Just a short drive from Pittsburgh you’ll find charming towns that offer the perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. These hidden gems are ideal for day trips or weekend getaways, allowing you to unwind and explore at your own pace.
Discover five delightful towns near Pittsburgh that are worth a visit. From riverside communities with boutique shops to historic districts steeped in industrial heritage, each destination has its own unique appeal. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a change of scenery, these small towns provide the perfect backdrop to refresh and recharge.
Johnstown: A City of Resilience and Renewal
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Johnstown stands as a testament to human resilience and the power of community. This charming city, just a short drive from Pittsburgh, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that make it an ideal destination for your next weekend getaway.
Johnstown’s Flood History
Johnstown’s story is one of triumph over adversity. The city is perhaps best known for the devastating flood of 1889, which claimed over 2,200 lives and left the community in ruins. However, the people of Johnstown refused to be defined by this tragedy. Instead, they chose to rebuild and reinvent their city.
To learn about this pivotal event in Johnstown’s history, you can visit the Johnstown Flood National Memorial. Operated by the National Park Service, this site preserves the remains of the South Fork Dam and part of the former Lake Conemaugh bed. You’ll also find the restored house of Elias Unger, the president and manager of the South Fork Fishing & Hunting Club.
Johnstown’s Cultural Attractions
Today, Johnstown is a thriving hub of cultural attractions that showcase both its past and its ongoing transformation. One of the city’s most beloved landmarks is the Johnstown Inclined Plane. Built in 1890 as a direct result of the flood, it’s the steepest vehicular inclined plane in the world. While it’s currently closed for renovation, it typically offers stunning views of the city and carries both passengers and cars.
For a dose of industrial history, head to the Blacksmith Shop on Iron Street. This restored building is one of the most important historic industrial sites in the United States. Since 2018, it has been home to The Center for Metal Arts, a national leader in metalworking and blacksmithing.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center and the adjacent Art Works facility. These venues celebrate the region’s cultural diversity through various art forms, including music, dance, and visual arts. They offer a busy schedule of classes, workshops, and special events throughout the year.
Johnstown’s Local Eats
Your visit to Johnstown wouldn’t be complete without sampling its diverse culinary scene. The city boasts a mix of charming local eateries, upscale restaurants, and casual dining experiences that reflect its rich cultural heritage and culinary innovation.
For a taste of local flavor, try Balance Restaurant on Main Street or Em’s Original Subs, a local favorite with multiple locations throughout the city. If you’re in the mood for pizza, Gallina’s Pizza and Main Street Pizzeria are popular choices.
For a more upscale dining experience, consider Harrigan’s Cafe & Wine Deck or Asiago’s Tuscan Italian Restaurant. And if you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss The Sweet Spot on Franklin Street.
Leechburg: A Riverside Town on the Rise
Nestled along the banks of the Kiskiminetas River in western Pennsylvania, Leechburg is a charming small town experiencing a remarkable resurgence. This picturesque community offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and emerging attractions that make it an ideal destination for your next weekend getaway.
Leechburg’s Riverside Charm
As you stroll through Leechburg, you’ll immediately notice its captivating riverside setting. The town’s location along the Kiskiminetas River has long been a source of pride for locals, providing both natural beauty and recreational opportunities. You can take a leisurely walk along the Leechburg Riverwalk, a scenic path that allows you to enjoy the river’s tranquil waters and the surrounding hills.
The historic downtown district showcases Leechburg’s rich heritage with its well-preserved buildings and quaint atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a delightful mix of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cultural venues that offer a glimpse into the town’s past while embracing its promising future.
Leechburg’s Emerging Attractions
In recent years, Leechburg has seen a surge of interest and investment, breathing new life into this riverside gem. The town now boasts a variety of attractions and activities to keep you entertained throughout your visit.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Kiskiminetas River provides ample opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking in the surrounding natural areas. If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to Lingrow Farm, an exquisite country retreat set on 50 acres of beautiful farmland. This distinguished venue offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and elegance, making it a popular choice for weddings and special events.
