1. WQED in Pittsburgh debuted as the nation’s first "community-supported" TV station.

Still a fixture in Pittsburgh television, WQED first went on the air on April 1, 1954. Since then, the station has gone on to win countless awards, including Emmy Awards and an Academy Award.

2. The first nighttime World Series game was held in Pittsburgh.

The 1971 World Series pitted the Pirates against the Baltimore Orioles. Game four of the series on October 13, 1971, kicked off at 8:15 p.m., the first nighttime World Series game in baseball history. The Pirates would go on to win the series four games to three.

3. Jonas Salk invented the first polio vaccine in Pittsburgh.

Dr. Jonas Salk made medical history – and saved countless lives – when he invented the polio vaccine in Pittsburgh in 1955.

4. The Ferris Wheel was invented in Pittsburgh.

Today, the Ferris Wheel is the focal point of just about every summer fair, festival, and amusement park. We owe the Ferris Wheel to George Ferris who created the favorite ride in Pittsburgh in 1892 but debuted it a year later at the World’s Fair in Chicago.

5. Pittsburghers enjoyed the first motion picture theater in the United States.

Going to the movie theater is a favorite pastime for many and it all began in the Burgh. Back in 1905, Pittsburghers started the trend of going to the movies when the Nickelodeon, the world’s first movie theater, opened.

6. The first "drive-in" gas station opened in Pittsburgh.

Pittsburghers were the first Americans to gas up their vehicles at a drive-in gas station, which opened on Baum Boulevard and St. Clair Street on December 1, 1913.

7. Pittsburghers ate the first McDonald’s first Big Macs, invented by a fellow Pittsburgher.

Three cheers to Jim Delligatti, a Pittsburgher and a McDonald’s franchisee who wanted to entice customers with a new, epic burger. Thus, the Big Mac was born and is now one of the world’s favorite burgers.

8. KDKA went on the air, becoming the United States’ first commercial radio station.

Pittsburghers tuned in to KDKA for election results. Over 100 years ago on Election Day, November 2, 1920, was the first day KDKA went on the air.

9. Opening pop and beer cans became easier thanks to Alcoa in Pittsburgh.

Alcoa invented those easy-to-use pull tabs on pop and other aluminum cans. And, another hometown company, Iron City Brewery (which became one of the best breweries in Pittsburgh), was the first to switch over to the pull tabs on their products.

10. The Pittsburgh Steelers earned acclaim as the first team to win six Super Bowls.

Okay, most Pittsburghers already know that the Pittsburgh Steelers were the first team to win six Super Bowls but it’s still worth a mention. The Steelers wrapped up their sixth Super Bowl win, edging out the Arizona Cardinals 27-23, on February 1, 2009.

As you can see, the things Pittsburgh did first are quite numerous. Which ones were your favorites? What other Pittsburgh firsts would you add to the list? We’d love to read your thoughts in the comments section below!

Alas, there are some things Pittsburghers grew up with that we can no longer do. (Spoiler alert: We miss you Kaufmann’s!)

If you’re interested in making a weekend trip to Pittsburgh, there is no better place to spend the night than the Courtyard Pittsburgh Downtown.

If you’re still in the mood for more Pennsylvania adventures, take a look at this video about the Philadelphia Magic Garden:

The post Some People Don’t Know That Pittsburgh Was The First To Do These 10 Things appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Add an extra helping of excitement to your summer when you embark on a three-hour float with Coal Tubin' in Johnstown.

The river adventure company provides adventure-seekers with everything they need to enjoy a day on the Stonycreek River.

If you want to try something a little different, opt for the whitewater tubing, inflatable kayaking, or whitewater kayaking.

Start your day at the Coal Tubin' office, where you'll hitch a ride in the shuttle to the drop-off point at the river. Weekday shuttles are scheduled at various times throughout the day.

Make sure you arrive at the Coal Tubin' office at least a half an hour before your chosen departure time.

You'll also have to choose your preferred tube. Coal Tubin' offers regular tubes and children's tubes. Purple and large green tubes are also available for rent, for an extra fee.

Bring along cold drinks if you rent the cooler tube.

