An outdated joke goes that Pittsburgh is the “Galapagos of Pennsylvania.” Town doesn’t neighbor some other metro areas. Most vacationers arrive by airplane, or on the finish of a really lengthy drive. Even the Pittsburgh dialect is like no different language on Earth. (“Yinz,” anybody?)
In the case of an extended weekend in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, there’s really loads to see in Western Pennsylvania, from charming rural communities to expansive pure areas. The counties that neighbor Pittsburgh are wealthy in rivers, forests and small cities, that are straightforward to overlook whereas barreling down the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Hikers and anglers like to lose themselves in these valleys, and historical past buffs discover lots to like at native museums. The very best time to go to Pittsburgh and neighboring communities is throughout the heat of summer season and throughout the dry fall months. There are various methods to get round Pittsburgh, however you’ll usually want a automobile. These points of interest are all positioned inside a two-hour drive of Downtown Pittsburgh, and visiting can simply be a spur-of-the-moment determination or deliberate out days upfront.
1. Get soaked in Ohiopyle State Park
Journey time: 75 minutes every means
Located across the frothing Youghiogheny River, Ohiopyle is the area’s go-to summer season playground. It might be straightforward to spend a strong week tenting, mountaineering and white-water rafting by means of this 20,500-acre expanse. For those who’re visiting for only a day, quite a few shorter paths run by means of Ohiopyle; you’ll additionally discover the trailhead for the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Mountain climbing Path. The park has a number of campgrounds with quite a lot of lodging, from tent websites and pavilions to cottages and yurts. Go to the Pennsylvania State Parks web site to order a spot.
For river-runners, “the Yough” has three sections, the Higher, Center and Decrease, which range in issue from Class I to Class V rapids. For those who’re a novice (or didn’t pack the kayak), you possibly can e-book an tour with any of a number of licensed operators, resembling Laurel Highlands River Excursions and White Water Adventurers.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about 75 minutes from Pittsburgh alongside I-76 East. Take Exit 91 for PA-381 S.
2. Discover the depths of the Laurel Caverns
Journey time: 90 minutes every means
The tunnels that make up the Laurel Caverns burrow underground for 4 miles, and these interconnected chambers have fascinated the general public because the late 18th century. In contrast to many subterranean websites, this cave system will enchantment to many sorts of guests, and households and beginner geologists will get pleasure from a guided tour on degree flooring by means of well-lit passages. For those who’re not feeling social – or are quick on time – take a self-guided tour over 100 steps and 800ft of tunnels. Feeling intrepid? The “Journey Caving” possibility is a full-on spelunking session designed for all talent ranges.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about 90 minutes. Take 51S about 53 miles to Uniontown, then Skyline Dr the remaining 6 miles.
3. Pedal down the Nice Allegheny Passage
Journey time: varies relying in your place to begin
For cyclists, the Nice Allegheny Passage is the head of motorbike paths, operating 150 miles from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. The car-free route consists principally of crushed limestone and follows former (and a few present!) railroad rights of means by means of scenic river valleys and outdated mill cities. For those who’re feeling formidable, you possibly can proceed on the C&O Canal Towpath, which takes cyclists from Cumberland all the best way to Washington, DC.
There’s no must traverse the complete GAP, although. Any given section is price a stroll, jog or ski, with every mile bringing its share of beautiful woodland – plus probability of crossing one among 19 historic bridges.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: This path technically begins in Pittsburgh with the Southside Riverfront Park and Path; the GAP then intersects with dozens of trailheads all through Southwestern Pennsylvania.
4. Uncover a misplaced neighborhood at Previous Economic system Village
Journey time: half-hour every means
Butler County, simply half-hour north of Pittsburgh, gives distinctive German character and points of interest. For about 100 years, the German-settled Concord Society maintained a utopian neighborhood in rural Pennsylvania. Its legacy is Previous Economic system Village, a settlement of 17 brick buildings that also stand close to the banks of the Ohio River. True to its industrious title, the village’s residents as soon as produced textiles, lumber and spirits.
Guests can see how this Christian sect lived from 1824 to 1906, because of immaculately preserved properties and workshops. Tour the Concord Museum for extra perception.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about half-hour. From downtown Pittsburgh, take Route 65 N (also called Ohio River Blvd) 20 miles to the city of Ambridge.
