The Heritage Discovery Center is a spectacular five-story former industrial building that was originally built as a brewery! Today it holds several attractions:

America: Through Immigrant Eyes: This permanent exhibition tells the national story of immigration in a local context – through the eyes of immigrants who arrived to Johnstown from 1880-1914, and the ethnic neighborhoods in which they settled. As you enter, you’ll choose a card with a photo of one of eight immigrant characters, who are fictional composites based on historical facts. You’ll then experience the daily life of that character as you tour the museum – and come away with a more complete understanding of the sacrifices and achievements of these Americans in the making.

Iron & Steel Gallery: This spectacular three-story gallery evokes the feeling of an industrial space, and includes three major attractions: “The Mystery of Steel” film is shown in a theater at the bottom of the 3-story gallery and documents Johnstown’s role in the early steel industry, 1854-1880. The “Forging a Nation: Johnstown Iron & Steel” exhibition is new in 2024 and showcases the history of steel and related industries in Johnstown from the 1700s through the present. Finally, the “A Steelworker’s Story” exhibition includes signs, product samples, and personal effects from steelworkers.

Johnstown Children’s Museum: The third floor of the Heritage Discovery Center allows kids to explore the history, geography, culture, and ecology of the region through play! The “Inclimber,” Water Room, and Career Corner are highlights.

In addition, temporary galleries feature changing exhibitions.

The exhibition A Steelworker’s Story displays personal effects, product samples, signage, and other memorabilia from the people who powered Johnstown’s steel mills.