Top 7 Things To Do in the Laurel Highlands, PA

In the Laurel Highlands you can explore history (like the Flight 93 Memorial pictured here), hike and paddle the rivers and trails, indulge in luxury resorts and culinary magic, and everthing in between. Prepare to be impressed…this is Western Pennsylvania’s mountain treasure.  ©Dawn Damico

Destination Pennsylvania / Things to do in the Laurel Highlands, PA

It’s where George Washington was stopped by a waterfall, one of America’s most beloved neighbors was born, a UNESCO World Heritage site floats above a cascade of rushing water, a distillery renaissance is bringing back America’s original whiskey, and an historic hunting lodge has transformed into a luxury resort that has received five star-rated awards from Forbes Travel Guide.

While you might think these attractions are scattered across the country, you’ll be surprised to learn they’re all found an hour southeast of Pittsburgh in the 3000-square-mile region of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands.

When I visited the Laurel Highlands last fall, I admit I knew very little about the area. I’d read that it was voted America’s best place to see fall foliage in 2024, and I was excited to tour Nemacolin’s sprawling 2,000 acre resort, but beyond that, this three-county mountain region was unknown to me. 

What I discovered is a destination with remarkable depth. The Laurel Highlands offers experiences that captivate outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, architecture lovers, wellness travelers, and culinary and craft beverage explorers. You can start your day hiking or biking a mountain trail, tour a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece, taste whiskey made the way it was two centuries ago, and end your day with a fine dining experience overlooking the ski slopes. 

Then, you can wake up and embark on a completely different itinerary the next day because there are unexpected discoveries around every corner. Let’s explore the highlights of the Laurel Highlands so you can plan your own adventure in this remarkable destination. Then I’ll give you some great places to eat and stay!

Stretching the full width of the Youghiogheny River, Ohiopyle Falls drops 20 feet and can be viewed from observations decks. Other falls and water sport are enjoyed in the area.  ©Dawn Damico

Imagine a place where 15 residents welcome over 1.5 million visitors annually. Ohiopyle, recently crowned “Best Small Town in the Northeast” by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards in 2024, proves that small places can leave big impressions.

Perched along the rushing Youghiogheny River Gorge (locals call it the “Yough” – pronounced “yawk”), the town’s name comes from the Iroquois word “Ohuipihelle,” meaning “white froth upon the water.” A fitting description for the inspiring falls that serve as the town’s centerpiece and provide water recreation for outdoor enthusiasts.

The same falls that famously halted George Washington during his 1700s search for an all-water route to Fort Duquesne became a catalyst for growth when the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad laid down tracks on the other side of the river in 1870. 

What was once the remote village of Falls City has evolved into a model for sustainable tourism, where government investment in trails and infrastructure supports both preservation and adventure.

Outdoor enthusiasts come to this little borough all year long to play inside the 20,500 acre Ohiopyle State Park. Whether paddling whitewater rapids, hiking the Laurel Highland trails, biking the Great Allegheny Passage, or cross-country skiing, visitors can find their adventure in nature’s playground. As they play, they come to appreciate her gifts.

As Ann Nemanic, Executive Director of Go Laurel Highlands, thoughtfully reflects, 

“We are really all visitors here… We have a small, finite amount of time to make the most of the life we have here. We are stewards of this place that we call home. Thousands and thousands of people voted for Ohiopyle, but they did it because it was a memory for them. It was significant when they visited.” 

This sentiment captures the essence of what makes Ohiopyle special. It’s not just a destination that provides outdoor adventure and a quaint small town atmosphere, but a place that creates lasting memories through the dedication of those who live, work, and play here.

Tip: Consider stopping at the Ohiopyle State Park Visitor Center. It looks like an interesting addition if you like to explore Interpretive Centers.

Location: 124 Main Street, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
Ohiopyle Website

In 1854, Sacramento became the capital of California, the Gold Rush was on, and advertisements for Pennsylvania’s Monongahela Whiskey appeared on the West Coast. This means “Mon Rye” had beaten the transcontinental railroad across the continent by about 15 years, establishing Pennsylvania as America’s original whiskey powerhouse.

At its pre-Prohibition peak around 1900, Pennsylvania’s spirit industry was extraordinary. There were 73 distilleries producing 7.2 million gallons annually. Small towns flourished around these operations, some with facilities that included five to six large warehouses housing over 100,000 barrels of aging whiskey each. 

But Prohibition’s arrival marked the beginning of the end for rye whiskey’s golden age. Then, to add insult to injury, post-Prohibition tastes shifted toward bourbon, rye whiskey became known as “Pappy’s drink,” and production declined dramatically.

