PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

The Pittsburgh Walk of Fame highlights notable Pittsburghers who have made meaningful contributions to the area. What about seeing the original Hollywood Walk of Fame up close and personal?

Starting March 29, United Airlines will offer daily, nonstop service between Pittsburgh International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport. Flights are already on sale.

United Airlines joins American Airlines, which started daily service to LAX last year, and Breeze Airways, which also offers flights to The City of Angels.

PHOTO BY TORY MATHER

For me, a late fall jaunt to the Laurel Highlands provided a timely chance to simply pause and breathe.

Standing on the edge of some rushing Ohiopyle falls, I could nearly conjure the buzz of the summertime crowds. Yet on this blustery November morning, it was just the whipping winds and me, alone in nature as she filled the air with her soothing soundtrack.

The 48-hour getaway also offered time to savor an extraordinary new Airbnb called Shipp’s Creek. Marked by beautiful design, thoughtful details and playful nods to the beloved streaming series of a similar name (that would be “Schitt’s Creek,” of course), the unusual build is nestled into a tranquil setting on the edge of Laurel Hill Creek.

Made sustainably of four 40-foot-long repurposed shipping containers, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom home sleeps up to nine guests and was created with adventure-seeking families and friend groups in mind.

PHOTO BY TORY MATHER

A Welcoming Home Base

The unusual property is owned by Brady Inners, a Pittsburgh local who has a passion for bringing people together. Inners works in tourism and previously had invested in real estate through flipping houses.

For this project, he began thinking he’d completely renovate an existing cabin on the property he’d found for sale on Facebook’s real estate page. After doing a little digging, it became clear this was going to be a much bigger job than anticipated.

“I follow a lot of unique properties on social media and with the backdrop of our site,” Inners says. “I thought what a cool, unique thing for there to be a shipping container house here.”

With that plan in mind, Inners bought the property in April 2023; the project was completed last September.

PHOTO BY TORY MATHER

Since then, the home has been welcoming happy adventurers to its location in Markleton, which is about 75 miles southeast of Pittsburgh and within a 30-minute drive of Fallingwater, Ohiopyle and Seven Springs Mountain Resort. The location has turned out to be an unexpected gem.

“Tucked away in the Laurel Highlands, which really offers 12 months of outdoor recreation, it has been the perfect spot,” Inners says.

He shared where many of the house materials were sourced from, starting with the shipping containers from a local supplier, Versavault.

“They were brand-new containers and the company was great to work with,” he says, adding the floating stairs came from an Amish group out of Maryland and the bathroom countertops from a local woodmaker in Aliquippa called Timber & Steel Co. “It was exciting to use a lot of local resources and suppliers for this project.”

PHOTO BY TORY MATHER

So what are Inners’ favorite spaces within the home?

“One is the view just as you are about to head up the floating staircase,” he says. “Between the vaulted two-floor ceilings, the chandelier, the beautiful floating wood stairs and black cable railings, it’s such a beautiful shot of design and architecture.”

He also enjoys the second-floor deck.

“It’s got the space for lots of people to hang together around the fire, protected by the elements but still able to listen to the water flow,” he says. “It’s my favorite spot of the house.”

Considerate touches are found throughout the property — such as a stocked coffee-and-tea drawer in a fully-kitted kitchen and toiletries meant to be enjoyed in spacious showers. Guests of all ages will enjoy rifling through the bounty of books, games and puzzles found alongside cozy blankets and a warming faux fireplace.

Mixed in with the dreamy wall art and calming cabin vibes, guests-in-the-know will get a kick out of the many whimsical “Schitt’s Creek” references. (Inners and his wife are fans of the show.)

PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

Nearby Explorations

Sticking with the theme of beautiful design, our group dedicated the first day of our stay to the nearby masterpieces of Frank Lloyd Wright.

A guide-led exploration of Kentuck Knob, a 2,200-square-foot Grand Usonian home that stands 2,050 feet above sea level, was followed by marveling at Wright’s most iconic work, Fallingwater.

These back-to-back tours allowed us to compare and contrast these architectural wonders defined by an organic blending with their surrounding nature, cantilevered overhangs, expansive glass and the use of “compression/release” techniques that create dramatic entryways and flow throughout the entire house.

In between explorations, Bittersweet Cafe proved the perfect spot for tasty lunch fare in a homey space; think Reubens, BLTs, pulled pork and chicken salad sandwiches savored at a long table while the friendly resident cat wandered underfoot.

If it fits into your route, also consider grabbing a pint amongst friendly locals at Trailhead Brewing Co. in Confluence, where you may just get lucky enough to take in a performance by a solo singer-songwriter strumming away onstage.

TREETOPS PHOTO COURTESY POLYMATH PARK

Near an abundance of hiking trails and water-centric activities, Ohiopyle Coffee Company is an ideal hub for meeting all your caffeine and culinary needs. During our visit, we fueled up with a turkey, bacon and avocado bagel that left us sated for the rest of the day.

One of the most memorable parts of the trip involved an alfresco dinner at TreeTops restaurant in Polymath Park, home to two of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpieces, plus two homes designed by his apprentice, Peter Berndtston.

Here, visitors can stay overnight in a Wright-conceived house or relish a memorable dinner in an elevated, treehouse-style setting at TreeTops. We did the latter, enjoying our meal as the sun set beyond the trees on the chilly, crisp day.

PHOTO BY TORY MATHER

Invigorated by the fresh air — yet warmed by cozy lap blankets and a space heater in our private pod — we dove into a delightful meal where highlights ranged from cream of mushroom soup and a locally-sourced harvest salad starter to a salmon entree accompanied by risotto and roasted veggies. As a grand finale, we had a decadent chocolate souffle.

As we first stepped into our pod, the setting sun silhouetted the magical forest in our midst, a few birds swooping through an otherwise silent scene. Several hours later, we ambled out into the dark night, feeling happily nourished by a tasty feast and inspired conversation.

I gazed up at the crystal-clear constellations, so happy to feel reconnected to nature after far too long, and vowed to come back to this region very, very soon.

THE FORMER HOME OF THE WEST OVERTON DISTLLING CO. IS NOW A TWO-STORY MUSEUM ABOUT THE FAMILY BUSINESS, THE AREA’S HISTORY AND PENNSYLVANIA WHISKEY. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

A family moved to Westmoreland County from Eastern Pennsylvania some 225 years ago. It was a time of frequent westward expansion, and many families followed similar paths to settle in Pittsburgh and its surrounding counties. For most families, that move would be of immense personal importance but no particular historical note.

The Overholts are an exception. When they settled between present-day Scottdale and Mt. Pleasant, they were unknowingly staking a claim not only on a beautiful piece of land but also on a sizable amount of history.

A PORTRAIT OF ABRAHAM OVERHOLT IN HIS FORMER HOMESTEAD. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

Today, that site is West Overton Village, a cluster of buildings on the site of what was a thriving distillery, farm and center of business. The Overholts’ distillery flourished, leading to the establishment of what was then an early example of a company town and the development of neighboring Scottdale. The business would grow and eventually diversify into coke production, continuing to rise with Western Pennsylvania’s industrial boom.

You can visit West Overton Village and tour the family’s homestead, a fascinating museum that provides snapshots of time periods from its earliest days to renovations throughout the years. There are several remarkable artifacts in this building, but the most profound experience is simple: If you step onto the front porch, you can survey the landscape and quickly imagine how it might have looked more than a century ago.

THE 1838 OVERHOLT HOMESTEAD. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

The dominant feature from that viewpoint is the former distillery building, now home to the museum portion of West Overton Village. Inside, there’s a fascinating look at the lives lived and work done in the village; not content merely to tell the Overholt family story, this museum spotlights everyday workers and others who built the place. (The mock general store, complete with original ledgers, is particularly evocative.)

When you finish the two floors of the museum — the second contains an impressive collection of Pennsylvania whiskey bottles throughout history, including early examples of “Old Overholt,” the brand still made today by Suntory, the owners of Jim Beam — you can enjoy a drink. While the specific recipe for Monongahela Rye is lost to history, you can sip best-guess recreations at the educational distillery on the property; these whiskeys are absolutely worth tasting in a flight, but seasonal cocktails are available as well.

BOTTLES OF PENNSYLVANIA WHISKEY INSIDE THE WEST OVERTON VILLAGE MUSEUM. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

By the way, there’s another small building adjacent to the homestead. It was once the home of an immigrant farmer named John, who married Elizabeth Overholt, making the then-uncommon leap from the working class into a powerful family. In that small building, Elizabeth would welcome her second child.

The loving parents would name their son Henry Clay Frick.

So, yes: There’s a lot of history around here.

That sense of time stretching toward you will not fade as you check into South Broadway Manor, a 1904 mansion converted into a welcoming bed-and-breakfast. Proprietor Pat Hill has collected antiques and vintage furnishings to fill this impressive residence; some rooms even feature historic military regalia. Ask to see another archeological find: bottles of pre-Prohibition whiskey that were stashed in a sealed-off portion of the basement, found when Hill renovated a century later.

After you eat a hearty breakfast at South Broadway Manor — best enjoyed in the beautiful backyard, weather permitting — you can walk on the 5-mile Coal & Coke Trail, a beautiful woodland trail that follows paths laid when the Overholt family expanded into coke production. If you’re spry enough to handle the full out-and-back trail, you’ll work up quite an appetite; fortunately, the perfect place for big appetites can be found in the heart of Scottdale.

A COWBOY STANDS GUARD AT BEL AIR ANTIQUES ON PITTSBURGH ST. IN SCOTTDALE. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

Carson’s Tavern is at once impressively longstanding for a bar and relatively new compared to much of the town; in business since 1982, it has fed generations. Indulge in your favorite filling fare; try the wings or the decadent Scottdale Spuds with sour cream.

There are also a number of good places to eat in Mt. Pleasant (see sidebar), but dinner at Carson’s puts you next door to the center of Scottdale’s cultural life. The Geyer Performing Arts Center has provided culture and entertainment to the community since 1900, when it opened as the Geyer Opera House; it spent most of the 20th century as a cinema before being reborn as a performance space in 1987.

Today, it serves both roles. Films are screened at the stately theater — but only between the in-house productions. Musicals at the Geyer Performing Arts Center punch above their weight, featuring impressive rosters of talented performers giving heart-on-their-sleeve turns. Look for upcoming productions of “Oliver” (Nov. 20-23) and a musical adaptation of “It’s a Wonderful Life” (Dec. 11-14), as well as screenings of holiday favorites such as “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (Nov. 29) and “The Polar Express” (Dec. 6).

Speaking of movies, if the Geyer is dark on the night of your visit, head to Mt. Pleasant to enjoy another longstanding entertainment destination. The Evergreen Drive-In Theatre just wrapped its 78th season; from spring through October (dates vary by year), they show double-features of first-run features in a pleasant, hilltop setting. Arrive hungry; in addition to standard concession-stand fare, the Evergreen is known for its hot food. The grilled hot-sausage sandwich is a favorite.

Historical sites from the 1800s, theaters and hotels from the early 1900s, a 78-year-old drive-in, a 43-year-old tavern — this area is exceptionally good at keeping its cultural and civic treasures alive. It makes for a vibrant community and an excellent weekend getaway.

Where to Stay

Your goal should be to stay at the aforementioned South Broadway Manor; in addition to the remarkable building and friendly service, it’s more affordable than many similar inns. If the South Broadway Manor is booked, there’s a Holiday Inn Express between Scottdale and Mt. Pleasant and several hotels and motels in nearby Connellsville.

Where to Eat

Carnivores will delight at a visit to Gorky’s Smokin’ Grill in Mt. Pleasant. Order the ribs and your sauce of choice; platters come with even more meat, so you’ll leave full. (If you can manage, leave a bit of room for dessert.) Make dinner plans at Tuscan Table & Tavern; you’ll find a full menu of Italian favorites, burgers and classic cocktails. If you have a hearty appetite, go for the gnocchi flight, featuring the comforting pasta dish served with a trio of sauces. There’s plenty for beer lovers in Mt. Pleasant, as well, including a taproom from Helltown Brewing and the always-busy bar and restaurant The Filling Station, which boasts more than 200 varieties of canned and bottled beer. For coffee rather than beer, get comfortable at Bad Rabbit Café and Roastery in Scottdale, an inviting and spacious coffee shop filled with books, board games, seasonal drinks and baked goods. You’ll be so content at Bad Rabbit that you’ll find it difficult to leave — and, if you’ve booked an appropriately leisurely trip, why bother?

When to Go

Usually held on back-to-back weekends in the autumn, the Scottdale Fall Festival and the Glass & Ethnic Festival in Mt. Pleasant showcase local vendors, artisans and more in weekend-long celebrations. Both provide a nice anchor for a journey and might even coincide with the onset of fall foliage, at which time the Coal & Coke trail will be particularly vibrant.

THE ATRIUM AREA BETWEEN THE CENTER CORE AND MEET-AND-GREET WELCOME POINT WITH BAGGAGE CLAIM. | RENDERING COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The Federal Aviation Administration’s plan to reduce flight capacity at dozens of airports across the country will not affect the number of flights at Pittsburgh International Airport, at least in this first round. But because so many other major airports will be facing flight reductions, flights arriving to or departing from PIT could see ripple effects.

The list of affected airports, published by ABC News, does include Philadelphia International. A source told ABC News that the flight reductions will start at 4% on Friday and work up to 10%. The flights facing these reductions are scheduled during the hours of 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Airport officials said to closely monitor their flight schedules with their airlines or follow their flights at flypittsburgh.com.

There’s still no word about an opening day for the $1.7 billion new terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport.

The following airports that are facing cuts are:

• Anchorage International
• Baltimore/Washington International
• Boston-Logan International
• Charlotte Douglas International
• Chicago Midway International
• Chicago O’Hare International
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International
• Dallas-Fort Worth International
• Dallas Love Field
• Denver International
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International
• George Bush Houston Intercontinental
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International
• Honolulu International
• Houston Hobby
• Indianapolis International
• Las Vegas Harry Reid International
• Los Angeles International
• Louisville Muhammad Ali International
• Memphis International
• Miami International
• Minneapolis-Saint Paul International
• New York LaGuardia
• New York John F. Kennedy International
• Newark Liberty International
• Oakland San Francisco Bay International
• Ontario International
• Orlando International
• Philadelphia International
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International
• Portland International
• Ronald Reagan Washington National
• San Diego International
• Salt Lake City International
• San Francisco International
• Seattle-Tacoma International
• Tampa International
• Teterboro
• Washington Dulles International

A RENDERING OF THE MEET-AND-GREET AREA. | COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

When Southwest Airlines landed at Pittsburgh International Airport for the first time in 2005, it debuted with 10 flights. The airline quickly discovered that the landside terminal lacked enough garage parking, enough space for the needed ticket counters and a sufficient number of security checkpoints.

“The airport at that point was transitioning from a connecting airport to an [origin and destination] airport, so the airport has done an amazing job over the years trying to adjust to that,” says Mike Gillock, airport affairs regional manager for Southwest — now the airport’s largest carrier, offering between 28 and 38 flights a day.

“But this [new terminal] is really the big answer for all of our concerns as far as rightsizing the airport, which will benefit our customers,” he says. “They’ll have a great customer experience. Our employees are so appreciative of what it’s going to do to the operation.”

