Pittsburgh is an amazing place filled with history and things to do, but if you decide you want to get out of the Steel City for a while, there are plenty of places within easy driving distance that make for great day trips.
Moraine State Park and McConnell's Mills, Pennsylvania
This beautiful stretch of state park is located just 50 minutes north of Pittsburgh. Here you can hit the nature paths on foot, bicycle or even roller skates. There are plenty of places good for bouldering, repelling and rock climbing. If you're more into water sports then you'll love Lake Arthur, where you can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming and sailing. Afterward you can relax and enjoy a picnic on the scenic grounds.
Wheeling, West Virginia
Wheeling is a beautiful, traditional American town with incredible architecture and lots to see. At Oglebay Park you can take a leisurely stroll or visit the planetarium, museum and petting zoo. The Toy and Train Museum and Victorian Vaudeville Theater are popular places to spend some time, as is the Oglebay Glass Museum. The more recent addition of the racetrack and gaming center can add a little excitement to your visit. Wheeling is approximately one hour southwest of Pittsburgh.
Ligonier, Pennsylvania
In just one hour you can be in the beautiful countryside of Ligonier, located east of Pittsburgh. Children will love Idlewild and Soak Zone, and parents will love the history of Fort Ligonier and the many museums. There are plenty of country clubs and golf courses, and winter fun is best enjoyed at Laurel Mountain Ski Resort.
Johnstown, Pennsylvania
This historic town just one and a half hours east of Pittsburgh is best known for disaster, having been the location of three terrible floods. Visit the Flood Museum and also City Hall, where plaques mark the water levels of each flood. Enjoy a Coney Island hot dog while you roam down Main Street in search of antiques, or visit the art gallery and Ethnic Heritage Center.
Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania
Ohiopyle is best known for the state park where the adventurous can enjoy some white water rafting. However, this picturesque area just one hour and forty minutes northeast of Pittsburgh is home to several historic landmarks as well. Fort Necessity is a big tourist destination, as is architect Frank Lloyd Wright's design, Kentucky Knob. Even more famous and located just outside of Ohiopyle is Wright's beautiful creation Falling Water.
Erie, Pennsylvania
Just two hours north of Pittsburgh lies another major Pennsylvania city, Erie. Here you can shop downtown and visit the various museums or even Splash Lagoon, an indoor water park. Visit Lake Erie and Presque Isle State Park for some beach fun, or head into the Presque Isle Downs and Casino for a bit of excitement.