By 1990, Pennsylvania’s whiskey heritage hung by a thread, with just one distillery remaining. Prohibition’s zealous enforcement had not only destroyed the buildings but also erased much of the history. Families, reluctant to discuss relatives who worked at distilleries, left stories untold and photographs hidden away. A cultural legacy seemed lost to time.

Today, thanks to shifting tastes and a 2011 Pennsylvania law easing restrictions on small-batch distillers (those producing less than 100,000 gallons per year – which is about every distiller in the state), rye whiskey is making a comeback. The state now boasts about 150 distilleries (as of 2024), with many working to recapture the distinctive characteristics of traditional Monongahela Rye. 

Still, the living memory is lost and the stories remain buried. Two Laurel Highlands sites I visited are working to piece this history back together. At the Whiskey Heritage Center and Ponfeigh Distillery, you can dive into the history while tasting both traditional rye whiskey and other innovative spirits. Pappy, it’s time for a new generation of rye whiskey enthusiasts!

At West Overton Village’s Distillery you get a taste of the original rye whiskey recipe.  ©Dawn Damico

West Overton Village is a rare piece of American whiskey history. This preserved 19th century village is the only surviving example in the world where you can visit the original homestead of a whiskey brand – Old Overholt Whiskey, and get a glimpse of a distillery town that grew around the production of whiskey.

Among the village’s 18 historic buildings, the original distillery now serves as a museum. It includes an impressive collection of over 275 bottles from historic Pennsylvania distilleries. The livestock barn has been converted into a working distillery where visitors can taste authentic Monongahela-style rye whiskey, connecting past to present in every sip.

My tour of the museum and distillery tasting room left me with more than just historical facts—it gave me a true taste of Pennsylvania’s whiskey heritage. After sampling their 95-proof to 105-proof whiskeys and understanding how deeply rye whiskey is woven into American history, I was eager to explore more. Fortunately, another chapter in Pennsylvania’s whiskey story was just up the road in Somerset.

Founder Maximilian Merrill has a vision to build something in Pennsylvania and Somerset County that honors rye whiskey’s heritage and restores a missing piece of Pennsylvania culture.  ©Dawn Damico

At the edge of Ponfeigh farm stands a hunting cabin where people have gathered for over 90 years to enjoy rye spirits. The founder of Ponfeigh Distillery grew up immersed in Pennsylvania’s rye culture where as a boy, he would find old whiskey bottles hidden in the cabin’s outhouse and rafters and use them for target practice with his .22 rifle. Today, he admits those shattered bottles were likely pre-Prohibition, a reflection of how deeply whiskey culture is embedded in these hills.

That connection to local heritage now drives Ponfeigh’s revival of America’s first whiskey, while innovating for the future.

Founder Maximilian Merrill held onto his vision for nearly twenty years – a vision for building something in Pennsylvania and Somerset County that would honor rye whiskey’s heritage and restore a missing piece of Pennsylvania culture. Through years of planning, providence, and a heavy dose of faith, Merrill found the perfect location in the old 84 Lumber warehouse and assembled the ideal team to help bring that vision to life.

Note: 84 Lumber’s founder William Hardy III, will enter the scene again when we talk about Nemacolin later in this article.

In 2024 he was named Somerset County Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year for creating a consumer-focused business that creates local jobs and aims to restore the county to its pre-Prohibition prominence. He would also add that he started the distillery because rye whiskey is delicious. I agree!

So much so that this normally carry-on traveler paid to check in my baggage on the return trip home because it contained a bottle of Ponfeigh’s Westsylvania Rye.

Ponfeigh Distillery produces two distinct styles of whiskey: the traditional Monongahela rye and the Maryland-style rye, which adds corn to the classic blend of rye and malted barley. The innovative spirit extends to their rye-aged rum and rye-aged gin. 

During tours, visitors experience the complete whiskey-making process from grain to glass. The highlight of any visit is tasting “rye-shine” straight from the copper condensing unit. It is strong…really strong. A potent 140-proof spirit with sweet undertones lingering beneath its strength. What whiskey (or woman) wouldn’t want to be described like that! Regardless, that shine is what eventually turns into sweet Monongahela Rye after four long years in the barrel.

Quick Tips for Visitors:

• Tours: Available Friday through Sunday (reserve online)
• Tasting Room: Open Wednesday through Sunday
• Features: 4,000-square-foot bar with 20-foot ceilings
• Don’t Miss: Weekend live music and outdoor firepit

The replica of Fort Necessity’s log structure shows the space where perishable goods were stored. The surrounding meadow was a perfect place to rest and feed the horses, but a not a great location for defense.   ©Dawn Damico

You might think you’d need vast expanses of land to change the course of history. As it turns out, you only need what is necessary. 

