7 Small Towns Around Pittsburgh That Come Alive In The Summertime
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Here comes summer! How long have we waited for the frigid days and snow to pass? And, now, we’re on the brink of the season of endless sun, longer days, and so much to do we probably can’t pack it in a mere 92 days. But, we can try, right? Why not start by visiting some of the towns near Pittsburgh that leap alive during the warmer months, promising plenty of fun things to do?
Portersville's a dream come true for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Home to Moraine State Park and McConnells Mill State Park, the small town promises plenty to do. Spend endless summer days at the sprawling state parks hiking, swimming, or camping. Then, stop by The Snowman of Portersville, a huge snowman where you can dig in to your favorite ice cream treat. Portersville is also home to such campgrounds as Bear Run Campground and Breakneck Campground.
Western Pennsylvania's all about festivals during the summer. And, one of the biggest - the Crawford County Fair - comes to Meadville every year. There are plenty of other reasons to visit Meadville during the summer, too. Head to town for the Second Saturday Community Market with live entertainment and vendors, held on the second Saturday of the month through September. And, that's just the beginning.
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Play the summer days away in Ligonier. Idelwild & SoakZone is, of course, one of the charming town's most popular spots. Stay cool all summer long at SoakZone then hop aboard Idlewild's assortment of rides. Of course, a trip to Ligonier wouldn't be complete without visiting the quaint downtown and Fort Ligonier.
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Ohiopyle leaps alive during the summer as outdoor lovers head to the tiny town and massive state park that spans nearly 20,000 acres. The park offers plenty to do all year long, but it's particularly popular for swimming, hiking, and camping during the summer months. And, of course, if you like a little adventure, go white water rafting in the Youghiogheny River. The tiny town itself features such quaint restaurants as Falls Market, Paddlers Pizza, and Ohiopyle House Cafe. Don't forget to stop in nearby Mill Run for a visit to Fallingwater.
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Tucked in the Laurel Highlands, Donegal offers plenty to do during the summer months. Mingle with exotic animals at Living Treasures Wild Animal Park. Spend the day racing go carts and playing a little miniature golf at Caddie Shack. Then, stop by the old General Store to uncover a trove of treasures. Don't forget to indulge in a delicious meal at Out of the Fire Cafe or Tall Cedars.
Want to spend your endless summer days outdoors? Journey to Cooksburg, home to Cook Forest State Park. Kayak or canoe in the Clarion River or enjoy a leisurely hike through the forest. Hang out with tame deer at Double Diamond Deer Ranch. And, dine at Gateway Lodge.
Lounge on a sandy beach or jump into the cold lake water at Somerset's Laurel Hill State Park or visit nearby Kooser State Park. Somerset offers plenty to do during the summer, including camping at Pioneer Park Campground. Somerset's also home to Glades Pike Winery, Mount Davis (the highest point in Pennsylvania), and the Flight 93 National Memorial.
Enjoy a scenic drive to Butler, where you'll discover so much to do, especially during the summertime. Take in a double feature at the Starlight Drive-In. Spend a few hours - you'll need 'em! - browsing Playthings, Etc., the self-proclaimed World's Coolest Toy Store. Stop by the Butler Farm Market. And, of course, plan to visit the Big Butler Fair, held each year in July. (The Big Butler Fair is in nearby Prospect.)
How lucky are we to live around such amazing summer towns near Pittsburgh? Plenty of towns leap alive with exciting activities during the summer. What others would you add to our list? Share below! Then, click here to read about the waterpark campground near Pittsburgh that also belongs on your summer bucket list.
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