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Posted in Pittsburgh January 30, 2017 by Beth Price-Williams

The Most Criminally Overlooked Town Near Pittsburgh And Why You Need To Visit

Enchanting small towns surround Pittsburgh but some just don’t get the credit they deserve. Journey outside of the Burgh to a picturesque town, probably the most criminally overlooked town near Pittsburgh, for a leisurely day that will have you longing for the good old days.

Just an hour and a half outside of downtown Pittsburgh, the charming town of Meadville, which hugs French Creek, boasts a full-time population of nearly 13,000 residents and 2,000 students who attend Allegheny College.

Meadville is perhaps best known for its hosting of the annual Crawford County Fair. A predominately agricultural fair that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the Crawford County Fair also features old-fashioned fair rides and such fair foods as hot dogs, chili dogs, and burgers.

But, Meadville's appeal goes far beyond its popular fair and Allegheny College. It oozes old-fashioned charm with its tree-lined streets and...

Quaint shops like the Meadville Market House. Serving the community since 1870, the Meadville Market House features a traditional market of fresh produce, baked goods, meat, and eggs as well as The Market Grille, a charming eatery that welcomes diners for breakfast and lunch.

Stop by the Meadville Market House for the regular farmers market and special events, such as cooking classes.

Embrace the old-fashioned charm of Meadville with a visit to the Baldwin-House Museum, the one-time home of Supreme Court Justice Henry Baldwin.

The museum welcomes visitors to embark on a tour each summer from June through August and it regularly hosts events including big band concerts and dinner theater presentations.

Visit Meadville during the warm months to experience its natural beauty and history. Stroll through Bicentennial Park for a glimpse at a replica of David Mead's, the founder of Meadville, log cabin.

Pack a lunch for a relaxing picnic at a picnic table or simply go for a leisurely walk along a babbling brook at Shadybrook Park.

Plan a stop at Diamond Park, a gift from founder David Mead to the community in 1795. Relax by the historic E.W. Shippen Fountain and...

Drink in the simple beauty of the park's gazebo, available for rent for your special event.

Take a break from exploring to enjoy a meal at Mickey's Firehouse Station, a former fire station turned restaurant and bar.

Browse the menu that boasts such fare as fish and chips, fire grilled Atlantic salmon, ribs, sandwiches, and salads. A kids menu is also available.

Meadville, which may just be the most overlooked town near Pittsburgh, is just one in a long list of charming small towns – including Smicksburg, Mars, and Bedford – within easy driving distance of the Burgh.