Pittsburgh’s a hodgepodge of the old and the new. Historic buildings sit alongside 21st-century modern designs. Among the many towns around Pittsburgh, however, you can still find those treasured ones with a quaint Main Street where everyone knows everyone else. These historic towns to visit near Pittsburgh, PA, give us a glimpse into yesteryear and, in fact, are perfect destinations for a day trip.

1. Bedford
Bedford, PA 15522, USA
Flickr/Jon Dawson
Less than two hours from downtown Pittsburgh, the timeless town of Bedford promises plenty to do. Historic Downtown Bedford is dotted with quaint restaurants and shops. Take in a movie at the Pitt Theatre, the oldest continuously operating theater in Pennsylvania. Be sure to carve time to visit Old Bedford Village, a living history village that will give you glimpse into life in colonial times. Find out why Bedford is one of the best small towns to visit near Pittsburgh.
2. Foxburg
Foxburg, PA, USA
Facebook/Go Foxburg
Embrace the serenity of small town life in Foxburg, a tiny town along the Allegheny River. About an hour and a half from Pittsburgh, Foxburg is home to less than 200 residents. Spend time exploring the outdoors around Foxburg, on bike, on foot, or by boat. The town also features Foxburg Wine Cellars, the Foxburg Golf Course & Country Club, and the Allegheny Grille. Learn more about this small town near Pittsburgh in our previous article.
3. Volant
Volant, PA 16156, USA
Flickr/Doug Kerr
An hour outside of Pittsburgh, the tiny town of Volant, home to 200, is a throwback to yesteryear. The picturesque town spans 70 acres yet boasts plenty to do. Shop at one of the quaint shops, such as the Volant Mills. Or, go fishing or have a picnic lunch at Neshannock Creek. Read more about this small Western Pennsylvanian town that's perfect for nature lovers.

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4. Smicksburg
Smicksburg, PA 16256, USA
Facebook/Smicksburg Specialty Shops
Timeless perfectly describes the enchanting town of Smicksburg, home to 50 residents. (Smicksburg is about an hour from downtown Pittsburgh.) Cars travel alongside Amish buggies in this tiny town that's popular with shoppers and diners. Spend a few hours browsing the eclectic shops and have a bite to eat at a quaint restaurant. Read more about this charming little farm town near Pittsburgh.
5. Oakmont
Oakmont, PA, USA
Facebook/Oakmont Chamber of Commerce
The closest of our timeless towns around Pittsburgh, Oakmont is only 20 minutes from downtown. Stroll along the brick main street, as you go in and out of the charming shops. If you've got a sweet tooth, you MUST visit Oakmont Bakery, a Pittsburgh favorite.
6. Ligonier
Ligonier, PA 15658, USA
Flickr/Jon Dawson
Roll the windows down for a leisurely drive to Ligonier, about an hour from downtown Pittsburgh. The charming downtown, not too far from Idlewild Park and SoakZone, features a picturesque gazebo, tiny shops, and restaurants. Plan a visit during Christmastime, too, when the small Western Pennsylvania town transforms into a dreamy winter wonderland.
7. Brookville
Brookville, PA 15825, USA
Facebook/Brookville, PA
Historic Brookville sits about 80 miles from downtown Pittsburgh. The timeless town features a picture-perfect Main Street, dotted with shops and restaurants. A must stop in the small town is the old-fashioned ice cream parlor, Buff's Ice Cream. Do you agree that Brookville is the most charming town near Pittsburgh?

What are your favorite historic towns to visit near Pittsburgh, PA? Let us know!  Then plan a trip to one or more of these seven waterfront towns near Pittsburgh that are perfect for a day trip.

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More to Explore

Small Towns Near Pittsburgh

Beth Price-Williams | September 15, 2022

What are some scenic areas near Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh’s an absolutely gorgeous town, boasting one of the country’s most breathtaking skylines. However, sometimes we want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Fortunately, we have an abundance of scenic areas near Pittsburgh we can visit. Buttermilk Falls Natural Area in New Florence, for example, is perfect for a quiet adventure. Nestled on property once owned by Mister Rogers’s grandfather, the natural area is home to two tiny waterfalls and the majestic 40-foot Buttermilk Falls. As you follow the winding path to the waterfall, read the placards dotted along the way. Each features an inspirational quote from Mister Rogers. Stroll through a fairy tale, or at least feel as though you are, when you visit Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. It is home to a variety of gardens and such dreamy features as a footbridge, a pond with lily pads, and Bookworm Glen. You can even sit in a human-sized bird’s nest. Moraine State Park in Portersville offers plenty to do for adventurers of all ages. The masterpiece is, undoubtedly, Lake Arthur, which you can explore by boat or by kayak. The state park is also home to two sandy beaches. Just a few minutes away, you’ll find McConnells Mill State Park, also worth a visit.

What are the best small towns to visit near Pittsburgh?

When you need time away from the city, head to one of the best small towns to visit near Pittsburgh – like Foxburg. It sits along the Allegheny River. Explore via bike, and stop by the Allegheny Grille, which offers stunning views of the river. Did you know that the smallest city in the United States is right here in Pennsylvania and not far from Pittsburgh? Home to just 800 residents, Parker is a must addition to every Pittsburgh’s bucket list.

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