From the start of the new design, airport leaders sought input from the airlines. “Every step along the way, the airport and the airlines have worked hand-in-hand to try to get the perfect terminal,” he says.

Will the opening of the new terminal spur Southwest to add even more flights to PIT? Gillock says Southwest gradually has increased its flights over the years from the original 10. “It definitely gives us that opportunity,” he says, although there are a lot of issues — such as increases in passenger volume and the cost of landing fees — that go into such decisions.

Michael Raucheisen, communications manager for Icelandair, says the international carrier, which started service to Pittsburgh in spring 2024, also is looking forward to the new terminal.

“The updated infrastructure at PIT will not only make things more desirable and convenient for travelers but also for the airlines and crew. This is always the preferred option when choosing origination and connection airports,” he says.

Looking for more information about the airport? Read our user’s guide to the new terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport.

Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Planning Commission, former Allegheny County Executive

“It’s being designed to show off the great things about Pittsburgh. So when visitors come to a convention or come to visit relatives … they’ll get a real sense of what Pittsburgh is all about. All of the great things around our technology, the green space, the nature — all those kinds of things. It helps to put Pittsburgh on the map and bring a lot more attention to some of the innovative things that Pittsburgh has done.”

Dawn Keezer, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Film Office

“Most of my clients come to Pittsburgh via the airport. They don’t drive here; they’re flying here, and we want them to see something amazing when they get here. So, I think it’s going to go a long way in setting the tone of what the Pittsburgh region is about, what we’re building, what we’re doing. ‘Hey, look at this state-of-the-art facility that they’ve built, and let’s go see what else Pittsburgh has to offer.’ I think they’ve created a doorway we can all be proud of.”

Stefani Pashman, CEO of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development

“Our job is to bring companies into this region and help companies here grow. And it is certainly significantly helpful to us to have an airport that businesses want to fly through, where they can find the flights they need … The story of it, the buzz of it, is certainly rippling through and resonating with the companies we’re recruiting … It’s a story to tell. It’s a story that lands well. And then people say, ‘The asset of an airport is critical to us,’ and this will certainly set you apart.”

Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County Executive

“I think folks will be really impressed by the thought put into what is essentially a mid-size airport and a mid-sized metro. The best part about the airport is that it will welcome visitors from around the world here to Allegheny County and Pittsburgh. There’s this thoughtful design when it comes to making it easy for individuals [and] families to be able to move quickly through the airport.”

Jared Bachar, President and CEO of VisitPittsburgh

“A lot of our time is spent on convincing sports and business event organizers to bring their events to the city. They’re looking at the critical infrastructure of that destination in order to decide whether or not they want to take their convention or sporting event there. So having an airport that is going to be of the caliber of the new airport terminal is going to be tremendous for all of those travel consumers coming in and out of Pittsburgh.”

Kendra Whitlock Ingram, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust

“It has such a huge impact on uplifting the region in general, and positioning Pittsburgh not only as a great place to live but [also as] a really special place to visit. That is great for the region, and that will only help buoy arts and culture as a result.”

Farnam Jahanian, President of Carnegie Mellon University

“A world-class airport is essential for any modern city, and the new terminal makes it easier than ever before to visit Pittsburgh. It’s also a critical starting point for fueling new opportunities, cultivating new connections and driving economic growth across Western Pennsylvania. The Carnegie Mellon University community is excited to continue welcoming the world to Pittsburgh as we leverage the new terminal to amplify the impact of our mission.”

Share your thoughts on the new airport terminal below. Your response may be used for a story on PittsburghMagazine.com.

AN AERIAL VIEW OF THE NEW TERMINAL, SHOWING THE THREE LEVELS: TOP IS FOR DEPARTURE DROP-OFFS, MIDDLE IS FOR ARRIVAL PICKUPS AND BOTTOM IS FOR MASS TRANSIT, TAXIS AND VANS. | PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

$1.7 Billion

Cost of the new terminal

0

Local tax dollars spent

33 Years

Age of old landside terminal

811,000 sq ft

Size of new terminal

8,800 acres

Size of airport property

9.95 million

Number of passengers in 2024

55

Number of gates

62

Number of nonstop destinations (including London, Reykjavik, Toronto, Montreal & Cancun)

4

Number of runways

12

Number of public TSA security lanes (up from 6 at the old main checkpoint)

3 miles

Length of baggage track (down from 8 at the old landside terminal)

22,000

Number of parking spaces (up from 16,000)

4

Number of outdoor terraces

160 ft

Length of “new” bridge and tunnel inside the new terminal

14,000

Number of direct and indirect jobs created

Looking for more information about the airport? Read our user’s guide to the new terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport. 

THE ATRIUM AREA BETWEEN THE CENTER CORE AND MEET-AND-GREET WELCOME POINT WITH BAGGAGE CLAIM. | RENDERING COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

It all began with a scribble on the back of a receipt.

When Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis was discussing with other aviation leaders her dilemma about what to do about Pittsburgh’s way-too-big-and-outdated airport, Jeff Fegan, former CEO of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, had an idea.

He made the bold suggestion of moving the landside terminal building over to the airside terminal — making it one complex. Why do you need two buildings, connected by a half-mile tram? He illustrated his idea on the back of a restaurant receipt dated April 2, 2015.

THE SCRIBBLE ON THE RECEIPT THAT SERVED AS A STARTING POINT FOR THE NEW DESIGN. | COURTESY PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

“I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s a great idea,’” Cassotis recalled at the time. The scribble evolved into a rough blueprint for the $1.7 billion terminal that is on track to open this fall.

City and regional leaders see the new terminal as a way of reintroducing Pittsburgh to the world — and the city will get that opportunity in a big way next April, when the NFL Draft is expected to draw 700,000 to the Steel City.

“For us, from a travel perspective, the airport is oftentimes the very first impression and the very last impression that a lot of travel consumers have of the destination,” says Jared Bachar, president and CEO of VisitPittsburgh. “Travel is a $6.8 billion sector in Allegheny County alone, supporting 40,000 jobs. So having an airport that is world class, that is cutting edge, is absolutely critical to everything that we’re trying to do to continue to move in a direction of being hyper-competitive as a travel destination across the board.”

The design is quintessentially Pittsburgh. Signs are in black and gold. A pedestrian bridge and tunnel — patterned after the Fort Pitt Tunnel and Bridge — connects landside operations with the airside terminal. The undulating roof mirrors the region’s rolling hills. A larger and more comfortable meet-and-greet area at baggage claim acknowledges the charming habits of Pittsburghers who come inside to pick up their loved ones, friends and colleagues — a practice that Cassotis says is “rare” these days at airports. The restaurant and retail corridor is packed with local brands.

A RENDERING OF THE MEET-AND-GREET AREA. | COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

When the current terminal opened in 1992, The New York Times called it the “airport of the future.” It served as a model for other airports around the world. It also was built to be the largest connecting hub for US Airways; it was a place where 80% of travelers simply changed planes.

At its peak in the mid-’90s, the airport served 21 million passengers per year. But in 2004, as US Airways struggled through two bankruptcies, it abruptly canceled its lease for the hub.

That led to the loss of two-thirds of its passengers. And with that action, PIT became an origin-destination airport, meaning travelers flew out of Pittsburgh and returned to Pittsburgh. Now, about 10 million are using the airport each year; only 2% are switching planes.

The new 811,000-square-foot terminal, which broke ground in October 2021, is “right-sizing” and modernizing the airport for Pittsburgh’s future, airport officials say. By eliminating the half-mile tram that links the two terminals, passengers will be able to go from curb to gate in half the time it takes them now. And the airport will save $25 million a year in operating and maintenance costs, says Paul Hoback, chief development officer and executive vice president of the Allegheny County Airport Authority.

“The whole point was to redefine what it means to be an airport, and what it means to its community and to a global industry,” Cassotis told a group of international aviation leaders meeting at the new terminal in May.

The design of the new terminal, developed by Gensler + HDR in association with Luis Vidal + Architects, follows trends across the aviation industry: New terminals or airport spaces are bringing in more natural light and greenery and adding outdoor spaces. They’re creating sustainability, enhancing comfort and wellness and tailoring design, artwork and amenities to the specific city.

In a major preparation for the new terminal, a dress rehearsal of sorts will be held on Sept. 20 in which 2,000-2,500 volunteers will be testing all aspects of the airport. PIT hired Daniel Bryan, an industry consultant who has overseen similar tests at airports around the world, to lead the tests here. When PIT put out the call for volunteers in late June, it expected 3,000 to 4,000 people to respond; instead, 18,000 signed up. Bryan will be helping to select the volunteers who will best represent all types of travelers — families, those with disabilities, those who don’t have smartphones or aren’t technologically savvy, business folks and the leisure traveler.

The airport also has scheduled a Community Open House for the public from noon to 7 p.m. on Oct. 11 for people to explore at their own pace all aspects of the new terminal.

When opening day arrives, the switchover will occur during the few hours in the middle of the night between when the last flights of the previous day depart and arrive, at about 11 p.m,, or later, to when the first flights depart on opening day before dawn. The roads to the new terminal are finished, and new directional signs are up. Just a single strip of Jersey barriers needs to be moved to open up the new roadway to the new terminal.

Cassotis is confident the new terminal will be well-received.

“It’s going to work for the passengers,” she says. “It’s going to work for the people who work here. It’s going to work for the people who pick up and drop off. And it’s going to work for our partners.”

The Design

A RENDERING OF ONE OF THE OUTDOOR TERRACES. | COURTESY PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

When PIT officials embarked on the terminal project, they brought in architectural teams with the aim of finding and building collaboration first before considering design.

“We wanted to find a firm that was going to be very collaborative — but also disruptive a little bit, and not avoid conflict because we believe conflict was something that could help elevate the design,” Hoback has said.

They selected a pair of global firms – Gensler + HDR and Luis Vidal + Architects.

The next step was getting them acquainted with the Steel City — to show them what made Pittsburgh Pittsburgh. Bill Flanagan, senior advisor for the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, took them on a bus ride around the city. They looked at the city skyline from Mount Washington; they walked through Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens; they toured the universities; they drove through neighborhoods.

The firms came up with a design theme based on their observations: Nature, Technology, Community — or NaTeCo.

You see nature in the steel columns shaped like trees that stretch to the ceiling in the departure area. You see it in the tall windows and wavy, wood-like ceiling (the panels are actually made of metal to look like wood; developers learned that the wood could warp) that bring in natural light, cutting down on the use of electricity. You see it in the constellation lighting. And you see it in other greenery and the four outside terraces.

Each of the terraces — two before the security checkpoint and two post-security — will be filled with native plants, walkways and benches. Rainwater will be collected and recirculated to water the landscaping, says Chad Willis, the authority’s vice president of planning, environmental and sustainability at PIT.

“The use of nature — natural light, ventilation, color, vegetation, outdoor activity — all those things are very rare in an airport, and this will be one of the very first airports in the world to take advantage of all these possibilities,” architect Luis Vidal said in an airport video.

Another aim of the design is to reduce travel stress. “We’re trying to reduce stressors and stimuli as much as possible,” Siri Betts-Sonstegard, senior vice president of experience and design for the airport authority, said on a recent tour of the new terminal.

“We can’t be a completely quiet airport, but we’re trying to reduce, [for example,] sound coming out of speakers — we put that into our concession agreements … We’re really creating a sense of calm, because we know [that] travel can be difficult.”

PM Managing Editor Sean Collier contributed to this report.

Ticketing & Security

The airline ticket counters are in the main lobby, where passengers enter the airport for departures. Each airline counter will have a lower section accessible to wheelchairs. Improved signage, lighting and design aim to help more quickly guide travelers through this area.

From there, travelers will follow signs or the constellation lighting in the ceiling to the security checkpoint. The distance between the individual lights in the ceiling narrows as they progress toward the checkpoint — serving as a decorative wayfinding tool.

There are 12 public Transportation Security Administration lanes (double the number of what’s in the main security area now), including lanes for TSA PreCheck, CLEAR and Priority boarding. The number of lanes dedicated to each will vary according to demand; there’s also an additional line exclusively for staff and airline employees.

With state-of-the-art scanning equipment, travelers no longer will have to remove phones, tablets, laptops or liquids, Hoback says. And, because of a change recently made by the TSA, they don’t have to remove their shoes, either.

Peak waiting times to get through the new TSA lanes have been estimated to be no more than 30 minutes, he says.

Once through security, passengers will walk 160 feet across a bridge and through a tunnel — which emulates the entrance to Downtown through the Fort Pitt tunnel — to get to the airside terminal, with its shops, restaurants and gates. A wall of video screens on each side of the bridge will present wayfinding information and more. Once passengers get through the tunnel, they’ll take escalators or elevators down to the center core of the airside terminal to the gates.

Checked baggage will be handled on the terminal’s ground floor, where robots will be assisting TSA agents in their inspections of suspicious bags and those that trigger alarms. Currently, the agents have to pick up a suspicious 50-pound bag, take it to another belt, open it, inspect it and then manually return it to another belt.

“We will have 41 robots in this airport that do all of that,” Hoback says. “The TSA agent will never have to lift up that bag, which is certainly a safety issue” and can cause back injuries for the agents. He added that PIT will be one of a handful of airports using robots in this way.

Getting There

COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Visitors to the new terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport will take the same exit off of Interstate 376 that they do now. They will enter the airport property on a similar horseshoe-shaped roadway as they do now — it will just go deeper into the property. And they’ll use the same exit out of the airport property as they do now.

In fact, passengers may not even notice much change as they use the new airport roadways —- and airport officials say that is by design.

Passengers will be directed by overhead signs to parking options (including a new garage, with more than 3,200 spaces for public parking — tripling the number of covered parking spaces currently at the airport), or to a double-decker bridge on the front of the terminal that will separate traffic into three levels. The top is for departures, like it is now. The middle is for arrivals, dedicating space to passenger pickup. The bottom level will be for all rideshares, taxies, vans and buses.

Gone will be the current confusion at the baggage-claim level, in which passenger pickup is on one side of the building and public transportation, rideshares and taxis are on the other.

Regarding parking, there now is a designated cell-phone lot where drivers can park at no cost while waiting to pick up arriving passengers. It will be near the entrance to the airport property and will be called the Free Wait Lot, where motorists can wait, for free, for up to an hour.

There are 2,800 spaces in the Terminal Lot, a surface lot next to the terminal, plus those in the new Terminal Garage. The garage will offer a “smart parking system” that will assist drivers in finding open spaces on the four floors of public parking. Travelers would walk to the terminal from these two areas. More parking will be available in the airport’s Shuttle lots, currently known as the long-term, extended and economy lots. From here, travelers must take shuttles (with new, bigger buses) to the terminal. The bus shelters will be heated, and buses have been upgraded to better accommodate those with disabilities.

Shopping & Dining

Over the last year, new stores have opened or expanded in the airside terminal. More are yet to come — in a combination of local businesses and national chains.

Many of the 15 new stores and restaurants being added were requested by local travelers and visitors. “We’ve listened to what our travelers wanted — a balance between showcasing not only our local brands, but also having the availability of unique and respected national and international brands,” says Travis McNichols, chief operations officer for the Allegheny County Airport Authority.

“We know many different types of travelers go through our airport every day, and we want to ensure that our offerings meet the needs of everyone that we serve.”

Even before the switch to the new terminal, these new retail and dining options opened their doors.