Leechburg’s vibrant community spirit shines through its annual events. Don’t miss the Leechburg Riverfest, a celebration of the town’s riverside heritage, or the Leechburg Arts and Crafts Festival, which showcases the creativity and talent of local artisans. These events draw visitors from across the region and highlight the town’s growing appeal as a cultural destination.
Leechburg’s Dining Options
Your culinary journey in Leechburg promises to be just as exciting as its attractions. The town’s dining scene has been on the rise, offering a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences to satisfy every palate.
For a taste of local flavor, you can explore the variety of eateries serving classic American fare. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, the renowned Twisted Thistle restaurant offers five-star cuisine with impeccable service. For a unique dining experience, visit the 1844 Restaurant, where you can step back in time and enjoy a delicious meal in a 19th-century farmhouse setting.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, Leechburg’s growing food scene has something to offer. From cozy cafes to family-friendly restaurants, you’ll find plenty of options to fuel your adventures in this charming riverside town.
Ambridge: An Industrial Town with Historic Roots
Just a short drive from Pittsburgh, you’ll find Ambridge, a town that beautifully blends its industrial heritage with modern attractions. This charming destination offers a unique mix of history, culture, and entertainment, making it an ideal spot for your next weekend getaway.
Ambridge’s Old Economy Village
At the heart of Ambridge’s historical appeal lies Old Economy Village, a National Historic Landmark that tells the fascinating story of the Harmony Society. This 19th-century religious communal group sought to create a utopia, and their legacy is preserved in the 17 historic buildings that now make up this living museum.
As you explore Old Economy Village, you’ll step back in time to discover:
- The spiritual discipline and economic industry of the Harmony Society
- Original artifacts, archives, and a historic library
- Beautiful gardens surrounding the buildings
- The unique culture and beliefs of the German Lutheran separatists who lived here
Old Economy Village is more than just a collection of buildings; it’s a treasure trove of information about 19th-century life. You can delve into topics such as music, architecture, religion, and business through the extensive collections of manuscripts, maps, drawings, and photographs.
Ambridge’s Brewing Scene
After immersing yourself in history, you can experience Ambridge’s thriving modern culture through its emerging brewing scene. The town has recently welcomed several microbreweries, adding a contemporary flair to its historic charm.
One standout is the Trailside Taproom Ambridge Brewery, located at 411 Merchant Street. This local hotspot offers:
- A wide selection of craft beers
- Regular hours throughout the week
- A welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike
Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, Ambridge’s brewing scene has something to offer.
Ambridge’s Antique Shopping
To round out your Ambridge experience, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the town’s antique shops. These stores are a treasure hunter’s paradise, offering a wide array of unique finds and historical pieces.
One notable antique store in Ambridge boasts:
- Over 10 rooms filled with antiques
- A well-curated selection of items, including New England-style pieces
- Friendly and knowledgeable owners
- A spacious layout with nicely displayed items
The antique shopping experience in Ambridge is more than just browsing; it’s an adventure through time. You can easily spend hours exploring the various shops, each offering its own unique collection of historical artifacts and curiosities.
Evans City: A Horror Film Enthusiast’s Destination
If you’re a horror film enthusiast, Evans City, Pennsylvania, is a must-visit destination. This small town, located about 30 miles north of Pittsburgh, has gained fame for its significant connection to the iconic 1968 horror classic “Night of the Living Dead,” directed by George A. Romero.
Evans City’s ‘Night of the Living Dead’ Connection
Evans City Cemetery played a crucial role in the film, providing the perfect backdrop for several key scenes. The cemetery’s distinct appearance, with its rolling hills and aged tombstones, contributed significantly to the movie’s unsettling atmosphere. As you explore the cemetery, you’ll recognize locations from iconic moments, including the first zombie sighting and the intense final sequence.
To fully immerse yourself in the “Night of the Living Dead” experience, you can take a self-guided tour of the filming locations. While the original farmhouse featured in the movie has been demolished, you can still visit the site where it once stood on Route 68, near Evans City.
Evans City’s Local Attractions
The town has embraced its horror legacy, offering various attractions for film enthusiasts:
- The Living Dead Museum: Originally opened in Evans City in 2013, this museum celebrates the town’s connection to the zombie genre.
