Just an hour north of Pittsburgh, Lawrence County offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and authentic Amish heritage. Escape to the countryside and start exploring.
Outdoor Adventures
Where to start? The great outdoors, naturally. McConnells Mill State Park in Portersville features four of the county’s six waterfalls and miles of hiking trails, including a stretch of the North Country National Scenic Trail. Cast a line in Neshannock Creek, one of 22 Keystone Select Stocked Trout Waters, or bike the 12-mile paved Stavich Bicycle Trail.
Take a scenic drive across historic covered bridges, then discover the 50-foot cascade at Quaker Falls Recreation Area in Edinburg. In Wampum, thrill-seekers can ride ATVs through abandoned underground limestone mines at Mines & Meadows ATV/RV Resort or hit the fast track at Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Wampum. Golfers will find award-winning courses and indoor simulators for year-round play. For a more relaxed outing, stroll the trails at New Castle’s West Park Nature Center, a wildlife sanctuary with a 2-mile singletrack mountain biking course. Paranormal enthusiasts can step inside Haunted Hill View Manor, open for day tours, overnights, and private investigations.
Amish Country Experiences
Lawrence County is home to Pennsylvania’s second-largest Old Order Amish community and the twelfth largest in the U.S. Horse-drawn buggies are a common sight along country roads. Explore Amish life with guided tours or a self-guided driving route through the countryside. Shop for handmade goods and unique finds in the charming villages of Volant and New Wilmington, where bed-and-breakfasts and Airbnb stays add even more character.
Where to Eat & Drink
From homemade international cuisine to craft libations, Lawrence County is full of flavorful places to eat and drink. Nova Destinations brings together six wine, beer, and distillery locations. Beyond that, you’ll find additional breweries and wineries—one even set inside a historic schoolhouse. Stop for a bite at local restaurants serving authentic Middle Eastern, Italian, and Mexican dishes, all made from scratch.
Arts & Culture
Step into film history at the Historic Warner Cascade Theatre Museum, the very first theater used by the Warner Brothers. Explore “Downton Abbey”–era architecture at Arts & Education at the Hoyt, or catch a performance by the regional ballet company at the magnificent Scottish Rite Cathedral. Theatergoers can also enjoy community productions or the Celebrity Series at Westminster College, which brings world-class performers to the stage.
History & Events
Research your roots at the Lawrence County Historical Society and genealogy center, or browse exhibits at local museums and art galleries. Year-round happenings keep the events calendar lively—from quirky traditions like the Tour de Donut to pop culture celebrations like Hillcon.
Adventure, culture, and small-town charm all come together in Lawrence County. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, sipping local wine, or uncovering history, there’s always something waiting to be discovered.