Hammer Made — A men’s clothing retailer founded in Minneapolis, Hammer Made has about 10 locations in malls and airports around the country. This location, the first in the Pittsburgh area, opened in July in Concourse B.

Duquesne Supply Co. — This Pittsburgh-centric gift shop carries such items as: locally made Tabbara Chocolates, Sarris candies, Pittsburgh Popcorn Co. products, Una Biologicals and Spectrum Fudge; mugs, shot glasses, keychains and more bearing “Pittsburghese” terms including “nebby” and “yinz”; hot sauces, OMG Pretzels and more.

Sambazon Acai Bowls — Found in many airports and universities around the country, this Brazilian-influenced chain offers acai bowls, smoothies and other healthy options.

Champion City Sports — This shop offers Steelers, Penguins and Pirates gear and memorabilia, an interactive sports simulator and all sorts of gifts. It also has collaborations with Build-A-Bear and Vera Bradley franchises.

MAC Cosmetics — A national cosmetic company, MAC also has counters at area Macy’s, Nordstrom and Ulta locations.

Jimmy John’s — A national sandwich-shop chain.

More stores and restaurants are due to open before the new terminal debuts, including the region’s second location of Shake Shack, a fast-casual restaurant based in New York. It is slated to open in the former McDonald’s spot in the center core in September.

Mineo’s Pizza, a Squirrel Hill institution, also will be in the center core. Two locally owned coffee chains are planned: Convive Coffee, which will be opening in Concourse A, and two locations of Wexford-based Cafe Conmigo, in the center core across from Sarris candies (opening in early September) and in the meet-and-greet area. Also in the center core will be Mi Casa Cantina, at the entrance of Concourse B; Bad Egg Breakfast Bar, a breakfast spot found in other airports; and Stack + Press Delicatessen.

The Gates

Seating in most areas has been upgraded to be more comfortable and to include in-seat device chargers. Original artwork also has been added to the gate areas.

Bathrooms along the concourses have been modernized or are undergoing improvements. In particular, stall doors are being changed to open out rather than in — to allow ample space inside for carry-on luggage. Each concourse will include a nursing room, as well as a bathroom with an adult changing table.

Presley’s Place, a 1,500-square-foot room that provides a quiet, peaceful spot for people with sensory sensibilities and their families, will remain near Gate A9. It opened in 2019 after a PIT heavy equipment operator dropped a comment in the CEO suggestion box asking the airport to provide a quiet place for children like his son, Presley, who has autism. The room is now serving as a model for other airports around the world.

Kidsport, a 2,100-square-foot aviation-themed play area for children, is being revamped in collaboration with the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and will reopen in Concourse C.

Baggage Claim & Meeting Spaces

One of the major changes in the upgraded baggage system involves the distance the checked luggage will now travel from plane to baggage carousel — it’s being reduced from 8 miles to 3, Hoback says. The carousels also are larger.

Does that mean that the bags will be waiting for passengers as soon as they arrive at baggage claim? Not necessarily, Hoback says. Passengers will have a much shorter distance to walk from plane arrival to baggage claim — absent the tram ride — so they’ll get there in less time.

But there will be a circular bar, two outdoor terraces and other amenities at baggage claim to help pass the time. It’s part of the expanded meet-and-greet area, named Welcome Point, which addresses the “Community” part of the NaTeCo theme. Pittsburghers like to park their cars and go inside to wait for loved ones or friends rather than just picking them up at the curb, Hoback says.

“We want a place for families [or] business partners to be able to wait,” Cassotis says, “so they would have access to the landside terraces, free security, great views of the airfield.” She calls the practice of face-to-face meetings “lovely.”

From baggage claim, those seeking rental cars will head to the Customer Service Building out front. They’ll then walk through a covered pedestrian walkway to the parking garage, where the rental cars are parked to be picked up.

Art & Amenities

Pittsburghers will be pleased to see the return of the Alexander Calder mobile called “Pittsburgh,” which is now hanging in the atrium of the departures area. It had hung in the airside terminal since 1992 — and since 1959, at the older airport in Moon.

The piece, designed with paddle-like forms suspended on metal rods that rotate with air currents, won first place in the 1958 Pittsburgh International Exhibition of Contemporary Paintings and Sculpture (now known as the Carnegie International) at the Carnegie Museum of Art. After the exhibition, it was purchased by G. David Thompson, who donated it to Allegheny County; at times it traveled to exhibitions around the world, including to Guggenheim Bilbao in Spain. Calder, who was born outside of Harrisburg, died in 1976 at age 78 in New York City.

Three statues now greet travelers at the entrance of the landside terminal: George Washington, 19th-century investigative journalist and world traveler Nellie Bly and Pittsburgh Steelers legend Franco Harris. Harris definitely will be placed in the new terminal; at press time, officials were trying to figure out places for the other two. Still up in the air is whether there will be places for the replica of the Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton (provided by the Carnegie Museum of Natural History) or Miss Pittsburgh, the restored Waco 9 airplane that made the first airmail flight from Pittsburgh to Cleveland.

The Hotel

The 11-story, 338-room Hyatt Regency is the only hotel on airport property, and it has been connected to the landside terminal via a peoplemover since it opened in 2000. It loses that connection once the new terminal opens.

A system of shuttles will run between the hotel and the new terminal. These are being paid for through a settlement reached on June 27 between the Allegheny County Airport Authority and owners of the Hyatt Regency. That settlement includes a payment of $152,000 to Hyatt Regency owners MCSW Penn Hospitality LLC the first year and increases in subsequent years to cover the costs.

Floor Plans

These are the floor plans of the departures and arrivals levels of the new landside terminal.

Future Growth at the Airport

Beyond the new terminal project, Pittsburgh International Airport has its sights on several other innovations.

It’s the first airport in the world to be solely powered by its own 23-megawatt microgrid with an on-site natural gas plant and a solar panel field that is being doubled in size. By 2027, it hopes to have more than 20,000 solar panels stretched over 20 acres of landfill property that can’t be used for any other purpose. When expanded, the solar field will produce 7.7 megawatts of power; 4.3 megawatts of that will supply energy to the regional electric grid, giving the community additional renewable energy.

In June, the Allegheny County Airport Authority, which owns and runs the airport, announced it is partnering with New Jersey-based Avina Synthetic Aviation Fuel to develop the first on-airport sustainable aviation fuel production facility in the nation. Once built, the facility is expected to produce more than 100 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel each year to meet local and regional commercial and cargo needs at PIT and for other entities.

According to Avina’s press release, the plant — which will employ hundreds of full-time workers when it opens — will have a carbon intensity that is at least 65% lower than that of conventional jet fuel. It will use KBR’s PureSAF alcohol-to-jet technology — developed and owned by Swedish Biofuels AB and licensed globally by KBR, which is headquartered in Houston.

Since 2019, the authority also has been developing Neighborhood 91, a 195-acre advanced manufacturing campus on the western end of the airport’s 8,800 acres. The Regional Industrial Development Corp. is handling property management and business attraction for the site.

Among the businesses opening on airport property near Neighborhood 91 (named to represent an extension of Pittsburgh’s 90 neighborhoods) is Mainspring Energy, a Menlo Park, California-based company that plans to produce 1,000 low-emissions linear power generators per year. Its 292,000-square-foot facility — slated to open in 2027 — is expected to employ 600 people.

At press time, airport officials had made no decision about what would happen to the current landside terminal — whether it would be reused for other purposes or torn down.

The airport also sees expansion in its cargo operations; the manufacturing companies at Neighborhood 91, for example, can benefit from their close proximity to cargo operations that can ship their products around the world, says Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County executive.

“They’ve been incredibly creative and innovative,” she says about the authority’s vision. “They have pushed the bounds of what that authority can do, and now it’s time for Allegheny County economic development to bring the right partners around the table to make sure that we can continue to build on that success and build out that campus to really put us on the map.

“There’s a lot of opportunity that is adjacent to the new terminal that is very exciting for the growth of our entire region.”

THE MCKINLEY MEMORIAL, WHERE WILLIAM AND HIS WIFE, IDA, ARE INTERRED. IT’S ATOP 108 STEPS — A POPULAR TEST OF ENDURANCE FOR LOCAL RUNNERS AND ATHLETES. | PHOTO BY VIRGINIA LINN

A presidential library with an animatronic dinosaur? The nation’s only stand-alone first ladies museum? A 55-acre Tuscan village?

Football fans know Canton, Ohio, as the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But there are an abundance of sights — some unusual, some educational and many inspiring — that you’ll find in the city that sits about 100 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. And once you arrive in this former manufacturing city of 68,500 residents, all of these places are an easily navigable 5-15 minutes from one another.

A friend and I decided to hit all of these in one day, but the Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa could (and should) be a weekend getaway on its own — as could the Hall of Fame and its adjacent entertainment village.

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., features The First Ladies Gallery — but in downtown Canton, you’ll find the First Ladies National Historic Site. The site includes a museum and visitor center as well as the nearby childhood home of Ida Saxton McKinley, where she and William McKinley lived between 1878-91 while he served in the U.S. House of Representatives. He later was elected to two terms as the 25th president.

WILLIAM AND IDA MCKINLEY ANIMATRONIC FIGURES. | PHOTO BY VIRGINIA LINN

The stories of the first ladies are told through their letters, memorabilia and even their gowns. Over two centuries, the role has evolved from White House hostesses to symbols of strength to policy advocates. As early as 1882, the first lady was advocating for equal treatment of women.

REPRODUCTIONS OF MAMIE EISENHOWER AND MELANIA TRUMP INAUGURATION GOWNS. | PHOTO BY VIRGINIA LINN

After President James Garfield — who also hailed from Northwest Ohio — was shot in July 1881 and died 80 days later, his widow, Lucretia, wrote a letter to a representative of Congress objecting to how it had paid three of the physicians involved in his care. Two male doctors each were paid $10,000, but Susan Edson, one of America’s first female physicians, received just $5,000. Mrs. Garfield contended Edson deserved equal pay.

Eleanor Roosevelt, the wife of four-term President Franklin D. Roosevelt, fought sexism, racism and poverty in her role, and was so influential that she was targeted for assassination by the Ku Klux Klan. Hillary Clinton was the first presidential spouse to get an office in the West Wing of the White House and to be tasked by her husband, Bill Clinton, to come up with a plan for an important policy change — reforming health care (albeit unsuccessfully).

Visitors can see reproductions of inaugural gowns of several of the first ladies, including the pink dress encrusted with 2,000 rhinestones worn by Mamie Eisenhower in 1953 and the Hervé Pierre six-ply vanilla crepe, off-the-shoulder gown worn by Melania Trump in 2017. Managed by the National Park Service and the National First Ladies Library and Museum, the visitor center and museum are free; there’s a nominal fee for tours of the Victorian mansion.

We’ve heard a lot about McKinley this year; President Donald Trump has extolled many of the policies of this Gilded Age Republican who pushed for high tariffs and expansionism. During his presidency from 1897-1901, McKinley annexed Hawaii, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Guam and the eastern Samoan islands as U.S. territories.

Although McKinley was born in Niles, Ohio, he started his career in Canton, so it’s a fitting spot for the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum. He was the last Civil War veteran elected as president but was assassinated by an anarchist in 1901, six months into his second term. He and Ida are interred in a towering granite and marble memorial next to the library and museum. It sits atop 108 steps, which have become a popular test of endurance for local joggers and other athletes (It’s 36 steps taller than the famous “Rocky” steps leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art).

The presidential library and museum are equally appealing to preschoolers as they are to adults. Not only will you find thousands of artifacts relating to the McKinleys, but there are also a planetarium and the Discover World science center — featuring an animatronic Alice the allosaurus, an authentic mastodon skeleton, a replica of a Paleo-Indian hut, rocks, fish, turtles and more — a nod to McKinley’s interest in science.

You’ll also meet life-size audio-animatronic figures of William and Ida McKinley (think of The Hall of Presidents at Walt Disney World) on the second floor, where they “talk” about his famous Front Porch campaigns and other aspects of their lives.

The largest attraction in the town, of course, is the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Why is it in Canton? Partly because the Ohio city was in 1920 the birthplace of what became the NFL. The hall of fame building opened on Sept. 7, 1963, and has expanded four times to its current 121,000 square feet.

THE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME | PHOTO BY VIRGINIA LINN

Bronze busts of 32 Steelers inductees can be found in the hall of fame, including those of team founder Art Rooney, owner Dan Rooney and coaches Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher and Walt Kiesling. Bill Nunn was inducted for his role as a Steelers scout and later the assistant director of player personnel. In another display, you’ll find the Steelers’ six Super Bowl rings.

The hall’s many galleries are organized mostly chronologically or by topic, rather than by team, and are packed with interactive displays. Don’t miss the theater production, “A Game for Life,” featuring an amazing holograph of Beaver Falls native Joe Namath, who presents the inspirational stories of several Hall of Famers. (In case you’re wondering, “Broadway Joe,” now 82, is alive and well in Jupiter, Florida, where he co-owns a waterfront restaurant and entertainment complex.)

Officials suggest allowing 3 to 4 hours on your first visit. Also check out the behind-the-scenes VIP and Insiders tours.

Built around the hall is the 100-acre Hall of Fame Village, filled with multipurpose athletic fields, restaurants, retail shops and other amenities. Coming soon: the $117 million Gameday Bay Water Park, which will feature high-thrill rides, football-themed decor, a swim-up bar and giant TV screens.

Where to Stay in Canton, Ohio

The Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa (gervasivineyard.com), opened in 2010, is the perfect escape. As you enter the ornate gates, you’ll come upon rows and rows of grapevines. The resort offers hand-crafted wines made onsite along with select imports from Italy. Stay in the Italian villas or 24-room boutique hotel. The Crush House Wine Bar provides a casual meal; the Bistro offers upscale Italian dining. There’s also The Still House, a coffeehouse and cocktail lounge; a wine-tasting Cave and Spa; and the Marketplace Gift Shop, which added 2,000 square feet in 2022. There are wine tours, music and entertainment amid the beautiful grounds, which include a lake graced by white swans. The 7.7-mile Middle Branch Trail runs through the property and is perfect for casual stolls, jogging or cycling. Over the years, I’ve stayed here three times — twice in the villas and once in the boutique hotel; you really feel like you’re in Italy.

Where to Eat in Canton, Ohio

Taggarts Ice Cream (taggartsicecream.com) is a downtown Canton institution known for its ice cream since 1926; make sure to try the Bittner (three-quarters of a pound of vanilla ice cream blended with homemade chocolate syrup and sprinkled with roasted pecans). Taggarts offers a full menu of soups, chili, salads, antipasto, sandwiches, hot dogs, chicken and waffles, burgers and fish.

When to Go to Canton, Ohio

If you ever need a warm-up to Picklesburgh — held each year in July in Pittsburgh — Canton kicked off its own Pickle Fest in June 2024, and it is now an annual one-day festival to celebrate the joy of pickles. And while no Steelers were enshrined in the Hall of Fame this year, the induction ceremony took place on Aug. 2 as part of a July 31-Aug. 3 extravaganza with a Hall of Fame game, enshrinement festivities and the annual Concert for Legends.

MECHANICAL MUSICIANS EMERGE FROM THE WORLD’S LARGEST CUCKOO CLOCK TO MARK THE HOUR. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

Twice each hour, the world’s largest cuckoo clock chimes in Sugarcreek, Ohio.

