West Mifflin Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities, food, and culture of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, and plan your trip with our week-long itinerary, transportation options, and safety tips.


Introduction to West Mifflin

Nestled in the Pittsburgh Region of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, West Mifflin offers an ideal getaway for nature lovers and history buffs alike. With its lush parks, scenic hiking trails, and rich cultural heritage, West Mifflin has something to offer for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide will take you on a journey through the town’s best attractions, activities, food and drink scene, accommodations, and cultural customs, as well as provide you with a complete week-long itinerary to make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in West Mifflin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kennywood Park: Discover one of America’s oldest amusement parks, Kennywood, with its classic thrill rides, wooden coasters, and family-friendly attractions.

  • Carnegie Library of West Mifflin: Explore the educational and cultural offerings of the Carnegie Library of West Mifflin, with its vast collection of books, movies, and special events.

  • West Mifflin Community Park: Take a stroll or have a picnic in the beautiful West Mifflin Community Park, which features an outdoor swimming pool, walking trails, playgrounds, and a host of other recreational activities.

Natural Attractions of West Mifflin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monongahela Incline: Take a ride up the historic Monongahela Incline and soak in the panoramic views of the Pittsburgh skyline from the top.

  • Round Hill Park: Experience the beauty of the West Mifflin countryside by visiting Round Hill Park, with its sprawling green pastures, butterfly garden, and nature trails.

  • Allegheny County Heritage Trail: Explore the Allegheny County Heritage Trail, with more than 30 miles of biking and hiking routes, running along scenic rivers, forests, and historic sites.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Mifflin

West Mifflin offers a variety of walking, hiking, and biking trails, catering to travelers of all skill levels. Some popular trails include:

  • Clairton Loop: A 25-mile trail that winds through scenic wetlands, forests, and nature preserves, offering breathtaking views of the Mon River Valley.

  • South Park Trail: A 6.3-mile trail that meanders through beautiful forests, rolling hills, and wetlands, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

  • Great Allegheny Passage: A 150-mile trail that spans the entire state of Pennsylvania, connecting West Mifflin to Pittsburgh, and on to Washington, D.C.

Best Things to Do in West Mifflin: Activities and Tours

  • Riverboat Tours: Explore the Mon River Valley with a relaxing riverboat tour, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city from the water.

  • West Mifflin Speedway: Experience high-octane racing action at the West Mifflin Speedway, one of the premier stock car racing tracks in the state.

  • Horseback Riding: Take a scenic horseback ride through the West Mifflin countryside and enjoy an up-close experience with nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for West Mifflin

Day 1: Explore downtown West Mifflin, including the Carnegie Library of West Mifflin, and the West Mifflin Community Park.

Day 2: Take a ride up the Monongahela Incline and enjoy a panoramic view of the Pittsburgh skyline.

Day 3: Visit Kennywood Park, one of America’s oldest and most iconic amusement parks.

Day 4: Spend a day exploring the natural beauty of Round Hill Park, with its sprawling green pastures, butterfly garden, and nature trails.

Day 5: Hike or bike along the Allegheny County Heritage Trail, which features 30+ miles of scenic routes through forests, rivers, and historic sites.

Day 6: Experience high-octane racing action at the West Mifflin Speedway, one of the premier stock car racing tracks in the state.

Day 7: Take a riverboat tour along the Mon River Valley, and enjoy gorgeous views of the city from the water.

Food and Drink Scene of West Mifflin

Must-Try Dishes

  • Permani Brothers Sandwiches: Try a signature sandwich from Permani Brothers, a local institution known for its unique blend of meat, cheese, and fries.

  • Pierogies: Sample some of the best pierogies in the state at Pierogies Plus, a cozy neighborhood joint that has been serving up authentic Eastern European cuisine for over 30 years.

  • Primanti Bros Sandwiches: Indulge in a legendary Primanti Bros sandwich, a hearty meal that includes meat, cheese, coleslaw, and fries all in one sandwich.