- Annual “Living Dead Weekend”: This event features screenings, panels, and activities related to “Night of the Living Dead” and other horror films.
- Local Museum: Explore exhibits on the town’s history and the making of the film.
For those interested in paranormal experiences, nearby Zelienople and Harmony offer haunted locations like The Inn on Grandview and The Harmony Inn, considered one of Western Pennsylvania’s most haunted spots.
Evans City’s Dining Scene
After a day of horror-themed adventures, you can satisfy your appetite at Evans City’s diverse dining establishments:
- Themed Restaurants: Several eateries offer zombie-inspired dishes and cocktails named after iconic characters and scenes from the film.
- Clifford’s Restaurant: Located just 40 minutes north of Pittsburgh, this smoke-free establishment is open exclusively for dinner and is known for its daily specials crafted by Chef Jesse.
- Local Cafes: The historic downtown area features a variety of locally-owned restaurants and cafes serving classic American fare and international cuisines.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, Evans City’s dining options cater to all tastes, ensuring you’ll find something to satisfy your hunger after a day of exploring this unique horror film destination.
New Brighton: A Charming River Town
Nestled along the east bank of the Beaver River, just two miles from its junction with the Ohio River, New Brighton offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich history. This picturesque town, spread across four natural terraces, provides a unique landscape that rises 30 to 215 feet above the river’s low water line.
New Brighton’s Riverfront Appeal
The town’s riverfront is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. You’ll find the hidden treasure of Big Rock Park just off the main street, along the Beaver River. This charming park offers cozy seating, walking paths, and riverside overlooks, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a quiet afternoon with a good book. If you enjoy fishing, head to the adjacent New Brighton dam, where you’ll find plenty of scenic spots to cast your line.
New Brighton’s Historic District
New Brighton’s historic district is a well-preserved collection of 19th-century buildings that showcase the town’s rich heritage. As you stroll down 3rd Avenue, the town’s main street, you’ll be impressed by the beautifully renovated streetscape and the many historic storefronts that have been carefully maintained.
The town’s prosperity began with the opening of the Pennsylvania Canal in 1834, followed by a flourishing of manufacturing and industries in 1836. New Brighton became home to flour mills, carriage works, foundries, a horseshoe-nail factory, lumber and paper mills, pottery works, brick yards, quarries, and glass companies. The abundance of water power and proximity to the Ohio River for transportation contributed significantly to the success of these industries.
New Brighton’s Local Eateries
Your culinary journey in New Brighton promises to be as delightful as its scenic and historic attractions. The town boasts a thriving local food scene with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops offering a taste of the region’s culinary delights.
One standout establishment is the Main Street Market and Deli at 301 8th Street. Located in the former Bricker’s Restaurant space, this eatery combines the charm of a neighborhood restaurant with the convenience of an old-school delicatessen. The building itself is a treat for the eyes, featuring a copper ceiling and vintage Coca-Cola decals on the front windows.
As you explore New Brighton, you’ll discover that this charming river town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and local flavors, making it an ideal destination for your next weekend getaway.
Don’t Wait! Visit these Charming Small Towns Near Pittsburgh Today!
These charming small towns near Pittsburgh offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. From the resilient spirit of Johnstown to the horror film legacy of Evans City, each destination has its own unique appeal. These hidden gems provide a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to unwind and explore at their own pace.
Whether you’re drawn to riverside charm, industrial heritage, or quaint main streets, these towns have something to offer. They give travelers a chance to step back in time, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the natural beauty of Western Pennsylvania. So, the next time you’re looking to get away from it all, consider one of these delightful small towns for a memorable weekend escape.
FAQs
1. Which town near Pittsburgh is known for its historical significance?
Saxonburg, PA is renowned for its historical heritage, originally founded by German settlers. The town preserves its legacy through its historic main street and various cultural festivals, blending the past and present in a unique showcase of Pennsylvania’s diverse history.
2. Can you list some towns close to Pittsburgh, PA?
Nearby towns around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania include:
- Dormont, PA
- Brentwood, PA
- Wilkinsburg, PA
- Munhall, PA
- Swissvale, PA
- Mount Lebanon, PA
- Baldwin, PA
- Neville Township, PA