The landmark marvel is much more than a clock; after bells toll to sound the hour or half-hour, a quintet of mechanical musicians emerge from within the structure to play a lively tune while another pair of figures dance nearby. All day, you’ll see tourists line up to take videos of the public display while local teens — not to mention Mennonite and Amish citizens riding in horse-drawn buggies — stroll by, barely glancing at the tourist attraction that has for decades marked the time in their hometown.

The town proudly calls itself “The Little Switzerland of Ohio,” a designation that dates back to the original settlers of the village; most were either recent Swiss immigrants or Amish groups with German heritage. Switzerland is omnipresent in Sugarcreek, where even bank branches and law offices have alpine scenes painted above their doors — and the Alpine Hills Museum, which contains several detailed recreations of traditional homes, plays pleasant Swiss tunes from a rooftop speaker during daylight hours.

THE FACADE OF THE CHEERFUL ALPINE HILLS MUSEUM. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

The cuckoo clock is a well-maintained and lively example of a particular sort of attraction — the roadside curiosity, made to encourage travelers to stop and buy lunch (and a postcard or two). But it’s also a hint at the surprising number of remarkable and unique institutions to be found here and in neighboring towns.

A short drive from the center of Sugarcreek, visitors to the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum can inspect dozens of vintage locomotives — some in working order. The massive machines, some of which are in perfect working order, were collected by the late Jerry Joe Jacobson, a railroad executive who built the roundhouse as a tribute to steam engines and their history. You’ll leave a guided, 90-minute tour having seen locomotives that appeared in films including “Stand by Me” and “Terror Train,” and with a newfound appreciation for the extraordinary feats of engineering these mechanical monsters required.

ONE OF MANY LOCOMOTIVES AT THE AGE OF STEAM ROUNDHOUSE MUSEUM. | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

A smaller but no less detailed collection can be found steps from the cuckoo clock at Collectors Decanters & Steins (119 E. Main St.), a storefront museum that contains thousands of antique liquor decanters shaped like cowboys, celebrities, birds, cars, creatures — pretty much any shape that can hold a suitable amount of whiskey.

In nearby Dover, another hidden museum takes up the better part of a funeral home. At the Toland-Herzig Famous Endings Museum, funeral director John Herzig has displayed the world’s largest collection of funeral programs and memorabilia. The list of notable figures represented here is staggering; guests can look at programs detailing the funeral arrangements for Princess Diana, Grace Kelly, Mark Twain, Neil Armstrong, Jackie Robinson, John F. Kennedy, Harry Houdini, Muhammad Ali, Winston Churchill, Prince and hundreds of others. The massive collection — which also includes funereal ephemera such as a lantern from a train that carried Abraham Lincoln’s body and part of the undertaker’s equipment used to display the remains of Jesse James — is still growing; materials from the recent funeral of Jimmy Carter are on display.

INSIDE THE FAMOUS ENDINGS MUSEUM IN DOVER | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

The Famous Endings Museum is remarkable, and it doesn’t even rank as the most-essential stop in Dover. That distinction belongs to the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens, a beautiful estate honoring the life and work of Ernest “Mooney” Warther, the “World’s Master Carver.” A self-taught artist who gained fame for whittling perfect representations of trains and steam engines (trains are big around here), Warther crafted remarkable, detailed creations from wood — including ornate trees made up of hundreds of tiny wooden pliers, a tool that Warther could whittle in seconds.

Dover — also home to the Lynn Drive-In, the second-oldest continuously operating drive-in movie theater in the world — is about 15 minutes from Sugarcreek, and it’s one of the many small towns and sites that make up Ohio’s Amish Country. Sugarcreek is a good base of operations for exploring the region; you’ll amble from town to town on lazy country roads alongside picturesque farmland, passing more cows than cars.

This collection of quaint towns, and the tourists it draws, also helps to support a wealth of nighttime entertainment. The Ohio Star Theater packs its calendar with live musicals, tribute acts and touring musicians, with a focus on country and gospel performers. The Performance Center at Kent State University at Tuscarawas presents theater, dance, music and more. And the Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County, a 73-year-old community theater, presents delightful plays and musicals around the calendar; it’s the sort of plucky performance space that will leave you smiling.

Of course, there’s a surfeit of breweries, wineries, antiques and curiosities shops and furniture stores. (Bring a pickup if you’re in the market for Amish-made furniture.) And there’s plenty of cheese. Swiss cheese is big business here; there’s even a statue of a traditional cheesemaker in Sugarcreek. You can’t miss it; it’s right next to the cuckoo clock.

Where to Stay in Sugarcreek, Ohio

At the Sugarcreek Village Inn, you can opt to stay in the main building … or a train car. Who wouldn’t pick the train car? Don’t picture sweating in a hot caboose, however, as the recently updated rooms are cool and cozy; you’ll relax in a comfortable king bed and completely forget that your room could theoretically be hauled behind a locomotive.

The Carlisle Inn Sugarcreek, part of the comfort-and-charm-focused Dutchman Hospitality line of heartland lodgings, is part of a hilltop campus that includes gift shops, the Ohio Star Theater and the Dutch Valley restaurant (see below). The motel-style, Mennonite-owned Dutch Host Inn offers rooms with fireplaces. There are innumerable bed-and-breakfast options throughout Amish Country, so whatever you do, don’t settle for a standard hotel chain.

Where to Eat in Sugarcreek, Ohio

A very satisfying (and thoroughly stuffed) day in Sugarcreek can be had in three stops. When you wake up, head for Amish Country Donuts & Cafe for a range of delectable pastries and energizing coffee drinks; there are healthy options, but do indulge.

In between stops, grab a quick hot dog or hamburger at the Loose Caboose, which also offers a variety of ice cream. For dinner, head to the Dutch Valley restaurant, where traditional dishes are made with care — and plenty of flavor. The smothered grilled chicken breast is topped with mushrooms, bacon and locally made Swiss cheese (a point of pride in the region; the annual Ohio Swiss Festival was originally the Swiss Cheese Festival).

For a more modern meal, make the short drive to 63 Corks in nearby Strasburg; with a farm-to-fork ethos, the restaurant team prepares hearty, thoughtful dishes and pairs them with a very solid wine list. Opt for the chef’s table seating, and you’ll not only watch your dinner being made but also chat with chefs about each dish.

When to Go to Sugarcreek, Ohio

The weather is best in spring and autumn, as the winters in the region are cold and the summers (also peak tourist season) can get hot.

The annual Ohio Swiss Festival is an excellent time to visit — particularly if you want to learn a lot about traditional cheesemaking (and get plenty of samples). This year’s festival is scheduled for Sept. 25-27. Harvest season also means there’ll be more great food to bring home.

THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER IN JAMESTOWN, NEW YORK. | PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

If you take a trip to Jamestown, you’ll likely need more than just a weekend — because you’ll want to spend at least a couple full days at the National Comedy Center.

The institution, which opened in 2018 and was declared the country’s official museum of comedy the following year, is a treasure trove for comedy aficionados. Yes, there are rarities and relics on display: Joan Rivers’ typewritten list of comebacks, Andy Kaufman’s jacket for Elvis Presley impersonations, Eddie Murphy’s costume from “Beverly Hills Cop” and dozens more.

THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER IS FULL OF INTERACTIVE ELEMENTS. | PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

The interactive and personalized elements of the museum, however, are even more impressive than the artifacts on display. When you first arrive, you’ll scan a chip in your admission wristband and develop a profile of your taste, selecting favorite stand-up comics, movies, television shows and more. Then, as you move through the museum, the exhibits will actually cater themselves to your taste: When you sit down in the small theater dedicated to big-screen comedy, you’ll see clips and behind-the-scenes tales from movies you love. When you post up at a table in the area dedicated to stand-up, your favorite performers will appear on the screen in front of you to share their process and tell a few jokes.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

When you aren’t watching your favorites, the National Comedy Center allows you to try your own hand at humor — with some help. At the Comedy Karaoke Bar, you’ll select a bit from one of your favorites and then get on stage to perform it for your companions (with the words displayed on a screen at your feet). In the Laugh Battle area, you’ll be fed jokes to try and crack up a friend on a game-show-like stage.

Oh yeah — there’s also another museum.

THE EXTERIOR OF THE LUCILLE BALL DESI ARNAZ MUSEUM. | PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

Around the corner from the National Comedy Center, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, which predates the larger institution by more than 20 years, pays tribute to a hometown hero. Ball was born in 1911 in Jamestown; the museum dedicated to her and Arnaz contains innumerable artifacts from their lives and work, including full recreations of several “I Love Lucy” sets. (You can even get your picture taken on the Ricardos’ living-room couch for $10; the biggest surprise is that this couch from the black and white show is blue with yellow and orange pillows.)

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

It’s far too much to take in over the course of one day. (And we haven’t even discussed the Comedy Center’s subterranean Blue Room — because, in print, we mostly can’t.) Your best bet to explore the two museums is to spend one full day at the National Comedy Center and return the next day and get a ticket that grants access to both museums; you can make it through the Lucy spaces in about half a day and double back to the Comedy Center to see what you missed.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

Jamestown is only about 2½ hours’ drive from Pittsburgh, so it’d be easy to make the drive on a Friday, spend Saturday and Sunday awash in laughter, and then drive back on Sunday night. Doing only that, however, would be a disservice; the town, and the larger Chautauqua Lake area, demand a longer visit.

Around the picturesque lake, a ring of breweries and wineries — at least 10 in Chautauqua County alone — offer locally made libations, often with a beautiful view. The town of Chautauqua itself, about a half hour from Jamestown, is home to the world-famous Chautauqua Institution,
which offers an annual series of talks, concerts and lectures from some of the smartest people in the world. (The lovely institution is open year-round, and worth a visit anytime for the grounds and bookstore.)

STEP INSIDE A CONTROL ROOM. | PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

Outdoor recreation opportunities abound on and near the like, from hiking to watersports. It’s easy to see why the area has been a destination for relaxation and entertainment for a century — in fact, a young Lucille Ball fell in love with the stage by watching vaudeville performances in lakeside theaters.

The town of Jamestown itself, meanwhile, will make any Western Pennsylvania native feel right at home. It’s remarkably reminiscent of a similarly named city, in fact; from certain vantage points, you’ll swear you’re in Johnstown. A number of inviting bars and restaurants — check out Wicked Warren’s, an outpost of the Warren, Pennsylvania, brewery — dot the downtown area; many frequently offer live music or comedy. The Northwest Arena has occasional events but more frequent open ice-skating sessions. The Robert H. Jackson Center, dedicated to human rights and equality, offers regular programming in the name of the late Supreme Court Justice who prosecuted war criminals at the Nuremberg trials.

It’s a thriving and varied area with plenty to do; the National Comedy Center is the main event, but there are many more reasons to visit.

So no, a weekend won’t do. Unless you plan a particularly long weekend. Take off a few days and spend some time laughing.

Where to Stay in Jamestown, New York

The Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, in neighboring Celeron, is a 7-minute drive from the National Comedy Center — and borders Lucille Ball Memorial Park. It’s a beautiful lakeside hotel (upgrade to a room with a view) with a bar and restaurant indoors and, in warmer months, a carousel bar on the lake. There are a number of good hotels along Lake Chautauqua, but this one can’t be beat for proximity to Jamestown — and for service, right down to the chocolates that the staff leaves on your pillow. If you’d like to stay within walking distance of the National Comedy Center, there’s a La Quinta Inn & Suites and a DoubleTree by Hilton right up the street.

Where to Eat

Make reservations at The Landmark, a local favorite in the heart of Jamestown. You’ll enjoy heaping helpings of steak and seafood, complemented by a good wine list and housemade bread service; in warmer months, you can opt to dine on the festive outdoor patio. The food is fantastic, the atmosphere is welcoming and the prices are more than reasonable. You should also plan on meals at some of the area breweries and wineries, especially the original location of Southern Tier Brewing, where fresh pours of the brewery’s signature varieties are accompanied by satisfying, traditional sandwiches and pub grub. Looking to fuel up while visiting the National Comedy Center? Drinks (including adult beverages) and snacks are available on-site; they’ll also give you a map of restaurants and bars within walking distance, if you want to pop out for lunch and return.

When to Go

The National Comedy Center is open year-round, and a visit in the colder months offers you the benefit of off-peak prices on lodging. For most visitors, though, the spring and summer are the best times to visit the Lake Chautauqua region, to maximize outdoor recreation and lakeside views. There may be no better time to visit than early August, when the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival draws dozens of stand-up comics to Jamestown stages; past headliners have included Jerry Seinfeld, Trevor Noah, Lily Tomlin, Nate Bargatze and Taylor Tomlinson.

PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

If you’re heading to the Kentucky Derby this spring, it will be a little easier to get there.

American Airlines has announced special nonstop round trips between Pittsburgh International Airport and Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky on May 1 and May 4. The Run for the Roses takes place at Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 3.

On Thursday, May 1, flights leave PIT at 7:05 a.m., arriving in Louisville at 8:35 a.m. The return flight leaves Louisville on Sunday, May 4 at 9:05 a.m. and returns to PIT at 10:20 a.m.

American will be using the regional carrier Republic Airways for the flights.

Airlines have added special scheduled and charter services around major sports events in the past. For example, American in January operated more flights from PIT to Miami for Penn State fans traveling there to see the Nittany Lions play Notre Dame in the NCAA College Football Playoff Semifinal.

So for the Kentucky Derby, now you’ve just got to round up that hat!

THE NORWEGIAN ESCAPE | PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

Gather your black and gold — and your luggage. The first-ever Steelers fan cruise will depart from Miami on May 19, 2026.

The six-day, five-night cruise will make stops in the Bahamas and Mexico before returning to Miami.

Former Steelers players Dermontti Dawson, Keith Gary, Louis Lipps and Walter Abercrombie will be on the ship for autograph sessions and meet and greets. More participants are expected to be announced.

“The Steelers Fan Cruise will provide our fans with a unique opportunity to bond over their love for the Steelers, meet Steelers greats, explore tropical destinations and enjoy the luxury amenities of the Norwegian Escape Ship,” said Ryan Huzjak, the vice president of Sales and Marketing for the Pittsburgh Steelers, in a statement.

Current discounted prices range from $1,850 to $4,000 per person. The discount ends April 1. Reservations are now open.

Steelers fans can get a commemorative autographed football with the code “KICKOFF2025.”

The Norwegian Escape has a guest capacity of 4,218, according to the cruise line’s website. Will you be one of its passengers?

PHOTO BY DAVE DICELLO

Maybe you’re a resident looking for a staycation, or an out-of-towner searching for accommodations near Acrisure Stadium for the big game — or the NFL Draft. The three-day event will take place April 23-25, 2026 in Pittsburgh.

Whatever the reason, Pittsburgh is filled with standout places to stay thanks to its varied mix of housing stock, which ranges from the historical to the contemporary.

And hey, just because you’re in town for some football doesn’t mean you also can’t explore other North Side destinations such as the Warhol Museum or the National Aviary. The beauty of staying in the city is there are plenty of things to see, do and eat, all within a 10-minute walk.

If that sounds like you, check out these black-and-gold-certified stays that will put you at the center of Pittsburgh’s best offerings.

Boho Chic

A Modern Oasis, North Side

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

The renovated, boho-chic apartment is located on the North Side close to amenities such as the Andy Warhol Museum and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Plus, it comes with a coveted private parking spot.