Fort Necessity National Battlefield in Farmington is a small but pivotal site where three cultures collided in the summer of 1754, igniting the French and Indian War. History enthusiasts, families looking for educational experiences, and anyone fascinated by early American stories, must include this historical landmark on their list of things to do in the Laurel Highlands. 

I was surprised by how small the actual battlefield was and impressed by our guide, Braxton Berkey, whose thorough presentation provided context for many historical sites and events throughout the region.

The British flag as it once flew at Fort Necessity. It’s interesting to note that Point State Park’s Fort Pitt Museum in Pittsburgh tells the interconnected story of the region’s early military history that includes the events at Fort Necessity where three cultures attempted to stake their claim in the Ohio Valley. ©Dawn Damico

The conflict began when the British and French both hoped to stake their claim in the Ohio Valley. A young George Washington  found himself at the center of this conflict while tasked with building a road to the Monongahela River. 

At Great Meadow, his regiment constructed a modest 14’x14′ log cabin to protect essential supplies like gunpowder, rum, cornmeal, and flour. Surrounded by a ring of rugged, pointed posts, the little fort relied on natural barriers—ditches and treelines—for additional protection.

The fort’s story took a dramatic turn when French forces attacked Washington’s group in retaliation for his earlier strike on a French patrol (known as the Jumonville affair). Under miserable conditions of pouring rain and heavy fog, the battle ended with Washington negotiating an honorable surrender. Unknowingly, he signed a document that declared him responsible for assassinating a French diplomat—giving France its justification for the attack.

The visitor center at Fort Necessity has an impressive collection of displays that chronical early American military history as well at the nation’s first federally funded highway.   ©Dawn Damico

While Washington lost this battle, its significance rippled through history. The French and Indian War concluded with France’s removal from North America, setting the stage for the American Revolution—where Washington would return, no longer fighting for the British crown.

Today’s replicated log cabin and surrounding landscape offer visitors an appreciation for how exposed Washington’s forces were. 

Quick Tips for Visitors:

• Plan for: 2-3 hours to explore fully
• Must visit: Fort Necessity/National Road Interpretive and Education Center
• Don’t miss: Exhibits about 18th-century life and the National Road (modern Route 40)
• Add on: Mt Washington Tavern, a short walk from the fort open seasonally May 1st to October 31st
• Kids will enjoy the Junior Ranger program and playground outside

Who knew that Latrobe’s quaint little main street holds the stories of some of America’s most iconic figures?  ©Dawn Damico

Strolling the streets of this unassuming mid-Atlantic town, with its historic Main Street and friendly faces, you’d never guess you were tracing the footsteps of legends. Founded in 1854, Latrobe has retained its small-town authenticity while quietly nurturing greatness.

Banners flying from street lamps celebrate legendary golf pro Arnold Palmer, while playful yellow pawprints on the sidewalk printed with an iconic red trolley declare “It’s a beautiful day in Latrobe.” Rolling Rock beer was once brewed here, the Pittsburgh Steelers once trained here, and a favorite American dessert was created right here in the Laurel Highlands.

One of the charms of Mr. Rogers is that he gave children the tools to be lifelong learners. “Did you know when you wonder, you’re learning.”  ~Fred Rogers   ©Dawn Damico

Fred McFeely Rogers, born March 20, 1928 in Latrobe, believed there were three ways to ultimate success: “The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.” 

It’s no wonder that this ordained minister, puppeteer, and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom created Mister Rogers Neighborhood, one of television’s most popular and longest-running children’s shows. 

The show debuted in Pittsburgh in 1967 where today, visitors can explore an extensive collection from the program at the Senator John Heinz History Center. 

In Latrobe, a statue in the likeness of Fred Rogers captures his welcoming spirit. Sitting on a park bench with room for new friends, one of his mottos, “You Are Special.”  is inscribed in cement below.

Though double the price of a regular ice cream, the banana split gained fast popularity with students at nearby Saint Vincent College. ©Dawn Damico

Latrobe’s sweetest claim to fame dates back to 1904 when apprentice pharmacist David Strickler created the first banana split sundae. Though double the price of a regular ice cream, the banana split gained fast popularity with students at nearby Saint Vincent College.

Today, a visit to 512 Coffee and Ice Cream will make you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time. Walk past the white picket fence and sacred Catalpa tree, historically used for medicinal and general construction purposes, and step onto the wrap around porch to order the three-scoop concoction.

Watch as they layer vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream between fresh banana slices, then top it with a trio of chocolate, pineapple, and strawberry syrups, whipped cream, and a cherry. Take your treat outside to enjoy on the porch much like they did over a century ago and it will seem like some things in Latrobe, like the perfect sundae, never change.

