Laurel Highlands Travel Guide
Explore Laurel Highlands in Pittsburgh Region, Pennsylvania with our comprehensive travel guide featuring best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Laurel Highlands
- List of Places to Visit in Laurel Highlands
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Laurel Highlands
- Best Things to Do in Laurel Highlands: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Laurel Highlands
- Food and Drink Scene of Laurel Highlands
- Where to Stay in Laurel Highlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Laurel Highlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Laurel Highlands
- Best Time to Visit Laurel Highlands
- Do’s and Don’ts of Laurel Highlands
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Laurel Highlands: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Laurel Highlands
- Where to Go Next from Laurel Highlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Laurel Highlands
Laurel Highlands, located in the Pittsburgh Region of Pennsylvania, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This region is home to scenic countryside, sparkling rivers, rolling hills, museums, state parks, and charming small towns.
The sprawling beauty of Laurel Highlands with its colorful foliage and vibrant wildlife attracts visitors year-round. Whether you are a nature lover looking for outdoor adventures or a history buff who loves to explore museums and historical sites, Laurel Highlands promises an unforgettable experience.
Here is our comprehensive tour guide featuring the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
List of Places to Visit in Laurel Highlands
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Fort Ligonier
- Bushy Run Battlefield
- Compass Inn Museum
- Westmoreland Museum of American Art
- Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust
- Flight 93 National Memorial
- The National Road Heritage Corridor
Natural Attractions of Laurel Highlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Laurel Hill State Park
- Ohiopyle State Park
- Forbes State Forest
- Fallingwater
- Kentuck Knob
- Laurel Caverns Geological Park
- Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Hiking/Biking Routes of Laurel Highlands
- Great Allegheny Passage
- Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
- Rachel Carson Trail
Best Things to Do in Laurel Highlands: Activities and Tours
- Whitewater Rafting on the Youghiogheny River
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Zip-lining
- Mountain Biking
- Rock Climbing
- Trout Fishing
Week-Long Itinerary for Laurel Highlands
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Ohiopyle State Park |
| 2 | Visit Kentuck Knob and Fallingwater |
| 3 | Go skiing and snowboarding at Seven Springs Mountain Resort |
| 4 | Go rafting on the Youghiogheny River |
| 5 | Visit Fort Ligonier and Bushy Run Battlefield |
| 6 | Hike the Laurel Highlands Trail |
| 7 | Take a scenic drive along the National Road Heritage Corridor |
Food and Drink Scene of Laurel Highlands
Must-Try Dishes
- Pierogies
- Pittsburgh-style sandwiches
- Sausage and sauerkraut
Local Beverages
- Wigle Whiskey
- Penn Brewery
- Straub Brewery
Where to Stay in Laurel Highlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
- Seven Springs Mountain Resort
- Historic Summit Inn
- Log Cabin Lodge & Suites
- Falling Rock at Nemacolin
What to Buy in Laurel Highlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local wine and spirits
- Pottery and ceramics
- Handmade jewelry
- Artwork by local artists
Local Culture and Customs of Laurel Highlands
- Respect the natural environment and leave no trace while hiking or camping.
- Locals are friendly and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation.
- Tipping is customary in the service industry.
Best Time to Visit Laurel Highlands
The best time to visit Laurel Highlands is during the fall season when the foliage is at its most vibrant. However, visitors can enjoy a range of activities in this region year-round, with skiing and snowboarding being popular winter activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Laurel Highlands
Do:
- Plan ahead if you are visiting during peak season to ensure availability of accommodations and activities.
- Respect the natural environment and local customs.
Don’t:
- Litter or engage in any activities that could harm the natural environment.
- Ignore safety warnings and guidelines while hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.
Safety and Health
Safety in Laurel Highlands
- Be aware of bears and other wildlife while hiking or camping.
- Observe all safety guidelines and instructions while engaging in outdoor activities.
Health in Laurel Highlands
- Tap water is generally safe to drink. However, visitors can choose to opt for bottled water if they prefer.
Getting to Laurel Highlands: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Laurel Highlands
- Pittsburgh International Airport
Bus Stations Near Laurel Highlands
- Greyhound Bus Station in Greensburg, PA
Other Options
- Drive or rent a car
How to Get Around in Laurel Highlands
- Drive or rent a car. However, visitors can also opt for guided tours.
Where to Go Next from Laurel Highlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Pittsburgh
- Gettysburg
- Cleveland
Conclusion
Laurel Highlands is a region that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and historic charm. From scenic state parks to museums and historical sites, there is something for everyone in this region. With our comprehensive guide, you are all set to explore Laurel Highlands and create unforgettable memories.