Up on the Rooftop

Strip District

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Near award-winning restaurants, bars and retail shops, this stylish one-bedroom apartment on Penn Avenue in the heart of the thriving Strip District comes with access to a rooftop lounge. 

Hotel Stay

The Maverick by Kasa in East Liberty

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

 Located in a former YMCA in trendy East Liberty, The Maverick by Kasa is a stylish boutique hotel near some of the city’s best shopping and eateries, among them Blue Sky Kitchen, Margaux and Duo’s Taqueria, one of Pittsburgh Magazine’s Best New Restaurants. 

Cozy Corner

Lawrenceville

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

The owners of Gerbe Glass just launched this well-restored row home on a quiet alley in happening Lawrenceville that’s located just one block from the restaurants, pubs and retail shops of Butler Street. 

Room with a View

Warren Castle, Fineview

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

A historical estate with a stunning view of Downtown’s skyline, Warren Castle is located in the North Side neighborhood of Fineview near PNC Park, Acrisure Stadium and Rivers Casino. If you’re able, take the famous neighborhood steps down to the North Avenue area of the North Side and you can walk to the stadiums and other area attractions, like the Museum of Illusions or the Warhol Museum.

Iconic Incline

Mount Washington

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Within walking distance of the scenic overlooks of Mount Washington, this two-bedroom home is just steps away from the historical Monongahela Incline, which leads down to more fun at Pittsburgh’s Station Square.

Heart of Downtown

Three Rivers Sunset Loft, Pittsburgh

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

A luxury loft with high ceilings in the center Downtown, the Three Rivers Sunset Loft comes with valet parking. With a view of Acrisure Stadium and Point State Park, the loft is a great place to stay if you’re in town for a football game, concert or festival. 

LINES STRETCH WAY BACK FROM THE TSA CHECKPOINTS DURING THE THANKSGIVING WEEKEND RUSH IN 2024 AT PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. | PHOTO BY VIRGINIA LINN

Annual passenger traffic at Pittsburgh International Airport surpassed pre-pandemic levels for the first time in 2024, according to new figures.

Not only that, the nearly 10 million passengers that traveled through PIT last year was its highest total in nearly two decades.

A boost in holiday travel kicked up December’s traffic by 5.1% from 2023, bringing the 2024 total to 9.95 million. That surpassed the 9.8 million travelers by 166,000 passengers in pre-pandemic 2019, according to Blue Sky News, the airport’s news service.

The totals also strengthened PIT’s position as an origin-destination airport, as 9.7 million of the 9.95 travelers in 2024 started and ended their trips in Pittsburgh. Construction is 80% complete on a new $1.57 billion terminal that is designed to better accommodate that origin-destination traffic.

PIT’s international traffic also is growing. In 2024 the number of passengers surpassed 195,000 — a 30% increase over 2023. This was spurred by the introduction of nonstop Icelandair flights to Iceland in the spring and continued growth by British Airways, which flies into London’s Heathrow Airport.

Diversifying the number of airlines serving PIT has been a strategy by the Allegheny County Airport Authority over the last several years.

Earlier this month, JetBlue announced it is bringing back nonstop service between PIT to New York City, beginning April 30. The airline last provided this route almost 12 years ago. It will be flying into Kennedy Airport. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines also offer daily nonstop flights to JFK.

One area that also has seen a growth spurt in the last two years is the number of guns intercepted at TSA checkpoints at PIT — many of them loaded. TSA agents caught 42 in 2024 and 44 in 2023. Except for 2020 — at the height of the pandemic — this has shown almost a steady increase since 2017, when 32 guns were intercepted at TSA checkpoints.

“When stopped by our officers, the majority of people claim that they forgot that they had their gun with them,” said Gerardo Spero, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Pennsylvania and Delaware, in a recent statement. “It is careless and irresponsible to not know where your gun is. Responsible gun owners know where their gun is at all times. And they know not to bring it to an airport checkpoint.”

And just today — on Jan. 21, 2025 — the TSA intercepted two more loaded guns at the PIT TSA checkpoint: a Pittsburgh man was stopped with a .32 caliber handgun loaded with six bullets. In the other,  a Baden man was found with a loaded .40-caliber gun. Police confiscated both weapons.

PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

In life, there are going to be occasions where you need to go all out for get-togethers; these could include big group retreats (of the office or the friend variety), family gathering and, perhaps most fun, pre-wedding bridal parties.

Of course, you’ll also need to find a place spacious enough to host everyone, preferably where you’re not packed in like sardines either. Not only do these luxurious getaways, all within a 4-hour drive of Pittsburgh, fit the bill, they’re accessible to group-friendly attractions such as skiing, lake access (boating anyone?), hiking and biking.

For the brides and grooms out there, we also rounded up locations near spas and golf courses, as well as one stellar Mount Washington location that’s a quick walk, incline ride or Uber drive from some of Pittsburgh’s best entertainment options.

Holiday Valley, NY

Black Diamond

Built by a technology entrepreneur, Black Diamond is a modern masterpiece — and one of only two homes at Holiday Valley Resort in New York with direct ski lift access. Located right above Tannenbaum Lodge and SkyHigh Adventures, the luxurious, five-bedroom house has heated flooring, layered lighting and stunning views of the slopes from extensive floor-to-ceiling windows.

Price: $2,250 per night

Deep Creek, MD

Triple Crown

There’s room to spread out at Triple Crown, an eight-bedroom lakefront estate in Deep Creek known for its red roof exterior and striking horse statue. Multiple grand balconies, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows, give panoramic views of the water. Along with multiple living spaces and two wet bars, there’s a lavish game room with a cozy fireplace. Positioned just minutes from Wisp Resort, the property also has a private dock on the lake that’s perfect for sunbathing, boating or jet skiing in warmer months.

Price: $1,040 per night

Bedford Springs, Pa

Contemporary Cabin

Ideal for groups, families, bridal parties or golfers, the spacious, four-bedroom contemporary cabin is located next to the iconic Omni Bedford Springs Resort and its amenities, including an elegant indoor pool and the Springs Eternal Spa. Adjacent to the entrance of the Bedford Springs Mountain Biking trails, the property also is a short walk or bike ride from the shops and restaurants of historical Bedford on the Shuster Way Heritage Trail.

Price: $575 per night

Hidden Valley, Pa

The Timberwood

No matter the season, there’s no chance of growing bored at The Timberwood at Hidden Valley Resort in the Laurel Mountains. The eight-bedroom ski in/ski out mountaintop retreat comes with an indoor basketball court, 15-person theater room, a large hot tub on the private patio and an inviting outdoor pool.

Price: $1,093 per night

Pittsburgh, Pa

Sweeping City View

Whether you’re in town for a big game, a holiday or spending the night bar hopping in the city with your bridal party, it doesn’t get more Pittsburgh than this conveniently located home atop Mount Washington. The four-bedroom abode, which has a 120-inch theater screen, jacuzzi tub and game room, has panoramic views of Downtown’s iconic skyline from nearly every room, as well as two balconies overlooking the city. Bonus: You’re a quick walk or ride from entertainment options on the South Side, North Side, Downtown or Mount Washington itself. For the most Pittsburgh experience, hop on the Monongahela Incline for a scenic ride to Station Square.

Price: $286 per night

PHOTO COURTESY ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

You. Your loved one. Maybe a hot tub — and that’s it.

Although Valentine’s Day is the typical time of year for a romantic rendezvous, there’s really never a bad time to plan a couples-only getaway.

But where to go and what to do? Whether it’s a secluded mountain getaway, a lakeside retreat in wine country or a luxurious treehouse, we’ve got you covered as you plan your next holiday, all within a 4-hour drive of Pittsburgh.

River Mountain Resort, Pa. 

Glamping Mountain Getaway

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

If you enjoy camping, but your partner doesn’t, glamping in a luxury tent at River Mountain Resort — which provides comfort and style alongside the grounding tranquility of nature — is the way to go. Inside the spacious, bell-shaped yurts in the Allegheny Mountains are two queen beds, a small sitting area, a private campfire pit, bbq charcoal grill, heat, two electrical outlets and even Wi-Fi; indoor bathrooms and showers are also steps from the tents. Guests may also enjoy the resort’s complimentary happy hours, private hiking trails, fishing pond, activity barn (where you’ll find ping pong, cornhole and bocce), three-hole disc golf, yoga classes and guided outdoor experiences.

Price: $213 per night

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Lakefront Treehouse Oasis

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Nestled along the water in Ohio’s scenic Hocking Hills, the amenity-filled Lakefront Treehouse Oasis is close to hiking trails, waterfalls, restaurants and a plethora of outdoor adventures, including nationally recognized attractions such as Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls and Conkle’s Hollow. At night, cozy up in front of the 100-inch projection screen or private fire pit, or have some fun on the blue slide leading from the treehouse to the ground. There’s also a lookout point accessed by a rope walking bridge that’s great for observing sunsets. Under the treehouse is a hot tub with a view of the lake. In the warmer months, head down to the lake, where you can rent a kayak or boat, swim, fish or simply enjoy the beach.

Price: $419 per night

Cook Forest, Pa.

Peaceful Pines

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Cross the charming wooden bridge into this dreamy luxury treehouse built over a creek. Tucked into the serene woodlands near Cook Forest State Park in Clarion County, Peaceful Pines combines rustic charm with modern comforts, among them a plush, king-size bed and a private balcony with a welcoming hammock. Guests may explore the winding trails of Cook Forest, home to some of the nation’s oldest and tallest trees in the Northeast, meander along the Clarion River or take a canoe out for a scenic river cruise.

Price: $279 per night

Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio

Cottage with a View

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Enjoy Ohio’s wine country at this cottage overlooking Lake Erie that’s located less than a mile from the busy strip at Geneva-on-the-Lake, where you’ll find shops, breweries and restaurants, among them GOTL Brewing Co., Madsen Donuts and the classic Sunrise Cafe diner. Stocked with board games and an old-school table arcade, the retreat is also just minutes from Bridge Street in the Historic Ashtabula Harbor. While there are plenty of wineries in the area to explore (Ferrante Winery & Ristorante and M Cellars just to name a few), don’t forget to check out Ashtabula County’s famous covered bridges as well. At night, relax in the deckside hot tub while gazing at the stars and listening to the waves crash on the shore.

Price: $281 per night

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada 

Contemporary Classic

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

A preserved 19th century village in the heart of Ontario Wine Country, Niagara-on-the-Lake is filled with whimsical boutiques, antique shops, eateries and several theaters; this stylish, two-bedroom cottage, located steps from picturesque Queen Street, is close to all of them. Within walking distance is the Victorian-era Prince of Wales Hotel and eateries such as Treadwell Cuisine, Masaki Sushi and Il Gelato di Carlotta. The area is also home to 30 wineries, including Jackson Triggs, Peller and Wayne Gretzky Estates.

Price: $209 per night

PHOTO COURTESY BLUE SKY NEWS/PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

[Updated Dec. 16, 2024: This story adds the announcement that American will start daily, nonstop flights to LA in the spring. The original story was published Dec. 3, 2024.] 

Nonstop flights from Pittsburgh to Los Angeles have been a key asset in supporting TV and movie productions in the Steel City, but those flights have not always been available. The lack of nonstop flights has made trips back and forth cumbersome for cast and crew.

Now two airlines have announced a return to nonstop flights to the City of Angels.

American on Dec. 16 announced it will begin daily nonstop flights between Pittsburgh International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) year-round starting April 4. Here’s the schedule:

• Flight AA814 will depart from LAX at 9 a.m. Pacific Time and arrive at PIT at 4:37 p.m. Eastern Time.
• Flight AA814 will depart from PIT at 5:57 p.m. ET and arrive at LAX at 8:05 p.m. PT.

The last time that American had offered nonstop flights was eight years ago.   The new flight with the larger 737-800 will add over a third more capacity and double the number of first class seats over the Airbus A319 that American flew in 2017.

Breeze Airways  has moved up the return of its seasonal flights from Pittsburgh International Airport to LAX to March 12. It had been scheduled to start May 2.

And the carrier will be increasing its twice-weekly flights to three times a week, and up to five times a week by early June. Next summer, Breeze will fly nonstop every day except Monday and Friday of each week, according to Blue Sky News, the news service for PIT.

Breeze first began service between PIT and LAX in September 2023.

In another route to the West Coast, Breeze will begin nonstop flights from PIT to San Diego on May 2. They will be available Monday and Friday.

Breeze and Southwest Airlines both added nonstop service between PIT and San Diego last year for the first time. Southwest resumes those flights on Saturdays, beginning June 7. Before last year, there had been no nonstop flights between the cities for five years; San Diego is considered a major business and leisure travel market.

In another addition, Breeze will expand nonstop service to Portland, Maine, starting on May 1. It will add Tuesday flights to its existing Sunday and Thursday service.

Breeze was created by former JetBlue and WestJet founder David Neeleman, according to Blue Sky News, and first started serving PIT in 2021 with four destinations. It now offers 11 destinations from PIT.

PHOTO: VISIT ERIE

If you’re looking for a beach vacation without making the 6-hour-plus drive to the ocean, Erie is your best bet — and there’s plenty of stuff to do there.

For example, Presque Isle State Park has numerous beaches with kid-friendly amenities, while the state of Pennsylvania offers free public tours of Presque Isle State Park’s bays and interior ponds. There also are a number of wineries around the area, plus a popular 13.5-mile scenic pedestrian/bike trail around the perimeter of Presque Isle.

Unlike Pittsburgh, Erie is home to some winning pirates. Scallywags, located at Dobbins Landing on Presque Isle Bay, runs tours for guests of all ages and there’s also the evening Wobbly Pirate cruises for guests 21 and over.

Erie’s beaches aren’t the only water play in town. Water World, located within the Waldameer Park amusement park, has a plethora of water slides, and guests may also move in between the water park and the amusement park. For rainy or cold days, Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park on Peach Street is a tropical oasis for kids and adults alike.

Of course, you’ll also need a place to stay on your beach-but-not-the ocean trip. Here are six of our favorite places for a weekend getaway.
 

On the Beach

Waterfront Cottage

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Nestled against the water at Kelso Beach, and just 2 miles from Presque Isle State Park, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom waterfront cottage features modern furnishings and a grill on the deck for an afternoon cookout. There’s also easy access to activities such as boating, fishing, jet skiing, or simply lounging on the beach.

Price: $352 per night
 

Chasing Waterfalls

This Place Rocks! 

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

The three-bedroom cottage on Lake Erie features a one-of-a-kind patio carved into a bluff looking over the water. Oh, and did we mention the property is adjacent to a scenic waterfall? Of note, the cottage sits about 20 feet above Lake Erie. While that makes for incredible views, there is no fence or railing along the rock wall or bluff. Guests may access the water by carefully climbing down the natural rocks at the waterfall. The property also is close to Erie County’s numerous wineries and about 15 minutes from Presque Isle State Park.

Price: $302 per night 
 

Magnificent Views

Ranch Retreat

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Enjoy the stunning sunsets from the deck of this waterside ranch on an 80-foot cliff (beware, there’s no railing or barrier) above Lake Erie. The neighborhood beach at Chautauqua Park is just a few blocks from this peaceful retreat. It’s also near Erie’s downtown and the Bayfront Convention Center.

