Day Trips from Pittsburgh for the Family
From Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Pittsburgh, with its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as an excellent starting point for a variety of day trips. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of nature, the charm of historic towns, or the excitement of adventure sports, there's something for everyone within a 200-mile radius. From the scenic beauty of state parks to the culinary delights of small towns, these day trips offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to different interests and preferences.
1. Fallingswater
Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater is a must-visit for architecture and nature enthusiasts. The house, built over a waterfall, blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, offering a unique and breathtaking experience. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and design of the house, and explore the beautiful grounds and nearby hiking trails.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic architecture
- ✓Scenic waterfall and natural surroundings
- ✓Guided house tours
- ✓Hiking trails and nature walks
2. Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, whitewater rafting, and mountain biking. The park is home to stunning waterfalls, including the famous Ohiopyle Falls, and the scenic Great Allegheny Passage trail. Whether you're looking for a relaxing nature walk or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Ohiopyle has something to offer.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River
- ✓Hiking trails and waterfalls
- ✓Mountain biking on the Great Allegheny Passage
- ✓Scenic views and wildlife spotting
3. Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg is a historic town that played a pivotal role in the American Civil War. The Gettysburg National Military Park offers a wealth of historical sites, including the famous battlefield, the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center, and the Soldiers' National Cemetery. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the battle and the town, and explore the various museums and memorials.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Civil War battlefield and memorials
- ✓Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center
- ✓Soldiers' National Cemetery
- ✓Historic walking tours and reenactments
4. Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park is a beautiful coastal destination located in Erie, Pennsylvania. The park offers a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, and birdwatching. Take a stroll along the sandy beaches, explore the scenic trails, and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Erie. The park is also home to the Presque Isle Lighthouse, a historic landmark that offers guided tours.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Sandy beaches and swimming
- ✓Fishing and birdwatching
- ✓Scenic trails and wildlife spotting
- ✓Presque Isle Lighthouse tours
5. Lancaster
Lancaster is a charming small town known for its Amish heritage and rich history. Explore the historic downtown area, visit the Central Market for local produce and crafts, and take a tour of the Amish Village to learn about the Amish way of life. The town also offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Amish cuisine to modern farm-to-table restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Amish Village and cultural tours
- ✓Central Market for local produce and crafts
- ✓Historic downtown and architecture
- ✓Farm-to-table dining and local cuisine
6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful destination located between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and scenic train rides. Explore the picturesque Ledges Trail, visit the Brandywine Falls, and enjoy the stunning views of the Cuyahoga River. The park is also home to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the park.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hiking and biking trails
- ✓Brandywine Falls and scenic views
- ✓Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
- ✓Wildlife spotting and nature walks
7. Meadville
Meadville is a historic town located in northwestern Pennsylvania. The town is home to the historic Diamond Park, the Crawford County Historical Society Museum, and the Meadville Market House. Take a stroll through the charming downtown area, visit the local shops and restaurants, and explore the nearby natural attractions, such as the Allegheny National Forest.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Historic Diamond Park and architecture
- ✓Crawford County Historical Society Museum
- ✓Meadville Market House and local shops
- ✓Nearby natural attractions and hiking trails
8. Cleveland
Cleveland is a vibrant city located on the southern shore of Lake Erie. The city is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the Cleveland Zoo. Explore the historic West Side Market, visit the Cleveland Botanical Garden, and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Erie from the Cleveland Skyline.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Cleveland Museum of Art and cultural attractions
- ✓Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and music history
- ✓West Side Market and local cuisine
- ✓Cleveland Zoo and botanical gardens
9. Morgantown
Morgantown is a charming college town located in West Virginia. The town is home to West Virginia University, the Morgantown History Museum, and the Morgantown Farmers Market. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, visit the local shops and restaurants, and explore the nearby natural attractions, such as the Monongahela National Forest.
What to See & Do:
- ✓West Virginia University and college town atmosphere
- ✓Morgantown History Museum and local history
- ✓Morgantown Farmers Market and local produce
- ✓Nearby natural attractions and hiking trails
10. Hershey
Hershey is a charming town located in central Pennsylvania. The town is home to the Hersheypark, the Hershey Story Museum, and the Hershey Gardens. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, visit the local shops and restaurants, and explore the nearby natural attractions, such as the Hersheypark Stadium and the Hersheypark Arena.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hersheypark and amusement rides
- ✓Hershey Story Museum and chocolate history
- ✓Hershey Gardens and botanical attractions
- ✓Hersheypark Stadium and arena events
11. State College
State College is a vibrant college town located in central Pennsylvania. The town is home to Pennsylvania State University, the Palmer Museum of Art, and the State College Farmers Market. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, visit the local shops and restaurants, and explore the nearby natural attractions, such as the Rothrock State Forest.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Pennsylvania State University and college town atmosphere
- ✓Palmer Museum of Art and cultural attractions
- ✓State College Farmers Market and local produce
- ✓Nearby natural attractions and hiking trails
12. Erie
Erie is a coastal city located in northwestern Pennsylvania. The city is home to Presque Isle State Park, the Erie Maritime Museum, and the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. Take a stroll along the sandy beaches, visit the local shops and restaurants, and explore the nearby natural attractions, such as the Lake Erie Bluffs.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Presque Isle State Park and beaches
- ✓Erie Maritime Museum and maritime history
- ✓Tom Ridge Environmental Center and wildlife spotting
- ✓Lake Erie Bluffs and scenic views
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