Moraine State Park Portersville Simple Life Amish Tours New Wilmington COUNTRYSIDE SCENERY Pittsburgh and Its Countryside is a picturesque region home to off-the-beaten-path gems and inspiring natural scenery. From covered bridge tours to soaring vistas and handcrafted brews, prepare to be delighted at every turn. Explore one of the state’s largest state parks, Raccoon Creek State Park , which boasts more than 42 miles of hiking trails, a 101-acre lake for boating and fishing, and 10 cozy cabins for overnight stays. During spring and late summer, don’t miss walking through the onsite Wildlife Reserve to see wildflowers in peak bloom. More elevated experiences await at Go Ape Treetop Adventure in Allison Park, where thrill seekers and nature lovers alike can take in forest sights and sounds from 40-foot high tree-to-tree crossings, zip lines, and swings on this original canopy course. Revel in a slower pace with Simple Life Amish Tours in New Wilmington. This two-hour guided tour along quaint backroads offers a firsthand glimpse into the warmth and dedication of the Amish lifestyle, including Amish farms, greenhouses, a bakery, and schoolhouse. For more idyllic landscapes, visit Moraine State Park in Portersville to stroll along the beach, savor a picnic lunch, or float CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: DENISE GUTHERY; CHRIS CONDELLO; FRIENDS OF OLD ECONOMY VILLAGE/KAITLYN KARCZEWSKI Old Economy Village Ambridge the day away on the lake. Old Economy Village in Ambridge includes serene gardens and walking grounds at the historic settlement, featuring a visitor center, museum, blacksmith shop, granary and more. Tour the grounds and discover the story of the Harmony Society , one of the oldest and most successful religious communal groups of the 19th century. A countryside scenery tour is simply incomplete without covered bridges. Washington and Greene counties are home to 30 historic covered bridges, including a Burr Truss, various portal designs, and plenty of delightful views along the self-guided driving tour. Their Annual Covered Bridge Festival every third week of September is the perfect way to welcome autumn and revel in the Pennsylvania fall foliage. For a scenic tour with a crisp finish, traverse the Butler County Beer Circuit and stamp your Passport to Hoppiness at the local brew pubs. The captivating towns and rolling hills are as pleasing as the craft brews—plus you can claim a prize at the Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau in Zelienople upon completion. visitPA.com 69
Pennsylvania Happy Traveler Guide 2021: Page 69
