The 7 Towns You Need To Visit Near Pittsburgh In 2017

While the charming town of Oakmont may be known worldwide for hosting the U.S. Open, many Pittsburghers think of something else when the small town is mentioned: Oakmont Bakery, which arguably offers some of these best homemade goodies in the area. But, Oakmont is more than a golf tournament and a bakery. The enchanting small town, where just about everyone offers a friendly smile, features an old-fashioned main street dotted with shops, restaurants, and a memorial honoring all the men and women of Oakmont who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Just a half an hour from downtown Pittsburgh lies a small town that's a throwback to yesteryear with its picturesque main street, locally-owned shops, and sprawling community park. The tight knit community hosts plenty of events throughout the year, including the weekly farmer's market, which is held the first Saturday of each month from April through November, an annual Oktoberfest celebration, and annual Christmas events. Visitors may also want to stop by the U.S. Airways Flight 427 Memorial that honors the 132 men, women, and children who perished when the plane crashed nearby in 1994.

So, technically Squirrel Hill is a neighborhood but it's definitely one of the places you need to visit in 2017, even if it's just for an afternoon or an evening out. Just six miles from Pittsburgh, Squirrel Hill promises a little bit of everything. Outdoor enthusiasts can wile away the hours biking, hiking, playing tennis or soccer, or watching the kids play at the playgrounds at Frick Park. Stroll down the quaint streets, peaking into shop windows and trying to decide which restaurant to choose for dinner. Aspiring artists can stop by Color Me Mine for a pottery painting session or visit the Manor Theater to check out an independent film or documentary.

You've got a bit of a journey - around 100 miles - to Bedford but it's well worth the scenic drive. The picturesque town, snuggled halfway between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, provides a glimpse into the area's past when you visit Old Bedford Village and when you embark on a Historic Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Bedford, hosted by the Bedford County Visitors Bureau. Play a game or two of pinball at Pinhead Amusements or catch a movie at the Pitt Theater, which opened in 1939.

Explore authentic Amish country when you visit Smicksburg, a tiny town boasting a population of under 45 (yes - you read that right). Spend a few hours meandering in and out of the shops - Smicksburg Pottery, Country Cupboard, and The Village Sampler - before indulging in a wine tasting at Windgate Vineyards. Cap off your day with an old-fashioned homemade meal at Country Junction.

Meet friendly Martians then snap a photo in front of a shiny flying saucer. The good news? You only have to journey about a half an hour outside of Pittsburgh to the vibrant town of Mars, population under 1,500, where the residents refer to themselves as Martians. Save time to visit the 9/11 Peace Pole, the Mars Area History & Landmarks Society, and the Mars Brew House.

Plan a day away in the enchanting town of Ligonier, a little over an hour's drive from downtown Pittsburgh. Take a leisurely walk through the downtown - with its quaint shops, restaurants, and museums - and stop for a few photos at the Diamond. Ligonier hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the annual Ligonier Ice Festival, set for January 20 and 21, 2017.