Updated Apr 20, 2022

The 8 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Pittsburgh

Discover eight bucket list-worthy day trips from Pittsburgh, each offering unique experiences from nature walks to historic tours.

Updated Apr 20, 2022

Written by

Beth Price-Williams

Trip Ideas|Day Trips

Updated Jul 30, 2024

4 Ridiculously Charming Train Rides To Take Around Pittsburgh This Fall

Discover charming train rides near Pittsburgh that offer breathtaking views of fall foliage.

Updated Jul 30, 2024

Written by

Beth Price-Williams

Autumn just might be the most charming season of all. After all, the fall foliage paints the landscape in spellbinding colors, creating breathtaking masterpieces. Sure, we can go for a scenic drive around Pennsylvania to admire the fall foliage which, although fun, can be a bit difficult when it comes to snapping photos. Or, for a really unique adventure, we can climb aboard one of these incredibly charming scenic train rides near Pittsburgh, PA.

Fair warning: The following train and trolley rides are a bit of a drive from Pittsburgh. However, they are the closest railroads that offer scenic train rides.

1. Everett Railroad – Hollidaysburg

A steam locomotive billows smoke at a train station, with people nearby and a sign reading "Hollidaysburg." — Facebook/The Everett Railroad Company

A group of people and children enjoy a pumpkin patch near vintage train cars in a wooded area. — Facebook/The Everett Railroad Company

All aboard Everett Railroad for a scenic ride to the pumpkin patch. Less than two hours from downtown Pittsburgh, Everett Railroad's charming Pumpkin Patch Train takes guests on a one-hour ride aboard a steam-powered train. During the trip, you'll stop at the pumpkin patch, where every child will get to pick a pumpkin. This is one of the best fall trains if you're searching for "scenic train rides near me." For dates and times, visit the Everett Railroad website.

Take a look at this video by @leakyvalleyproductions76:

2. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad – Titusville

A vintage train chugs along a winding track surrounded by colorful autumn foliage. Passengers enjoy the scenic ride. — Facebook/Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad

A winding railway track surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage in a serene landscape. — Facebook/Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad

Drink in the splendor of the fall foliage aboard Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad, less than two hours from downtown Pittsburgh. Snap pictures of the colorful scenery as it passes on the three-hour train ride. Relax in your seat inside the train or head to the open-air gondola. It's one of the most scenic train rides near Pittsburgh. Check out the official Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad website for more information on one of the best train rides near Pittsburgh, PA.

Take a look at this previous year's video by @tractorhead04:

3. Pennsylvania Trolley Museum – Washington

An orange trolley at a station, surrounded by autumn decorations like hay bales and pumpkins. — Facebook/Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

A scarecrow stands beside a sign for the Pumpkin Patch Trolley at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, with flowers and hay bales. — Facebook/Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

Okay, so this one is a trolley rather than a train, but you’re still bound to enjoy a pretty unique experience. The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum in Washington offers picturesque trolley rides to the pumpkin patch. Once at the pumpkin patch, pick the perfect pumpkin, play a few games, and snap selfies. Go to the official Pennsylvania Trolley Museum website for more information.

4. New Hope Railroad – New Hope

A charming train station with a turret, featuring an American flag and a vintage train in the background. — Facebook/New Hope Railroad

A red train passes through a colorful autumn landscape with vibrant orange and yellow leaves. — Facebook/New Hope Railroad

Our final train ride is - admittedly - all the way on the other side of PA, but if you're looking for a fun fall day trip or a weekend getaway, you'll find that New Hope is the perfect destination. Throughout the fall season, New Hope Railroad offers fall train rides. The fall foliage train ride spans 14 miles over 1.25 hours. Then, in the evening, the haunted train ride takes you on a spooky 40-minute journey. Visit the New Hope Railroad website to learn more.

Take a look at this video by @lifeofpri:

Have you ever been on one of these fun fall train rides near Pittsburgh? Share your experiences with us in the comments.

And, if you want to add a little bit of terrifyingly good fun to your autumn, climb aboard a haunted hayride near Pittsburgh if you dare!

Hitting the road on a road trip adventure any time soon? Check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before you go!

Trip Ideas|Day Trips

Updated Jul 3, 2024

4 Places In Pittsburgh That Are Like A Caribbean Paradise In The Summer

Discover tropical-like destinations in and around Pittsburgh for a summer escape.