Coal Tubin's shuttle will drop you off at one of two points, depending on the water level of the river. Floats can take between an hour and three hours.

All adventurers 12 years and younger must wear a life jacket. You're free to bring your own or to rent a life jacket at the Coal Tubin' office.

If you feel like you need some extra time out on the river, climb aboard the shuttle after your float and do it all over again.

Weekday tubing costs slightly less than weekend rates. All tubing trips include all day parking and one shuttle ride. You can pay a nominal fee for additional shuttle rides.

Coat Tubin' doesn't required reservations. However, if you opt to reserve your adventure online ahead of time, you'll receive a discount.

River tubing near Pittsburgh is such a magical adventure that's the perfect way to have fun this summer.

Doesn’t this look like a blast?:

For more information about Coal Tubin’ in Johnstown, PA, check out the Coal Tubin’ website or Coal Tubin’s Facebook page.

Where is your favorite place to go tubing near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! And, if you’re a fan of camping and tubing, check into this riverfront campground in Western Pennsylvania.

The post The Longest Float Trip Near Pittsburgh Will Bring Your Summer Tubing Dreams To Life appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Although Kerber's Dairy in Irwin is a traditional autumn stop for most Pittsburghers...

...its definitely a place to add to your list of must-visit places this summer.

This is one of the most popular places to go tubing in the state.

All-season tubing is offered here for guests who are six years and older (and weigh 250 pounds or less).

Daytime is not the only time to come here.

They offer two evening sessions as well.

But, first, make sure you're wearing close-toed shoes.

Sandals, flip flops, cleats, and high heels (yes, you ladies!) are prohibited. Remember, safety first.

Tubing sessions here are very reasonably priced.

Of course, before or after your downhill summer tubing adventure ...

... make plans to play a round or two of mini golf.

Then, stop by the shop for a scoop or two of homemade ice cream.

After all, Kerber's Dairy is really known for this cold treat. You and your crew can choose from such scrumptious ice cream flavors as Cotton Candy, Key Lime Pie, Orange Pineapple ...

..., Oreo Cheesecake, Toasted Almond Fudge, Dinosaur Crunch, Muddy Sneakers, and Chubby Elvis, just to name a few.

Kerber's Dairy is located at 1856 Guffey Road, Irwin, PA, 15642. Irwin is about a 20-minute drive southeast of Pittsburgh.

For more information, be sure to visit the official Kerber's Dairy website. You can also go to the Kerber's Dairy Facebook page where you will find a lot more enticing photos - of tubing and ice cream!

Kerber’s is one of the best places to spend part of your summer in Pennsylvania!

Have you ever been to Kerber’s Dairy? If so, what was your favorite part? Do you have a favorite place to go downhill summer tubing near Pittsburgh? Do you have any suggestions for other great things to do in the summer near Pittsburgh? We’d love to read your ideas and hear about your experiences in the comments section below!

If you’re interested in making a weekend trip to Pittsburgh, there is no better place to spend the night than at The Industrialist Hotel, Pittsburgh, Autograph Collection.

And, if you like tubing on the water, embark on one of the best lazy rivers near Pittsburgh.

If you’re still in the mood for more Pennsylvania adventures, take a look at this video about the Philadelphia Magic Garden:

The post The Downhill Summer Tubing Adventure Near Pittsburgh That’s Unlike Any Other appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Twin Lakes

Simplistic beauty defines Twin Lakes Park in Greensburg. The popular park, the centerpiece of which are the upper and the lower lakes, hosts several events throughout the year, including the Westmoreland Arts and Heritage Festival and the Summer Concert Series. But, even without those events, Twin Lakes promises plenty to do, including fishing, paddle boating, canoeing, hiking, or playing at the playground...and that's just the start of the many activities available at the 467-acre park. It's one of the best lakes near Pittsburgh, PA.

2. Keystone Lake

Raise up the sails or rev the engine on your motor boat for a scenic trip around the 78-acre Keystone Lake in the heart of Keystone State Park in Derry Township. Fishermen and women will find both cold and warm water fishing in the lake while swimmers can head over to the sand beach in the park. It's one of the best lakes around Pittsburgh you can visit. You'll also find plenty to do, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and camping out at the park. Check out more about the campground at Keystone State Park.

