It's a Wonderful Life in This Small Pennsylvania Town

It’s a wonderful life in Indiana, Pennsylvania, hometown of Jimmy Stewart, the legendary actor of such movies as It’s a Wonderful Life and Vertigo.

Located in Indiana County, this small town is right near the Allegheny Mountains and a short drive away from Pittsburgh. It’s also known as the Christmas Tree Capital of the World because the Christmas Tree Grower's Association was founded there.

Here are just a few reasons for a stop by:

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Jessica Leitner lives in the area and is a self-proclaimed foodie.

“Indiana has a lot of awesome food spots,” she said. “In particular, I bring all my friends and family to 9th Street Deli, FireHouse Brewing Co., and Steel City Samiches Bar & Grille.”

She also suggests that visitors walk along Philly Street: “It’s an awesome atmosphere. Lots of cool shops, restaurants, bars and a couple of cafes. Right off of Philly Street, there is an awesome boutique called Meraki. They have some really unique pieces. Blue Spruce Park is also a great spot to just be in the outdoors. We will often take our dogs out there for hikes, and it really is beautiful.”

Film buffs must visit The Jimmy Stewart Museum, located in the Indiana Public Library. Denise Liggett, Executive Director of the Indiana County Tourist Bureau, noted that the museum is the largest tourism draw in the area.

Since Jimmy Stewart was an international celebrity, visitors from all around the world come by to see his hometown. The museum pays homage to his life, with gallery presentations and film screenings in a 1930s vintage movie theater.

“The space was much larger than I expected from looking at the outside of the building, and the exhibits were more numerous than I dreamed,” said Joanna Wilson, founder of the Christmas TV History website.

“Inside the museum, you can see what was once the front door from Jimmy Stewart's home on Roxbury Drive in Beverly Hills. There is also the childhood bed and bedroom set of Stewart's from his family's home. Another room contains a recreation of the Stewart family hardware store that Jimmy's father (and grandfather) owned and operated in downtown Indiana. I spent a couple hours at the museum, and I feel like I could have stayed longer to explore more of the details in the displays.”

Indiana is also known as a community that fosters creativity and togetherness. The Indiana University of Pennsylvania produces 250 events every year, such as film screenings, concerts, sporting events and seminars.

“Indiana County is a year-round destination for family fun and entertainment,” said Liggett.

“Thanks to the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, you can see Broadways shows and international performers, all in the same week. Outdoor recreation abounds with our 64 miles of rails-to-trails, boating, kayaking, fishing and winter fun. From our quaint Amish Community of Smicksburg to our many local specialty shops, you can find homemade crafted items. You will find big city entertainment in a small town community!”

So delve in some local Pennsylvania history, view the beautiful Alleghany mountains, grab some good pizza (go to Josephine’s Pizzeria & Enoteca), attend a concert or maybe just go to Indiana to visit the Jimmy Stewart Museum: There is plenty for a wonderful day of life!