5. Admire the surroundings at Fallingwater
Journey time: 70 minutes every means
Of the 532 buildings Frank Lloyd Wright designed, Fallingwater is likely to be probably the most celebrated. This Modernist masterpiece combines angular concrete partitions, sandstone masonry and plush forest, because the eponymous waterfall cascades beneath its cantilevered terraces. The property hosts a spread of guided excursions, which relate the historical past and groundbreaking design of the home (constructed as a retreat for the Kaufmann household, well-known department-store magnates in Pittsburgh). This distant architectural marvel is nicely with the journey.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: A automobile is one of the best ways to achieve Fallingwater. From Pittsburgh, it’s a 70-minute drive east on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). Take Exit 91 for PA-381 S.
6. Hop a journey on the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum
Journey time: half-hour every means
Pittsburgh was as soon as well-known for its trolley system, and the quaint outdated streetcars even impressed the “Trolley” character from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood (which was produced in Pittsburgh, Fred Rogers’ hometown). Port Authority buses have lengthy changed rails and cables, however you will get a style of what as soon as was on the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, a sprawling interactive exhibit on the sting of Chartiers Township.
The museum was based in 1954, and its assortment of automobiles has since expanded from three to 52, encompassing trolley designs from around the globe. Guided excursions recount the historical past of mass transit; guests can even discover on their very own and step aboard the classic automobiles. Lots of the trolleys are nonetheless operational and take spins across the property.
When you’re on the market, cease into Washington, a large faculty city with a vibrant eating scene.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive alongside 79 S takes about half-hour till you attain Exit 40.
7. Conquer the slopes at Seven Springs Resort
Journey time: 1 hour every means
The very best elevation at Seven Springs is likely to be a humble 2994ft. But the most important ski resort in Western Pennsylvania resort places these slopes to good use, with skiers and snowboarders in a position to choose from 33 trails throughout 285 acres. No fewer than 10 lifts carry guests to the summits, with a 3rd of the runs designated black diamond.
Seven Springs has drawn skiers to the Laurel Highlands because it opened in 1937. And the on-site golf course, alpine slides and climbing partitions have turned the advanced right into a four-season vacation spot. Replenish energy at any of 14 eating places, together with the beloved Foggy Goggle pub.
For those who’re searching for one thing barely extra intimate, take a look at Seven Springs’ sister resort Hidden Valley, positioned simply 20 minutes away.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about 1 hour. Comply with 1-76E to Donegal Township and take Exit 9. Take County Line Rd the remaining 10 miles.
8. Trailblaze by means of Western Pennsylvania’s state parks
Journey time: 45 to 55 minutes every means, relying on the park
For nature lovers searching for a scenic escape, Racoon Creek State Park, Moraine State Park and McConnells Mill State Park provide ample mountaineering and water sports activities like kayaking, every inside a brief drive from Pittsburgh.
Raccoon Creek State Park spans 7,500 acres and has 44 miles of trails winding by means of rolling hills, woodlands and valleys. Its lake is good for guests who like to kayak, swim and fish.
Only a quick drive north, Moraine State Park has one other 42 miles of scenic trails that take guests by means of lush forests and alongside the shores of Lake Arthur. This 3225-acre lake is a hub for water actions, together with crusing, paddleboarding and fishing.
For a extra rugged journey, close by McConnells Mill State Park options deep gorges, dramatic landscapes and the scenic Slippery Rock Creek, which as soon as powered the McConnells grist mill. At present, the mill gives demonstrations on how grain is floor utilizing water-powered generators.
Every park supplies a stability of tranquility and recreation with out venturing too removed from town.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive to Racoon Creek State Park is 45 minutes west on US22 W, whereas Moraine State Park is 45 minutes north on I79. For McConnells Mill, it’ll take one other 10 minutes through exit 99 for US422 W. Proceed towards Butler/New Fortress for roughly 7 miles to the park exit.
9. Courageous the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk
Journey time: Two hours every means
For an unforgettable expertise excessive above the timber, albeit one of many longer day journeys, head to the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk within the huge Allegheny Nationwide Forest.
As soon as the world’s longest and tallest railroad bridge, the Kinzua Bridge was partially destroyed by a twister in 2003. At present, the remaining construction has been reworked into the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk, giving guests an opportunity to stroll 624 toes out over the forest. The skywalk encompasses a glass statement deck on the finish, offering breathtaking views of the Kinzua Gorge.
Along with the skywalk, Allegheny Nationwide Forest, which spans over half one million acres, has over 600 miles of mountaineering trails.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive alongside I79 N to US6 W takes about 2 hours, however bus excursions take company on roundtrip drives from Pittsburgh to the Allegheny Nationwide Forest.