3. Lake Arthur

Get ready to catch your breath when you first lay your eyes upon Lake Arthur, a 3,200-acre lake in Moraine State Park. The spectacular lake offers a variety of activities, including fishing and boating. Boats of all types – kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, and even rafts – are welcome on Lake Arthur's waters. When you tire of the water, if that's possible, bike, hike, check out the beach, picnic, or camp out. Did you know that Lake Arthur is home to the longest beach near Pittsburgh?

4. Panther Hollow Lake

Some might not consider Panther Hollow Lake a lake because it's manmade but it certainly deserves a mention. Created in the early 1900s, Panther Hollow Lake is an integral part of Schenley Park. Panther Hollow Lake promises a spectacular backdrop for a picnic or to practice your photography skills. Take a peek at a scenic trail in Pittsburgh that winds through Schenley Park.

Take a look at this video by @dannysmarreroofficial7902:

5. North Park Lake

Grab your fishing gear because you'll find a fisherman's paradise at North Park Lake in North Park. The 65-acre lake is also popular with kayakers. Don't have a boat? No worries. You can rent a kayak, a row boat, a paddle boat, or a canoe from Venture Outdoors, located in the North Park Boathouse. The park around the lake also offers a plethora of activities, including golfing, swimming in the pool, and hiking the trails. It's one of the best lakes around Pittsburg.

6. Conneaut Lake

Only about two hours from Pittsburgh sits spectacular Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania's biggest natural glacier lake. Water lovers flock to Conneaut Lake to swim, water ski, boat, fish, and picnic by the water. Learn more about the fun that awaits at this spring-fed lake near Pittsburgh.

Take a look at this video by @RayNoneya:

7. Lake Erie

If you're willing to drive a few hours north, you'll be well-rewarded with the stunning view of gorgeous Lake Erie at sunset or sunrise, depending on whether you prefer nights or mornings. Pitch an umbrella in the sand; roll out your beach towel, and enjoy one of the beaches, including the one at Presque Isle State Park, along Lake Erie. Beach-goers can water ski, kayak, boat, or swim in the waters of Lake Erie. When not lounging on the beach, check out one of the nearby amusement parks, such as Waldameer Park and Water World; take in a baseball game, or visit the Tom Ridge Environmental Center.

Now that you’ve seen the best seven lakes near Pittsburgh to visit this summer, which other lakes do you think should make the list? What do you think are the most beautiful lakes in Pittsburgh? Let us know! Then check out the five best beaches in Pittsburgh you’ll also want to add to your summer bucket list.

The post 7 Gorgeous Lakes To Visit Around Pittsburgh This Summer appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Sandcastle Water Park - Pittsburgh

Stroll down the boardwalk and play in the water without ever leaving Pittsburgh. Sandcastle Water Park promises to take Pittsburghers out of the Burgh and to the beach with its authentic boardwalk, mouthwatering food, and plenty of water slides and rides. Sandcastle entices kids with its two kids areas while the water slides (there are 15!), the Lazy River, the Mon-Tsunami Wave Pool, and the always-relaxing Mushroom Pool call out to parkgoers. Season passes are available.

2. Idlewild & SoakZone - Ligonier

Mix a traditional amusement park with a pretty spectacular waterpark and what do you get? Idlewild & SoakZone in Ligonier, which kicks off its summer season in late May. Join the family in the wave pool or get your adrenaline pumping on the Pipeline Plunge, the Serpentine Slides, or the Hydro Racers. SoakZone also features a kid's area, which includes a wading pool and Captain Kidd's Adventure Galley. Season and day passes to Idlewild & SoakZone are available at the park or online.

3. Pirates Cove Water Park at Conley Resort - Butler

Editor's Note: Pirates Cove Water Park is permanently closed, although Conley Resort is still operational.
Rainy summer days in the Burgh don't necessarily mean a washout of fun in the pool. Pirates Cove Waterpark at Conley Resort in Butler promises to brighten those dreary summer days. Adults and kids can swim in the indoor pool, slip down the water slides, or relax in the whirlpool or sauna. Annual and three-month passes to the indoor water park are available, offering access to the pool, sauna, and whirlpool. Check with the resort for specific hours, which are dependent on the time of the year.

