If you’re looking to get out of town for a long weekend, there are many places to visit that are under a four-hour drive from Pittsburgh, both in and out of state. Whether you’re craving an adventurous theme park, some calming nature, or a new city, the options are endless. Here are six weekend road trip ideas to take from Pittsburgh.
Hershey, Pennsylvania
If you want a unique, kid-friendly experience, Hershey, Pennsylvania, is the place for you. At around three and a half hours from Pittsburgh, this destination is sure to entertain and excite the whole family. Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World are must-visit attractions.
State College, Pennsylvania
If you’ve never been to this college town, home to over 40,000 students, now is your chance. Head down to State College—about two and a half hours from Pittsburgh—for a football game day or just to check out the Penn State campus. There’s lots to do, including restaurants, bars, and nature. State College also has family-friendly attractions such as the Penn State All-Sports Museum and the Nittany Theatre, the state’s oldest barn theater.
Columbus, Ohio
When you’re still craving urban living, check out Columbus, Ohio. The drive is around three hours, so the city is easy to reach for a long weekend. With its population of nearly a million people, you’ll get a feel for big-city life while staying relatively close to home. While you’re there, check out the famous Franklin Park Conservatory or catch an Ohio State game to see one of the country’s best football teams!
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is another great city to check out in the state of Ohio. It may not be as populous, but it’s still known for its unique attractions and atmosphere. If you’re a music fan, you’ll appreciate the well-known DJ and radio scene there, and you can also check out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Getting to Cleveland from Pittsburgh will take you only about two hours, so it’s an easy visit for a weekend!
Sandusky, Ohio
The well-known theme park Cedar Point is located about three hours from Pittsburgh in Sandusky, Ohio. Home to endless fun, the park has tons of world-renowned roller coasters and thrill rides for the whole family. Outside of the park, there are resorts and plenty of attractions to fill your time when you’re not hitting the rides.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
If you need to get out of the hustle and bustle for a bit, consider driving to Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, which is home to many picturesque landscapes. It will take about four hours to reach, but it’s absolutely worth the visit. Shenandoah is home to plenty of wilderness, waterfalls, and wildlife to discover. The national park even houses a section of the famous Appalachian Trail, so you can enjoy all the hiking and adventure this place has to offer.
If these six weekend road trips to take from Pittsburgh have you feeling inspired, it’s time to hit the road. Ready your truck for a vacation that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed, and get out there and explore everything the Northeastern United States has to offer!