Johnstown Pennsylvania Hotels & Motels

When should you visit Johnstown, PA?

The weather is fantastic in the spring and fall months, but you'll need to come prepared for some cold days if you visit in late fall or winter. Daily lows drop below 10 degrees Fahrenheit starting in November, with a chance for negative temperatures from January through March.

Averages for these months aren't too bad, though, with temperatures hovering between 30 and 40 degrees. This might seem a bit chilly, but with Blue Knob All Seasons Resort about 45 minutes away by car, you might visit in the winter just for a day or two of skiing or snowboarding — in fact, many visitors do. You can expect a small influx of winter sports enthusiast to head to this part of the country for their holiday breaks, but you shouldn't have any problem avoiding major crowds as you tour around Johnstown.

The summer months are another peak travel time. The highs can get into the low 90s from May through September, but the daily averages are pleasant with temperatures in the 60- to 70-degree range. This makes for perfect conditions to hit one of the many trails just outside the city center. East Trailhead of Jim Mayer Riverswalk Trail is one popular spot for hiking, but you can also plan a day at Stackhouse Park. Another option is to pack your things for some fun at the Quemahoning Family Recreation Area.

If you're visiting in the fall, you'll hit some colder weather and might not get to enjoy activities such as canoeing and sailing. However, this area bursts to life as the leaves begin to change color. The foliage in this part of the state hits its peak color change around the start of the second week of October.

How do you balance your traveling budget with hotel discounts in Johnstown, PA?

If you're hoping to spend as little as possible on your trip to Johnstown, taking advantage of hotel discounts is an excellent way to lower your rates. For example, Holiday Inn Johnstown-Downtown offers reduced rates for AAA members, and Econo Lodge in Johnstown — an option already in the budget category — provides senior discounts. Here are some of the other deals travelers can find in and near the city.

Sleep Inn Johnstown, 5 miles from the city center, offers discounts for senior citizens and AAA members. This hotel is east of the city, toward Gallitzin State Forest, so you can look forward to scenic drives to and from the city as you visit area attractions. Sleep Inn Johnstown is also within walking distance of several restaurants and the Richland Town Center shopping mall. Guests can use free Wi-Fi and eat at the free breakfast buffet, and all rooms include flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, and microwaves.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Johnstown is another hotel that's about 5 miles from downtown. Discounts are provided for AAA members as well as government and military personnel. This is also near shopping and dining spots, and a local grocer is right next door. Amenities are minimal, with the four-floor hotel offering on-site fitness facilities and free breakfast.

Why should you consider a value option to optimize your vacation in Johnstown, PA?

Many travelers don't want quality but haven't got the budget for a ritzy resort. If you fall into this category, consider a value hotel near the city. These options still have low rates but add some amenities to help you feel a touch more spoiled on your trip.

Quality Inn & Suites is one value option that's east of the city toward Gallitzin State Forest. The luxury of kitchens in all rooms sets this establishment apart from others on this side of town, and the option of rooms or suites with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and en-suite bathrooms and showers gives customers the ability to upgrade for roomier accommodations. Suites add whirlpool tubs and views overlooking the area's lush forests.

Why is it a good idea to learn the history and culture of Johnstown?

Though Johnstown is tucked away in the Pennsylvania countryside, it's a great place to dive into local history and listen to the many stories that the city has to tell. Johnstown Flood Museum is a good place to start, as that catastrophe was a formative event in the town's history and has shaped so much of its modern culture. Visit the Heritage Discovery Center to learn about the important role that immigrants played in the founding and success of Johnstown, and take a ride on the Johnstown Inclined Plane, an 896-foot-high funicular, for a view that encompasses the entire city.

If you're interested in learning more about the flood of 1889, go to the Johnstown Flood National Memorial. This site is north up Route 219 past the Super 8 Johnstown. Though it's a drive of about 15 minutes from downtown Johnstown, it's worth the visit.
At the memorial, you can walk along the failed levy and get a better understanding of this historic catastrophe.

Whether you're visiting for winter skiing or summer hiking, Johnstown is a fantastic destination. Book one of these hotels and start planning your itinerary today.