4. Splash Lagoon - Erie

Avoid that smothering heat of a Pittsburgh summer by heading two hours north to Splash Lagoon Water Park in Erie. A water lover's dream, the indoor water playground promises non-stop fun with its many rides and slides. Scare yourself silly on such extreme water rides as the Cyclone and Hurricane Hole before relaxing in one of the whirlpools, in the wave pool, or by floating down the Lazy River. Splash Lagoon also features a kids' zone.

5. Settlers Cabin Wave Pool - Pittsburgh

Body surf along the waves at Settlers Cabin Wave Pool in Pittsburgh this summer season, which generally kicks off Memorial Day weekend. The wave and swimming pool provides the ideal opportunity, especially with its minimal entrance fee, to cool off on those simmering summer days. If Settlers Cabin is out of the way, try South Park Wave Pool in South Park or The Boyce Park Wave Pool in Monroeville.

6. Spray Parks - Pittsburgh

Remember running through the sprinkler when you were a kid? Recreate that experience yourself or with your own kids by visiting one of the many spray parks around Pittsburgh. Spray parks welcome visitors of all ages. Cool down this summer at Pittsburgh's spray parks, including Beechview Spray Park, Mellon Spray Park in Shadyside, East Hills Park, and Cowley Playground in Troy Hill.

Which one is your favorite Pittsburgh water park? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments section. We would love to hear about how they were. What about your other favorites? Would you add any other waterparks in the Pittsburgh area to the list?

The post These 6 Waterparks Around Pittsburgh Are Pure Bliss For Anyone Who Goes There appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Stonycreek River

Journey to nearby Johnstown for a lazy day on Stonycreek River. Coal Tubin' offers affordable rental inner tubes and a shuttle ride to and from the picturesque river. Coal Tubin' also hosts special events during the summer. Learn more about the longest lazy river near Pittsburgh.

Coal Tubin' is located at 100 Station Street, Johnstown, PA 15905.

2. Kiski River

Spend the perfect summer day tubing on the Kiski River with River's Edge Canoe & Kayak. Rent an inner tube and decide on which tour to embark. Roaring Run to River's Edge, an eight-mile trip, takes between four to six hours to complete while the Nature Day, a full-day tour, travels 15 miles from Avonmore to River's Edge. Learn more about the longest float trip near Pittsburgh.

The River's Edge Canoe & Kayak is located at 3158 River Road, Leechburg, PA 15656.

3. Clarion River

Drive a little more than two hours to Ridgway for a delightful day of tubing on the Clarion River. Rent an inner tube for yourself - and a cooler tube to keep your drinks cool - at Lazy River Canoe Rental. Choose from one of several tubing adventures. Check out the Lazy River Canoe Rental website for more information.

Find Lazy River Canoe Rental at 40 West Main Street, Ridgway, PA 15853.

4. Cook Forest

Slip into the Clarion River near Cook Forest on a rental inner tube from Pale Wale Canoe Rentals. Choose from one of two trips: the 2.5-mile or the four-mile. Single and double tubes are available for rent from Pale Wale Canoe Rentals, which is open from April through October. Learn more about this Pittsburgh tubing adventure in our previous article.

Pale Wale Canoe Rentals is located at 115 Riverside Drive, Cooksburg, PA 16217.

5. Sandcastle Waterpark

Float down the lazy river as part of an action-packed day at Sandcastle Waterpark. While it's not a traditional river, you'll find plenty to do on such attractions as the Lazy River, Thunder Run, the Dragon's Den, and the Mon-Tsunami. Sandcastle is also perfect for just relaxing poolside and soaking up the sun. Read more about this popular waterpark in Pittsburgh.

Spend the day at Sandcastle Waterpark at 1000 Sandcastle Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15120.

6. Idlewild Park & SoakZone

Stay cool as you wander down the Lazy River at Idlewild Park and SoakZone before heading to one of the many water attractions. The kiddos will love the waterpark, too, which features fun attractions just for pint-sized visitors. Make time to ride the rides in Idlewild after your time in the water. Take a peek at this beloved amusement and waterpark near Pittsburgh in our previous article.

