Just 25 miles from Pittsburgh in western Pennsylvania, Butler County offers a glimpse into small-town life — with plenty of unexpected surprises around every corner. Explore the picturesque outdoors, unusual festivals, haunted history, and family-friendly things to do with kids. Here are 10 fun trip ideas to get you started.
Celebrate Jeeps at the annual Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival
One of Butler County’s biggest claims to fame is being the birthplace of the Jeep, a vehicle initially designed for soldiers in WWII. Since then, this off-roading icon has garnered plenty of loyal fans, many of which come together every June for the Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival in Slippery Rock.
See the resting place of early founders at the Harmonist Cemetery
Pull over off Route 68 to see an 1800s cemetery, the resting place of approximately 100 of the town of Harmony’s founding members. Due to religious beliefs, there are no headstones, except one dedicated to the founder, George Rapp. Learn more about the area’s history and residents at the Harmony Museum.
Bring kids to “The World’s Coolest Toy Store”
Let their imaginations run wild at Playthings Etc., Butler’s silver spaceship-shaped toy store stocked with classic board games, puzzles, kites, science kits, squishable stuffed animals, and more. You even can test out a cool toy at the demo section.
Enjoy sweets with a snowman
Choose from 24 flavors of shaved ice served straight from the belly of a 13-foot-tall snowman at Portersville’s roadside attraction, The Snowman (open April – Labor Day).
Spot rare and endangered plant life on a nature stroll
In Portersville, explore the diverse trail network at Jennings Environmental Education Center, home to the state's only protected prairie. Visit during late July to catch a glimpse of the rare Blazing Star Prairie Flower in bloom.
Rub a Buddha’s belly for good luck
At The Maridon Museum in Butler, take a docent-led tour and explore the impressive collection of Asian art and German Meissen porcelain. You’re also invited to rub the belly of the Buddha statue for good luck and prosperity.
See a piece of zombie history
If you’re a horror movie fan, make the pilgrimage to the 1891 cemetery in Evans City to see the graveyard and chapel that made it into George Romero’s cult classic, “Night of the Living Dead.”
Ring in the Mars New Year
Every 687 Earth days, celebrate the Mars New Year in the town of Mars. From June 6 – 7, 2025, celebrate with NASA experts, educational STEAM activities, a drone show, and selfies with the town's famous UFO.
Toast with a pint in a rustic, historic brew pub
After a day of adventures, retreat to the early 1800s building in Slippery Rock that houses the quaint, family-style pub of North Country Brewing Company. The eclectic, artistic spot features whimsical wood carvings, local craft beers, and farm-to-fork meals.
Take a wildlife tour on a pontoon boat
At Moraine State Park in Portersville, keep an eye out for osprey nests and all kinds of birds and critters around Lake Arthur on the 90-minute tour aboard the Preston Pearl. Afterward, take your pick from all kinds of activities in the park, from fishing to disc golf.