Watch CBS News

Best Day Trips From Pittsburgh

Shopping & Style Flea Market, Jewelry
Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

Taking a day trip from Pittsburgh is a fun and exceptional time. There is plenty of great scenery throughout the western PA area, so be sure to take along a camera and a pair of binoculars. There are so many wonderful activities to engage in at these five great day trips from Pittsburgh.

Slippery Rock Gorge
McConnells Mill State Park
R.R. 2, Box 16
Portersville, PA 16501
www.dcnr.state.pa.us/mcconnellsmill

Slippery Rock Gorge is a beautiful park with excellent hiking available. If you're feeling really adventurous, there are areas for climbing and repelling, as well as more tame activities like fishing and picnicking. The park is filled with luscious greens, making the scenery beautiful for your picnic. There is also a play field in the area that can be used for family sports, like softball games in the summer or sledding in the winter. Spend the day appreciating nature and being with the people you love.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort
777 Waterwheel Drive
Seven Springs, PA 15622
(800) 452-2223
http://www.7springs.com/

Seven Springs Mountain Resort is another great day trip from Pittsburgh with activities for all ages. Spend your time enjoying a round of golf, practicing sporting clay, ziplining, swimming, mountain biking, fly fishing, or relaxing in the spa. This is a great option for families that can allow alone time for mom and dad while the kids mingle with other kids at the kids camp or kids night out. With dining several restaurant and bar options, Seven Springs Mountain Resort is a one stop adventure you're sure to love.

Presque Isle State Park
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
(814) 833-7424
http://www.presqueisle.org/

At Presque Isle State Park, you will find many different beaches to relax and swim. Fun all over the 10-mile span will give you plenty of things to take part in, like bike riding, volleyball, kite flying, and bird watching. Lots of people like to ride or walk the 10 miles to take in all the wonderful scenery along the way. Wander over to Waldameer Park for great amusement park rides. This park also boasts a great water ride section that all ages enjoy. Presque Isle State Park is a day trip that will keep you busy with all the activities available.

Related: Best Parks In Pittsburgh

McConnells Mill State Park
R.R. 2, Box 16
Portersville, PA 16501
www.dcnr.state.pa.us/mcconnellsmillhiking

At McConnell's Mills State Park is 2,546 acres of beautiful scenery to experience. Enjoy some great, scenic hiking on trails like Hell's Hollow or Alpha Pass. There are nine miles of trails that wind through this state park. The whole time you spend at McConnell's Mill State Park, keep an eye out for wildlife and beautiful waterfalls that will give you breathing-taking views. Consider visiting the last full weekend in September for their Heritage Festival to celebrate the prime of the Old Mill (1852 - 1928). Period art and games, tours, corn grinding demonstrations, music, and civil war encampment and food are just some of the things to enjoy during this festive weekend.

Conneaut Lake Park
12382 Center St.
Conneaut Lake, PA 16316
(814) 382-5115
www.newconneautlakepark.com

Conneaut Lake Park is a day trip from Pittsburgh that is fun for all ages, to say the least. With rollercoasters, amusement park rides, mini-golf, a beach, and a  boardwalk, there's no shortage of fun activities at Conneaut Lake Park. If you decide a day of fun is not enough, they have campgrounds and cabins available for rent.

Related: Best Walking Trails

Terésa (Tracey) Stanisha is a published author of 12 books, and a writer of articles for several clients. She currently lives in Pittsburgh, PA. Her four degrees, knowledge and professional experiences allow her to write about various subjects, especially about the Pittsburgh vicinity. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.