When most people think of national parks, they picture towering mountains or sweeping wilderness. But western Pennsylvania tells a different story—one written in history, courage, and resilience. This region is home to five unique National Park Service sites, each preserving a pivotal moment in America’s past.
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From George Washington’s first battle at Fort Necessity to the bravery of United Flight 93 passengers, these sites are not just destinations—they’re experiences that leave a lasting impression. If you’re planning a road trip through the Laurel Highlands or Allegheny region, this guide will help you explore all five, step by step.
History of the National Park Sites in Western Pennsylvania
The five NPS sites in western Pennsylvania highlight significant historical events:
- Fort Necessity National Battlefield: George Washington’s first military engagement in 1754, opening the French and Indian War.
- Friendship Hill National Historic Site: Home of Albert Gallatin, Jefferson and Madison’s Treasury Secretary, and a key figure in funding the Lewis and Clark expedition.
- Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site: The 19th-century engineering marvel that carried canal boats over the Allegheny Mountains.
- Johnstown Flood National Memorial: Commemorates the catastrophic 1889 dam break that killed over 2,200 people.
- Flight 93 National Memorial: Honors the courageous passengers and crew of United Flight 93 on September 11, 2001.
Each site offers a glimpse into moments that shaped the nation, showing both human triumphs and tragedies.
Best Time to Visit
Western Pennsylvania experiences all four seasons, each bringing a unique experience:
- Spring (April–May): Mild weather and blooming wildflowers make walking trails and exploring historic grounds enjoyable.
- Summer (June–August): Longer days and ranger programs provide full access to visitor centers and living history events.
- Fall (September–October): Autumn foliage adds color and reflection to sites like Flight 93 and Johnstown.
- Winter (November–March): Quieter visits with fewer crowds; visitor centers remain open.
For the most engaging experience, late spring through fall is ideal.
Things to Do at Each Site
Fort Necessity National Battlefield
- Explore the reconstructed fort and battlefield trails
- Visit Mount Washington Tavern
- Walk scenic hiking loops
- Learn at the visitor center exhibits
Friendship Hill National Historic Site
- Tour Albert Gallatin’s home
- Discover his role in the Louisiana Purchase and national finance
- Enjoy river-view picnic areas
- Attend seasonal ranger talks
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
- Visit the Incline Plane Visitor Center
- Walk along the historic railbed
- Explore Lemon House Tavern
- Enjoy interactive exhibits for families
Johnstown Flood National Memorial
- See the remains of South Fork Dam
- Watch the visitor center film about the 1889 flood
- Hike trails tracing the flood path
- Visit Grandview Cemetery
Flight 93 National Memorial
- Tour the visitor center and memorial walking paths
- Reflect at the Wall of Names and Tower of Voices
- Spend time at the crash site trails
- Learn the full story of Flight 93 through exhibits
Road Trip Itinerary: Connecting All Five Sites
Day 1: Pittsburgh → Fort Necessity (1.5 hrs)
Morning: Fort Necessity battlefield tour
Afternoon: Mount Washington Tavern
Overnight: Uniontown/Laurel Highlands
Day 2: Fort Necessity → Friendship Hill (45 min)
Morning: Tour Gallatin’s home
Afternoon: Scenic grounds and optional picnic
Overnight: Laurel Highlands area
Day 3: Friendship Hill → Allegheny Portage Railroad (1 hr)
Morning: Incline Plane Visitor Center and railbed
Afternoon: Lemon House Tavern and trails
Overnight: Altoona/Johnstown area
Day 4: Johnstown Flood National Memorial (30 min)
Morning: Dam remains and visitor center
Afternoon: Flood path hike and cemetery visit
Overnight: Johnstown
Day 5: Flight 93 National Memorial (1 hr)
Morning: Visitor center and memorial trails
Afternoon: Wall of Names and Tower of Voices reflection
Evening: Return to Pittsburgh or local accommodations
Tips:
- Total driving ~5–6 hours across five days
- Pack comfortable shoes, water, and a camera
Optional stops include Ohiopyle State Park or local Monongahela towns
Southwest Pennsylvania’s National Park Sites FAQs
Can I visit all five sites in one trip?
Yes, a relaxed 5-day loop allows full exploration.
How much does it cost?
All sites are free to visit; donations welcome.
Are the sites family-friendly?
Yes—interactive exhibits and short hikes suit kids, while historical stories engage older visitors.
How long should I plan at each site?
1–2 hours typically, longer if you want to hike or explore thoroughly.
Are there ranger programs?
Yes. Check the NPS website for seasonal tours, talks, and living history events.
Western Pennsylvania’s national park sites are a journey through America’s past, filled with stories of courage, ingenuity, and resilience. Visiting Fort Necessity, Friendship Hill, the Allegheny Portage Railroad, Johnstown Flood, and Flight 93 isn’t just sightseeing—it’s stepping into history.
This road trip lets you experience each site fully, from battlefield hikes to quiet memorial reflection, all while exploring the scenic landscapes of western Pennsylvania. Make time for each stop, and you’ll return home with a deeper connection to the people and events that shaped the nation.