DuBois Travel Guide

Read our comprehensive travel guide for DuBois including tips on the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, and more.


Located in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Dubois is a small city that offers big experiences for travelers. Dubois is known for its rich history, diverse outdoor activities, stunning natural beauty, and cultural scenes. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a history buff, Dubois offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide for Dubois, Pennsylvania, we’ll explore the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, and more.

Introduction to Dubois

Dubois is a small city in Pennsylvania known for its natural beauty and thriving culture. It is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States of America, in the Pennsylvania Wilds. Dubois is home to a friendly and welcoming community, ensuring that visitors receive a warm, hospitable welcome. Dubois offers visitors an array of dining options, shopping locations, and lodging choices, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway or a longer trip.

List of Places to Visit in Dubois

Dubois has plenty of places to visit that cater to different interests. From historical sites to outdoor adventures, outdoor spaces to museums, Dubois will not disappoint. We’ve listed the top places to visit below:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dubois has a rich history and offers a host of museums and historical places that tourists can visit. These places offer an insight into the history and culture of the region.

  • Erie – Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society (ELDCPS): The ELDCPS is a fantastic place to learn about the rich history of the legendary Pullman dining cars. The museum features several authentic pieces, including several dining cars, observation cars, and sleeper cars.

  • Pennsylvania State University North Central Agricultural Research Laboratory: The research lab is home to several exhibits that pay tribute to the agricultural industry in the region. It is a perfect place to learn about the history of farming practices in Pennsylvania.

  • Jefferson County History Center: The Jefferson County History Center is a great place to learn about the history of Jefferson County in Pennsylvania. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that offer an insight into the daily lives of the region’s residents throughout the centuries.

Natural Attractions of Dubois: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dubois is a beautiful city that boasts of some of the best outdoor spaces in Pennsylvania. From hiking trails to waterfalls, Dubois is an ideal destination for nature lovers.

  • Bilger’s Rocks: Bilger’s Rocks is a natural formation of rocks that tells a compelling story of the geological past of Dubois. The rocks offer an excellent location for hiking, camping, and picnicking.

  • Gobbler’s Knob: Gobbler’s Knob is a famous attraction in Dubois, known for the annual Groundhog Day celebrations. The area offers an excellent location for hiking, camping, and picnicking.

  • Clear Creek State Park: The Clear Creek State Park is a recreational area in Dubois that offers an array of outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dubois

Dubois is known for its fantastic hiking and biking trails that offer an outdoor adventure to visitors. Below are the top hiking and biking routes in Dubois:

  • Redbank Valley Trail: The trail is located in the Clarion County area and offers a paved path for walking, biking, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding areas.

  • Black Moshannon State Park Trails: The Black Moshannon State Park Trails offer a rewarding hiking and biking experience. The trails are well-marked and vary in difficulty, ranging from easy to challenging.

  • State Game Lands 44 Trails: The State Game Lands 44 Trails offer beautiful views of Dubois and the surrounding areas. The trails are well-marked and offer an excellent hiking and biking experience for visitors.

Best Things to Do in Dubois: Activities and Tours

Dubois is known for its thriving culture and offers a host of activities and tours to visitors. Below are some of the best things to do in Dubois:

  • Explore the Wineries: Dubois is home to several wineries, making it an excellent destination for wine lovers. Visitors can explore the wineries and learn about the winemaking process while sipping on delicious wine.

  • Take a Historical Tour of Dubois: Visitors can take a historical tour of Dubois and learn about the city’s rich history.

  • Explore the Local Markets: Dubois has several local markets that offer a unique shopping experience. Visitors can explore the markets and buy local products like fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dubois

Below is an ideal itinerary for a week-long trip to Dubois:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the ELDSCP Museum and learn about the rich history of the Pullman dining cars.
Day 2 Enjoy a scenic hike at the Bilger’s Rocks.
Day 3 Visit the Gobbler’s Knob and enjoy the beautiful views of the region.
Day 4 Take a historical tour of Dubois and learn about the city’s rich history
Day 5 Go kayaking, canoeing, and fishing at the Clear Creek State Park.
Day 6 Explore the local wineries and enjoy sipping on delicious wine.
Day 7 Shop at the local markets and buy unique local products to bring back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Dubois

Dubois has a diverse food and drink scene that caters to different tastes and preferences. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Dubois:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Philly Cheese Steak: Dubois is home to several restaurants that serve the Philly cheese steak – a sandwich made with thinly sliced beef steak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll.

  • The Dubois Diner Burger: The Dubois Diner Burger is a classic burger made with a juicy patty, American cheese, onions, and pickles.

  • Pierogi: Pierogi is a traditional dish in Dubois, made with boiled dough and filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and meat.

Local Beverages

  • Straub Beer: Straub beer is a locally produced beer that has a unique, flavorful taste and scent.

  • The Dutchman’s Dash: The Dutchman’s Dash is a popular cocktail in Dubois made with pineapple juice, orange juice, and rum.

Where to Stay in Dubois: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dubois is home to several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Below are some of the best places to stay in Dubois:

  • Fairfield Inn and Suites Dubois: The Fairfield Inn and Suites Dubois offer comfortable and spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities.

  • Hampton Inn Dubois: The Hampton Inn Dubois offers spacious, comfortable rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities.

  • Red Roof Inn Dubois: The Red Roof Inn Dubois offers an affordable accommodation option without compromising on quality.

What to Buy in Dubois: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Dubois has several local products that visitors can buy as souvenirs or bring back home. Below are some unique local products to buy in Dubois:

  • Handmade Crafts: Dubois has several artisans that sell handmade crafts like pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

  • Amish-made Goods: The Amish community in Dubois produces several products like baked goods, furniture, and quilts.

  • Hiking and Biking Equipment: Dubois is known for its excellent hiking and biking trails, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can buy hiking and biking equipment like trail maps, water bottles, and backpacks.

Local Culture and Customs of Dubois

Dubois has a rich and vibrant culture that celebrates diversity and hospitality. It is essential to respect the local customs and traditions while visiting Dubois. Greetings are an essential aspect of Dubois culture, and visitors are encouraged to greet locals with warmth and a smile.

Best Time to Visit Dubois

The best time to visit Dubois is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dubois

Do:

  • Be friendly and courteous to the locals.
  • Explore the local markets and try local cuisine.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.
  • Speak loudly or use offensive language while visiting Dubois.
  • Damage the natural environment by not following the designated trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dubois

Dubois is a safe city, and travelers rarely encounter any problems. However, it is always best to stay alert, especially in crowded areas or late at night.

Health in Dubois

Dubois has several medical facilities that provide emergency and routine healthcare services. Visitors are advised to carry appropriate health insurance while traveling to Dubois.

Getting to Dubois: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dubois is easily accessible by car, bus, and air. Below are the transportation options to get to Dubois:

Airports Near Dubois

  • DuBois Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Dubois

  • Greyhound Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Dubois

Dubois is a small city that is easily accessible by bike, car, or foot. Visitors can rent bikes or cars to explore the city or take a leisurely walk around the city center.

Where to Go Next from Dubois: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dubois is surrounded by several attractions that make excellent excursions or destinations for longer trips. Below are some places to visit near Dubois:

  • Erie, Pennsylvania
  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • Altoona, Pennsylvania
  • Williamsport, Pennsylvania

Conclusion

Dubois, Pennsylvania, is a small city that is big on experiences. The city is full of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, offering something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide for Dubois highlights the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, and more, ensuring that visitors have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Dubois.

Downtown DuBois Downtown DuBois