“…An Ordinary Day. September 11, 2001 was a beautiful summer day…The United States is experiencing a time of relative peace and prosperity when our peace is shattered by an unprecedented act of terrorism. Not even this most unlikely of places – a common field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania – was untouched by the events of the day.”   ©Dawn Damico

The Flight 93 National Memorial visitor center sits high on a hill with incredible views of the Pennsylvania countryside. If this were any other place, these rolling hills would inspire dreams of mountain homes and pastoral life. But this is the site where hijacked Flight 93 plunged into the earth on September 11, 2001, taking the lives of 40 people. Their stories, their courage, and their hope seemed to swirl in the cold breeze that filled the air during my visit.

Inside the visitor center, you’ll find a comprehensive chronicle of 9/11, Flight 93, and the events that unfolded that day. Photography and video are not allowed inside the visitor center because they own some, but not all, of the pieces on display. The unintended result is that without the distraction of trying to digitally document everything, visitors are free to fully immerse themselves in this profound piece of recent American history.

The most moving exhibit allows you to hear actual messages left by passengers for their loved ones. Remember, this was before modern cell phones and the onboard phone technology was primitive by today’s standards. The fact that they could call inflight was a small miracle in itself. The hope and courage in their voices, when we all know their eventual fate, is beyond imagination.

Tip: Save these recordings for last.Their impact is unforgettable.

“When I opened the door, I could see the smoke up over the hill. It was a really crystal blue sky. There was a huge plume of smoke, but it was just silence out there.”  ~Val McClatchy, resident who photographed the smoke cloud from her front porch.   ©Dawn Damico

From the Visitor Center, drive one mile to the Memorial Plaza. Hemlock trees stand at the edge of the 40 acre debris field, silent witnesses to the crash. The point of impact is marked with a 17-ton boulder. White marble walls engraved with the names pay tribute to their lives. 

Our guide, Katie Hoestler, pointed out the memorial grove planted in honor of the passengers and crew of Flight 93. These 40 groves of 40 trees create a living memorial around the plaza. Every fall, the vibrant foliage contrasts the black walkway marking the plane’s flight path.

Complete your visit at the Tower of Voices, a 93-foot structure filled with chimes. As the wind blows, the voices, stories, and memories of the passengers and crew are symbolically released to the Pennsylvania sky.

Quick Tips for Visitors:

• Plan for: 2-3 hours minimum
• Start at: Visitor Center for context
• Must-see: Tower of Voices
• Best time: Early morning for quiet reflection
• A special ceremony happens at the site every September 11, with several family members of the passengers and crew returning each year
• Educators Resource: Teach to Remember 9/11

Update: The original passage: “As the wind blows, the victim’s voices, stories, and memories are symbolically released to the Pennsylvania sky.” has been amended to refer to the people who died on Flight 93 as “passengers and crew” rather than victims. It was brought to my attention that many of the family members consider that their loved ones had the opportunity to respond that morning, and were not victims. I agree that this change results in a better representation and thank you for bringing that to my attention.

The Laurel Highlands has three separate locations where architectural enthusiasts can see Frank Lloyd Wright designs, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Fallingwater.  ©Dawn Damico

The Laurel Highlands boasts three distinct Wright properties, each offering a unique experience. While Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural vision may not resonate with everyone, most agree that it demonstrates an undeniable brilliance in site selection and environmental integration.

His “organic architecture” philosophy emphasized building in a way that blends seamlessly with the surroundings. By harnessing natural elements like sunlight, shade, wind, and water his structures strive to be efficient by being part of the landscape.

Wright’s signature design approach is evident as you step through the front door. At first it feels small, the opposite of grand foyers and vaulted ceilings in today’s homes. He intentially crafted intimate interior spaces that draw visitors toward expansive windows. The natural light creates an easy flow between the indoors and outdoors.

From a UNESCO World Heritage Site to an overnight stay in an authentic Wright home, these architectural treasures provide varying depths of immersion into his work. A third, Kentuck Knob, which I didn’t see, is a popular stop on the architectural tour.

Wright’s signature design approach is evident as you step through the front door. At first it feels small and intentionally draws you to the light outside.  ©Dawn Damico

Frank Lloyd Wright’s most celebrated achievement began as a Masonic camp where city dwellers arrived by chauffeur and private train to escape the chaos and congestion of the city. Today, Mountain Laurels, Pennsylvania’s state flower, still line the entrance, creating a natural transition into Fallingwater.

The transformation from camp to masterpiece began when Edgar and Liliane Kaufmann purchased 1,600 acres at Bear Run from the Kaufmann’s Department Store employees’ association after Edgar failed to get Civilian Conservation Corps status for the property. The property was purchased in his wife’s name. 

