7 Sleepy Small Towns Around Pittsburgh Where Things Never Seem To Change

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

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

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

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.

4. Smicksburg

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

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

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

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.