the rustic ambiance, regular live music events, and a taste of authentic local culture in this popular gathering spot.
15. Duman Lake County Park
FAMILY RECREATION AREA
Duman Lake County Park offers 62 acres of recreational opportunities centered around a picturesque 20-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking along the park's scenic trails. The park features modern facilities including pavilions, playgrounds, and sports fields, making it a perfect destination for family outings in all seasons.