Somerset PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Somerset, Pennsylvania.
1. Laurel Hill State Park
MOUNTAINOUS WOODLAND PARADISE
Laurel Hill State Park encompasses 4,062 acres of mountainous, wooded terrain in central Somerset County with a beautiful 63-acre lake at its heart. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, bird-watching, and exploring nearly 20 miles of trails throughout this natural wonderland.
2. Glades Pike Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Glades Pike Winery offers visitors a chance to sample locally produced wines in a charming countryside setting. Wine enthusiasts can tour the facilities and enjoy tastings of various wines made from regional grapes.
3. Quecreek Mine Rescue Site
HISTORIC RESCUE MEMORIAL
The Quecreek Mine Rescue Site commemorates the miraculous rescue of nine miners who were trapped underground for 77 hours in July 2002. Visitors can learn about this remarkable story of survival and the extraordinary rescue effort that captivated the nation.
4. Somerset Historical Center
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
Somerset Historical Center provides a glimpse into life as it was for ordinary Americans shortly after the Revolutionary War through fascinating exhibits and restored buildings. Permanent exhibits include an 1860s maple sugar camp, a fully operational cider press, a covered bridge from 1859, and a restored 1770s farmhouse.
5. Mount Davis
PENNSYLVANIA'S HIGHEST POINT
Mount Davis stands as the highest point in Pennsylvania, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its observation tower. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and photography opportunities in this scenic natural area.
6. Kooser State Park
HISTORIC WOODLAND RETREAT
Kooser State Park occupies 250 wooded acres along Route 31 in Somerset County, initially constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The focal point of this tranquil park is the 4-acre Kooser Lake, perfect for fishing and peaceful reflection.
7. Kings Covered Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
Kings Covered Bridge represents one of Somerset County's ten remarkable historic covered bridges, showcasing traditional wooden bridge construction techniques. Visitors can walk through this picturesque structure while learning about its historical significance to the region's transportation network.
8. Flight 93 Memorial
NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
The Flight 93 Memorial honors the 40 passengers and crew who lost their lives when United Flight 93 crashed during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. This solemn national memorial provides a place for reflection and remembrance of the heroes who prevented the plane from reaching its intended target.
9. Cole Run Falls
SCENIC NATURAL WATERFALL
Cole Run Falls cascades gracefully through the forests of Somerset County, creating a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy the short hiking trail to the falls and photography opportunities at this picturesque natural landmark.
10. Idlewild & SoakZone
FAMILY AMUSEMENT PARK
Idlewild & SoakZone has been recognized as the "Best Children's Park" by Amusement Today and "Best Park for Families" by the National Amusement Park Historical Association. The park features nineteen major rides, fourteen kiddie rides, Story Book Forest, Jumpin' Jungle, Hootin' Holler, and Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe.
11. Caddie Shak
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Caddie Shak boasts 12 different attractions including Go-Cart Tracks, Bumper Boats, and Miniature Golf for visitors of all ages. This family entertainment center provides hours of fun and is a great place to bring a group or host a birthday party.
12. Terrace Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING CENTER
Terrace Lanes offers a classic bowling experience for families and friends looking for indoor entertainment in Somerset. The facility features Glow Bowling every Saturday night, adding an extra element of fun to this traditional pastime.
13. Covered Bridges of Somerset County
HISTORIC WOODEN STRUCTURES
The Covered Bridges of Somerset County tour introduces visitors to the county's ten remarkable covered bridges, each with its own unique history and architectural features. Exploring these historic wooden structures provides insight into early American engineering and transportation networks.
14. Specialty Shopping Districts
LOCAL ARTISAN GOODS
Somerset County's specialty shopping districts offer a tour back in time, featuring unique shops selling handcrafted goods and Somerset County-produced items. Visitors can find perfect treasures while enjoying personal, friendly service and perhaps receiving a local history lesson from shop owners.
15. Local Culinary Scene
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING
Somerset County's diverse culinary scene ranges from fine-dining inns to family-oriented restaurants, offering everything from chateaubriand to hamburgers. Visitors can sample locally grown and produced products at farmers' markets and specialty food stores throughout the region.