Clarion Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clarion, Pennsylvania.
1. Cook Forest State Park
NATURAL FOREST CATHEDRAL
Cook Forest State Park offers visitors a chance to explore the famous 'Forest Cathedral,' a national natural area of tall pines and hemlocks. Visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, swimming, camping, and cross-country skiing in winter months. The park also features scenic views of Clarion River Valley from the Fire Tower at Seneca Point Lookout.
2. Clarion River
SCENIC WATER ADVENTURE
The Clarion River flows through Cook Forest offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities for visitors. Travelers can enjoy scenic boat rides, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing along this beautiful waterway. The river is surrounded by forest-covered hills that become especially breathtaking during autumn when the foliage changes color.
3. Clarion County Courthouse
HISTORIC VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE
The Clarion County Courthouse stands as an impressive Victorian-era landmark featuring a 213-foot tower. Located at 421 Main Street, this architectural gem serves as the centerpiece of downtown Clarion. Visitors can admire its historical significance while exploring the surrounding area filled with quaint shops and restaurants.
4. Clarion Mall
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Clarion Mall serves as a central shopping destination for locals and visitors alike. Located at 22631 Route 68, the mall offers a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a day of shopping while experiencing the small-town charm of Clarion.
5. PennWest Clarion
ACADEMIC AND CULTURAL HUB
PennWest Clarion (formerly Clarion University) stands at the heart of the town, offering educational opportunities and cultural events. Located at 840 Wood Street, the campus features beautiful grounds and architecture that visitors can explore. The university hosts various events throughout the year, including homecoming festivities during the town's famous Autumn Leaf Festival.
6. Pale Whale Canoe Fleet
RIVER ADVENTURE OUTFITTER
Pale Whale Canoe Fleet provides equipment and services for exploring the scenic Clarion River. Located at 6 River Road in Cooksburg, this outfitter offers canoe, kayak, and tube rentals for water adventures. Visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided trips down the river while taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
7. Clarion County Park
FAMILY RECREATION AREA
Clarion County Park offers families a variety of outdoor recreational activities in a beautiful natural setting. Located at 100 Clarion County Park in Shippenville, the park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails for visitors to enjoy. The park serves as a perfect destination for family gatherings and outdoor fun throughout the year.
8. Clarion Loop Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATH
The Clarion Loop Trail provides outdoor enthusiasts with a scenic path for walking, jogging, and biking. Located at 1073 E Main Street, this trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and natural areas. Visitors can enjoy fresh air and exercise while exploring the natural beauty of Clarion County.
9. Clarion Antique Mall
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNT
Clarion Antique Mall houses a vast collection of vintage items, collectibles, and unique treasures for shoppers to discover. Located at 10403 U.S. Route 322 in Shippenville, this shopping destination attracts antique enthusiasts from throughout the region. Visitors can spend hours browsing through various vendor booths filled with historical artifacts, furniture, jewelry, and other nostalgic items.
10. Deer Creek Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Deer Creek Winery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines in a charming setting just minutes from downtown Clarion. The winery features tastings of their fruit-based and traditional grape wines produced on site. Visitors can relax in the comfortable tasting room while sampling various wine options and learning about the winemaking process.
11. Clarion County Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Clarion County Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich history of the region through exhibits and archives. Visitors can explore displays featuring artifacts from the area's past, including items related to the iron, lumber, and oil industries that shaped the community. The society offers insights into local heritage through its collection housed in the Sutton-Ditz Museum.
12. Char-Val Candies
SWEET HANDCRAFTED TREATS
Char-Val Candies delights visitors with handcrafted chocolates and confections made using traditional methods. Located at 1391 Route 66 in New Bethlehem, this candy shop has been satisfying sweet tooths for generations. Visitors can watch candies being made and purchase freshly made treats to enjoy or give as gifts.
13. Canyon Coffee
COZY LOCAL CAFÉ
Canyon Coffee serves as a welcoming gathering spot for locals and visitors seeking quality beverages and treats. Located at 42 South 8th Avenue, this café offers a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and baked goods in a comfortable atmosphere. Visitors can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their favorite coffee beverages prepared by friendly baristas.
14. Parkers Indian Trading Post
NATIVE AMERICAN CRAFTS
Parkers Indian Trading Post offers an extensive collection of authentic Native American crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. Located at 14171 PA-36 in Cooksburg, this unique shop has been a popular destination for tourists and collectors for many years. Visitors can browse through handmade items including dreamcatchers, pottery, moccasins, and other traditional crafts while learning about Native American culture.
15. Penns Woods Pretzel Company
ARTISANAL PRETZEL EXPERIENCE
Penns Woods Pretzel Company crafts delicious hand-twisted pretzels using traditional Pennsylvania Dutch recipes. Located at 606 Main Street in downtown Clarion, this specialty shop offers both classic and innovative pretzel varieties along with dipping sauces. Visitors can watch the pretzel-making process and enjoy these fresh-baked treats while exploring the charming downtown area.