New and new-ish spots across the Alleghenies that visitors shouldn’t miss
By Jodie Dello Stritto
Small business is booming in the Alleghenies, thanks to an array of resources and a powerful support network available to entrepreneurs. Visitors reap the benefits of this thriving small business ecosystem as more unique restaurants, breweries and retail shops open across the region, creating new, year-round opportunities for dining, drinking, shopping and fun. Here’s a look at a few spots visitors should check out on their next Alleghenies adventure.
Cambria County
Grab a bite and a beer at Johnstown’s Stone Bridge Brewing Co. and CRAFT Modern Kitchen. In addition to delicious craft beer, the kitchen serves up a unique selection of appetizers, sandwiches and pizza, plus signature bowls and ramen. If you’re more into wine, the brewery is also connected to The Wine Loft on Franklin.
Downtown Johnstown’s Classic Elements Gift Shop, Bookstore and Café & Wine Bar is the perfect spot for book browsing and relaxing over coffee or a glass of wine on your next visit. You’ll also find a selection of locally made gifts, like pottery, glass art, jewelry and bags, plus a curated collection of other unique items, including tumblers, candles, stationery and children’s gifts.
Coal Country Brewing in Ebensburg is family-owned and operated, brewing up an ample variety of brews that pay homage to the region’s coal mining legacy. Even the handmade bar contains real Central Pennsylvania coal. From lagers and IPAs to wheat, blonde and red ales, the selection has something for everyone. Plus, the brewery offers cocktails on tap featuring Cocho’s Moonshine products and non-alcoholic sodas made in-house.
Centre County
Bellefonte’s Belle Mercantile has curated more than 70 artisans, makers and small businesses inside its continuous market with so much variety, you’ll find a gift for anyone and many items for yourself. With handmade goods, a children’s bookstore, local soaps and skin care, garden and plants, specialty foods, original art and handmade items, and plenty of unique Penn State-branded items, it’s a must-shop experience.
Central Reservation in downtown State College is an eclectic, intimate bar and restaurant offering beer, wine and unique and traditional cocktails and a menu to match. The food is refined by hearty and guests love the “open” seating at the bar, which is exposed to the sidewalk on Beaver Avenue.
Somerset County
Visitors to Ohiopyle will love this addition to Confluence. Park Square Market offers a shopping experience that supports local suppliers and artisans, and brings fresh, nutritious food and unique products to the community. The market offers produce, eggs, dairy and meat from local farms, as well as local beverages and baked goods like soda, bagels and pepperoni rolls. There’s a deli case with fresh grab-and-go sandwiches and salads. It’s also stocked with locally made soaps, bug spray, lip balm and lotions.
After gaining in popularity at markets and vendor shows, Byers Botanicals opened a brick-and-mortar store in downtown Somerset. The store offers a large selection of plants and the know-how to keep them thriving. The store creates a one-on-one experience for customers, helping them choose the right plants and educating them on how to best care for them. The store also has a consignment area where other local vendors can share and sell their products.
Bedford County
In addition to craft beer, Olde Bedford Brewing Company has a calendar packed with fun events and live music. Guests also love the outdoor seating option.
For fun on the water, visit Country Pirate Rentals in Schellsburg, right on the Juniata River in a location called Pirate Cove. Country Pirate offers kayak, canoe, tube and paddle board rentals and shuttle services, plus other in-store retail items. Customers love this new addition to Bedford County’s recreation landscape.
Huntingdon County
Huntingdon’s ReKlaimed Vines is a small family-owned and operated winery specializing in small, handcrafted batches of wine. The winery’s sister business Defiant Distillery shares it tasting room for double the experience.
Just off the beaten path near Raystown Lake, the Farm Store at Huntingdon’s Four Diamonds Ranch offers handcrafted goats’ milk soaps, lotions, scrubs and local craft items. You can even create your own personalized bath and body products when you schedule a private farm tour. Check the calendar for Farm Tour Fridays for a great addition to your weekend lakeside getaway.
Blair County
Mayfield at the Capitol Hotel in Hollidaysburg promises “a plate for everyone” and offers various dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Wednesday through Sunday. Enjoy locally sourced meals and a creative menu in the welcoming atmosphere.
Wildfire relocated from Martinsburg to downtown Altoona in 2021. It’s Blair County’s first eco-friendly store and refillery, focused on giving customers access to apparel and home products that are sustainable and free of plastic packaging.