In 1934, the couple asked Wright to design a weekend house for them near the waterfall where many family memories had been made. Three years later, the home was complete and Wright’s bold vision surprised them. Instead of placing the home near their favorite waterfall, he made it a part of it!

Today, visitors can explore this UNESCO World Heritage site where Bear Run creek flows beneath the house on its four-mile journey to the Allegheny River. The 5000-acre property includes nature trails and house tours.

Fun Fact: Built for $150,000 in 1937 (when average homes cost $6,000) some would say that Fallingwater is now priceless. 

Visitor Information:

• Tours: Advanced reservations required
• Hours: 9am-4pm (Mar-Dec), closed Wednesdays

Overnight guests at Polymath Park can experience Wright’s signature elements firsthand in a way that is not possible on a tour.  ©Dawn Damico

Twenty miles from Fallingwater, Polymath Park is a unique preservation site that started as a summer retreat for Tom and Heather Papinchak. Today, it is a 130-acre architectural preserve featuring four meticulously preserved mid-century homes…and that’s not all.

The Balter and Blum homes were designed by Wright apprentice Peter Berndtson in the 1960s. The Papinchaks later relocated two authentic Wright-designed homes, the Duncan and Mantyla houses, to the property after being carefully disassembled at their original sites.

The park’s unique appeal lies in the rare opportunity to stay overnight in one of these historic homes. Overnight guests experience Wright’s signature elements firsthand in a way that is not possible on a tour. The integration with nature, dramatic windows, and innovative use of space and light give architectural enthusiasts a deeper appreciation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s brilliance.

The TreeTops Restaurant adds another dimension to the Polymath Park experience. 

One of Pennsylvania’s most unique restaurants features elevated pods nestled among nature leaving guests with the feeling that they are dining in the tree’s canopy. 

Read more: Beyond Dining: Explore One of Pennsylvania’s Most Unique Restaurants

Whether you come for a guided tour, an overnight stay, or a memorable meal in the trees, Polymath Park is a distinctive blend of historical craftsmanship and modern hospitality in a serene woodland setting.

Visitor Information:

• Experiences: House tours, overnight stays, fine dining
• Book your Frank Lloyd Wright overnight experience

These beautiful golden flowers are a hint of the autumn colors that have earned the Laurel Highlands back-to-back USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice awards for best Fall Foliage.   ©Dawn Damico

My early September visit caught the first hints of fall color in the Laurel Highlands – a preview of the colorful spectacle that has earned recognition as one of the top spots to view fall foliage. Back-to-back USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice awards – first for Keystone State Park in 2023, then for the entire 3,000 square-mile Laurel Highlands region in 2024 – confirm what residents and visitors already know about this autumn paradise.

Take a “leaf peeper” road trip by following a Northern Loop or Southern Loop tour. Or fully immerse yourself in a full outdoor experience by biking or hiking along a seemingly infinite number of trails through 120,000 acres of state parks. Not to mention two state forests, five national parks, and a large section of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). 

Once you’ve found the perfect fall foliage spot, enjoy the local culinary scene where farm-to-table is a way of life, or drink in the experience on a pour tour that leads you to wineries, cideries, craft brewers, and distilleries. 

Because in the Laurel Highlands, the seasons aren’t just viewed, they are savored.

The culinary scene in the Laurel Highlands is an unexpected surprise! Local ingredients are the stars on seasonal menus, while award-winning chefs create memorable dining experiences.  ©Dawn Damico

From intimate fine dining in historic homesteads to unique treetop experiences, the Laurel Highlands’ culinary scene tells the region’s story through its flavors and settings. Local ingredients are the stars on seasonal menus, while award-winning chefs create memorable dining experiences that range from elevated farm-to-table cuisine to cozy café fare.

Helen’s Restaurant at Seven Springs Mountain Resort

Dining at Helen’s is like having an amazing meal at a good friend’s home where the wine and conversation flow easily.   ©Dawn Damico

Step into the warm glow of Helen and Adolph Dupre’s 1930s homestead, where massive windows overlook the ski slopes and a stone fireplace anchors what was once the family’s living room. This intimate fine-dining restaurant honors its heritage through atmosphere and cuisine.

Our four course menu started with Helen’s Chesapeake Crab Bisque which was constructed at the table. Next was their Summer Fins and Feather Salad. I was a little confused by the name (there were no fins or feathers); however, I enjoyed the kale and arugula salad topped with fresh slices of pear, candied pecans, and gorgonzola crumbles. The main entree included two fluffy crab cakes accompanied by garlic green beans, rice, and a roasted red pepper aioli. The finale was their Chocolate Blitz, a beautiful display of chocolate mousse inside a chocolate shell, decorated with cookie crumble and fresh fruit.