Price: $292 per night 
 

Convenient Location

The Cozy Gray Cottage 

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Newly restored, the 1950s-era Cozy Gray Cottage has a convenient location in a quiet residential area near Erie’s parks, restaurants, shopping, universities and hospitals.

Price: $129 per night
 

Gateway to Erie

Stylish Haven

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Stylish and cheerful, and with a stocked kitchen, this four-bedroom home-away-from-home is only a short walk from Avanti’s Diner, Pressed Coffee and Frontier Park. A 5-minute drive will get you to Presque Isle, the Bayfront Convention Center and Waldameer amusement park.

Price: $149 per night
 

Lakeside Classic

Chautauqua Park

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

This lakeside retreat is a 2-minute walk to the beach at Chautauqua Park, but one of the most fun features of the classic three-bedroom home is the retro “I Love Lucy” suite housing a vintage bedroom set from 1953, mixed with a local artist’s rendition of Lucille Ball.

Price: $235 per night 

HOCKING HILLS PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

My fifth-grade daughter and her friends will say “skibidi Ohio” (among other nonsense words) when something isn’t cool, but I’m here to tell you that our neighboring state of Ohio actually is very cool, or — as the kids would say — it has rizz.

From the natural wonders of Hocking Hills and Cuyahoga Falls to entertainment destinations such as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Cedar Point, the Buckeye State is full of amazing things to see and do. Here’s where to go — and where to stay — all within a three-hour drive of Pittsburgh.
 

Village Gem

Chagrin Falls

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Featuring the original hand-cut beams from the 1800s, this century-old gem is located within three blocks of the charming town’s Chagrin Falls viewing area. Bisected by the picturesque Chagrin River, the town’s main street is filled with enchanting places to eat and shop, such as the Evergreen Bakery and Fireside Book Shop.

Price: $225 per night
 

Natural Wonder

Hocking Hills

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Perfect for outdoor lovers, the A-frame buildings at Chalets at Old Man’s Cave near Hocking Hills State Park are a romantic, cozy and comfortable place to stay when you’re done hiking, biking, kayaking or otherwise exploring the scenic area. Arranged along the ridge of a hill, each chalet has a private deck with a hot tub, grill and view into mature woods. The property also includes a pool, firepits, SaunaPods, electric vehicle charging stations, an office and the neighboring General Store.

Price: $180 per night
 

Cozy Retreat

Cuyahoga Falls 

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

After marveling over the 65-foot Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga Valley National Park and taking a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, settle in for the night at this cozy retreat in the center of the quaint town of Cuyahoga Falls. The newly revitalized Front Street has everything from dining and cocktails to boutiques and coffee shops, among them The Workz, a former theater converted into a restaurant, arcade and speakeasy, and Jean + Lou boutique.

Price: $215 per night
 

Sleek in the City

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland 

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

With views of Lake Erie and downtown Cleveland, this elevated modern condo with a rooftop patio is less than a mile from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and is within walking distance of the city’s local breweries and other attractions such as the Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse, Greater Cleveland Aquarium and Huntington Bank Field, home of Steelers nemesis the Browns. If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, don’t forget to check out the infamous “A Christmas Story” House, which is located only a few miles from the condo.

Price: $121 per night
 

Ready to Ride

Cedar Point, Sandusky

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

There’s more to Sandusky than the Cedar Point amusement park, although that’s pretty thrilling on its own. After a day of rides, relax at this Sandusky Bay oasis overlooking the Jackson Street Pier — a former ferry boat lot turned entertainment destination — or take in a meal at the Shore House Tavern. For families looking for fun, the popular Kalahari and Castaway Bay indoor water parks are right around the corner, as is the African Safari Wildlife Park.

Price: $109 per night

PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

After years of seemingly warm-ish Decembers, the snow has arrived pre-Christmas in the greater Pittsburgh region this year. 

The freezing temperatures, plus the recent flakes, have me thinking about ski season, or rather, it’s gotten my husband thinking about it. While he’s an avid skier himself, our elementary school-age daughters (who are now fearless after several years of skiing) are following right in his footsteps, er, um, snowtracks. 

To keep up with the rest of the family, I reluctantly learned how to ski a few years ago, although I still enjoy the “apres” part of the experience the most. 

We’ll definitely be taking a few weekend ski getaways this winter. If you’re planning to do the same, here are some of the best places, from condo-style amenities to a luxury chalet, for an overnight winter stay — all within a 3-hour drive of Pittsburgh.

For Ski Beginners

Hidden Valley

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Take it from someone who knows, Hidden Valley Resort in the Laurel Highlands — which, along with fellow nearby ski destinations Seven Springs and Laurel Mountains, is owned by Vail Resorts — has some of the most beginner-friendly slopes around. This spacious four-bedroom cabin, which sleeps up to 12 guests, has a ski-in/ski-out location to one of the resort’s beginner slopes. Other amenities include two living rooms with gas fireplaces, a dart board and an outdoor firepit. In the warmer weather, the cabin is only a few minutes drive from the resort’s outdoor pool and golf course.

Price: $518 per night

For Advanced Skiers

Seven Springs

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Ideal for couples are small families thanks to its jack-and-jill bathroom, this hotel-style, two-bedroom condo in the Stoneridge community of Seven Springs has direct access to the slopes, among them the Avalanche and Goosebumps slopes, as well as the Corkscrew and Boomerang trails. Shuttle service is available and there are lockers for equipment inside the building.

Price: $250 per night

For a Luxurious Large Gathering

The Laurel Highlands

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Located minutes from Seven Springs and Hidden Valley, the elegant stone-and-timber Sundance at Fern Mountain, located in the Laurel Highlands, has six bedrooms and four full bathrooms, plus a spacious great room with a gas fireplace and large windows overlooking the wooded outdoors. Designed for family gathering and corporate retreats, the cabin, which sleeps up to 12 people, also has a separate media room with surround sound for movie and game nights.

Price: $1,143 per night

For the Ultimate Family-Friendly Experience

Southwind at Seven Springs

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

This well-appointed, three-story townhome in Southwind community of Seven Springs was used by the owners for years as their personal family vacation spot. With the family unable to make it this year, the owners have put the four-bedroom townhouse, which sleeps up to 14 guests, on the rental market for the first time. Besides a ski-in/ski-out location on the resort’s Southwind Slope, the townhouse also has an outdoor hot tub. Not a skier? The owners recommend sled riding in the backyard or taking the free Seven Springs shuttle to the resort lodge.

Price: $1,06 per night

Step Inside History

Lincoln Boutique Hotel at Holiday Valley Resort

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

One of the area’s oldest roadside motels, the completely refurbished Lincoln Boutique Motel at the edge of the Holiday Valley Resort is located just over the Pennsylvania border in Ellicottville, New York. The upper-level King Room features a vaulted ceiling with the original beams as well as locally sourced lumber and custom-built, live-edge furniture alongside luxurious bedding. It’s also steps away from Pour Taproom, which is opening later this winter.

Price: $252 per night

A Heavenly Experience 

Deep Creek Lake

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Winter is a great time to get a group together to spend a weekend at picturesque Deep Creek Lake in Maryland. Located in the North Camp Community, Heaven on Seven is a luxurious seven-bedroom retreat that’s just steps away from Wisp Resort’s Chair 7 and the Ace’s Run slopes. All seven bedrooms are suites with attached bathrooms. There’s also an expansive covered deck and cozy patio with gas fireplaces as well as a private hot tub. In the lower level game room are ping pong, pool and air hockey tables, plus ample ski storage.

Price: $1,245 per night

Slopeside Digs

Wisp Resort

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Adjacent to Wisp Resort in Maryland, the two-bedroom Slope Side retreat offers ski in-/ski out access. Recently updated, the roomy main level and primary suite both have views of the ski slopes. Other amenities include a gas fireplace, a theater room and a hot tub. Being adjacent to Wisp Resort means a lot of opportunities for outdoor recreation are within easy reach, including golf, skiing, snow tubing, ziplines, the mountain coaster and disc golf, depending on the season.

Price: $138 per night 

For Outdoor Adventurers

Altitude Adjustment at Snowshoe Mountain Resort

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains near West Virginia’s Snowshoe Mountain Resort, Altitude Adjustment is also a great home base for all kinds of outdoor adventures, including exploring New River Gorge National Park, Seneca Rocks and White Sulphur Springs. Watoga State Park in nearby Marlinton also was recently named a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association, meaning it’s one of the best places for some stargazing. The charming three-bedroom log cabin also has a hot tub and an outdoor fire pit that’s perfect for s’mores.

Price: $589 per night 

THE REYNISFJARA BLACK-SAND BEACH. | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

If you happen to see Þvörusleikir, Hurðaskellir, Bjúgnakrækir or Gluggagægir on a cold winter’s night, chances are good you’re in Iceland for the holidays.

These are just four of the 13 troll-like Yuletide-lads who play mischief on unsuspecting boys and girls, both nice and naughty, beginning on Dec. 12. Each Yuletide-lad is named after his favorite prank — such as Spoon Licker, Door Slammer, Sausage Swiper and Window Peeper, mentioned above. Children leave their shoes out on frosty window sills; nice tots receive small presents from the Yuletide-lads, while naughty tots wake up to find rotten potatoes. Even worse is Jólakötturinn, the Yule Cat — a vicious, ugly puss that eats bad children unless they’re wearing new clothing on Christmas Eve.

It’s all part of the fun in the Land of Fire and Ice, where you’ll forgive the occasional volcanic eruption in exchange for mile after mile of rugged, breathtaking beauty.

SUNSET IN ICELAND. | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

The Icelandic language is considered to be one of the most complex to learn, with four cases, irregular declensions, sub-classes for nouns and three voices. The good news is native English speakers already have a head start, as both Icelandic and English have Germanic roots and use the same alphabet (with minor differences). Because of the country’s isolation, Icelandic has changed little over the centuries; modern speakers can read sagas from over 1,000 years ago. Make the wonderfully versatile jæja your first lesson: it’s a hardworking filler word that can convey anything from “Well now” or “Ah, makes sense!” to “What’s up? or “Let’s go!” Pronounce it yEYE-yah and sprinkle it liberally. Take comfort that English is widely spoken, although in public spaces you’ll more often hear the lilting cadences of Icelandic.

Perched atop the volatile Mid-Atlantic Ridge (between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates), Iceland is a literal hotspot for geological activity such as volcanoes, geysers and earthquakes. These geothermal and hydroelectric features have been harnessed to provide inexpensive hot water, heating and electricity to the country’s 380,000-plus residents.

You can experience these geothermal wonders for yourself at the many hot springs that dot the landscape. Blue Lagoon is the most popular, and for good reason. Step into the warm, milky blue water and you’ll swear you’re on another planet, surrounded by a field of black boulders bathed in waves of steam. With a swim-up bar, a steam cave and a therapeutic waterfall (you’ll swear you’ve been invigoratingly pummeled by a troll), it’s a blissful spot right after an overnight flight. The public pools can get quite crowded; if you’re looking to spend some money, book a night or two at the resort and enjoy the private waters, with endless bowls of age-defying white silica to tone your face.

For a different experience altogether, book a morning at the Hrammsvik Hot Springs. It’s a secluded spot across the bay from the stunning Thorir’s Hills and a truly magical place. It’s accessible but off the tourist-beaten paths, in a more verdant and pristine setting. You’ll spot wild ducks and the occasional seal hunting in the bay as you soak in one of the resort’s eight pools.

Your best bet is to make Reykjavik, the country’s largest city and capital, your home base. Rent a car and see everything from waterfalls and geysers to white-capped mountains and black-sand beaches within a two-hour drive. Head back to the city for high-end shopping and funky dining spots in the delightfully walkable downtown.

Shopping is a priority in downtown Reykjavik. Pick up local candies, jams, cookies, sauces and more at Taste of Iceland. The friendly staff will let you sample anything you’d like. Just a few steps away is Epal, featuring upscale, Scandinavian-inspired home decor designed by local crafters. Reading is a favorite pastime in Iceland, so you’ll find a bookstore or two on practically every street. Bokabud Mals og Menningar is a favorite, doubling as a bar with a popular house band.

HANDKNITTED LOPAPEYSAS | PHOTO COURTESY OF HUCK BEARD

You’ll never forgive yourself if you pass up a genuine lopapeysa — Iceland’s iconic wool sweater with an instantly recognizable geometric design. You’ll see every color and variation on the streets, worn by both men and women. The wool is known for its warmth, light weight and water resistance. (And they’re perfect for Pittsburgh winters, too.) The best spot to find one is the Handknitting Association of Iceland, a collective enterprise with two stores in Reykjavik. Wool is first sourced exclusively from Icelandic sheep; then, around 500 native knitters, working from home in a co-op model, handcraft the sweaters following traditional designs. When you see the price, remember that each sweater takes 8-10 days to knit. The result is a wearable piece of art you’ll keep forever.

HALLGRIMSKIRKJA CHURCH | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

Towering over Reykjavik is the imposing Hallgrímskirkja, designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson (1887-1950). The Lutheran church’s size and radical design were controversial, and Samúelsson never saw its completion. It took 41 years (1945-86) to build. The central tower rises 245 feet over the city; an elevator takes visitors up eight stories, but you’ll have to climb stairs to the belfry, whose bells ring at every quarter hour. Mass is held in Icelandic on Sundays and Wednesdays, with an English service the last Sunday of each month.

GULLFOSS WATERFALL | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

From Reykjavik, the Golden Circle is a favorite day trip. In this area, you’ll find the Geysir and the Strokkur; the name geysir migrated into English as our geyser, although the original Geysir is now mostly inactive. The Strokkur’s spout is very reliable, erupting every 8-10 minutes. Next make your way to the majestic double Gullfoss waterfall, in the canyon of the Hvítá river. (You may recognize the site from the History Channel’s “Vikings.”) For a truly historical thrill, walk along the Þingvellir rift valley and visit the Alþing, where Iceland’s first parliament met in 930 AD. The two-week parliamentary assembly was attended by chieftains and farmers from all over Iceland to establish a common set of laws. Besides matters of law, merchants set up shop to sell goods and services such as tanning, ale-brewing and smithing. The annual Alþing was a crucial step in establishing a common cultural identity amongst the Icelandic people.

As you drive throughout the Golden Circle, look for pastures graced by the beautiful Icelandic horses. The breed is quite special — the Icelandic is the only horse with five natural gaits (most other breeds have only two or three). Small, gentle and intelligent, the Icelandic horse was brought from Norway by the Vikings hundreds of years ago. No other breed of horse is allowed in Iceland.

AN ICELANDIC HORSE. | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

Find natural wonders on a micro scale at the charming Friðheimar greenhouse and restaurant, where piccolo and plum tomatoes are the stars. The scent of tomatoes strikes as soon as you enter the vast greenhouse, with vertical vines twisting and soaring far overheard. The place buzzes with bees (imported from Denmark for pollination) and happy diners, feasting on tomato-forward tortillas, pastas, soups, breads, desserts and even beers. Don’t miss the tomato ice cream, served in a clay flowerpot.

FRIÐHEIMAR GREENHOUSE | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

Still hungry? See the centuries-old method of baking rye bread over geothermal vents at Laugarvatn Fontana. The loaf is slow-baked in the ground at around 220 degrees for 24 hours. The bread is served warm with locally made butter and smoked salmon or trout.