10. Roam the riverside retreat of Wheeling
Journey time: One hour every means
Positioned an hour southwest of Pittsburgh, Wheeling, West Virginia, is an enthralling city on the banks of the Ohio River.
Wheeling’s historic downtown is house to the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, a Nationwide Historic Landmark that was the longest suspension bridge on the planet when constructed in 1849, at 1010 toes. For historical past buffs, the West Virginia Independence Corridor supplies a have a look at how the state was shaped throughout the Civil Conflict. On the close by 1700-acre Oglebay Resort, guests can stroll the resort’s manicured gardens and mountaineering trails.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive alongside I79 S to 170 W takes about an hour.
11. Take in the solar at Lake Erie’s seashores
Journey time: Two hours every means
Among the finest issues to do with children is to journey to the Lake Erie area, which gives sandy shores and charming lakeside cities. Whereas Presque Isle State Park in Pennsylvania is probably the most well-known seashore vacation spot for Pittsburghers, there are a number of different spots alongside Lake Erie price exploring.
Head throughout the border to Ohio and go to Conneaut Township Park, famend for its quiet seashores, scenic boardwalk and orange-hued sunsets. Or, enterprise to Geneva-on-the-Lake to get pleasure from a traditional resort city with a mixture of seashore actions, arcades and wineries. In Ashtabula, Walnut Seaside Park is a good spot for households with a spacious seashore, playgrounds and a fishing pier. After a swim, discover the historic Ashtabula Harbor, identified for its lighthouses and charming cafes.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: The drive to the shores of Lake Erie and every seashore takes about two hours alongside I79 N. Prepare journey is obtainable, however it might probably double the journey time.
12. Go for a landing on the Professional Soccer Corridor of Fame
Journey time: 1 hour and half-hour every means
Sports activities followers have lots to get pleasure from in Pittsburgh, however when searching for a day journey, head to Canton, Ohio, house of the Professional Soccer Corridor of Fame. Simply 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, this establishment celebrates the achievements of the Nationwide Soccer League and honors the legends who formed the game. The Corridor of Fame options immersive displays, together with the Corridor of Fame Gallery, the place busts of the best gamers, coaches and contributors are enshrined. Guests can discover interactive shows, watch historic recreation footage and admire memorabilia resembling Tremendous Bowl rings and iconic jerseys.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: This 90-minute drive follows I76 W towards Ohio. Greyhound, positioned in downtown, can even get you there in about 2 hours.
13. See remnants of American historical past at Fort McIntosh
Journey time: 40 minutes every means
Inbuilt 1778 throughout the American Revolutionary Conflict, Fort McIntosh in Beaver County was the primary fort constructed by the Continental Military within the northwest territory. As soon as serving because the headquarters for the First American Regiment, the earliest model of the US Military, the fort’s stays sit alongside the banks of the Ohio River and have informative historic markers detailing the fort’s significance. Whereas a lot of the unique fort has been misplaced to time, the location is a perfect day journey for anybody considering early American historical past.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: Drive about 40 minutes on PA65 N to the city of Beaver and the fort. Buses can be found from Liberty Road and can take 2 hours.
14. Admire Kentuck Knob’s structure
Journey time: 1 hour and 10 minutes every means
You’ll discover extra architectural marvels at Kentuck Knob, one other gorgeous house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Positioned within the Laurel Highlands and showcasing the architect’s natural signature model, Kentuck Knob blends seamlessly into the pure panorama with its sandstone partitions, copper roof and cantilevered design that seems to drift above the bottom. Guests can take a guided tour of the house, in-built 1956, in addition to its sculpture backyard.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: Drive for about 70 minutes on PA381 S.
15. Seek for black gold in Oil Creek State Park
Journey time: 1 hour and 45 minutes every means
As the location of the world’s first business oil nicely within the mid-1800s, guests at Oil Creek State Park can find out about Pennsylvania’s wealthy oil heritage by means of interpretive indicators and displays. The park options miles of mountaineering trails winding by means of forests and alongside Oil Creek, with waterfalls, wildlife and a 36-mile bike path.
How you can get there from Pittsburgh: Drive north on I79 for about 80 minutes and take exit 147B to merge onto US-322 W towards Meadville. You’ll then comply with PA-27 E for about 20 to 25 minutes to achieve the park. Buses can get you there too, in about three hours.
