Pennsylvania’s mountainous scenery provides an opportunity to get close to nature while enjoying some great outdoor activities. At the very center of the state, Huntingdon shows off the different cultures and heritage of the area beautifully through the art, theater, and museums in the area. At less than four square miles, this town is small but offers many opportunities for vacationers to the area. Around 7,100 people who call Huntingdon home, have created businesses to showcase the delights in the area and encourage visitors to get to know the area.
Lincoln Caverns
Once called the Hi-Way-May Caverns, the Lincoln Caverns had its name changed in 1937 to honor President Lincoln. Now in service for nearly 90 years, the caverns are a natural wonder that can be enjoyed by all visitors. Guests can join the hour-long tour of the two caverns currently explorable. Nature trails around the area provide a great chance for guests to see wildlife and picnic in the covered pavilions. For the kids (and adults), a sluice provides an opportunity to pan for real gems from the cavern. Lincoln Caverns is even open during the winter months.
7703 William Penn Highway, U.S. Route 22, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-643-0268
Greenwood Furnace State Park
If you have ice fishing on your list of winter activities, a trip to Greenwood Furnace State Park is in order. Not only is it stocked with trout, but ice fishing is encouraged in the colder months. During the warmer months of April to December, 51 campsites are available for camping. While 46 of these have electric hook-ups, there are showers and toilets nearby all sites. Hunting is also available with the appropriate licenses. Hunters can look for game such as squirrels, deer, turkey, and grouse. There are nine different hiking trails in the park for checking out some natural wonders and old buildings.
15795 Greenwood Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-667-1800
Isett Heritage Museum
With a dream to preserve the everyday life of past peoples, J. Melvin and Beulah Isett collected over 40,000 antiques and items worth visiting at the Isett Heritage Museum. There are three museum buildings on the property where a wide selection of journals, firearms, cameras, toys, and tools can be viewed. Along with these smaller objects, antique gas pumps, derby cars, printing presses, and an ice cream fountain can also be spotted. When you’ve toured the three buildings, move on to the Lodge, which was a wagon shed. Here, you can meet Mr. Isett himself as he sits by the fire and manages the museum.
Henderson Township 11941, Stone Cree Ridge Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-643-9600
Whipple Dam State Park
When you’re wanting a day trip to a park, check out the Whipple Dam State Park. There are three pavilions that can be reserved in advance and picnic tables throughout the park. On Whipple Lake, boaters or non-gas-powered boats are welcome with appropriate registration. Fishing for trout, swimming, and beach volleyball are all great ways to spend a lazy afternoon. For the hunters, there are woods around the area that provide good hunting grounds for deer, turkeys, ducks, and black bears. While hiking is also available, please keep fellow guests in mind when taking photos or using drones (drone airspace is permitted only in certain areas).
3745 Laurel Run Road, Petersburg, PA 16669, Phone: 814-667-1800
Penn-Roosevelt State Park
Parks are a great opportunity to commune with nature and get some fresh air. While the Pennsylvania parks have strict guidelines on bringing things, like firewood, in and out, it is to protect the native species of the area. At the Penn-Roosevelt State Park, guests can enjoy the 41-acre park by horseback, snowmobile, hiking, or skis. Campsites are available for rent, though RVs and campers are not permitted on the grounds. Hunting is not permitted in the area, but guests can spot all kinds of wildlife, including raccoons, black bear, bald eagles, and muskrats.
15795 Greenwood Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-667-1800
The Playhouse at McConnellstown
This theater has been producing plays since the early 1980s. Today’s guests can sit in one of the 77 seats to observe the all-volunteer performances. This once historic church was built in 1872. Today, the theater holds festivals, plays, and even dinner theater shows. Since it began performances 38 years ago, there have been over 190 productions held. Since this is a volunteer-based organization, the Playhouse workers are proud to share that they donate tickets for auction to charities and provide the space for fundraising events. There is also a Children’s Theater program that brings kids in to work on productions and to learn all about the theater.
