Portage Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Portage, Pennsylvania.
1. Portage Station Museum
HISTORIC RAILROAD MUSEUM
Portage Station Museum celebrates the region's rich railroad heritage in a restored historic train station. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits on transportation history, local industry, and railroad memorabilia. The museum offers an immersive glimpse into the development of Portage as a transport hub.
2. Germantown Winery
LOCAL WINERY EXPERIENCE
Germantown Winery is a popular local spot offering tastings of wines produced from Pennsylvania grapes. The cozy setting and friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere for both wine enthusiasts and casual visitors. Special events and seasonal releases make each visit unique and memorable.
3. Crichton McCormick Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION PARK
Crichton McCormick Park serves as Portage's primary outdoor recreation space, featuring athletic fields, playgrounds, and a public pool. The park is a gathering place for families, youth sports, and community events. Its well-maintained facilities provide year-round opportunities for relaxation and fun.
4. Shady Springs Picnic Grove
SCENIC PICNIC GROUNDS
Shady Springs Picnic Grove offers a peaceful setting for outdoor gatherings and picnics under mature trees. The grounds are equipped with tables, grills, and play areas, perfect for family reunions or community celebrations. It is known for its tranquility and inviting natural scenery.
5. The Bar-ann Drive In
CLASSIC OUTDOOR THEATER
The Bar-ann Drive In provides a nostalgic movie-going experience with double features shown on an outdoor screen. Families and friends can watch films from their vehicles or lawn chairs, enjoying snacks from the concession stand. It remains a beloved local tradition during the warmer months.
6. Maple Crest Golf Club
CHALLENGING GOLF COURSE
Maple Crest Golf Club features a well-maintained 18-hole course that welcomes players of all skill levels. Golfers enjoy scenic fairways, practice facilities, and a friendly clubhouse atmosphere. Special tournaments and club events add to its appeal for sports enthusiasts.
7. Portage Historic District
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE AREA
The Portage Historic District is a nationally recognized area, showcasing early 20th-century architecture and significant historic landmarks. Encompassing over 500 buildings, the district tells the story of Portage's growth as a railroad and industrial center. Walking tours allow visitors to admire intact structures and learn about the community's evolution.
8. Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
The Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site preserves the first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains, a marvel of early American engineering. Visitors can explore museum exhibits, hike interpretive trails, and see restored historic structures like the Lemon House. The site brings to life the story of transportation innovation in Pennsylvania's canal era.
9. Summit Level Visitor Center
INTERPRETIVE VISITOR CENTER
Summit Level Visitor Center serves as the main entry point for the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site. It offers engaging displays, knowledgeable staff, and multimedia presentations on the history and mechanics of the Portage Railroad. The center is the starting point for walking trails and historic area tours.
10. Engine House 6 Exhibit Shelter
HISTORIC RAILROAD EXHIBIT
Engine House 6 Exhibit Shelter showcases restored elements of the original railroad infrastructure, including interpretive displays and artifacts. It illustrates the technology behind the incline planes that powered rail cars over the mountains. The site provides an up-close look at the challenges and triumphs of 19th-century railroading.
11. Lemon House
HISTORIC TAVERN LANDMARK
Lemon House is a restored historic tavern dating to the era of the Allegheny Portage Railroad, once a popular stop for travelers. Guided tours and period furnishings offer insight into 19th-century hospitality and daily life. The building forms a key part of the railroad park's heritage experience.
12. Skew Arch Bridge
ENGINEERING LANDMARK BRIDGE
The Skew Arch Bridge is an architectural and engineering marvel associated with the Allegheny Portage Railroad. Its distinctive angled construction showcases innovation required for the railroad to cross complex terrain. Today, the bridge stands as a testament to early American ingenuity.
13. Our Station House Restaurant
FAMILY DINING SPOT
Our Station House Restaurant is a favorite local eatery known for hearty American comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features classics such as burgers, sandwiches, and homemade desserts. Its train-themed decor nods to Portage's railroad heritage, making it a unique dining destination.
14. Gem's Bar and Grill
CASUAL GRILL AND BAR
Gem's Bar and Grill is a lively spot for casual meals, offering a menu of American favorites and a full-service bar. The establishment is popular for its friendly service, weekly specials, and relaxed vibe. Locals and visitors enjoy socializing over wings, burgers, and cold beverages.
15. Dively's Garage Antiques
ANTIQUE SHOPPING VENUE
Dively's Garage Antiques invites visitors to explore a diverse collection of vintage and antique items in a unique converted garage setting. Shoppers can find collectibles, furniture, and decor reflecting the area's past. The shop is a treasure trove for history lovers and those seeking distinctive finds.