The enjoyment of the experience was enhanced because of our servers and host, Anna Weltz. It was like having an amazing meal at a good friend’s home where the wine and conversation flowed easily. I imagine it is exactly how Helen would have wanted it to be.

Lautrec at Nemacolin

Guests at Nemacolin have many dining options, including Forbes five-star rated Lautrec.   ©Dawn Damico

This Forbes five-star restaurant pairs original Toulouse-Lautrec lithographs with equally artistic cuisine. Each course arrives as a theatrical presentation, complemented by expert wine pairings from an extensive cellar. The playful touches – like a whimsical yuzu and strawberry spritz served in a miniature coke-style bottle – mirror the spirit of the restaurant’s namesake.

I thoroughly enjoyed our four-course lunchtime experience which began with Corn and King Crab Chowder, where corn cavatelli, jalapeño, and pickled corn harmonized with a touch of smoked crab oil. 

Next came Potato Gnocchi in an asparagus cream, adorned with fried zucchini blossoms and braised rabbit. Shaved Umbrian black truffle and delicate purple flowers added texture and contrasting color, turning the dish into an edible canvas.

A pause for the signature yuzu spritz prepared my palate for the main course: Broken Arrow Ranch Venison. The meat arrived accompanied by leek ash, beets prepared two ways, peach juniper jus, beef tallow, and Chantilly cream – a composition of technique and flavor. While I wasn’t a fan of the beef tallow, I enjoyed every bite.

Dessert presented a choice between mango and chocolate; the Chocolate Tartlet won out. This delicate work of art featured strawberry gel, chai buttercream, and toasted hazelnut, providing an elegant finale.

Lautrec is just one of the diverse dining options for guests at Nemacolin. No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, you can be sure you’ll have memorable meals with just the right amount of playfulness, fun, and good taste.

TreeTops Restaurant at Polymath Park

Glimpses of wooden dining pods hidden among the trees are your first hint of the magic enjoyed TreeTops Restaurant at Polymath Park.   ©Dawn Damico

Hidden among the trees at Polymath Park, wooden dining pods offer one of Pennsylvania’s most unexpected dining experiences. A tree-lined path leads to what feels like a secret hidden in the forest, drawing food enthusiasts from Pittsburgh and beyond for its unique setting and innovative menu. Follow this link where I share my full experience (with video) at Pennsylvania’s most unique restaurants.

Bittersweet Cafe

The owner of Bittersweet Cafe converted her home into the restaurant where members of the family all have a role.   ©Dawn Damico

A 1988 newspaper clipping on the wall captures a young Terri Krysak sharing her love for creating fun and unusual Christmas cookies. At that time, perhaps jokingly, she said, “Maybe I’ll go into business someday.” Little did she know that comment put her future dreams into motion.

Fast forward to 2025 and Bittersweet Cafe is now celebrating its tenth year of serving locally-sourced comfort food in Farmington.

This sweet little family owned and operated cafe is a labor of love with a touch of life’s bitter reality. While Terri transforms local fruits into artisanal jams and seasonal dishes, the cafe honors her late son’s memory through Bittersweet Gives, a charity that spreads hope throughout the community. Every meal carries this legacy of love, accompanied by creative breakfast offerings, fresh-baked goods, and sandwiches made from local ingredients.

A world map studded with push pins representing global visitors that have passed through their door, hints at the popularity of this family-home-turned-cafe’s impact. But it’s the warm hospitality and rotating seasonal menu that keep both locals and travelers returning to this special corner of the Laurel Highlands.

*Note: They also have a (very) small coffee shop by the Ohiopyle State Park.

El Diablo Brewing Co & Wood Fired Kitchen

The brewing operation at El Diablo is small…it would actually fit into a decent sized closet, so it’s impressive that they received accolades as one of the best new breweries in 2024 from USA Today’s 10Best.   ©Dawn Damico

Anchored by a wooden bar rescued from a local country club, a family success story brews in Greensburg. What started in a tiny 410-square-foot space in 2012 that survived Covid-era challenges, has evolved into two thriving restaurants, Sun Dawg Cafe and El Diablo Brewing Co & Wood Fired Kitchen.

El Diablo has earned its way onto the top-10 list for new breweries while the restaurant has received accolades for the best Gluten-free pizza and best Gluten-free restaurant overall. The healthy focus in their restaurants is intentional. By making everything as gluten free as possible, cross-contamination concerns are limited while using fresh and local ingredients makes it easier to be naturally delicious.

The restaurant reflects the family’s commitment to innovation and tradition. Their son crafts the microbrews, their daughter greets guests, and a cousin’s artwork adorns walls. But it’s their local approach that truly sets them apart.