Iceland boasts more than 260 museums, from the historical to the quirky, and most within an easy drive of Reykjavik. The Saga Museum resurrects the Vikings with life-size silicone figures in historically accurate clothing and settings, while the Settlement Center tells the violent, 1,100-year-old story of colorful anti-hero Egil, based on ancient manuscripts and brought to life with unsettling wood sculptures and dioramas.

The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft is worth the drive; you’ll learn why more Icelandic men were executed as witches than women. For an exercise in extremes (both in Reykjavik), in one day you can see both the minuscule Icelandic Punk Museum (housed in a renovated public bathroom) and the immense Perlan, with exhibits recreating the country’s geological extremes — including a full-size ice cave.

Just don’t let Gluggagægir catch you out after dark, or it might be rotten potatoes for you.

Where to Stay

HOTEL RANGA | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

For the full Viking experience, book your first few nights at the Viking Village. A quick drive from Keflavik airport, the Viking Village offers both hotel rooms and cottages decorated in West Nordic and Viking themes, furnished with fine arts and crafts from Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Reserve a table at Valhalla or Fjörukráin for a Viking feast with a full cast.

For the second leg of your journey, move upscale at Reykjavik Marina, just steps from downtown. The renovated, four-story landmark overlooks Slippur, a historical (and still fully functioning) dry dock.

For stark luxury in a lunar-like setting, try Hotel Ranga after your Golden Circle adventures. The 52 rooms include seven suites, which are designed with artifacts from the seven continents. The Asian suite is a must, with a miniature wooden soaking box-tub and elevated bed. The on-site restaurant is known for its decadent mushroom risotto.

THE ASIAN SUITE AT HOTEL RANGA. | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

What to Eat

For a quick bite, follow the locals to Bæjarins Beztu, a kitschy hotdog stand open since 1937. Order eina með öllu (“one with everything”): a lamb/beef/pork wiener with ketchup, sweet mustard, fried onion, raw onion and remoulade. It’s a real Thor-pleaser (you’ll want at least two). If you have more time, sit down to brunch at Sandholt bakery. The brown-sugar bun is ridiculously good and gooey. For a taste of the country’s famous seafood, head to Icelandic Street Food. The Fisherman’s Favorite is a hot stew with Icelandic cod, potatoes and onions in a hollandaise sauce, or try the lamb or shellfish soup served in a sourdough bowl. Bonus: there are free sweet waffles for dessert.

When to Go

Average winter temperature in Reykjavik is 32-degrees Fahrenheit and 55-degrees Fahrenheit in summer, but mild winters and pleasant summers are the norm. (Believe it or not, Pittsburgh’s winters are often colder on average.) Without a doubt, Iceland’s brisk winds will make you reach for your lopapeysa and wool cap. Reykjavik’s holiday decorations go up mid-November, making it a true winter wonderland, but you’ll have to book a layover if flying in fall and winter. Nonstop flights on Icelandair from Pittsburgh International Airport resume in April.

PHOTO BY DAVE DICELLO

Pittsburgh is the only U.S. city to make Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2025,” where it’s being lauded for its “affordability, unpretentiousness and cultural heritage.”

It ranks No. 6 in the top 10 must-visit cities in the world rated by Lonely Planet, which also lists the top 10 countries and top 10 regions, which in the U.S. includes the Lowcountry in South Carolina and Georgia and the Pacific Northwest’s Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge.

This is the first time that Pittsburgh has made the list in the 15 years the rankings have been compiled, according to Gabrielle Beamon, Lonely Planet spokeswoman.

“What a feeling Pittsburgh inspires,” according to the guide’s description. “This city effortlessly combines its industrial past with its artisanal present — its affordability and charm draws all manner of artists and creators. Walk around Butler Street [in Lawrenceville] to witness the alchemy at local coffee shops, boutiques, independent restaurants and breweries. Soon you’ll understand Pittsburgh’s particular brand of magic, at once disarming and familiar.”

Lonely Planet, which has been producing travel guides for more than 50 years, relies on a team of international experts, including editors, writers, family and friends and other contributors, to curate the 30 must-see destinations each year. The places are chosen for their “topicality, unique attributes and experiences, including food, history, architecture, art, vibrant local culture and natural beauty, along with their ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity.”

“We have a pretty in-depth selection process,” says Nitya Chambers, senior vice president of content/executive editor at Lonely Planet, who happens to have grown up in Pittsburgh. She graduated from Franklin Regional Senior High School and Carnegie Mellon University. She says someone nominated Pittsburgh for the list “and then I was an advocate for it.”

“I feel like it has a really unique charm. And I think I have the benefit of seeing the organic story of Pittsburgh over the last two decades because so many of my close friends and family have moved back and settled there…And so I feel like I’ve really seen kind of an amazing evolution of Pittsburgh, and I thought it was worth a place on the list.”

The guide quotes Pete Kurzweg, owner of Lorelei in East Liberty and The Independent Brewing Company and Hidden Harbor in Squirrel Hill. “Pittsburgh’s affordability makes it accessible — for small business owners, for artists, for tech start-ups, for restaurateurs — and its accessibility makes it vibrant,” he said.

It also features a video of Chancelor Humphrey walking through parts of Pittsburgh. He’s the creator of Keep Pittsburgh Dope and was a Pittsburgh Magazine 40 Under 40 honoree in 2021.

This is not the only top acknowledgement Pittsburgh has received this year. In April, the National Geographic publication, “Here, Not There,” by Andrew Nelson, listed Pittsburgh among 100 unexpected travel destinations in the world. 

At least for Lonely Planet fans and travelers, there apparently is a passion for the Keystone State. This Lonely Planet honor for Pittsburgh was passed just 300 miles westward from, ahem, Philadelphia, which was named a top 10 must-see city in 2024. The City of Brotherly Love rated just a notch above Pittsburgh, at No. 5. 

Chambers says that both Pittsburgh and Philadelphia have a “unique hometown energy” and they’re in an interesting part of the United States, where history meets the future.

“I think one of the things that’s really fun about this list is the way that it starts a conversation,” Chambers says. “And I feel like Pittsburgh is always worthy of that conversation. I feel like it is really exciting to see people get passionate about a place that they should go. And Pittsburgh always inspires that.

“I just think it’s a great time for Pittsburgh.”

Here are the Lonely Planet’s lists of top cities, regions and countries for 2025:

Top Cities

Toulouse, France

Pondicherry, India

Bansko, Bulgaria

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Genoa, Italy

Pittsburgh, USA

Osaka, Japan

Curitiba, Brazil

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Edmonton, Canada 

Top Countries

Cameroon

Lithuania

Fiji

Laos

Kazakhstan

Paraguay

Trinidad & Tobago

Vanuatu

Slovakia

Armenia

Top Regions

Low Country and Coastal Georgia

The Terai, Nepal

Chiriqui, Panama

Launceston & the Tamar Valley, Australia

Valais, Switzerland

Giresun & Ordu, Turkiye

Bavaria, Germany

East Anglia, England

Jordan Trail

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Whether you’re planning a short weekend away or a long-awaited international vacation, the right luggage can have a huge impact on your trip. From carry-ons and duffle bags to spacious checked luggage, we’ve rounded up the best bags for your next getaway.

Best Overall

Samsonite Outline Pro Medium Spinner

One of the OGs of the luggage industry, Samsonite is a classic for a reason. The brand is known for its lightweight, spacious and durable designs that are backed by a 10-year-warranty. The goldilocks of luggage, Samsonite’s sleek Outline Pro Medium Spinner has a tough polypropylene shell and comes with a built-in TSA lock with an integrated USB port and internal battery pocket. Dual spinner wheels make for easy handling and long-haul travel across any surface, while the ergonomic retractable trolley handle has multi-stop Right Height adjustability. The Outline Pro also comes in a variety of sizes, all of which include an expansion zipper that instantly increases packing capacity.

Price: $191.99

Best Carry On

Away The Carry-On

If you’re looking for the “it” brand of luggage, Away is the one. In particular, travelers love the brand’s hard-sided Carry-On, which comes in a variety of fun colors. Featuring a lightweight, durable hard shell and a signature interior compression system that makes packing a breeze, the small suitcase is designed to fit a plane’s overhead bins and is perfect for any quick trip. Other thoughtful details are an easy-grip top handle, an additional underside grab handle and smooth-gliding wheels.

Price: $275

Best Checked Bag

Beis Large Check-In Roller

The stylish brand by actress Shay Mitchell, Beis is known for its smart design details, such as a separate, laptop-sized compartment for business travels as well as a handle that indicates the bag’s weight. If you’re planning on an extended getaway, Beis’s Large Check-In Roller, which measures 29 inches in height, is worth considering. The sturdy hardside suitcase features a butterfly opening and a zip pouch for valuables, as well as separate pouches for dirty clothes, shoes, undergarments and damp clothing. The weight indicator notifies you if your bag is more than 50 pounds — and there’s also a TSA-approved lock.

Price: $328

Best Duffle Bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

For the adventurers out there, Cotopaxi’s colorful, sustainably made luggage is built for the outdoors. For a quick weekend trip, the Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a perfect choice. Basically a small suitcase with comfortable mesh shoulder straps, the best-selling bag is made from 100% recycled materials. Featuring a full-wrap zipper opening and internal pocket configuration, the pack also comes with a stretchy water bottle pocket, a front accessory pocket and a padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve.

Price: $225

Best Budget

Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-On

Affordable and well designed, the well-reviewed Amazons Basic 21-Inch Spinner Carry-On is crafted with an extra-thick ABS hard shell that has a scratch-resistant finish. The spacious interior includes section dividers as well as three zippered pockets for small items. The spinner wheels make the suitcase easy to maneuver through airports, and it also fits easily into overhead plane compartments.

Price: $55.99

Best Splurge

Tumi International Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-On

The manufacturer of luxury suitcases and bags, Tumi has a reputation for high-quality, stylish goods. For far-flung journeys, the International Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-On is splurge-worthy investment thanks to its trademarked FXT® ballistic fabric, which combines a unique weave and special coating that make it virtually abrasion proof. Among the bag’s many features are a retractable top and side grab handles. There’s also four dual spinner wheels, protective bumper rails and a built-in USB-C charging port, plus a TSA combination lock.

Price: $975

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

If you haven’t made it to Iceland this year on the new route on Icelandair, you’ll have a longer season in 2025 to make that trip.

Icelandair, which started nonstop flights to Iceland on May 16 (the season runs through October) announced that it will be starting nonstop flights in 2025 out of Pittsburgh International Airport on April 17 – a month earlier than the start this year.

It will continue to operate the route four times a week, on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, according to Blue Sky News, the news service for the Allegheny County Airport Authority.

Pittsburgh last had a nonstop flight to Iceland in 2019 via the no-frills Wow Air, but that ended when the airline started cutting flights and destinations because of financial problems.

Tuesday’s announcement comes a week after regional leaders, led by PIT CEO Christina Cassotis and Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, visited Iceland to meet with business, tourism and governmental officials. They estimate that the Pittsburgh to Reykjavik route has an annual economic impact of $9 million to this region.

The authority has been working to increase its number of international flights out of PIT. Earlier this month British Airways announced it will expand its nonstop seasonal service from Pittsburgh to London’s Heathrow Airport to seven days a week, starting on March 31, 2025. The nonstop service, which has been operating six days a week, launched in April 2019.

THE KOOLWINK MOTEL | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

The Koolwink Motel is perfectly maintained. Everything works; everything is clean. You’d think the fixtures and decor were installed yesterday.

If yesterday was about half a century ago.

Opened in 1936 as a “tourist home,” as the website puts it, the Koolwink has been a family business for three generations, updated into its current look in the 1950s and ’60s. While the staff prides themselves on maintenance and cleanliness, the “retro feel” is meticulously preserved, from the thick carpet and wood paneling inside each room to the old-school, green-and-yellow lawn chairs outside each door — and the brown plastic air conditioner embedded in each wall. (A fixture that, like all the others, is in perfect working order.)

You’ll find mascot Mr. Koolwink, one eye open underneath his top hat, on everything from the lampposts to the notepads, but that branding is as close as this place gets to modern sensibilities. The simple layout of each room invites you to blissfully waste away the evening, perhaps chatting on the patio or lazily watching a movie in bed. (Nothing good on television? They’ll lend you a DVD player and your choice of classic films, free of charge, when you check in.)

MR. KOOLWINK, THE KOOLWINK MOTEL’S MASCOT | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

For those who traveled in the days before affordable hotels became homogenized, it’ll bring back memories; for those too young to remember such curious roadside stops, it’s a brand new (and lovely) experience.

There’s more to Romney, however, than a charming motel. Equally essential is the Potomac Eagle, a scenic railroad excursion that stretches along the south branch of the Potomac River. The train, which features historical rail coaches dating back to the 1920s; dining cars date to the ’40s and ’50s. You’ll climb aboard and settle in for a three-hour tour of soothing, pastoral vistas.

THE POTOMAC EAGLE | PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

As you ride in comfort, enjoying a glass of lemonade, you’ll peer out the window at rolling fields, meandering deer and mountains in the distance. When you make it into the trough — a secluded canyon habitat easily accessible only by this train — tour guides will point out a series of eagle nests, with majestic bald eagles sitting calmly on forking pine branches.

You’ll also enjoy much more than lemonade. An on-train kitchen prepares fresh meals on each trip; different cars feature different menus, from lunchbox-style meals through the four-course “superior dining” offering that features steak and seafood. The food is excellent and often surprising — hope that they’re serving the bacon-wrapped carrots on the day you ride.

You’ll also get a good deal of history aboard the Potomac Eagle, as tour guide Jean Shoemaker, a local historian and former teacher, takes you through centuries of local lore. Her narration, amplified throughout the train, will clue you in on the history of Romney, which claims to be the oldest town in West Virginia — another was founded on the same day, but Romney has the lower charter number, so they take the crown — and was a much-disputed strategic location during the Civil War, changing hands 56 times during the conflict (including, on one occasion, three times in the same day).

That long history gives the small town a timelessness that goes beyond the antique rail cars and retro motel. You’ll notice a surfeit of classic cars as you drive around — all in working order, of course — and a historic marker on every corner. Even newer constructions like the Main Street Grill, an inviting sports bar, have an eye on the past; the facade of the restaurant is constructed to look like a small-town street, and an old-fashioned soda shop takes up more room than the main bar.

Romney could well serve as a stopping point en route to Washington, D.C., or the Carolinas; it’s less than 3 hours from Pittsburgh, about halfway to the District via this route. As nice a resting place as the town is, though, Romney deserves to be its own destination. Few weekends would be more soothing than one featuring idle hours at the Koolwink, a leisurely (and delicious) ride aboard the Potomac Eagle and maybe a long drive in the country.

It’s a trip rooted in the past, and one that can make for a relaxing present.

Where to Stay

It should go without saying: Stay at the Koolwink Motel. There are other hotels and motels nearby, but if you can’t get a room at the Koolwink, reschedule your trip for a time when you can.

Where to Eat

Romney wakes up and eats well, with two excellent options for breakfast in the heart of town. At Wild Roots Cafe & Company, you’ll find an array of tempting and filling sandwiches for both breakfast and lunch. For breakfast, opt for the “Build Your Own Biscuit” and choose your cheese and meat of choice, served between a tasty, southern-style biscuit. The coffee is excellent, and the pastries are filling; plan to visit more than once, as your eyes will be much bigger than your stomach.