Local Beverages

  • The Church Brew Works: Sip craft beer in a converted 19th-century church at The Church Brew Works, a local brewery that offers a wide range of beers and spirits.

  • Wigle Whiskey: Enjoy unique and flavorful spirits made from locally sourced ingredients at Wigle Whiskey, a local distillery that offers tours and tastings.

  • East End Brewing Company: Taste a variety of award-winning craft beers, brewed right in the heart of Pittsburgh, at East End Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in West Mifflin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hampton Inn Pittsburgh/West Mifflin: Enjoy comfortable rooms and convenient amenities, including free breakfast and Wi-Fi, at this well-located hotel in the heart of West Mifflin.

  • Econo Lodge West Mifflin: Stay within budget and be close to all the action at the Econo Lodge, which features affordable rates and easy access to the town’s main attractions.

  • Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Pittsburgh West Mifflin: Relax in modern guest rooms and take advantage of complimentary breakfast and an indoor pool at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites.

What to Buy in West Mifflin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kennywood Park Souvenirs: Bring home a piece of history with Kennywood Park souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, mugs, and more.

  • Pierogies Plus Takeout: Don’t leave without trying a dozen or so of Pierogies Plus takeout to make your taste buds dance even after your trip is over.

  • Wigle Whiskey Souvenirs: Take home a bottle of Wigle Whiskey’s award-winning spirits and enjoy the unique flavors of Pennsylvania’s local produce.

Local Culture and Customs of West Mifflin

  • Small-town Hospitality: West Mifflin prides itself on its small-town hospitality, with friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Sports Fans: Sports are a big deal in West Mifflin, particularly football and hockey, so don’t be afraid to wear your team’s colors and chat with locals about the latest games.

  • Eastern European Heritage: Many of the town’s residents have Eastern European heritage, which is reflected in the local cuisine and cultural customs.

Best Time to Visit West Mifflin

The best time to visit West Mifflin is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the parks and trails are at their most beautiful. Summer can be busy and hot, but presents an opportunity to experience the lively atmosphere of Kennywood Park, while winter brings snow and ice, perfect for skiing or snowshoeing trips around the town’s parks.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Mifflin

Do:

  • Do pack comfortable shoes for exploring the town’s parks and trails.

  • Do try the local Eastern European cuisine and sample some of the local craft beers and spirits.

  • Do be friendly and engage in conversation with the welcoming locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and other protective gear if you plan on spending time outdoors during the summer months.

  • Don’t overlook the lesser-known outdoor attractions, such as Round Hill Park and the Allegheny County Heritage Trail.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for directions or tips on where to go and what to do in the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in West Mifflin

West Mifflin is generally a safe place to visit, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, travelers should take normal precautions, such as locking their cars and securing their valuables.

Health in West Mifflin

Travelers to West Mifflin should make sure that they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations, and should take steps to protect themselves against tick and mosquito-borne illnesses if they plan on spending time outdoors.

Getting to West Mifflin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near West Mifflin

The closest airport to West Mifflin is Pittsburgh International Airport, which is located approximately 23 miles away from the town.

Bus Stations Near West Mifflin

Bus service to West Mifflin is offered by Greyhound and Fullington Trailways.

Other Options

Travelers to West Mifflin can also reach the town by car, with easy access from several major highways, including I-376 and I-70.

How to Get Around in West Mifflin

The best way to get around West Mifflin is by car, although biking and walking are also good options for travelers who want to explore the town’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from West Mifflin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Pittsburgh: Discover the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, located just a short drive away from West Mifflin, with its world-class museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

  • Laurel Highlands Region: Explore the stunning Laurel Highlands Region, with its rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque towns, all just a short drive away from West Mifflin.

  • Ohio River Valley: Head west to the Ohio River Valley and explore its charming towns, riverside parks, and scenic hiking trails.

Conclusion

West Mifflin is a hidden gem in the Pittsburgh Region, offering a wide range of attractions, activities, and beautiful natural landscapes. From its iconic amusement park to its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, West Mifflin has something to offer for everyone. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan the perfect trip to West Mifflin, and experience all the town has to offer.

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