Farmers and local producers are part of their secret weapon. Award-winning gluten-free pizzas emerge from wood-fired ovens, while seasonal specialties feature hyperlocal ingredients like Logan Farms’ grass-fed beef and potted figs grown by a local farmer who defies Pennsylvania winters.

When the weather is good, you can enjoy the outdoor bar and patio where craft cocktails and beer flow, live music plays, and each dish arrives as its own celebration of local flavors. This is where we enjoyed our meal. Food came out one delicious plate after another. As each sample arrived, I didn’t think they could possibly do something better…and then they did. Delicious, local, and healthy.

El Diablo is a testament to how determination and family vision can create something extraordinary.

Out of the Fire Cafe’

The Hummus Tasting Starter at Out of the Fire Cafe set the standard for the meal that followed.   ©Dawn Damico

Out of the Fire Cafe embodies rustic elegance where farm-to-table cuisine takes center stage. While scenic local views from the deck invite you outside (although it was a little too cold while I was there), the cozy interior with a wall of windows to enjoy the view creates a welcoming atmosphere 

Opening with the Hummus Tasting starter, a palette of colors and flavors, set the tone for what was to come. I chose the signature smoked salmon, which draws regulars from miles around, served over salad and topped with sauteed portobello and a cream dill dressing.

For heartier appetites, main course options range from fresh scallops to country fried chicken to filet mignon, each dish showcasing the restaurant’s talent for elevating mountain comfort food.

Now, let’s talk about places to stay…

Now part of the Vail Resorts network, Laurel Highlands top ski resort shares the prestige with 37 resorts in North America.   ©Dawn Damico

From slope-side accommodations to Forbes-rated luxury resorts, the Laurel Highlands offers lodging experiences that celebrate the region’s natural beauty and rich history. While there are various places to stay, I experienced the following and can easily recommend them for your next trip to the Laurel Highlands.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort/Slopeside Hotel

An early morning walk up the hill on a chilly morning was worth it to watch the sun crest over the mountain top.   ©Dawn Damico

I’m not sure which part of my stay at Seven Springs Mountain Resort brought more enjoyment. The vintage ski photos lining the walls at the Foggy Goggle, spacious rooms with separate living areas, a fine dining experience at Helen’s Restaurant, or the early morning walk up the mountain to watch the sun crest over the mountain top.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort delivers a true mountain experience. Accommodations range from hotel rooms with mountain views to private chalets and condos. 

Now part of the Vail Resorts network, Laurel Highlands top ski resort shares the prestige with 37 resorts in North America, including Breckenridge, Park City, and Whistler Blackcomb Mountain. Their sister properties in Pennsylvania include: Hidden Valley, Laurel Mountain, Roundtop Mountain Resort, Liberty Mountain Resort and Jack Frost and Big Boulder Mountain. All Vail Resort properties in Pennsylvania are accessible with the Epic Pass.

Winter transforms Seven Springs into a snow sports paradise with 33 slopes and trails, seven terrain parks, and 10 lifts that quickly get you on the mountain. While its 2,994-foot summit is modest compared to western peaks (compare that to Breckenridge Ski Resort at 12,998 feet), Seven Springs has the advantage of one of the region’s largest and most sophisticated snowmaking systems to meet the challenges of eastern weather. 

Over 850 snow towers pump more than 30,000 gallons of water per minute, ensuring reliable conditions throughout the season. Recent 2023 upgrades include new snowmaking pipe, seven new snowmaking stations, 15 new HKD Viper snowmaking guns on Village Trail, and 12 new energy-efficient HKD impulse R5 snow gun towers on Tyrol Slope. These upgrades, according to a recent report, will help Seven Springs open more terrain sooner.

Summer brings a different outdoor energy with scenic chairlift rides, hiking trails, and paddleboarding. Yes, said paddleboarding! The calendar is filled with signature events like July’s Rib and Wing Festival, where pitmasters showcase their skills, and August’s Wine Festival featuring over 20 Pennsylvania wineries.

With endless activities across four seasons, each visit to Seven Springs reveals new mountain adventures.

Nemacolin Luxury Resort

About 95% of the Hardy’s personal art collection is on disply somewhere in the resort. The taste of the collection ranges from antiquity styles to modern.  ©Dawn Damico

It seems Nemacolin’s transformation into a 2200-acre world-class destination was inevitable. 

It started in the 1940s when manufacturing tycoon Willard F. Rockwell purchased 60-acres to escape the hustle and bustle of Pittsburgh. Over the next 20 years, he added more land and created the “Nemacolin Trail Hunting Game Reserve.” Excited to share this treasure with the world, he built a lodge, swimming pool, restaurant, and air strip before opening it up to the public as the Nemacolin Inn. The Tudor-styled lodge attracted the rich and famous like Eva Gabor and Phyllis Diller.