The Playhouse at McConnellstown, 11680 Raystown Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-627-0311
Huntingdon County Arts Council
The Huntingdon County Arts Council (HCAC) has been serving the community with art programs and festivals since 1972. This long-established company is geared toward community involvement; however, there employment opportunities and fellowships awarded to local artists. Along with program offerings, the HCAC hosts workshops, such as the Ukrainian Egg Decorating Workshop, throughout the year. Each year, HCAC sponsors three art festivals – two music and one fiber – for visitors to learn about different types of art and take part in the various workshops offered during these times. While members receive discounts on classes and workshops, 1-time visitors and vacationers are also welcome.
212 Fourth Street, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-643-6220
Rothrock Outfitters
Rothrock Outfitters was originally created to sell kayaking and backpacking essentials. Over time, they have begun to sell mountain bikes and equipment to inspire others to really take in the local nature. During your visit to Huntingdon, make sure you are well prepared for that camping or canoeing trip. Not only can you purchase items for life, but you can rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, bikes, etc. for a short-term need, like vacationing in Huntingdon! Rothrock Outfitters is open all seasons, every day except Sundays (when the employees and owners enjoy the water themselves).
418 Penn Street, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-643-7226
Trophy Guide Service Inc.
Pennsylvania is known for its beautiful natural environment. Locals and visitors love to spend some of the outdoor time fishing and hunting. When you’re ready to start fishing, look into getting a fishing service guide, like Trophy Guide Service Inc. Owner, Sparkey, grew up on Raystown Lake, so he is intimately familiar with the daily living of the waters. Whether you’re interested in bass, striper, or trout fishing, you’re guaranteed a good time and an education about fishing on the lake. With your reservation, you’ll be supplied with everything you need. You only need to bring your fishing license, rain gear (sometimes it gets wet), and a cooler to take your catches home.
12001 Simon Fox Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-627-5231
Kelly’s Korner
Kelly’s Korner has been a staple in the community for over 75 years. Originally a gas station and eatery, it has since been dedicated to serving up delicious food to visitors. Food is made fresh, along with homemade soups made daily. When you’re feeling peckish, try out the salad bar with tons of fixings available. An unlimited soup and salad bar combo is a great option for lunch. If you’re looking for something a bit more filling, check out the burgers, steaks, or other sandwiches. Kelly’s also features a great Italian and seafood menu. Try out the crab cakes, lemon butter haddock, or the stuffed flounder.
1430 Pennsylvania Avenue, Huntingdon, PA 16652, Phone: 814-643-4900
Juniata College Museum of Art
Located in the historic Beaux-Arts college library building, which was built in 1907, the Juniata College Museum of Art (JCMA) is a Huntingdon treasure and a must-see attraction for all visiting art and architecture enthusiasts. The beautiful building is worth a visit in its own right, retaining its original rotunda and its elegant Tiffany-style dome. Inside, further treasures await. The museum’s permanent collection comprises more than 1200 objects, including the core Stottlemyer collection of priceless art works including landscapes from the Hudson River school, European art from the 17th to the 19th centuries and various other art works in several mediums.
1700 Moore Street, Huntingdon, PA 16652, 814 641 2691
Sunset Golf Club
Formerly known as Standing Stone Golf Course, Sunset Golf Club is an 18-hole public course which is usually open to the public from April to mid-November. In addition to conventional golf, Sunset Golf Club also offers an 18-hole Disc Golf course for those who would like to try something a little different. The course is known for its superb sunsets and is attractive at any time of the day. You can hire great new golf buggies with GPS to assist you with your game. After your round you can enjoy a signature beverage and a delicious meal in the restaurant.
10506 Standing Stone Rd, Huntingdon, PA 16652, 814 643 4800
Juniata Brewing Company
Founded in 2020, Juniata Brewing Company was the first brewery to bring craft beer to the Huntingdon area. The brewery is located in the historic former Endres Furniture Building which has been completely renovated, taking care to incorporate reclaimed lumber both in the taproom and the barn areas. The Tap Room carries a range of beers on tap including Kolsch, several ales, an IPA, stout and porter. You can check their website to see what’s on during your visit – they host a full calendar of regular events including Open Mic nights, Bacon Bingo and Live Music nights featuring local musicians.
1102 Susquehanna Ave, Huntingdon, PA 16652, 814 644 7553