Stop by Idlewild & SoakZone at 2574 U.S. 30, Ligonier, PA 15658.

These lazy rivers near Pittsburgh will keep you cool no matter how high the temperature rises this summer. Where are your favorite places to go tubing near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Be sure to also plan a day trip to the best beaches near Pittsburgh.

The post 6 Lazy Rivers Around Pittsburgh That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Here are a few of the best day trips in Pittsburgh that are worthy of your bucket list.

1. Amtrak Pennsylvanian to Cleveland

Watch the Pennsylvania countryside roll by as you head to Cleveland, Ohio, perhaps one of Pittsburgh's biggest sports rivals. The nearly three-hour train ride sets off from the Amtrak Station in downtown Pittsburgh (1100 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222) and arrives at the Amtrak Station in Cleveland (200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway Cleveland, OH 44114). For train schedule information, go to Amtrak and plug in Pittsburgh (PGH) to Cleveland (CLE).

You'll find plenty to do once you arrive in Cleveland: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Great Lakes Science Center, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, and the Children's Museum of Cleveland. You might even find that a single day just isn't enough time to take it all in. In that case, check into one of the city's many hotels, B&Bs, or Airbnbs.

2. Amtrak Pennsylvania to Altoona

Spend a day in Altoona, home of the world-famous Horseshoe Curve - by boarding a train from the Amtrak Station in downtown Pittsburgh, which will take you to the Altoona Amtrak Station at 1231 11th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601. The train trip takes approximately two-and-a-half hours. To find a seat on the day you want, visit Amtrak and put in Pittsburgh (PGH) to Altoona (ALT).

Plan what you'll do in Altoona ahead of time so you don't miss anything. Some of the attractions in the city include Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark, Railroaders Memorial Museum, Lakemont Park, Boyer Candy Factory Outlet, and Peoples Natural Gas Field. If you're visiting during the summertime, head over to Lakemont Park. Make sure you ride Leap the Dips, the oldest roller coaster in the world.

3. Amtrak Pennsylvanian to Philadelphia

So, technically, this next trip isn't a day trip unless you feel like spending a lot of time on the train in one 24-hour period. Journey across the state to our biggest rival - Philly - by boarding your departing train at the Amtrak Station in Pittsburgh, which will take you to the Amtrak Station in Philadelphia at 2955 Market Street, 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA 19104. For schedule information, go to Amtrak and type in Pittsburgh (PGH) to Philadelphia (PHL).

You may want to spend a couple of days in Philly, especially if you want to day trip out of the city and head to New York City or Atlantic City. You'll also find a ton to do in Philadelphia itself, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Please Touch Museum, and Reading Terminal Market. And, that's just scratching the surface of all you'll find to do in the City of Brotherly Love.

4. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

You'll have to jump behind the wheel of your own vehicle to climb aboard a train with the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad, which is approximately two hours from downtown Pittsburgh. The railroad offers regular train rides and special events through the summer season, which usually kicks off in June. The railroad also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including train rides to celebrate Easter (with the Easter Bunny), Mother's Day, Father's Day, and Christmas in July. Wine Tastings and Murder Mystery Dinners are also popular excursions held at different times of the year. It promises one of the best train rides in Pennsylvania.

Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad is located at Perry Street Station, 409 South Perry Street, Titusville, PA 16354. Visit the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad website for more information.

Who’s ready to hit the rails for a day trip like no other on these train trips from Pittsburgh? What are your train rides in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Are you a fan of waterfalls and wine? If so, you’ll want to follow this day trip that will take you to some of the best waterfalls and wineries near Pittsburgh.

The post 4 Incredible Day Trips You Can Take From Pittsburgh By Train appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Jackson Falls, Apollo

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YouTube/kbeecher36

Jackson Falls in Apollo beckons both swimmers and nature lovers with its three stunning waterfalls. The waterfalls flow into what some use as a swimming hole. Here are the directions to Jackson Falls. 

