Sewickley Travel Guide

Explore the best attractions, activities and accommodations with our comprehensive travel guide to Sewickley, Pennsylvania.


Introduction to Sewickley

Sewickley is a charming borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, in the Pittsburgh Region of the Mid-Atlantic. The borough is situated near the Ohio River and offers visitors a rich history and an abundance of natural beauty. Sewickley is the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing getaway, outdoor adventures, and cultural enrichment.

List of Places to Visit in Sewickley

There are plenty of places to visit in Sewickley, catering to a variety of interests. Here are some of our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sewickley Academy: Founded in 1838, Sewickley Academy is one of the oldest independent schools in the United States. The campus showcases beautiful architecture and offers guided tours.
  • Sewickley Heights History Center: Explore the rich history of Sewickley Heights through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and photos.
  • Old Economy Village: Located in nearby Ambridge, Old Economy Village is a preserved historic site that showcases the communal lifestyle of the Harmony Society, a religious group that settled in the area in the 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Sewickley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sewickley Heights Borough Park: This park spans over 10 acres and features hiking trails, tennis courts, and a playground.
  • Raccoon Creek State Park: This expansive park is located just a short drive from Sewickley and offers hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
  • Ohiopyle State Park: A bit further afield, but worth the trip for its waterfalls, hiking, and world-class whitewater rafting opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sewickley

Sewickley is home to some fantastic hiking and biking trails for visitors who enjoy the outdoors. Here are some notable ones:

  • Sewickley Heights Borough Park Hiking Trail: This scenic loop trail is approximately 1.3 miles long and takes hikers through woods and meadows.
  • Sewickley Heights Borough Park Biking Trail: This 1.6-mile trail provides a challenging course for bikers and showcases beautiful views.
  • Montour Trail: This nearby trail system spans over 60 miles and is a popular attraction for bikers and hikers.

Best Things to Do in Sewickley: Activities and Tours

Sewickley offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including:

  • Sewickley Farmers Market: Open on Saturdays from May to November, this farmers market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
  • Sewickley Public Library: This historic library offers a range of programs and events throughout the year, including author talks, book clubs, and children’s storytime.
  • Sewickley Speakeasy: A local favorite, the Sewickley Speakeasy is a retro-themed bar serving up drinks and bites. Guests enter through an unmarked door and descend a staircase to the subterranean lounge.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sewickley

Day 1: Begin your adventure by exploring Sewickley Heights Borough Park Day 2: Visit Sewickley Academy and Sewickley Public Library Day 3: Take a day trip to Ohiopyle State Park Day 4: Bike the Montour Trail Day 5: Explore the Sewickley Farmers Market and Sewickley Speakeasy Day 6: Take a tour of Old Economy Village Day 7: Enjoy a day fishing and boating at Raccoon Creek State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Sewickley

Sewickley has a thriving food and drink scene that is worth exploring. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Village Gourmet: This market and cafe offers delicious sandwiches and Italian baked goods.
  • The Slippery Mermaid: A seafood restaurant located along the Ohio River serving fresh clams, mussels and scallops.
  • Vivo Kitchen: This upscale eatery offers Italian-inspired cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Sewickley Bridge to Bridge Ale: A local brew offered at The Slippery Mermaid.
  • Sewickley Cocktail: A specialty drink offered at the Sewickley Speakeasy made from local spirits.

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

Sewickley offers accommodation options to fit all budgets and styles. Here are some recommendations:

  • The Sewickley House Bed & Breakfast: This charming property offers comfortable rooms and a gourmet breakfast.
  • The SpringHill Suites Pittsburgh Airport: Located just minutes from Sewickley, this hotel offers spacious suites and an indoor pool.
  • The Sewickley Country Inn & Suites: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Sewickley.

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

Sewickley has a range of locally-made products and souvenirs to purchase. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Sewickley Candles: Hand-poured soy candles made in a variety of unique scents.
  • Sewickley Soapery: All-natural soaps made from locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Sewickley Confectionery: Chocolates and other homemade sweets made in-house.

Local Culture and Customs of Sewickley

Sewickley is a friendly and welcoming community, and visitors are encouraged to embrace the local culture. The community values hard work, family, and tradition, all of which are reflected in the local way of life.

Best Time to Visit Sewickley

The best time to visit Sewickley is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities can be fully enjoyed. The fall months are particularly beautiful, with vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sewickley

Do:

  • Embrace the local culture and customs.
  • Respect local nature and wildlife.
  • Take advantage of the town’s many outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb natural habitats.
  • Make excessive noise or disrupt the peace and tranquility of the area.
  • Be disrespectful to local residents or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sewickley

Sewickley is a safe destination, with minimal crime reported in the area. As always, visitors should take standard precautions such as locking car doors and being aware of their surroundings to ensure their safety.

Health in Sewickley

Sewickley has several medical facilities, including the Sewickley Valley Hospital, to provide medical care for visitors in need.

Getting to Sewickley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sewickley

The Pittsburgh International Airport is the closest airport to Sewickley, located approximately 25 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Sewickley

The nearest Greyhound station is located in downtown Pittsburgh, approximately 20 miles away.

Other Options

There are several car rental agencies located at the Pittsburgh International Airport and in Pittsburgh, for those who prefer to rent a car and drive to Sewickley.

How to Get Around in Sewickley

Sewickley is a walkable and bike-friendly town, and visitors can easily explore on foot or cycling. Alternatively, there are several taxi services available and Uber is available in the area as well.

Where to Go Next from Sewickley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors to Sewickley may want to explore, including:

  • Pittsburgh: This historic city is located just 20 minutes away and offers a range of activities, including museums, theaters, and cultural events.
  • Fallingwater: This Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home is located approximately an hour and a half away from Sewickley and is a popular attraction for architecture enthusiasts.
  • Laurel Highlands: Located approximately an hour and a half away, the Laurel Highlands offer outdoor activities including hiking, fishing and rafting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sewickley is a charming, welcoming destination perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway, outdoor adventures, and cultural enrichment. With plenty of attractions, activities, and accommodation options, there’s something for everyone in Sewickley.