Looking for interesting things to do in Shanksville, Pennsylvania? Whether you’re a local, planning a day trip, or passing through on a road trip, Shanksville offers more than just its famous memorial. This list brings together 25 fun, meaningful, and locally inspired activities for families, history buffs, outdoor lovers, and anyone curious about small-town Pennsylvania. Explore memorials, enjoy nature, discover local history, and experience regional flavors with these ideas.
History & Heritage
- Visit the Flight 93 National Memorial – Pay tribute at this moving site dedicated to the passengers and crew of Flight 93, with the Memorial Plaza, Wall of Names, and the Tower of Voices.
- Tour the Flight 93 National Memorial Visitor Center – Explore exhibits, multimedia displays, and personal stories that provide deeper context about September 11, 2001.
- See the Tower of Voices – Experience this 93-foot musical monument, featuring 40 wind chimes in honor of the 40 heroes of Flight 93.
- View the Memorial Groves – Walk among 40 groves of trees, each representing a passenger or crew member, and enjoy the peaceful landscape.
- Find the Western Overlook – Visit the spot where the families first observed the crash site in 2001, now marked with interpretive signs and benches.
- Explore the Shanksville-Stonycreek School Memorial Garden – This local tribute, created by students, offers a quiet place for reflection near the school in downtown Shanksville.
Outdoors & Recreation
- Walk or bike the Great Allegheny Passage – Access this renowned biking and hiking trail at nearby Rockwood or Garrett, just a short drive from Shanksville.
- Fish or paddle at Indian Lake – Enjoy boating, kayaking, or fishing at this scenic man-made lake south of Shanksville.
- Picnic at Lake Stonycreek – Bring a blanket and lunch to this quiet, privately owned lake community (check for public access points).
- Hike the Laurel Highlands Trail – Experience part of this 70-mile trail system with trailheads accessible within a half-hour drive.
- Camp at Laurel Hill State Park – Spend a night under the stars or enjoy a day of hiking, swimming, or birdwatching at this nearby state park.
- Golf at Northwinds Golf Course – Tee off at this public 18-hole course near Indian Lake, with stunning views of the Laurel Highlands.
- Enjoy winter sports at Seven Springs Mountain Resort – Ski, snowboard, or snow tube at this popular year-round resort less than 30 minutes away.
Local Flavor & Small-Town Life
- Eat at Our Coal Miner’s Café – Savor hearty American classics and homemade desserts at this beloved local restaurant in Jennerstown, just north of Shanksville.
- Shop at the Somerset County Farmers’ Market – Visit on Saturdays for fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from area farmers (held in Somerset, a short drive away).
- Tour Glades Pike Winery – Sample regional wines and enjoy the picturesque views at this winery on Route 31, west of Shanksville.
- Browse the Unique Boutique – Discover handmade gifts, jewelry, and crafts at this quirky shop in nearby Somerset.
- Pick your own apples at Barron’s Red Apple Farm – Head out in autumn to this family-run orchard for apple picking and fresh cider (check their website for hours and varieties).
Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
- See the Quecreek Mine Rescue Site – Learn about the dramatic 2002 mine rescue at this museum and memorial in Somerset, perfect for families and history fans.
- Tour the Somerset Historical Center – Explore interactive exhibits on rural Pennsylvania life, from log cabins to maple sugaring, just west of Somerset.
- Visit the Mount Davis Natural Area – Stand on Pennsylvania’s highest point and take in panoramic views from the observation tower, about 40 minutes south.
- Admire Fallingwater – Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic house, a world-famous architectural marvel about an hour west of Shanksville (advance tickets required).
- Ride the Johnstown Inclined Plane – Take a short trip north to Johnstown to ride the world’s steepest vehicular inclined plane and enjoy city views.
- Walk through the Windber Coal Heritage Center – Discover the region’s coal mining history at this museum in Windber, north of Shanksville.
- Visit Historic Hanna’s Town – Step back to the 18th century at this reconstructed frontier settlement and museum in nearby Westmoreland County.
Festivals, Culture & Hidden Gems
- Attend the Somerset County Fair – Celebrate local agriculture, food, and music at this long-running summer fair in Meyersdale or Somerset.
- Join the Flight 93 Heroes Walk/Run – Participate in this annual charity event honoring the memory of Flight 93 passengers and crew.
- Catch a show at the Mountain Playhouse – Enjoy live theater performances at Pennsylvania’s oldest professional summer theater in Jennerstown.
- Tour the Historic Shaffer Covered Bridge – Photograph and stroll across this classic 19th-century covered bridge near the borough.
- Explore the Shanksville Community Park – Let kids play, walk your dog, or just relax at this peaceful local park with playgrounds and picnic areas.
How to Use This List
To make the most of your time in Shanksville, start by deciding what interests you most—history, nature, food, or a bit of everything. The Flight 93 National Memorial is a must for first-time visitors, but pairing it with a local meal, a walk in the park, or a short drive to a nearby attraction creates a richer experience. If you’re visiting with kids, mix historical stops with outdoor fun like parks or apple picking. For a weekend trip, combine memorial visits with day trips to places like Fallingwater or Mount Davis. Always check opening hours and seasonal schedules, as some attractions and events operate only at certain times of year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Flight 93 National Memorial open year-round?
The memorial grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset, but the Visitor Center has specific hours and is closed on major holidays. - Are there places to eat in Shanksville itself?
Dining options in Shanksville are limited, but nearby towns like Somerset and Jennerstown offer several family-friendly restaurants and cafés. - Is Shanksville suitable for families with kids?
Yes, many activities—especially parks, outdoor areas, and the memorial—are family-friendly, but some museum content may be best for older children. - Can I bring pets to the Flight 93 National Memorial?
Pets are allowed on the memorial grounds if leashed, but not in the Visitor Center or on indoor exhibits. - What is the best time of year to visit Shanksville?
Late spring through early fall offers the most activities, pleasant weather, and access to outdoor attractions and festivals. - How far is Shanksville from major cities?
Shanksville is about 80 miles southeast of Pittsburgh and roughly 200 miles from Philadelphia—ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Final Thoughts
Shanksville, PA, is a place of reflection, history, and quiet beauty, but it’s also surrounded by scenic landscapes, friendly communities, and unique local attractions. Whether you’re coming for the Flight 93 National Memorial or exploring the rolling hills of Somerset County, you’ll find plenty of ways to make your visit meaningful and memorable. Use this list to plan your trip, discover new favorites, and experience the best of small-town Pennsylvania.