Across the street, the veteran-owned Romney Brew Station offers indulgent treats and healthy options alike; they also stay open until 6 p.m, while Wild Roots closes at 2. Once you’ve retired to your room at the Koolwink, order in; The Italian Touch will bring pizza, hoagies and pub-style snacks right to your room. Just remember to leave room for more food if you’re riding the Potomac Eagle.

When to Go

The Koolwink is open year-round; the Potomac Eagle offers trips from April through December. If you’re looking for a specific reason to plan your trip, you can visit during one of the major annual festivals; Hampshire County hosts its peach-themed Summer Harvest Festival each August, while neighboring Burlington throws an Apple Harvest Festival each October. You can also wait until the holidays to meet Santa aboard the Potomac Eagle; he’ll stroll the aisles of the train handing out presents to young riders.

THE CHECK-IN LEVEL AT PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | PHOTO BY BETH HOLLERICH

Summer may be winding down but activity at Pittsburgh International Airport is not letting up. Airports across the country are expecting their busiest Labor Day travel weekend — ever. 

And at PIT, the hustle comes on the heels of its busiest July in more than 20 years.

The Transportation Security Administration is expecting to screen 17 million passengers at airports nationwide from Thursday, Aug. 29 through Wednesday, Sept. 4. The peak day is expected to be Friday, Aug. 30. 

The TSA has urged travelers to arrive at PIT three hours before your flight to navigate around the crush.

As far as July numbers, 962,000 travelers flew in and out of PIT — up 11.2% over July 2023 and 5.3% higher than 2019, before the pandemic severely disrupted air travel. It was the most since the latter days when US Airways had a hub in Pittsburgh.

July “was a very busy month again as passengers continue to take advantage of the flights, showing the strength of our market,” PIT CEO Christina Cassotis said at the Allegheny County Airport Authority’s monthly board meeting on Aug. 23.

Some of the growth at PIT can be attributed to new routes introduced this year by ultra-low cost airlines to Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Philadelphia, Raleigh-Durham, Boston, Houston-Intercontinental and New York-LaGuardia. The new flights to Iceland, as well as resumed nonstop flights to San Diego by Breeze Airways and Southwest, also contributed.

Airlines are handling the larger crowds by using larger aircraft, according Blue Sky News, PIT’s news service.

As a reminder, here are a couple of nonstop routes resuming this fall and winter:

On Nov. 23, Delta Air Lines will restore nonstop service between Pittsburgh and Salt Lake City with daily, year-round nonstop flights. 

On Jan. 12, Southwest Airlines will return nonstop service to Miami on select peak days and then daily through April.

A WATERFALL VIEW FROM THE MAIN STREET BRIDGE | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

“Chagrin Falls is about as picturesque a place as you can imagine,” actor Tim Conway wrote in his 2013 autobiography. “Trust me, it’s a dream town, a living template of mid-nineteenth century America.”

Who am I to argue with Tim Conway?

Incorporated as a village in 1844 (and technically a suburb of Cleveland, located just two hours from Downtown Pittsburgh), Chagrin Falls is bisected by the meandering Chagrin River, with whooshing sound effects provided by two waterfalls that flow through the heart of the historic downtown area. There’s a walkable Main Street — as any self-respecting picturesque village must have — lined with more charming shops than a Hallmark movie.

Conway, who is best known for his comedic stunts on “The Carol Burnett Show,” is not the only notable Chagrin Falls-er. There’s also Bill Watterson of “Calvin and Hobbes” fame (leading to widespread speculation that the comic is set there), 19th-century poet and suffragist Addie Ballou, Broadway stars Corey Cott and Elena Shadow, cartoonist Bela “Bill” Zaboly (“Popeye”), and former San Francisco Giants outfielder Ted Wood.

Start at Chagrin Hardware (82 N. Main St.), a family-owned store serving the village since 1857. If they don’t have it, you don’t need it. A revolving nuts-and-bolts cabinet holds everything from flag brackets and white key tags to boot cleats and corn huskers. Toy soldiers and Christmas ornaments rest side by side on countless shelves, and rakes and garden hoses line the walls. Looking for horseshoes? An “Easy Rider” movie poster with Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper riding into the sunset? Whatever you’re looking for, it’s here.

EVERGREEN BAKERY | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

The Evergreen Bakery is a new addition to downtown Chagrin. Specializing in naturally leavened bread, artisan pastries and local goods, this is the place for all things yeasty and sweet. We were particularly enamored with the chocolate babka loaf and the strawberry rose crostata, although the lemon sugar cookie makes a better on-the-go treat.

The Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop is a must-see. Perched atop the river with a waterfall gushing below, the shop is a wonder of red-white-and-blue rustic charm. Popular popcorn flavors include Cleveland Art Pop, Sweet Sriracha Cheese and “Chagrin Style” (double cheese and kettle).

The Spice & Tea Exchange is a fun spot to sniff spices from around the world. If my whole house smelled like Cinnamon Chunk Korintje, I wouldn’t complain. For a morning boost, order the Victorian Chai or Ginseng Hippie at the Tea Bar. Just a few steps away is Fireside Book Shop, two floors of the best in bookish stuff. Pay special attention to the shelves of staff picks.

HEDGES HOME-DECOR SHOP | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

For a small village, the clothing stores in Chagrin Falls are high-end. Choices include A Bit of Skirt, Toni, Nola True, Haven and Blush, each with its own magazine-ready display window. But it’s the home-decor front where downtown really shines. Both Hedges and White Magnolia are heaven for homebodies who are looking to spruce up tired kitchens and dining rooms with items inspired by trips to Tuscany or Normandy. Don’t miss the back wall at Hedges, where you can choose ceramic tiles glazed with images of compasses, honeybees, lighthouses, dapper hares and even St. Nicholas.

Where to Stay

The Inn of Chagrin, just steps away from the downtown shops, scored a coup when renowned fashion designer Christian Siriano signed on to remodel the historical inn’s 15 rooms. Siriano won the fourth season of “Project Runway” in 2007, becoming the series’ youngest winner. His vision for the Inn of Chagrin combines traditional and contemporary, and his fashion-inspired artworks grace the walls in many rooms.

Where to Eat

For dinner, tuck into M Italian (mitalian.com). The lasagna — with house-made bolognese, ricotta, mozzarella and twin pomodoro and alfredo sauces — gets Nonna’s approval. For a lighter bite, try the Pasta M (cavatelli, meatball and pomodoro). The lightly crusted starter bread is baked in-house as well. You’ll want to slip an extra loaf in your pocket. After dinner, browse the adjacent Glass Asylum, where you can watch objets d’art made right before your eyes.

THE GLASS ASYLUM | PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

When to Go

I can’t imagine Chagrin Falls having a bad hair day; it’s truly spectacular in any season. I’ve been twice — in mid spring and early winter — and there are always sights to see. I plan to return in the fall, when one resident said Chagrin is “a big pumpkin and cranberry-colored party.” The village does the holidays right too. Decorated live trees line the Riverside Park Path for the season, and even the streetlight poles catch the spirit with live greenery. At midnight on New Year’s Eve, a massive popcorn ball named Jupiter drops to celebrate the new year.

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

If you’ve got TSA PreCheck and you’re heading to Pittsburgh International Airport for a predawn flight, there’s a new place to go to pass through security starting on July 8.

From 4 to 7 a.m., head to the alternate checkpoint on the airport’s ticketing level. That will be the only TSA PreCheck area available at those times.

After 7 a.m. Monday-Friday and on weekends, TSA PreCheck will be available at the main security checkpoint and the alternate location, according to a TSA announcement. 

The change comes during the busiest summer the airport has experienced since 2019, which has resulted in longer than usual lines. Airport and TSA officials had each urged travelers earlier this week to arrive at the airport 3 hours early if they had an early flight.    

“The move will expedite the screening process, maximize space, and minimize line wait times for all travelers at both checkpoints,” TSA stated in its announcement about the change. 

TSA officials said they had experimented using the alternative checkpoint on the ticketing level over the past month and decided it would improve the flow of passengers.

The alternate checkpoint may reopen during the day on an as-needed basis, dependent on passenger volume to serve both TSA PreCheck and non-TSA PreCheck passengers, the TSA stated. 

PreCheck program travelers have an expedited screening and don’t have to remove their shoes, laptops or liquids, for example, to put in a separate bin. CLEAR, another pre-screening program, is only available at the main security checkpoint. CLEAR passengers with TSA PreCheck benefits should still use the CLEAR lane at the main security checkpoint.

On June 21, the airport announced that May 24 — the Friday before Memorial Day weekend — had been a record-breaking travel day nationally and locally.

TSA had screened more than 2.95 million travelers at airports nationwide, setting a new single-day record for the agency previously set during the Thanksgiving holiday in 2023.

That same day, PIT screened 18,255 departing passengers, the most daily passengers recorded at the airport since 2019.

Between Thursday, July 4, and Monday, July 8, TSA estimates that more than 32 million travelers will be screened on holiday weekend flights. That could mean a 5.4% increase from the holiday traffic last year. 

PIT offers an app that can provide helpful information to travelers even before they leave home. It tells you how long you have to wait in each security line, how many open parking spaces there are in each lot, what flights are on time and delayed and other information. 

Jilian Musser’s reporting is supported by the Pittsburgh Media Partnership.

SALT LAKE CITY | SHUTTERSTOCK

Starting this fall, Pittsburghers once again will be able to fly nonstop daily to Salt Lake City.

Delta Airlines announced Friday that it is restoring the flight that it ended in early 2020 because of the pandemic. No other airline has been flying nonstop between Pittsburgh International Airport and the Utah capital.

The first nonstop Delta flights will begin on Nov. 23, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday and winter ski season. The outbound flight departs PIT at 5:40 p.m. and arrives at Salt Lake City at 8:12 p.m. local time. The return flight departs SLC at 11 a.m. and arrives at PIT at 4:39 p.m. local time.

Tickets for these flights go on sale at Delta.com beginning June 22. Salt Lake City is one of Delta’s largest hubs, linking to 90 destinations, including the West Coast, Mexico, Western Canada, Hawaii and Alaska.

This latest announcement builds on nonstop flights from here to the West Coast. PIT began flights to San Diego on Breeze Airways in May and Southwest Airlines earlier in June.

COOPERS ROCK STATE FOREST IN WEST VIRGINIA | PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

I visited Morgantown, West Virginia, home to one of the nation’s top party schools, on St. Patrick’s Day. Everyone must’ve shamrocked a little too hard the night before because the place was eerily quiet. I’m a 45-year-old University of Pittsburgh alum, so spending a lowkey Sunday on High Street was fine with me.

Perhaps the silence had something to do with the fact that a statue of Deputy Barney Fife keeps watch over the business district. The bumbling law enforcement officer from “The Andy Griffith Show” was played by Morgantown native Don Knotts, a 1948 graduate of West Virginia University.

In addition to the bronze Barney outside of The Metropolitan Theatre, a venue that’s celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the city honored its favorite son by naming one of its major roads Don Knotts Boulevard. I couldn’t help but whistle “The Andy Griffith Show” theme song from the 1960s sitcom as I cruised down the boulevard looking for a place to eat.

A STATUE OF MORGANTOWN NATIVE DON KNOTTS, WHO PLAYED DEPUTY BARNEY FIFE IN “THE ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW” | PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER

My culinary journey through Morgantown started with advice from Matt Welsch, a Marshall County native who owns Vagabond Kitchen in Wheeling and is executive chef for West Virginia’s state park system. The Mountain State’s motorcycle-riding culinary ambassador — he’s known online as The Vagabond Chef — recommended I visit Table 9, Morgantown’s first gastropub. It sits on the banks of the Monongahela River. Even if you can’t snag an outdoor seat, the building is mostly glass, so every spot has a spectacular view. It’s a great place to kick off your visit because it feels like the town’s unofficial visitor’s center. It’s also where I discovered Devils on Horseback — bacon-wrapped dates with pepper jam. They’re sinfully good.

Work off those calories by taking a walk on the Caperton Rail-Trail, a 5.7-mile asphalt path that parallels the Mon River with shops and eateries along the way. Get even deeper into nature by heading 13 miles outside of the city to Coopers Rock State Forest in Bruceton Mills. While you’re exploring 50 miles of hiking and biking trails, stop and take selfies at scenic overlooks, historical sites and Messinger Lake. If you want to cast a line, you’ll need to purchase a current West Virginia fishing license. Bonus points if you catch “The Incredible Mr. Limpet.” (Don Knotts made a splash as a talking fish in this 1964 Warner Bros. comedy.)

Did you know West Virginia is a hotbed of cryptid activity? From Sasquatch and Mothman to Snarly Yow and the Grafton Monster, these creatures aren’t just part of the state’s folklore, many locals have claimed to have encountered them.

“Some say the location itself invites strangeness,” says Matt Tolliver, who, in addition to owning Tolliver Counseling and Consulting Services, runs Cryptid Mountain Miniature Golf. “It may be because of the remoteness of the state, specifically the heavily wooded Monongahela National Forest where creatures like Bigfoot could lurk about unbothered.”

Tolliver grew up in French Creek hearing stories about the legendary beasts. In August, he opened his putt-putt business, a 13-hole, family-friendly, ADA-compliant, indoor mini golf course with blacklights, video and audio systems and a cryptid at each fairway. Even if your short-game is horrific, this is a fun place to spend an afternoon. It’s like Noah’s Ark at Kennywood — if Noah was a cryptozoologist.

Sheepsquatch, a bipedal creature purported to have white fur, horns and an appetite for farm animals, is Tolliver’s favorite cryptid because it’s the one that would terrify him the most if he came face to snout with it.

Believers say its existence is due to a chemical mutation caused by an old TNT factory. Others chalk it up to stories brought to West Virginia by Irish immigrants. For the record, I did not see any leprechauns or other mythological creatures during my visit. However, as I headed home on Interstate 79 I passed The Blues Brothers in their 1974 Dodge Monaco police car. Forget cryptids, perhaps Jake and Elwood have joined forces with the ghost of Barney Fife!

Where To Stay

Morgantown is 75 miles from Pittsburgh, so it’s close enough for a day trip, but if you want to truly experience wild, wonderful West Virginia (and commune with cryptids), go camping! Coopers Rock has a primitive campground and an RV campground that open the first weekend in April. If your idea of “roughing it” includes indoor plumbing, Wi-Fi, a hot tub and local pizza delivery, Mountain Creek Cabins is a family-owned retreat with eight luxury log abodes. Sadly, there is no statue dedicated to Ralph Furley, the loveable landlord Don Knotts played in ‘70s sitcom “Three’s Company.” 

Where to Eat

In addition to your trip to Table 9, you should indulge in a hand-cut fry plate and a gourmet sandwich at Von Blaze and be sure to track down Hill & Hollow, a free-range kitchen and catering business offering farm-to-fork Appalachian eats. For a fine dining experience, Marilyn’s of Morgantown specializes in scratch-made foods with Italian influences.

When to Go

Weather permitting, campsites at Coopers Rock State Forest open the first week of April and close during the winter months. That’s the best time to experience the wilds of West Virginia, which locals and license plates refer to as “Almost Heaven.”  Morgantown also has a Primanti’s Bros. restaurant selling “Almost Famous” sandwiches year-round — in case yinz guys get homesick.