Fort Ligonier Ligonier Laurel Highlands Meadery Irwin BATTLEFIELDS, DESIGN & NATURAL BOUNTY Peaceful scenery steeped in history, iconic architectural masterpieces, and bountiful harvests make Laurel Highlands in the Allegheny Mountains a perfect place to slow down and enjoy the journey. Here’s a roundup of small-town and off-the-beaten path stops not to miss when visiting the region. In the mid-18th century, Laurel Highlands was at the center of historic battles that led to the American Revolution. Situated along the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway, a full-scale recreation of Fort Ligonier in Ligonier sits on the original site where the British defended their territory and supply lines while fighting in the French and Indian War. Fort Necessity National Battlefield in Farmington, now a U.S. National Park, was the opening grounds for the French and Indian War in 1754. And Bushy Run Battlefield in Jeannette is the only historic site dedicated exclusively to Pontiac’s War, which followed the French and Indian War in 1763. Plan your visit to Fort Ligonier and Bushy Run to coincide with one of the many re-enanctment events held throughout the year. Kentuck Knob Chalk Hill LHVB (3 PHOTOS) Laurel Highlands is also home to some of American architecture’s most treasured masterpieces by Frank Lloyd Wright. At Polymath Park in Acme, tour the Duncan and Mäntylä houses built by Wright, as well as two houses, Balter and Blum houses, built by one of Wright’s original apprentices, Peter Berndtson. Make a reservation at the onsite Treetops Restaurant, known for its seasonal cuisine and picturesque forest views, to fully experience the natural setting. Kentuck Knob in Chalk Hill, one of the last houses Wright completed, offers an in-depth house tour and a walking tour around the surrounding woodlands where modern sculpture artwork is displayed. After your guided tour, explore the reserve on one of the many nature trails. Partake in some of the region’s bounty at local vineyards such as Christian W. Klay Winery in Chalk Hill, Fayette County’s first commercial winery. Wine lovers will appreciate their award-winning wine collection, which ranges widely from dry to sweet. At the tasting room at Laurel Highlands Meadery in Irwin, try a variety of their unique honey wines. From chocolate mead to whiskey barrel mead, you’re sure to find a few favorites to bring home with you. visitPA.com 75
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