It also attracted the attention of 84 Lumber founder, Joseph A. Hardy III. (Remember where Ponfeigh Distillery built their operation?)

Purchased at auction as a place for his daughter Maggie to play, Hardy saw the benefits of keeping the Inn open. Today, that Inn has been transformed into Nemacolin, a Historic Hotels of America member which includes five luxury lodging options.

They say Nemacolin has been creating magical moments in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands since 1987. After touring the property and getting a taste of its whimsical experience and meeting some of the people who make those experiences happen, I would agree. Nemacolin is luxury; however, it’s luxury that invites their guests to play while they immerse themselves in the beauty of the Laurel Highlands.

In addition to townhomes and private homes and estates, Nemacolin hotel options include:

The Chateau

The Chateau was originally built in 1997, modeled after the Ritz Paris because Mr. Hardy loved it, and wanted his own mini-Ritz.   ©Dawn Damico

Magical was the word on the tip of my tongue as I stepped over the threshold at the recently renovated Chateau, the Ritz-inspired luxury hotel at Nemacolin that has earned a Forbes, four-star rating. Light danced off the chandelier, a signature scent wafted through the air, and a large harp sitting among a bed of flowers seemed ready to fill the white marble entry with angelic sounds. The setting was truly like Cinderella stepping into the castle anticipating something wonderful about to happen.

The Grand Lodge

While the design of the Grand Lodge has stayed true to the original, everything in the suites is modern and controlled by touch pads and iPads. ©Dawn Damico

The Grand Lodge retains the charm of the original hunting lodge and has been reimagined to pamper and impress today’s guests. The Lodge at Nemacolin joined the list of Historic Hotels of America in 2018, one of only 19 hotels in Pennsylvania with that distinction. In addition, it’s been named in Historic Hotels of America’s “Top 25 Lists” for Top Afternoon Tea Experience, Most Historic Golf Courses, and Most Magnificent Gingerbread Displays. After a $500 million remodel, the Lodge transformed from 97 rooms to 56 suites. Every room is a suite and guests enjoy 24-hour/day butler service.

Falling Rock at Nemacolin

Did you know that Matt James season of The Bachelor was filmed entirely at Nemacolin? It aired from January 4th to March 15th, 2021.   ©Dawn Damico

Guests aged 16 and older will enjoy Falling Rock at Nemacolin, the Frank Lloyd Wright inspired hotel with breathtaking views from the infinity pool and balcony overlooking part of the property’s 2200 acres. Hopeless romantics can snap a photo from the heart sculpture on the hill and all guests will enjoy the Forbes five-star rated experience.

Falling Rock at Nemacolin, the Frank Lloyd Wright inspired hotel, has sweeping views from the infinity pool.   ©Dawn Damico

At Nemacolin, guests can easily find something new to experience every day of the year. From art tours, spa and wellness days, golf, kid’s club, dog sledding, wildlife adventures (they have their own zoo), bowling, paintballing, culinary experiences, fly fishing, rock climbing, skiing, hiking, and almost anything you can think of in between, this is much more than luxury. It’s intentional living and vacationing, experiential luxury if you will, in the heart of the Laurel Highlands.

Watch for additional articles about Nemacolin!

My impressions after the travel itinerary experience at the Laurel Highlands was beyond expectations.  An easy drive from the city of Pittsburgh, this off-the-beaten-path mountain destination should be on your list of places to visit.  ©Dawn Damico

Every corner of the Laurel Highlands tells a unique American story: from George Washington’s early military career, to a young nation’s whiskey heritage, to American cultural icons, architectural ingenuity, and the solemn resting ground of Flight 93. 

Small towns and people with big hearts and bigger dreams welcome visitors year-round, inviting them to experience their outdoor playground. Dive into the white frothy waters and nationally recognized nature trails, indulge in luxury resorts and mountain lodges, and savor locally sourced culinary fare against the backdrop of mountain beauty.

Before exploring the Laurel Highlands, I knew very little about the region. Having lived in small towns, I recognized the warmth and hospitality of people who possess a spirit of giving and stewardship, and a vision for what is possible. In my opinion, there’s something unique about people who live and love close to nature. 

However, what I discovered in this 3,000-square-mile mountain community was beyond my expectations. It’s a place that honors their legacy; however, it is not stuck in the past. There are experiences for every type of traveler and every demographic. Even though I covered a lot of ground during my four days, I feel as if I only scratched the surface. I’m looking forward to returning to uncover more of the magic that is the Laurel Highlands.

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