Leisure and business join together in Cambria County
By Sarah Taylor
In Cambria County, visitors find adventure, fun and historical significance around every turn, so it’s no surprise that, in 2021, tourists spent over $251.1 million in the county. The leisure industry isn’t the only one that’s found a comfortable home here, though. Cambria County also appeals to business and industry.
Exciting adventure and relaxing outdoor fun
Cambria County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its diverse range of recreational activities — whether you’re just stopping by for a visit or looking for a great place to live that offers career opportunities and a perfect work-life balance.
For example, Cambria County hosts the Stonycreek River’s longest continuous Class III and IV rapids and Rock Run Recreation Area offers over 140 miles of trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, for thrill-seeking ATV riders. For those seeking calmer and more relaxing outdoor adventure, Prince Gallitzin State Park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, boating and fishing amidst stunning lake views and wooded trails.
The Ghost Town Trail is a 49-mile rails-to-trails path that stretches through Cambria and Indiana Counties, providing a scenic view of gorgeous streams, wildflower fields and forests for hiking, biking and birdwatching. With the funds recently secured for the remaining 1.5 miles, the trail will soon become the first continuous rail trail loop east of Oregon.
Golfers love Johnstown’s Sunnehanna Country Club’s historic golf course, which is home to the Sunnehanna Amateur Tournament for Champions, one of the leading amateur competitions in the world.
A drone view of Prince Gallitzin State Park | Image Credits: VisitJohnstownPA
“Simply incredible” Johnstown
Cambria County blends its outdoor entertainment with urban amenities and small-town charm in Johnstown, Cambria County’s largest city.
Here, travelers find lots to do, and so do locals who come to the area seeking jobs.
Johnstown’s cultural scene is vibrant, reflecting its rich heritage and creative community. The Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown hosts a diverse lineup of performances, including theater, music and dance, attracting both local talent and nationally renowned artists.
Dining in Johnstown offers a mix of family-owned diners, cozy cafes and upscale restaurants and, whether you’re looking for Italian cuisine, American comfort food or a scenic rooftop wine deck, Johnstown’s dining scene has something to satisfy every palate.
Events are also on tap, such as the Ameriserv Flood City Music Festival coming up July 26, or the Cambria City Ethnic Festival or Johnstown’s Polkafest. (Check out all of Johnstown’s events here.)
Ameriserv Flood City Music Festival | Image Credits: VisitJohnstownPA
Business and industry are taking notice
Cambria County already has plentiful job opportunities in the manufacturing sector, thanks to the presence of Lockheed Martin, DRS Laurel Technologie, Concurrent Technologies Corporation and others. More businesses are taking notice of what Cambria County has to offer, and making the move to the Alleghenies region.
Most recently, UXV Technologies, a Denmark-based company and innovator in drone and robotics technologies, announced it’s opening its first U.S. factory at the JARI Business Park in Johnstown. The announcement is just one of many projects in the region that point to Cambria County becoming a hub for aviation and drone technology (the regional airport also announced plans for an aviation and drone innovation center, earlier this year).
Whether you plan on just stopping by or you’re interested in staying longer and seeing the industry opportunities offered in Cambria County, you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re exploring the rugged beauty of Prince Gallitzin State Park, creating new memories on Stonycreek River’s challenging white water rafting or exploring the bustling downtowns, there’s something for everyone.
Plan your visit to see what Cambria County’s all about and be sure to sign up for The Alleghenies weekly newsletter.
