1. Kayak down the Juniata River
Trying something new can be scary, but kayaking down the Juniata River is an outdoor excursion that can push you outside your comfort zone. Don’t know where to begin? By stepping into the doors of Rothrock Outfitters, you have found the perfect start. Not only can you rent kayaks from them, they are willing to act as a guide, joining you on your new adventure. It’s time to put your kayak trip on the calendar!
2. Complete the Disc Golf Trail
Disc Golf is emerging quickly within the Raystown Lake Region. Whether you are looking to pick up a new hobby or are an experienced player, make it your mission in 2024 to play every disc golf course in the area. Located at the Seven Points Recreation Area you have access to 27 holes made up by two courses, the Pine 9 and Ravine 18. In up town Huntingdon, visit Juniata College and play the first public course to land in Huntingdon. Just outside of Huntingdon, Sunset Golf Club added disc golf to their offerings. Round out your course tour with Canoe Creek State Park’s 9 hole course. Each basket has two tees so all experience levels are welcome!
3. Stay in a historic bed and breakfast
Staying at a historic bed and breakfast is a unique experience that you should take advantage of during your next visit to the region. Gage Mansion, a historic Queen Anne Victorian has so many elegant details that you need to see for yourself. The Inn at Solvang not only has architectural history but the owner’s family history is a story like no other. Located across from the East Broad Top Railroad is Orbisonia, PA, is The Iron Rail Bed and Breakfast. This home was built in 1885 by the railroad for the General Superintendent, making it the perfect stay for any rail fan.
4. Ride the rails
The East Broad Top Railroad is the family excursion you are looking for. Returning to steam in 2023, this National Historic Landmark allows you to take a ride through America’s industrial past. Take a ride on the locomotive before the immersive guided tour full of engaging historical facts, perfect for sneaking a learning experience into your child’s summer. Before you leave, head across the street to Pennsylvania’s first operating Trolley Museum. The Rockhill Trolley Museum is the ideal place to wrap up your day full of railway fun.
Photo by Matthew Malkiewicz
5. Picnic through the Raystown Lake Region
Looking for a way to make memories without spending too much money? A picnic is a great way to enjoy time outside, have a meal with your loved ones and create moments you will never forget. The perfect place to enjoy your meal in the shade, take a short walk and allow your young ones to relieve their energy is Portstown Park. Located along the Juniata River, this park is perfect for a family of all ages. The ideal place to throw a blanket on a hot summer day is on the grassy lakeside before fishing, swimming or kayaking. The Seven Points Recreation Area has space for each activity! If your choice of location is Bryan Park, then you do not even need to fill your cooler. Located in downtown Huntingdon, Bryan Park is within walking distance of numerous restaurants where you can order to go.
6. Bike all 36 miles of the Allegrippis Trails
The Allegrippis Trail system is a staple in the mountain biker community. Created out of stacked loops, you are able to customize your experience, completing the trail in fragments as long or short as you desire. For an ultimate challenge, complete all 36 miles! Along the way you will tackle hills, discover new viewpoints and find yourself at the water's edge.
7. Enjoy an on-farm experience
Huntingdon County is full of agricultural opportunities. Meet the bees at Star Lee Farm, where you’ll learn the ins and outs of the honey making process. Visit Four Diamonds Ranch to make your own bath and body products. Pick your scent and leave with your own body scrub, lotion or roll-on perfume. Find some time to visit Terrace Mountain Alpacas, make your child's day by hanging out with the Alpacas and leave with a PA preferred product from their gift shop. When the holiday season comes around, make a stop at Tuckaway Tree Farm to find the perfect Christmas tree.
8. Indulge in coffee and cupcakes
Relax and enjoy your day with a coffee in your hand paired with a delicious sweet treat. Standing Stone Coffee Company is a local coffee shop that specializes in creating drinks that bring out the flavor notes of the coffee beans. Get one to go and make a short drive to Sweethearts Confectionery for a sweet treat. With new flavor features each week, you are sure to come back for more!
9. Entertainment at your fingertips
Enjoy an evening with a show in the Raystown Lake Region. During the summer months you can spend time outside at Seven Points Recreation Area Amphitheater. With a variety of shows, there is something on the calendar for everyone. Information regarding the schedule can be located at the Seven Points Visitor Center. Juniata Presents offers numerous opportunities through each year for experiencing many forms of art. From theater performances to music from students and community members, you are sure to see something you have never seen before.
10. Discover a new overlook
Located on the Ridge Trail of the Allegrippis Trail system is an overlook of Raystown Lake most people don’t venture to. The Scenic Vista is across the water from Hawn’s Overlook and provides a different perspective. The moderate trail is ready for you to put your mountain biking skills to the test.
11. Family fun galore
Amusement activities are undoubtedly a way to make sure the entire family has fun. Delgrosso’s Amusement Park and Lagoona Splash has a mix of amusement rides, carnival games, water park fun and delicious food. If you are looking for an indoor activity, Holiday Bowl is the perfect space to utilize. Bowling is a great activity that allows for downtime to connect with family and friends you may have not seen in a while. If you are in search of an indoor outdoor space, Carlisle Sports Emporium is complete with miniature golf, laser tag, go-karts and more.
