Pittsburghers certainly have no shortage of things to do in the summer but sometimes wanderlust calls. And, even if you can’t break away for a leisurely vacation, you can embark on some pretty awesome day trips. We’re compiled a list of what we deem the 10 best day trips in and around Pittsburgh, each of which offer amazing opportunities for fun, adventure, and outdoor recreation.

1. Sunbathe on a beach hugged by mountains.
Laurel Hill State Park, 1454 Laurel Hill Park Rd, Somerset, PA 15501, USA
Yelp/Leslie S.
Surrounded by the lush green of Laurel Hill State Park, the cozy Laurel Hill Lake offers plenty to do: Sunbathing on the sandy beach, eating snacks from the concession stand, boating and swimming in the cool water, and playing a game of beach volleyball. At the end of the day, kick back for a leisurely session of stargazing. We wax poetic about this beautiful spot in Pittsburgh in this article.
2. Play in the water at this hidden water park.
Upper St. Clair Community & Recreation Center, 1551 Mayview Rd, Upper St Clair, PA 15241, USA
Yelp/Upper St. Clair Community Recreation Center
Slip down slides and stay cool in the water at Upper St. Clair Community Recreation Center, which boasts both indoor and outdoor water facilities. Day passes are available for non-members, too, making this an amazing day trip destination for anyone in the area!
3. Float down a lazy river.
Kiskiminetas River, Pennsylvania 15656, USA
Facebook/The River’s Edge Canoe & Kayak
Is there anything better than floating down a real-life lazy river? We sure don't think so. And in Pittsburgh, our lazy river of choice is the resplendent Kiski River. Rent an inner tube from The River's Edge Canoe and Kayak then slip into the river on one of several journeys, such as the 15-mile, daylong Nature Tour from Avonmore to River's Edge. Or, River's Edge will provide a customized trip tailored to your interests. What adventure will you choose?
4. Soar on a zip line.
Seven Springs Mountain Resort, 777 Water Wheel Dr, Seven Springs, PA 15622, USA
Facebook/Seven Springs
Channel your inner superhero and fly among the trees at Seven Springs Mountain Resort this summer. The Screaming Hawk Zipline will take you on speeds of up to 30 miles an hour for an exhilarating 2,000 feet. Or, zip along 10 ziplines on the Laurel Ridgeline Zipline. Whatever you choose, it's going to be a day of high-flying fun!
5. Sip wine at this charming country winery.
Stone Villa Wine Cellars, 1085 Claypike Rd, Acme, PA 15610, USA
Facebook/Stone Villa Wine Cellars
Sit back and drink in the breathtaking views, as you sip wine, at the charming Stone Village Wine Cellars. Bring a picnic basket, buy a bottle of wine, enjoy a leisurely lunch outside, and watch the entertainment that's often scheduled on weekends. We feel more relaxed already!

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6. Pick a bouquet of fresh lavender.
West Destiny Drive, W Destiny Dr, Georgia 30139, USA
Yelp/Nancy C.
In summer, the scent of lavender permeates the western Pennsylvania countryside. Stroll through a picturesque lavender field at Destiny Hill Farm. Cross a quaint footbridge. Stop for a chat with Luther the Donkey. And, discover an endless field of vibrant sunflowers, too!
7. Walk behind a waterfall.
Buttermilk Falls, Ligonier Township, PA 15658, USA
Flickr/Joanna Po
Pennsylvania is a waterfall chaser's dream. For proof of this, simply embark on this easy walk, which winds along a stone path and up wide stairs and leads to Buttermilk Falls waterfall in Beaver Falls. Get stunning views from above and in front of it. Don't forget to walk behind the 40-foot waterfall for a unique - and refreshing - view!
8. Spend a leisurely day in a charming tiny town.
Volant, PA 16156, USA
Flickr/Doug Butchy
In terms of adorable small towns in Pennsylvania, Volant wins. For a fun day trip, explore this tiny and charming town of 200 residents that's located just an hour from downtown Pittsburgh. Shop at The Kitchen Shoppe and Miss Scarlett's Gift Parlor, Enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the Volant Dam. And, cross the Banks Covered Bridge for an unforgettable day trip.
9. Slip down a natural waterslide.
Natural Water Slides, PA-381, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
Flickr/Don Burkett
Slip and slide down Meadow Run Natural Waterslide in Ohiopyle State Park. This natural waterslide promises plenty of twists and turns and to keep you cool on a hot summer day. Be careful, however, as some visitors have complained of getting bumps and bruises on the waterslide. Wear proper water shoes and be mindful of your surroundings. Safety first!
10. Go for a scenic bike ride in this quaint town.
Foxburg, PA, USA
Facebook/Go Foxburg
Climb atop a bicycle built for two or an adult-sized tricycle for your day of exploring the quaint town of Foxburg, an hour and a half from downtown Pittsburgh. Journey along the bike paths, which follow the Allegheny River. Stop at Foxburg Wine Cellars. Golf at the Foxburg Golf Course & Country Club then end your day with a delicious meal at the Allegheny Grille. What a delightful day trip in Pittsburgh!

What are your picks for the best day trips in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments below! And if you have a destination you’d like to see featured on the website, nominate it and tell us what makes you love it so much!

Of course, Pittsburgh promises plenty to do in the summer, but sometimes you just need to get away for the day and escape to a good, old-fashioned swimming hole. Luckily, they’re not in short supply here in our little corner of Pennsylvania!

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Best day trips in Pittsburgh

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What are some fun day hikes in Pittsburgh?

While we are all for amazing day trips in Pittsburgh, sometimes you just want to escape into nature and spend your day on the trails. We get it: Pittsburgh’s a bustling city with something going on all of the time, and all of that busyness and noise can certainly get a bit overwhelming at times. However, what makes our beloved city so amazing is that we have quite a few places where we can feel as though we’re a million miles away from it all... without actually having to travel a million miles away from it all! When you just want to spend some quiet time among nature but don’t want to travel far, you’ll likely love this loop trail in Pittsburgh. Clocking in at five miles, Schenley Park Double Loop Trail offers a look at some of the best the park has to offer, including Panther Hollow Lake. It's a beautiful trail all year round, and we hope you check it out!

What are the most beautiful parks to visit in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh is a totally underrated city when it comes to beautiful green spaces and nature areas. But that's okay, because any PA nature lover knows how much of a treasure Pittsburgh is! Outdoor lovers, nature enthusiasts, and hikers have plenty to keep them busy just with the many state parks spread throughout western Pennsylvania, and here are just a few of the best and most beautiful parks to visit in the area. Yellow Creek State Park, Kooser State Park, Hillman State Park, Raccoon Creek State Park... what is your favorite state park near Pittsburgh to spend a day?

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