2. Meadow Run Natural Rock Water Slides, Ohiopyle State Park

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YouTube/Eltiempo10

You’ve never really experienced a waterslide until you’ve conquered the Meadow Run Natural Waterslide in Ohiopyle State Park. Sit down in the creek, and let the rushing water take you away. A word of warning, however: The natural water slide can be risky, especially as you will bump against the rocks. Some of those swimmers who have faced the water slide have complained of getting injured in the process. Find directions to Meadow Run Natural Waterslide.

3. Jacob’s Creek/Blue Hole, Perryopolis

YouTube/Alex Waskowitz

YouTube/Johnny Airesman

Blue Hole in Jacob’s Creek promises spectacular scenery and an equally impressive natural diving board. Blue Hole features a breathtaking waterfall that many use as a diving board. While it’s a popular spot with swimmers, authorities have warned against going here due to its dangerous conditions. If you go, take extreme care. Here are the directions to Blue Hole.

4. Blue Hole, Dunbar

YouTube/Skizzy6

Southwestern Pennsylvania has two swimming holes called Blue Hole – the swimming hole at Jacob’s Creek in Perryopolis and the other in Dubar. Blue Hole in Dunbar promises the perfect spot for swimming on a hot summer day. Adventurers can climb the rocks and jump into the water. Use caution. Customize the directions to Blue Hole in Dunbar.

5. Robinson Hole, Montour

Warning: Some explicit language.

YouTube/hallucingenic420

Enjoy the Robinson Hole in Montour. Unlike many swimming holes in Pittsburgh, Robinson Hole isn’t entirely secluded. Some swimmers have used the rope swing to jump into the hole in Montour. However, it’s important to use the swing with caution. Find directions to Robinson Hole.

Please use extreme caution at Robinson Hole as swimmers have been injured here.

Do you agree that these are five of the best swimming holes near Pittsburgh? Have you been to Blue Hole in Pennsylvania? Where are your favorite places to swim in Pittsburgh? Join the conversation in the comments! Remember, no matter which swimming hole you visit, use caution when in the water. Then check out these lazy rivers near Pittsburgh that are perfect for staying cool all summer long.

The post Here Are 5 Swimming Holes Near Pittsburgh That Will Make Your Summer Epic appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

The day trips included range in length from a little over an hour away to three hours or so away. Some people enjoy short day trips around Pittsburgh, while others prefer the longer hauls, so a mix of both is featured.

1. Pine Creek Gorge

Just 189 miles from Pittsburgh lies one of Pennsylvania's most spectacular natural wonders. Pine Creek Gorge, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, promises stunning views of the massive gorge that runs 50 miles long and is nearly 1,500 feet deep. Enjoy amazing views of the gorge from either Leonard Harrison State Park or Colton Point State Park, each of which promises to impress visitors of all ages.

2. Bedford County

Forget going to outer space! Visit Gravity Hill in Bedford County, where the concept of gravity isn't exactly what we're used to. In fact, you'll have the chance to experience the phenomenon of your car rolling uphill, not downhill. Situated approximately 104 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, Bedford County is also home to Old Bedford Village, a "living history village" where you can step back in time. There's a reason this area is so beloved!

3. Penn's Cave

Sure, you'll drive further – 155 miles, to be exact – to access this spot, but Penn's Cave in Centre Hall certainly makes the trip worthwhile. Tour the cave by boat before heading aboveground to join a 90-minute wildlife tour that will bring you face-to-face with some of Pennsylvania's most popular animals. Get happily lost, then find your way out of Miners Maze or pan for gemstones. There's whimsy around every bend when you check out this locale near the city.

4. Presque Isle State Park

Fill up the gas tank and start your 132-mile day trip to Presque Isle State Park in Erie. Kick back and relax on one of the state park's pristine beaches, bike along the park's trails, get an up-close view of the Presque Isle Lighthouse, or go kayaking on the lake.

5. Allegheny National Forest

Allegheny National Forest, located just 129 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, caters to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of various backgrounds. Try your hand at geocaching if you're up for an adventure. Other activities include golfing, go-karting, biking, or boating. Really up for something new? Try skydiving or hit the trails in an ATV.

