Visit Pennsylvania for your next vacation.
Duration: Two days and two nights
Wet and wild is the country way over here in the Laurel Highlands, where the rushing wet stuff in the Youghiogheny River rules the roost. And beneath the surface, you'll find caverns that stretch for miles beneath the rolling river above. Dried off, you'll love the personalities of the towns that have sprung up in and around the parks and rivers. And the multi-generational businesses that have flourished in those towns. There's a reason these families didn't want to pack up and move away from the history and beauty of this region. A fair amount of bragging rights go along with growing up in the area of Fort Necessity, where George Washington started his career. Now it's your turn to explore, as only a good shunpiker should.
Start your day in the place where George Washington started his career. A short paved road from the visitor center guides wide-eyed travelers to the Great Meadow and Fort Necessity, where the French and Indian War was sparked. During the summer months, you'll even catch weapons demonstrations here. And if you're in the mood to relax like a revolutionary, stop by the Mount Washington Tavern. Save some energy for your next stop though. It's a little more involved, and a lot more underground.
Read More >You haven't played a round of miniature golf until you've played it underground. Laurel Cavern gives you the opportunity to do just that. On your way to a healthy dose of subterranean hiking, you'll have the option of exploring 430 acres of underground passes, catacombs, and passages. Oh, and you'll see plenty of camera-shy bats.
Read More >At the top of the highest mountain range east of the Rockies, you'll find this winery tucked away in the rolling hills. Feel free to sample some of the wares, and if you like them (hint: you will), pick up a few bottles from the retail area. Pennsylvania's cultured side doesn't end here. Your next stop is a Frank Lloyd Wright work of art.
Read More >This home, built for the Hagan family in 1953, seems to spring right out of the Pennsylvania wilderness. Truthfully, this masterpiece involved three years of craftsmanship inspired by one of the world's greatest architectural minds, Frank Lloyd Wright. Stop by for a guided tour that'll give you a glimpse into the life of the Hagan family and the mind of Wright.
Read More >This place is one of only 21 hotels worldwide to earn the AAA Five-Diamond ranking. And once you have a look around, you'll see why. Situated on 2,000 acres of Laurel Highlands beauty, Nemacolin offers everything from a relaxing afternoon at the spa or golf courses to a vigorous day of fly-fishing. There's even an animal habitat with a 100-species collection of wildlife from around the globe. Lions, and tigers, and two-toed sloths. Oh my!
Read More >When Nemacolin does luxury dining, you know they aren't playing around. Picture steakhouses with ridiculously juicy filets and international cuisine from places you've never even heard of. Bring your appetite, and your French-to-English dictionary.
Read More >Like we said: spas, golf courses, and animal habitats. Nemacolin is a world unto itself with sleeping accommodations that range from luxurious hotel suites to secluded townhomes. And if you're seeking even more privacy, you have the option of renting an entire house. Don't worry, no matter how far away you go, room service is only a call away.
Read More >Get lost (not literally) in 19,000 acres of rugged natural beauty in this gateway to the Laurel Mountains. The 14-mile Youghiogheny River is a whitewater boater's dream with its super fast rapids and awe-inspiring scenery. You'll also have miles of hiking and biking trails that'll give you a great view of waterfalls, dense forest, and furry critters scurrying around the countryside. You'll want to lace up those hiking boots, since some of these trails can be a little rigorous. But don't fret, there are plenty of slower-paced paths for the laid back traveler.
Read More >It's the state's largest ski resort, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Out here in the mountains you'll have your choice of bowling, golf, camping, or getting some “me time” at the spa. When it comes to taking a break from the road, it doesn't get much better than this.
Read More >Travel back to a simpler time and a simpler place. The Somerset Historical Center takes pride in preserving Western Pennsylvania's rural roots. It's a great place to catch of glimpse of how the first settlers lived, slept, and worked as they helped populate the rugged countryside.
Read More >Laurel Arts, tucked away in the Laurel Highlands, is home to a spectacular selection of visual and performing arts. This place is a haven for artists, dancers, and musicians looking to share their passion with the community. Come by on the first Friday of the summer months and you could catch their Outdoor Concert Series full of cool regional acts.
Read More >Whether you're in a rush or looking for a nice sit down dinner, Pine Grill gets the job done. Diners from every corner of the state sing the praises of their 16oz Porterhouse Steak.
Read More >Joyce and Dan, your hosts at this cozy inn, will be more than happy to give you a place to kick your feet up and catch some Z's. They've been hosting hikers, climbers, and every other kind of outdoor adventurer for years, so we think they'll know how to handle a weary roadtripper or two.
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