Connellsville Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, food, and lodging options in Connellsville, Pennsylvania.


Introduction to Connellsville

Located in the Laurel Highlands region of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Connellsville offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical attractions. As one of the oldest towns in the United States, Connellsville is steeped in history, with a range of museums and historical sites to explore. At the same time, the town’s location on the Youghiogheny River provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.

List of Places to Visit in Connellsville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For visitors interested in history and culture, Connellsville has plenty to offer. The town is home to several museums and historical sites, including:

  • The National Road Heritage Corridor: Learn about the history of the National Road and its impact on the development of the United States.
  • West Overton Village and Museums: Explore the home of prominent industrialist Henry Clay Frick and experience life in the late 1800s.
  • Connellsville Area Historical Society: Learn about the history of Connellsville and the surrounding region through exhibits and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Connellsville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Connellsville is the perfect destination. The town is nestled in the Laurel Highlands, which offer a range of outdoor activities and scenic views, including:

  • Ohiopyle State Park: Hike along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, go whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River, or take in the views from the park’s many overlooks.
  • Bear Run Nature Reserve: Explore the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Fallingwater house and enjoy hiking trails through pristine wilderness.
  • Youghiogheny River Trail: This scenic trail follows the river for 27 miles and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Connellsville

For visitors who prefer to explore the outdoors on two feet or two wheels, Connellsville offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Great Allegheny Passage: This 150-mile rail trail connects Pittsburgh with Cumberland, Maryland, passing through Connellsville and offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Youghiogheny River Trail: This trail follows the river for 27 miles and offers a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces.
  • Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail: This 70-mile trail winds through the heart of the Laurel Highlands and offers challenging hiking and beautiful views.

Best Things to Do in Connellsville: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and exploring the area’s natural beauty, there are plenty of other things to do in Connellsville. Some top activities and tours include:

  • Youghiogheny River Wine Trail: Sample local wines and enjoy scenic views along the river on this tour of local wineries.
  • Riverboat Tours: Take a leisurely cruise down the Youghiogheny River and learn about the area’s history and natural beauty.
  • Ghost Tours: Explore the haunted history of Connellsville on a nighttime tour of the town’s most haunted spots.

Week-Long Itinerary for Connellsville

For visitors looking to make the most of their time in Connellsville, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1-2: Explore the museums and historical sites of Connellsville, including the National Road Heritage Corridor and West Overton Village and Museums. Day 3: Spend the day hiking or biking on one of Connellsville’s many trails, such as the Great Allegheny Passage or the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Day 4: Take a riverboat tour or go whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River. Day 5: Sample local wines on the Youghiogheny River Wine Trail. Day 6: Explore the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Fallingwater house and the Bear Run Nature Reserve. Day 7: Wrap up your week in Connellsville by taking a ghost tour of the town’s most haunted spots.

Food and Drink Scene of Connellsville

Must-Try Dishes

When it comes to food, Connellsville has plenty of options to satisfy any taste. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Pierogies: These savory dumplings are a staple of Pittsburgh cuisine and can be found at many local restaurants, including Rizz’s Restaurant and Taverne.
  • Primanti Bros Sandwich: A Pittsburgh classic, this sandwich is piled high with meat, cheese, and coleslaw and topped with a side of fries.
  • Smoked Brisket: Head to LeMont’s Smokehouse to try their signature smoked brisket, served with homemade BBQ sauce.

Local Beverages

In addition to local wines, Connellsville is also home to several breweries and distilleries, including:

  • Ridge Runner Distillery: Sample their moonshine, vodka, and whiskey, and take a tour of the distillery.
  • The Olde Spitfire Grille & Ale House: Enjoy a local craft beer and pub fare in a cozy atmosphere.

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

If you’re planning a visit to Connellsville, there are plenty of lodging options to choose from, including:

  • Connellsville Bed and Breakfast: A charming B&B located in the heart of downtown Connellsville.
  • Hampton Inn Uniontown: This nearby hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including an indoor pool and fitness center.
  • Youghiogheny River Lake Campground: For visitors looking to camp, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as access to the lake for fishing and boating.

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

If you’re looking for a souvenir to remember your visit to Connellsville, there are plenty of local products to choose from, including:

  • Local wines: Bring home a bottle of wine from one of Connellsville’s many wineries.
  • Handmade crafts: Visit the Connellsville Artisan Center to browse handmade jewelry, pottery, and other crafts.
  • Pennsylvania Dutch-style foods: Sample homemade jams, jellies, and other treats at The Country Pie Shoppe & Gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Connellsville

In Connellsville, locals pride themselves on their history, outdoor adventures, and friendly community. Visitors can expect to experience a warm welcome and plenty of opportunities to explore the town’s unique culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Connellsville

The best time to visit Connellsville is during the late spring, summer, and early fall months, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors can also enjoy the town’s winter activities, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Connellsville

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the town’s many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and rafting.
  • Do learn about Connellsville’s history and culture by exploring its museums and historical sites.
  • Do try local foods and beverages, such as pierogies, craft beer, and local wines.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment when hiking or exploring the outdoors.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities, such as hiking shoes and water bottles.
  • Don’t forget to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Connellsville.

Safety and Health

Safety in Connellsville

Overall, Connellsville is a safe and welcoming town for visitors. However, as with any destination, visitors should take precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding walking alone after dark and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Connellsville

Visitors should also be aware of ticks in the area during the summer months and take precautions such as wearing long pants and using insect repellent to avoid tick bites. In case of a medical emergency, there are several hospitals in nearby Uniontown, including Uniontown Hospital and Highlands Hospital.

Getting to Connellsville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Connellsville

The nearest airport to Connellsville is Pittsburgh International Airport, located approximately 60 miles away. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi to Connellsville.

Bus Stations Near Connellsville

Greyhound offers bus service to Connellsville from several locations, including Pittsburgh and Cumberland, Maryland.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Connellsville via the Pennsylvania Turnpike or Amtrak’s Capitol Limited line, which stops in nearby Connellsville Station.

How to Get Around in Connellsville

Getting around Connellsville is easiest by car, but visitors can also explore the town by bike or on foot. Additionally, some local tour companies offer guided tours of the town and surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Connellsville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For visitors looking to extend their visit to the Laurel Highlands, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider, including:

  • Fallingwater, located in nearby Mill Run, is a must-visit for architecture and design enthusiasts.
  • Ohiopyle State Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting.
  • Frank Lloyd Wright’s Kentuck Knob, located in nearby Chalkhill, offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Conclusion

Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying good food and drink, Connellsville offers something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has been helpful in planning your visit and exploring everything this charming town has to offer.