Dunbar PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dunbar, Pennsylvania.
1. Dunbar Historical Society and Pascal Art Gallery
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Dunbar Historical Society and Pascal Art Gallery offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the local history and cultural heritage of this Pennsylvania borough. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts and artwork that highlight the town's past, which dates back to its founding in 1857 and official incorporation in 1883.
2. Sherwood's Bar
LOCAL WATERING HOLE
Sherwood's Bar serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike in the heart of Dunbar. This establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere where patrons can enjoy drinks and socialize while experiencing authentic small-town Pennsylvania charm.
3. Mend Massage and Wellness
RELAXATION AND REJUVENATION
Mend Massage and Wellness provides a tranquil escape for those seeking relaxation and therapeutic treatments in Dunbar. Visitors can indulge in professional massage services and wellness therapies designed to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
4. Youghiogheny River Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The Youghiogheny River Trail is a non-motorized multi-use rail trail that stretches 71 miles between McKeesport and Confluence, running along the picturesque Youghiogheny River near Dunbar. This trail forms part of the Great Allegheny Passage, allowing cyclists and hikers to travel all the way from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C. through beautiful natural surroundings.
5. Sheepskin Trail
HISTORIC RAIL-TRAIL PROJECT
The Sheepskin Trail is an important rail-trail project cutting through the heart of central Fayette County, connecting Dunbar area to larger trail networks. Upon completion, this recreational greenway will link with the Great Allegheny Passage, the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and the West Virginia Rail-Trail System, connecting the Youghiogheny, Monongahela, and Cheat River watersheds.
6. Great Allegheny Passage
EPIC LONG-DISTANCE TRAIL
The Great Allegheny Passage is a remarkable multi-use trail spanning 150 miles from Cumberland to Pittsburgh through Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands, with a particularly scenic section near Dunbar. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy cycling, hiking, and wildlife viewing along this historic converted railway that connects to a larger trail network extending all the way to Washington D.C.
7. Uniontown KOA Campground
TRAILSIDE CAMPING EXPERIENCE
Uniontown KOA Campground offers the perfect setup for camping along the Great Allegheny Passage near Dunbar, with the trail running directly through the campground. Visitors can enjoy amenities including food, a swimming pool, and nice shower facilities, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region.
8. Dunbar Creek
PEACEFUL WATERWAY ESCAPE
Dunbar Creek flows through the heart of Dunbar Borough, offering a serene natural feature in this north-central Fayette County community. The creek serves as a tributary to the Youghiogheny River and provides opportunities for fishing, nature photography, and peaceful streamside relaxation.
9. Connellsville
CHARMING RIVERSIDE TOWN
Connellsville is a charming town located just 5 miles north of Dunbar on the banks of the Youghiogheny River. Visitors can explore its rich history, art scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a worthwhile side trip for those staying in the Dunbar area.
10. Youghiogheny Glass Factory Mural
INDUSTRIAL ART INSTALLATION
The Youghiogheny Glass Factory Mural titled "Four Seasons" by artists Meeghan Triggs and Chris Galiyas adorns three industrial silos near Dunbar. This impressive public art installation transforms industrial architecture into a colorful celebration of the changing seasons, providing a unique visual landmark for visitors exploring the region.
11. Dunbar Historical Markers
HERITAGE COMMEMORATION POINTS
Dunbar's historical markers provide fascinating insights into the borough's past, including its naming after Col. Thomas Dunbar who commanded English forces in the area. Visitors can learn about the town's 1857 founding and subsequent 1883 incorporation while discovering the role this small community played in the broader historical narrative of western Pennsylvania.
12. Dunbar Community Park
LOCAL RECREATION HUB
Dunbar Community Park serves as a central gathering place for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor recreation in this small Pennsylvania borough. The park offers green spaces and facilities for relaxation, picnicking, and community events, providing a pleasant respite for travelers exploring the Fayette County region.
13. Jumonville Historic Site
FRENCH-INDIAN WAR LANDMARK
The Jumonville Historic Site near Dunbar marks the location of a significant French and Indian War encounter connected to Col. Thomas Dunbar, for whom the borough is named. Visitors can explore this historical landmark where Col. Dunbar commanded English forces before retreating to Philadelphia after Edward Braddock's defeat by French and Indian forces.
14. Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway
BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN DRIVE
The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway offers spectacular views and driving experiences in the mountainous region surrounding Dunbar. Travelers can enjoy panoramic vistas, seasonal foliage displays, and access to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities while traversing this picturesque route through Fayette County.
15. Ohiopyle State Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Ohiopyle State Park is a premier outdoor destination located a short drive from Dunbar, offering whitewater rafting, hiking, and spectacular natural features. Visitors can experience the park's famous waterfalls, challenging rapids on the Youghiogheny River, and miles of trails through pristine forest, making it an essential day trip for nature enthusiasts staying in the Dunbar area.