Your Juniata River Valley Summer Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Adventures

Your Juniata River Valley Summer Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Adventures

Summer is in full swing in the Juniata River Valley, and there’s no better time to unplug, slow down, and soak in everything our beautiful region has to offer. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, small-town charm, or simply a relaxing afternoon in the sun, we’ve rounded up the Top 10 things you’ve got to do before summer fades away.

From floating down the river to catching movies under the stars, here’s how to make the most of summer in Mifflin and Juniata Counties:

  1. Float Down the Juniata River

One of the best ways to cool off and take in the natural beauty of the region is by floating the Juniata River. Whether you’re in a kayak, canoe, or inner tube, the peaceful flow and scenic surroundings make for an unforgettable summer day. Need to rent a kayak? Contact Appalachian Kayak for rentals and livery service. Bonus points if you pack a cooler and make a day of it!

  1. Catch a Movie at the Midway Drive-In Theater

Nothing says summer nostalgia like the drive-in. The Midway Drive-In Theater brings families, couples, and movie lovers together for double features, classic popcorn, and that magical twilight atmosphere. It’s a summer staple you can’t skip. Follow their Facebook page for the weekly movie announcements.

  1. Enjoy Outdoor Music at Local Wineries & Breweries & Distilleries

Live music, locally crafted wine or beer, and views of the countryside? Yes, please! Many of our wineries and breweries host regular outdoor concerts throughout the summer—so bring a lawn chair, grab a drink, and dance the night away under the stars.

  1. Experience “Sale Day” in Big Valley

Every Wednesday, the Big Valley comes alive with vendors, farmers, and bargain hunters. Known as “Sale Day,” this weekly tradition includes sprawling flea markets, the Belleville Livestock Auction, and Amish-made goodies you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a slice of rural Pennsylvania you have to experience. Check out our “Wednesdays in Big Valley” tour for ideas.

  1. Pack a Picnic and Head to the Park

There’s nothing like a picnic in the park on a sunny day. Visit local favorites like Malta Park in Granville, Kish Park in Lewistown, or Reeds Gap State Park in New Lancaster Valley, for shade, playgrounds, and wide-open spaces to spread out and relax.

  1. Swim at Our Community Pools

When the heat hits, take the plunge at one of our three community pools—located in Burnham, Lewistown, and Mifflin. They’re perfect for cooling off, enjoying family time, or squeezing in a little poolside relaxation.

  1. Explore the Farmer’s Markets and Greenhouses

From fresh-picked produce to homemade baked goods and vibrant flowers, our area’s farmers’ markets and greenhouses offer a taste of summer’s best. Stock up for your next picnic or just enjoy the colorful atmosphere and friendly faces. Check out our Farmer’s Market list and our Bountiful Blooms list.

  1. Go Fishing in the River or Mountain Streams

Whether you’re after a peaceful morning with a fly rod or casting a line for bass in the Juniata River, fishing in our region is second to none. You’ll find plenty of great spots to set up and let nature do the rest. Learn more about our area fisheries in our Waterways guide.

  1. Participate in Flight School

Have you heard about Flight School? It’s a fun (and delicious) way to explore the area—sip your way through flights of chicken wings, wine, beer, coffee, spirits, or even ice cream at participating businesses. Collect points towards earning your wings. It’s a tasty adventure you won’t want to miss. Sign up here for Flight School.

  1. Hit Up the Carnivals and County Fairs

Nothing brings out the magic of summer like a small-town fair. Enjoy funnel cakes, Ferris wheels, live entertainment, and old-fashioned fun at our many local carnivals and fairs. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day. Look for our monthly calendar of events for a list of upcoming events.

Ready to Make the Most of Summer?

The Juniata River Valley is full of hidden gems and summer traditions waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifelong local, this bucket list is your guide to squeezing every drop out of summer.

So go ahead—exit the fast lane, slow down, and dive into the joys of summer in the Juniata River Valley.

 

Welcome Aboard—Again!

Juniata River Valley Flight School Takes Off for Second Semester with Chicken Wing Flights and New Prizes

The Juniata River Valley Flight School is back for another semester, and this time, it’s bringing the heat—literally—with the addition of chicken wing flights to its roster of delicious experiences. Beginning May 16, the popular passport program returns with 25 locations offering flavorful flights of beer, wine, spirits, coffee, ice cream, and now wings.

After a successful first semester, the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau is excited to invite past participants—and new recruits—to join the journey once more. Whether you’re a seasoned flyer or ready for your maiden voyage, the updated passport delivers new tastes and new reasons to get out and explore.

“This program isn’t just about food and drink—it’s about discovering the Juniata River Valley in a fun, rewarding way,” said Jenny Landis, Executive Director of the JRVVB. “And now, with chicken wing flights added to the mix, we’re kicking it up a notch.”

The Juniata River Valley Flight School is powered by Bandwango, a user-friendly digital passport platform. Sign-up is simple at www.jrvvisitors.com/flight-school, where users enter basic contact information and receive a link to add the passport to their mobile home screen.

Once signed up, participants visit any of the 26 participating locations to purchase a flight. With each purchase, users earn points by entering a location-specific PIN provided by staff. Points add up to fun, exclusive prizes—and this semester features all-new rewards including a Flight School luggage tag, beanie, t-shirt, and even a bottle of Wingman Brew N Que’s signature wing sauce. Longtime favorites like stickers, pennants, hats, and hoodies are still available, along with the top-tier prize: earning your golden wings pin.

Redeemed prizes can be picked up at the Visitors Bureau office at 1 W. Market Street in Lewistown or shipped directly. All prizes must be redeemed by May 31, 2026.

“The Juniata River Valley Flight School is a flavorful adventure,” Landis said. “Whether you’re sipping, scooping, or now snacking on wings, we promise a journey your taste buds won’t forget.”

Ready to get your boarding pass? Visit www.jrvvisitors.com/flight-school to sign up and start collecting points.