Sometimes there’s no better way to spend a few hours than to get behind the wheel for a leisurely, scenic drive near Pittsburgh. We’re fortunate that Pittsburgh is so centrally located, making it an ideal launching pad for drives to destinations in Western Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, and West Virginia. Today, however, let’s set off on a leisurely drive along the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway. It’s one of the best scenic drives near Pittsburgh.

So much natural beauty and fascinating attractions sit along the 68-mile stretch of the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway that you could even turn your leisurely drive into a road trip if you’ve got the time.
Flickr/Jeremy Thompson
If you've been searching for "scenic drives near me," you've just found one of the prettiest. While this scenic drive near Pittsburgh is gorgeous all year, try to drive it during the height of the fall foliage, too.
The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway stretches from Fayette County, near the West Virginia border, to Seward. If you’re driving straight through, without stopping, the drive should take a little over two hours.
Flickr/Jon Dawson
You won't have to drive far to understand why this is considered one of the best scenic drives in Pennsylvania.
However, even if you’re not turning it into a road trip, you probably want to allot more time for stops for food and to stretch your legs every now and then.
Flickr/David Fulmer
You could spend a day - or longer - at Ohiopyle State Park alone. If you're visiting during the summer, bring your swimming gear. Then zip down the Meadow Run Natural Waterslides.
One of the highlights of the drive is Ohiopyle State Park, home to Cucumber Falls and Ohiopyle Falls. If you only have a few minutes to stop, pull over when you see the sign for Cucumber Falls.
Flickr/sk
Ohiopyle State Park is home to three natural cascades.

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You can view the waterfall from above (right by the parking lot) or walk down a set of stairs to admire it from the base. Ohiopyle Falls, on the other hand, is easily viewed from the Ohiopyle State Park Visitor Center.
Flickr/John Brighenti
Jonathan Run Falls, on the other hand, sits at the end of a 2.5-mile hiking trail.
While you’re in the area of Ohiopyle Falls, you’ll pass such attractions as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater in Mill Run and Living Treasures Wild Animal Park in Donegal.
Flickr/Deshpande
If you want to visit Fallingwater, make sure you make reservations far in advance of your drive. Even if you don't have reservations to tour the famous home that sits over a waterfall, you can still explore the nearby grounds on a walking path.
The scenic byway will also take you to the historic town of Ligonier, where you can dine at a charming restaurant, browse the quaint shops, or visit nearby Fort Ligonier.
Flickr/ryanophilly
If you're bringing the kiddos along, consider a stop at Idlewild Park & SoakZone.
Other attractions along the scenic byway include Laurel Ridge State Park, Kentuck Knob, and Fort Necessity Battlefield.
Flickr/David Fulmer
Learn more and find a byway map on the official website of the Laurel Highlands.
Flickr/Roy Luck

What is your favorite scenic drive near Pittsburgh? Do you think it’s one of the best scenic drives in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! If you’ve not yet taken a leisurely drive along National Road, add it to your to-do list for this year. It’s certainly one of the best scenic drives in PA.

Up for a scenic hiking trail? Check out some of the best hiking trails in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on AllTrails.

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More to Explore

Best Scenic Drives Near Pittsburgh

Beth Price-Williams | August 21, 2023

Are there any other scenic drives near Pittsburgh?

While Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway is one of the best scenic drives in PA, it’s not the only one. Here are several other scenic drives near Pittsburgh:

  • Route 18 to Raccoon Creek State Park promises pretty landscapes and leads to a state park where you can hike, swim, or stroll among wildflowers.
  • National Road meanders through Somerset, Fayette, and Washington Counties.
  • Lincoln Highway offers plenty of breathtaking scenery. As you drive, you’ll pass the Giant Coffee Pot in Bedford. Pull over and snap some photos.
  • If you don’t have a lot of time, follow Lake Wilhem Scenic Byway. Even though it stretches just over six miles, it’s brimming with natural beauty.

If you’re up for more adventure, check out some more of the best scenic drives in Pennsylvania.

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Laurel Highlands, PA, USA