Best Day Trips On A Budget Near Pittsburgh
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With summer winding down and the onset of the holidays drawing closer every day, how do you enjoy the last few remaining warm days while staying on a budget? The next thing you know, it's PTO donations, fundraisers, holiday parties and gift time taking up the majority of your wallet's contents. Take a peek at these five close-to-Pittsburgh destinations that will allow you to take advantage of still-decent weather, and won't break the bank.
Fallingwater
1491 Mill Run Road
Mill Run, PA 15464
(724) 329-8501
www.fallingwater.org
One of Pennsylvania's most valued treasures is a home designed by and for the family of Frank Lloyd Wright. An international attraction, Fallingwater is a breathtaking and relaxing destination. The entire facility was designed with the idea of bringing nature indoors, and is exquisitely beautiful. Tour groups take off once an hour, with a short presentation by the PA Conservatory after the walk-through. Fallingwater is also close to Seven Springs, which is chock-full of amenities, such as dining, nightlife, golfing and even overnight accommodations, and both destinations can be accomplished for less than $100.
Nemacolin Woodlands
1001 LaFayette Drive
Farmington, PA 15437
(724) 329-8555
www.nemacolin.com
Not just a golf course, Nemacolin Woodlands has fun and adventure for the whole family. Fine dining and premiere attractions are available at this highly desired resort, but casual dining and budget attractions also abound. Enjoy a grab-and-go lunch before heading off on a backwoods trail ride, just like the settlers, or bundle the kids in for a horse-drawn carriage ride around the property. Take an African Train Ride to check out the Woodlands' exotic animal park from afar, or even go on your own self-guided nursery tour. You can even take the kids for a splash in the Woodland's Kidz Pool, which is open year-round in the resort, and definitely doesn't cost an arm and a leg to enjoy.
B&L Wine Cellars
900 Broad St.
Johnstown, PA 15906
(814) 536-2259
www.bandlwinecellars.com
If wine tastings are more your speed, check out this gorgeous local winery. Only utilizing grapes found on Pennsylvania soil, B&L Wine Cellars has an exquisite selection of locally sourced and bottled wines. Paying homage to its location in Cambria Country, the winery features a "Cambria City Red" and "Stone Bridge Red." Visit the cellars' website to schedule your own wine tasting, and be sure to pair it with a fun event in the area, many of which are listed under the website's "events" tab. Johnstown is only a 50-minute drive from Pittsburgh, so be sure to enjoy the gorgeous fall foliage on your way up, as this is the best time of year to take a car ride along Route 30.
Ohiopyle State Park
171 Dinnerbell Road
Butler, PA 16002
(724) 329-8591
www.dcnr.state.pa.us
Day trips don't necessarily include shopping or spending exorbitant amounts of money. What's wrong with taking a hike, enjoying a picnic along the Youghiogheny and bird watching – especially when these activities are free? Exercise caution if you fish or canoe, as the river is known to be rough, but this park is the perfect place to enjoy all of your favorite outdoor activities for less than it would cost you to take the whole family out for dinner. Maybe even take your hoofed friend for a ride – the horseback riding trails are scenic and smooth – perfect for a causal trot.
McConnells Mill
2697 McConnells Mill Road
Portersville, PA 16051
(724) 368-8091
www.dcnr.state.pa.us
This stunning state park, located within a 50-minute drive of Pittsburgh, offers plenty of outdoor fun for everyone including a covered bridge, scenic hiking, restored gristmill and climbing/rappelling. The best part, however, is the historic McConnells Mill festivals that run through fall. Celebrating the region's heritage, these events are known to pop up all around the area, and are often times completely unscheduled. Pick the day that works best for your group and head up to this scenic park. Enjoy your outdoor fun, and keep your eyes open for tents – you might just catch a passing fete, and the best part is that they're free.
Related: Best Day Trips For Under $100 In The Pittsburgh Area
Nikki Tiani-Moroney is a full time mum of two boys, wife of a professional poker player/photographer/amateur pencil-sharpening competitor and writer from Pittsburgh, PA. When she isn't studiously neglecting her housework in favor of a good book, she's out simultaneously fighting crime and picking up sidewalk litter while savoring an occasional cigarette. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
