Here Are 9 Unique Day Trips Near Pittsburgh That Are An Absolute Must-Do
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on May 30, 2023(Originally published May 28, 2023)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
In every season, you might find yourself on the lookout for some of the best day trips from Pittsburgh and beyond. After all, there’s nothing better than heading out to make lasting memories with loved ones — especially when you’ve got a free day and an open road. While we adore the many marvelous things to do in Pittsburgh itself, sometimes it’s beneficial to put the hustle and bustle of the city behind and hit the road on a daylong adventure. There are so many great day trips in Pennsylvania that narrowing our favorite local selections to just nine posed a pretty hefty challenge, but we’ve done our best! The best day trips in Pittsburgh and its surrounding communities are detailed below.
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.
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.
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!
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
Presque Isle State Park, 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, USA
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, Sheffield Township, PA 16347, USA
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
Ricketts Glen State Park, Ricketts Glen State Pk, Ross Township, PA 18656, USA
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!
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?
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.
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:
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Pittsburgh is a great restaurant town so choosing one of the best restaurants in town, like Eleven, Bar Marco, or Al an’ Rubens Bar and Grill is always a delicious way to explore the city.
Ohiopyle State Park offers scores and scores of hiking trails, biking trails, and 11 miles of horseback riding trails.
The Old Allegheny County Jail is a Romanesque-style prison that has been a historical landmark since 1886 and is a great attraction to tour.
The Center for PostNatural History in Pittsburgh was built to explain how human culture has impacted evolution over time.
The Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara in Erie shares the rich maritime history of the Erie area dating back to the War of 1812 and coming up through the present day.
The Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh is a contemporary art museum featuring works by Pittsburgh artists and a wide range of collection themes.
