Nestled in Western Pennsylvania is a small town that might remind you of the famous fictional town of Bedford Falls, especially at Christmastime. It’s fitting, then, that this charming small town in Pennsylvania is the hometown of Jimmy Stewart, the actor known and loved the world over for countless roles, from Macaulay Connor in “The Philadelphia Story,” when he starred alongside fellow legends Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant, to Jeff Jeffries in the Hitchcock classic “Rear Window.” However, he is perhaps best known for his portrayal of George Bailey in “It’s A Wonderful Life,” the beloved Christmas classic.
Just about 64 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, the darling town of Indiana is known for a few things – Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), the Christmas Tree Capital of the World (well, that’s all of Indiana County), and the hometown of World War II veteran and Hollywood actor Jimmy Stewart.
Facebook/The Jimmy Stewart Museum
Although he passed away in July of 1997, Stewart’s presence remains ever strong in his hometown, where you’ll drive along Jimmy Stewart Boulevard and pass his statue in front of the courthouse on Philadelphia Street, erected in honor of the legend’s 75th birthday in 1983.
Facebook/The Jimmy Stewart Museum The statue is a popular spot for visitors to stop and take photos with Jimmy.
Philadelphia Street is also the home to The Jimmy Stewart Museum, a must-visit that offers a glimpse into the hometown hero’s rich and storied life – from his days growing up right here in Indiana to his service in the Army Air Corps during World War II, where he became a brigadier general.
Facebook/The Jimmy Stewart Museum
Stroll through the history of Hollywood film, too, as you explore the museum that’s brimming with memorabilia from all of Stewart’s classics. You might even run into the famous six-foot-tall rabbit, Harvey, beloved best friend of Elwood P. Dowd.
Facebook/The Jimmy Stewart Museum Make sure you carve out plenty of time for your visit to the museum, which shows Stewart’s movies in its cozy theater. Check the museum’s website for movies and times.
Indiana’s a picture-perfect destination all year round, but try to visit during Christmastime when Philadelphia Street transforms into a real-life Bedford Falls during the annual “It’s A Wonderful Life" Festival.
Facebook/The Jimmy Stewart Museum The festival features a massive, glittering tree; fun activities like visits from Santa, and a few familiar sites – like the sign welcoming you to Bedford Falls.
While you’re in this enchanting Pennsylvania town, stroll through downtown, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of shops and restaurants.
Wikimedia Commons/Bonnachoven
Summertime means a visit to the Indiana County/Jimmy Stewart Airport for the annual Jimmy Stewart Air Show, two jam-packed days of family-friendly activities.
Facebook/Indiana County/Jimmy Stewart Airport
If you’re visiting during Christmastime, find the perfect Christmas tree at one of Indiana County’s Christmas tree farms. Mytrysak Family Tree Farm and Ruffing’s Tree Farm are a few of your choices.
Facebook/The Jimmy Stewart Museum
Wikimedia Commons/Bonnachoven View more information, including days and hours, on the Jimmy Stewart Museum website, and keep up on news on its Facebook page.
Have you been to this charming small town in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments. While you’re in Indiana County, visit Buttermilk Falls in New Florence. It’s got a connection to another favorite Pennsylvania son – Mister Rogers.
Facebook/The Jimmy Stewart Museum
The statue is a popular spot for visitors to stop and take photos with Jimmy.
Make sure you carve out plenty of time for your visit to the museum, which shows Stewart’s movies in its cozy theater. Check the museum’s website for movies and times.
The festival features a massive, glittering tree; fun activities like visits from Santa, and a few familiar sites – like the sign welcoming you to Bedford Falls.
Wikimedia Commons/Bonnachoven
Facebook/Indiana County/Jimmy Stewart Airport
View more information, including days and hours, on the Jimmy Stewart Museum website, and keep up on news on its Facebook page.
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Address: Philadelphia Street, Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA 15701, USA
