Flight 93 National Memorial
On September 11, 2001, four commercial airliners were hijacked in a coordinated terrorist attack. Two of them were crashed into New York City's World Trade Center towers, and a third struck the Pentagon in Washington DC. The fourth, United Airlines Flight 93, never reached its intended destination of the U.S. Capitol due to the brave actions of its 40 passengers and crew, who fought back against the hijackers. The plane crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. On the 10th anniversary of that horrible day, the site of the crash was dedicated as a national memorial site. Today, the Flight 93 National Memorial serves not only to preserve the site but also as an educational center detailing the victims' courage and determination not to let terror win.
Things To Do Near Flight 93 National Memorial
As somber as the site is, the Flight 93 National Memorial is located in a beautiful part of western Pennsylvania. Known as the Laurel Highlands, the area is home to the state's highest peak and has numerous state parks and attractions. Pittsburgh, with all its amenities and attractions, is a 90-minute drive away. Rich with history and nature, RVers will find lots to do and see.
Hiking Trails
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Allée and Western Overlook Trails
These trails combine to connect the Visitor Center and the Memorial Plaza and circle the park. Locals favor the well-maintained trails as well for a pleasant walk. Note that, while leashed dogs are allowed on the trails, they are not allowed on the memorial's grounds.
Location
Flight 93 National Memorial, Stoystown, PA 15563
Length
2.1 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Spruce Run Trail
For a longer but still fun hike, head to nearby Laurel Mountain State Park and this popular trail. Lovely trees and rock gardens are a feature here. The trail connects to others within the park if you want to add some mileage to your hike.
Location
Laurel Mountain State Park, Rector, PA 15677
Length
3 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Great Gorge Trail
Looking for something a little more challenging? This loop trail in Ohiopyle State Park, roughly an hour from the memorial, showcases a gorgeous waterfall known as Cucumber Falls. While not super-easy, it's not difficult and affords some of the best scenery in the area.
Location
Ohiopyle State Park, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
Length
4.9 miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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The Tower of Voices
This open-construct tower is 93 feet tall and features 40 uniquely tuned wind chimes to represent the passengers and crew of Flight 93. Overlooking a field of wildflowers and visible from surrounding roads, the chimes at once represent the serenity of the site and the discord of that fateful day. It was the last part of the memorial to be completed in 2018.
Location
Flight 93 National Memorial, Stoystown, PA 15563
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Memorial Plaza
Created along Flight 93's final flight path, the plaza begins with a gateway with placards describing the day's events and a place for visitors to leave messages. A walkway mirrors the flight path and ends at the Wall of Names, where marble slabs are inscribed with the names of the 40 people aboard the flight. From here, the final resting place of the victims, marked with a sandstone boulder, can be viewed.
Location
Flight 93 National Memorial, Stoystown, PA 15563
Museums
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Flight 93 National Memorial Visitor Center
The center contains a permanent exhibition about Flight 93 and its role within the larger context of the events of September 11, 2001. Artifacts, multimedia, and interactive exhibits are featured. Visitors can take self-guided tours that follow the chronology of the flight through the response to its crash and the ensuing investigation.
Location
Flight 93 National Memorial, Stoystown, PA 15563
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Somerset Historical Center
Take a step back in time and explore this beautifully recreated site. It features replicas of 18th- and 19th-century cabins and homes, one of the area's famous covered bridges, and numerous artifacts and craft demonstrations. Even non-history buffs will enjoy the center's collections and wooded setting only 20 minutes from the memorial.
Location
10649 Somerset Pike, Somerset, PA 15501
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Lincoln Cafe
Just down the road from the memorial, this homey cafe offers a variety of burgers and sandwiches. The locals, though, will tell you not to miss anything out of the bakery. There's particular praise for its cherry pie!
Location
6869 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown, PA 15563
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Pine Grill
Twenty minutes from the memorial, those looking for a step above diner fare will enjoy this cozy restaurant. It offers an array of entrees, from ribeye steak to fish and chips and pasta dishes. Don't miss its famous skillet cookie ala mode!
Location
800 N. Center Ave., Somerset, PA 15501
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The Black Bunny Boutique
Visitors and locals alike rave about this upscale shop a half-hour's drive from the memorial. With a wide variety of women's clothing and accessories, it's a fun place to browse while taking a break from sightseeing. A variety of unique gifts are also available here.
Location
105 E. Main St., Ligonier, PA 15658
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Duppstadt's Country Store
This charming store, also only a couple of miles from the memorial, is not just a great place to pick up local apple butter and maple syrup. It has an extensive selection of outdoor clothing for men, women, and children. If you're looking for fun housewares or forgot a piece of hiking equipment, you'll find it here too.
Location
6885 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown, PA 15563
How To Get To Flight 93 National Memorial
The park's entrance is located on U.S. Route 30, also known as Lincoln Parkway. The nearest interstates are 70 and 76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike, toll road). From the west, leave the Turnpike at exit 110 and take State Route 281 north to U.S. Route 219 North, which will take you to U.S. Route 30 East. From the east, leave the Turnpike at exit 146, and take State Route 220 south to U.S. Route 30 West. National Park Service signs will direct you to the memorial's entrance.
Address
6424 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown, PA 15563
Fee: Entry fee $0
September 11, 2001, was one of the darkest days in American history. However, the Flight 93 National Memorial is a place to remember the 40 people who so valiantly sacrificed themselves on that day to prevent further destruction. The surrounding mountains and forests are a peaceful resting place for these heroes. An RV trip is a wonderful way to explore this lovely area and pay respects to those courageous men and women.