Updated Jul 3, 2024

Written by

Beth Price-Williams

Time for a bit of Pittsburgh summer dreaming! Summer in Pittsburgh is the perfect time of year to set off on a luxurious Caribbean vacation. But, let's face, it, we don't all have the time or the ability to just fly to paradise, right? That's when it's time to improvise and enjoy all the things to do near Pittsburgh in summer. Fortunately, we've got a handful of really cool summer places near Pittsburgh - and a bit beyond - that will make you feel as though you've closed your eyes and landed in the Caribbean.

1. Laurel Hill State Park

A sandy beach with people enjoying the sun, colorful umbrellas, and a wooden building near a lake surrounded by green hills. — Facebook/Laurel Hill State Park Complex

A serene lake scene with red canoes docked at a wooden pier, surrounded by green trees and a cloudy sky. — Facebook/Laurel Hill State Park Complex

Longing to escape to white, sandy beaches? Then embark on the relatively short trip - compared to the Caribbean, of course - to Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset. Drop your towel or favorite beach chair on the 1,200-foot beach before wading into the water of the 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake. Explore the lake on kayak or by boat. Or, fall asleep on the sand to dreams of the Caribbean. If you don't feel like bringing along a picnic, you can grab a bite to eat at the concession stand. Discover a little bit of paradise in Pittsburgh at Laurel Hill State Park. Get a glimpse of Laurel Hill State Park by taking a peek at our previous article.

2. Erie Bluffs

A serene lakeside view with lush green trees under a clear blue sky and calm water. — Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli

A serene view of a calm sea under a cloudy sky, with green foliage in the foreground. — Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli

Escape to a pristine, breathtaking beach on Lake Erie, just about a two-hour drive from downtown Pittsburgh. Climb atop the 90-foot bluffs in Erie Bluffs State Park for picture-perfect views of the lake and shoreline. Or, relax on the sandy beach; go fishing, or explore the area by boat. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed. The park, however, is perfect if you want a bit of peace and quiet among nature. Don't forget to bring your hiking shoes to check out the scenic trails. Learn more about this oasis near Pittsburgh in our previous article.

3. Kaya

A panoramic view of a stylish bar with colorful artwork, wooden furniture, and a well-stocked bar area. — Facebook/Kaya

Four colorful cocktails on a patterned table, featuring garnishes like lime, watermelon, and pineapple. — Facebook/Kaya

Indulge in a delicious, Caribbean-inspired meal at Kaya. The Strip District restaurant boasts a decadent menu fused with Caribbean, Mexican, and South American flavors. So, what'll it be? Popular entrees include jerked half chicken, Caribbean flank steak stir fry, and crispy calamari. Of course, you'll want to pair your meal with a refreshing drink, such as the tropic thunder, mojito, or spicy cucumber margarita. Close your eyes and you'll feel like you've arrived in paradise in Pittsburgh. Take a look at one of the coolest tropical places in Pittsburgh in our previous article.

4. The Parador Inn

A large, historic red brick house with multiple stories, decorative trim, and a porch, set against a blue sky. — The Parador Inn of Pittsburgh/Facebook

Cozy bedroom with green walls, a ceiling fan, a bed with a light blanket, and wooden furniture. Soft lighting creates a warm atmosphere. — The Parador Inn of Pittsburgh/Facebook

How about treating yourself to a delightful vacation - right here in the Burgh? That's right. The Caribbean-themed Parador will whisk you far away from reality in a breezy room like the Bird of Paradise, Chenille, and Lady Palm. Plus, enjoy a spectacular array of amenities, such as a cozy fireplace, a fridge, and a full bathroom. Kick off each morning with a delectable breakfast before heading out for the day. Book your stay at this Pittsburgh oasis after reading our previous article.

What would you say are some other awesome things to do when it's summer in Pittsburgh? Join the conversation in the comments! Then, check out five of the best beaches near Pittsburgh for a summer visit. Don't forget the sun protection!

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The 8 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Pittsburgh

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4 Ridiculously Charming Train Rides To Take Around Pittsburgh This Fall

1. Everett Railroad – Hollidaysburg

2. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad – Titusville

3. Pennsylvania Trolley Museum – Washington

4. New Hope Railroad – New Hope

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4 Places In Pittsburgh That Are Like A Caribbean Paradise In The Summer

1. Laurel Hill State Park

2. Erie Bluffs

3. Kaya

4. The Parador Inn

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

The Completely Free Natural Attraction Hiding in a Wyoming Park Is a Must-Visit

This Natural Wonder in Idaho Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

The Best Apple Cider in Alaska Comes From This Award-Winning Hard Cidery

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Oregon’s Most Charming Small Towns

The Iconic Trail in Tennessee Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime