Johnstown

When planning a trip to Johnstown, located in the picturesque state of Pennsylvania (United States), travellers discover a city with a rich history and unique character. Known for its industrial past and resilient spirit, this place attracts tourists wishing to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of authentic America. You can get here in various ways, combining convenient flights with scenic journeys by train or car.

Unlike many small cities, Johnstown has its own regional airport, John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport (JST), which receives regular flights and connects the city with major aviation hubs. This is the fastest way to arrive, bypassing long ground transfers.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into neighbouring cities if local flight schedules do not suit you. The airport in Latrobe (LBE) is just 39 km away, and the airport in Altoona (AOO) is located 50 km away, from where it is easy to reach your final destination by rental car or taxi.

Travelling by rail is an excellent way to get to Johnstown while enjoying views of the Allegheny Mountains. The city hosts a historic Amtrak station, served by the popular Pennsylvanian route connecting New York and Pittsburgh.

The station is conveniently located, allowing tourists to be immediately in the centre of events. If direct tickets are unavailable, you can travel to stations in Latrobe or Altoona, which are also served by the national railway network.

Intercity bus services provide accessible connections to the region. A trip from the city of Latrobe covering about 75.7 km will take approximately 1.8 hours, passing through picturesque state roads.

The route from Altoona is also popular: the bus covers a distance of 68.7 km in an average of 1.5 hours. This is an economical option for those who prefer ground transport and are not in a rush.

Travelling by car gives travellers maximum flexibility and the opportunity to plan stops independently. The drive from Latrobe (about 53 km) will take just 0.8 hours with free-flowing traffic, making this route one of the fastest.

The path from Altoona is around 69.5 km, and the travel time is about 0.9 hours. Local roads are in good condition, so renting a car or booking a taxi will be a comfortable solution for a trip to Johnstown.

To ensure your stay in Johnstown goes smoothly and leaves only positive emotions, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations relevant to this region.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The weather in Pennsylvania is changeable: warm jackets and waterproof shoes are necessary in winter, while light clothing made of natural fabrics is useful in summer, as it can be quite humid.
2. Transport. For comfortable movement around the city and surroundings, it is best to rent a car, as public transport may run infrequently.
3. Finance. The main currency is the US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is recommended to carry some cash (bills of 1, 5, 10 dollars) for tips and small purchases.
4. Health and Safety. Medical care in the United States is expensive, so having insurance is mandatory. In emergencies, call 911.
5. Communication. The official language is English. Locals are friendly but speak quite fast; do not hesitate to ask again if you did not understand something.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to leave tips of 15–20% of the bill in restaurants and taxis. Politeness and a smile are the norm for communication.
7. What to Avoid. Do not walk alone in poorly lit areas at night and avoid discussing sensitive political topics with strangers.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to visit the Johnstown Flood Museum — this is a key event in the city's history, knowledge of which will help you better understand the local culture.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and safe during your visit to Johnstown.