12. Try a new local eatery
Calling all foodies! Local, family owned restaurants are hiddens gems, especially in the Raystown Lake Region. Donna’s Family Restaurant is the breakfast spot everyone will be raving about after they try it. Lil New York brings a wonderful dose of Greek and Latin cuisine to Central Pennsylvania. Cassville Country Store can be a quick stop to get a pizza and hoagies to go, or you can sit down and enjoy a delectable home cooked meal.Try them all next time you visit the Raystown Lake Region.
13. Explore underground
For a family fun experience that everyone can enjoy, step out of your comfort zone and go underground! Exploring the caves is a wonderful educational opportunity, the most important part of the experience to the Lincoln Caverns team. For a different cave encounter visit Penn’s Cave, an all-water cavern. The only way to see it is by boat!
14. Stay overnight on Raystown Lake
Staying overnight on Raystown Lake is a next level, sleepover experience. Seven Points Marina has 15 different houseboats for you to choose from. Want a slide? You got it. Need to bring your dog along? Of course you can!
15. Steal some “you time”
Don’t feel guilty for prioritizing you this year. Whether you are visiting Intersections once a week for yoga or scheduling a massage with Roots & Branches once a month, you deserve time for yourself. Don’t know where to start? The practitioners at Huntingdon Health and Wellness Association cover a wide variety of services to help you start living a healthy lifestyle.
16. Experience glamping
Experience the unique charm of glamping in the Raystown Lake Region– it’s a must-try adventure. Wake up with a view over fields of christmas trees at Tuckaway Tree Farm. Airydale Retreat’s dome is perfect for a couple’s getaway and their cardinal accommodations fit the entire family, and it has a slide! The Lake Raystown Resort Yurt’s are the closest glamping opportunity to Raystown Lake, being a short walk from the waters edge.
17. Visit our local state parks
The Raystown Lake Region is rich with state parks, each of which are unique in their own ways. Canoe Creek, Trough Creek, Greenwood Furnace, Whipple Dam, Warriors Path and Penn-Roosevelt split amenities like camping, hiking paths and swimming areas that require you to visit each and every single park.
18. Travel through history
The Raystown Lake Region is rich in history, and the various museums together share an incredible story. Isett Heritage Museum, Swigart Auto Museum, Broad Top Coal Miners Museum, Fort Roberdeau, Huntingdon Historical Society and Friends of the East Broad Top each showcase their own captivating charm. By visiting each of them, you will encounter thousands of historical pieces from cars to cameras to household necessities. After a day immersed in local history, you are sure to have learned something new.
19. Catch a fish!
Fishing is a true pastime for many. Raystown Lake is known for being home to record breaking fish that you may be the lucky one to reel in. With 118 miles of shoreline, there are many places for you to enjoy. Not an avid angler? Book with Angry Musky Outfitters out of Lake Raystown Resort. This charter boat provides you with all the equipment you need.
20. Have dinner with a lake view
There is no better pair than dinner and a spectacular view. Whether you choose to dine at the Marina Cafe with a view of the docks or aboard the Proud Mary Showboat for a dinner cruise, both options promise an unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss. At the Seven Points Marina, Memories on the Dock provides a menu of everyday favorites. Take advantage of the courtesy dock, pre-order your meal, and pick it up to enjoy on your boat.
21. Attend a new festival
Attending festivals is an entertaining experience for the whole family. Huntingdon County has quite a few for you to choose from. Hartslog Day, Oktoberfest and Mayfest each bring good food, amazing vendors and amusement that will captivate your attention. Looking for some time away from the kids? Wine Down Weekend is the perfect adult outing full of tastings from local makers.
22. Go for a swim
Going for a swim is the best way to beat the heat on a hot summer day. Raystown lake has two public beach areas, Seven Points and Tatman Run, each equipped with public picnic tables for your convenience. Located on the opposite side of Huntingdon, Greenwood Furnace State park has a 300 foot sand beach. In need of lifeguards on duty to put your mind at ease? Isett Community Pool in Huntingdon is the perfect place to go. Perfect for all ages, the pool varies in depth and the splash pad area is perfect for your little ones.
23. Discover local art
Beaming with incredible works, the Raystown Lake Region has numerous displays of local art for you to journey through. While walking through Huntingdon make sure to stop by Bryan Park, the corner of 4th and Penn St, Rothrock Outfitters, Stone Town Tavern, and Penn St between 7th and 8th Streets to see the various mural pieces. If the weather is not suitable for outdoor pursuits, Juniata College Museum of Art and the Huntingdon County Arts Council always have various displays of artwork within their locations.
24. Find the perfect souvenir
Before leaving the Raystown Lake Region, make sure you pick the perfect souvenir to take home with you. Juniata Reflections Gift Shoppe has a wide selection of Huntingdon, PA and Juniata River merchandise. Raystown Reflections Gift Shoppe holds Raystown Lake clothing, cups, hats, bags and more. With so many shops in Downtown Huntingdon, you’re guaranteed to leave with something new!