6. Ricketts Glen State Park

Definitely the farthest on our list from Pittsburgh at 245 miles away, Ricketts Glen State Park offers so many delights that we simply had to include it. You might, however, want to camp out or stay overnight if you don't have a driving partner to help you split the driving time. Ricketts Glen State Park boasts 22 waterfalls with Ganoga Falls measuring the tallest at 94 feet. Popular activities in the park range from horseback riding and hiking to swimming and boating. Talk about a blast!

7. Kinzua Bridge

Kinzua Bridge in the Allegheny National Forest, only 143 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, provides visitors with a stunning view of the park. Partially destroyed in 2003, Kinzua Bridge no longer functions as a bridge and is now a skywalk. Visitors can cross the skywalk and stand on the glass floor for a terrifyingly spectacular view of the lush green below. Are you brave enough to check it out?

8. Indiana County

Are you looking for a day trip a bit closer to home? Indiana County, a mere 63 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, offers something for just about everyone. Movie buffs can check out downtown Indiana, the home of legendary actor Jimmy Stewart and the Jimmy Stewart Museum. Visit the nearby Amish town of Smicksburg or hike along the Ghost Town Trail to get your legs moving.

9. Laurel Highlands

A 51-mile sprint from downtown Pittsburgh, Laurel Highlands offers a full menu of outdoor activities (Living Treasures Wild Animal Park and Idlewild Park & SoakZone, for example), photogenic covered bridges, and quaint towns. Some of these towns, such as Ligonier, beckon visitors to embark on leisurely strolls, eat at locally owned and operated restaurants, and visit eclectic shops and museums.

If you were to do a search for “day trips near me,” some of these are sure to appear near the top of the list!

Now that you’re up to speed on some of the best day trips in Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas, you’ll surely want to start planning for your next family adventure. Of course, we know that you might prefer to get out and explore even further beyond Pittsburgh, so check out some of our favorite free things to do in Pennsylvania.

Did we leave any of your favorite spots off our list? Share your thoughts by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend a few more of the best day trips in Pittsburgh by completing our official nomination form.

Can’t get enough adventure? Be sure to read about more of the best day trips in Pittsburgh — one for every month of the year.

If you’re still in the mood for more Pennsylvania adventures, take a look at this video about the Philadelphia Magic Garden:

The post Here Are 9 Unique Day Trips Near Pittsburgh That Are An Absolute Must-Do appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Conneaut Lake State Park – Conneaut

Just over 90 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, the beach at Conneaut Lake provides the perfect backdrop for a summer day. The largest spring-fed lake and Pennsylvania's largest glacial lake, Conneaut Lake is sure to cool you down. Relax on the sandy beach. Cool off in the water, or play a game of beach volley.

2. Laurel Hill State Park – Somerset

If you want to stick a bit closer to home, journey to Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset, just over an hour from downtown Pittsburgh. The mountain park boasts a 1,200-foot sandy beach and the cool water of Laurel Lake. At its deepest, the 63-acre lake measures just five feet. You can bring along a picnic or grab a bite to eat from the snack bar.

3. Raccoon Creek State Park – Hookstown

Just 30 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, Raccoon Creek State Park features a cozy, 500-foot sandy beach. Behind the beach you'll find a grassy area, so you can kick back and relax on either the sand or on the grass. The beach features a concession stand and plenty of space to spread out under the summer sun!

4. Moraine State Park – Portersville

You have two beaches from which to choose at Moraine State Park, about 45 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh. Claim your spot on Lakeview Beach or Pleasant Valley Beach, both of which lead into the blue water of Lake Arthur. Both beaches feature showers, changing facilities, and a snack bar.

5. Keystone State Park – Derry

Roll down the windows for the 45-minute drive to Keystone State Park, in Derry, the perfect summer hideaway. Swim at your own risk, as there are no lifeguards on duty. Spread out on the beach for a relaxing day in the sun, but leave your pups at home. Pets, food, and drink are not permitted on the sandy beach in this case.

What are your favorite beaches near Pittsburgh? Join the conversation in the comments! Ready for some more summer fun? Catch a double feature at one of these drive-in movie theaters around Pittsburgh.

The post 5 Pristine Hidden Beaches Near Pittsburgh You’ve Got To Visit This Summer appeared first on Only In Your State ®.