Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Washington County, PA

  • Published 2023/04/01

Washington County, Pennsylvania, is a must-visit destination home to some of America’s finest historic attractions, entertainment venues, and prime events.

It was founded in 1781 and named after former President George Washington.

This county in Pennsylvania is part of the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Statistical Area, with Washington as its county seat.

The county is renowned for the Whiskey Rebellion, one of the notable events of early American history.

Enjoy historic landmarks, live performances, nature, outdoor activities, shopping, dining, and more in the county.

Here are the best things to do in Washington County, Pennsylvania:

Travel Back in Time at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

Exterior view of the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Ride a vintage trolley to the past at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum along Museum Road in Washington, Pennsylvania.

Founded in 1953, the museum features a collection of vintage trolleys that traveled the streets of Washington and other cities in the state over a century ago.

Trolley at Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Besides enjoying a scenic ride around Washington, you can also tour the museum and check out fascinating interactive exhibits about the history of trolleys.

Likewise, watch its film, visit the museum store, enjoy snacks in the picnic area, and check out its family-friendly events.

Take photos of the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum for long-lasting memories.

Interior view of a trolley at Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Cross Creek County Park

Just east of Avella, Cross Creek County Park stretches over 2,000 acres, making it the largest park in Washington County.

Here, you can spend quality time with your family in one of its picnic shelters and let the kids frolic in the playgrounds.

Take advantage of the bicycle, bridle, and nature trails to break a sweat and explore the park.

Bring your binoculars to watch birds and wildlife because the park’s beautiful greenery and habitats are friendly and attractive for animals.

Within the park, you’ll find the lovely Cross Creek Lake, a gem with an unusual shape and many nooks and crannies to explore and features boat launches.

The lake is over 250 acres and perfect for fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing, and you can bring your boat or rent one at the park.

Cross Creek County Park is open all year long, and hosts organized events by the Washington County Parks and Recreation.

You will enjoy this beautiful park whether you want to indulge in many activities or relax and soak up scenic views.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Sarris Candies

One of the must-see attractions in Washington County is Sarris Candies in Canonsburg.

It’s a family-owned and operated business founded in 1960, making the highest quality chocolates, candies, and ice cream.

It’s well-known for its excellent rich taste, adherence to high-quality standards, and top-notch customer service.

It started as a small candy shop but has now grown into a chocolate factory and ice cream parlor the size of a football field.

It also features a stellar ambiance and festive carousels with different flavors, colors, and sizes for your eyes to feast on and make your mouth water.

Check out this Canonsburg landmark to channel your inner child while satisfying your craving and know why it delights many worldwide.

Watch a Live Concert at the Pavilion at Star Lake

Since Washington County teems with great music, live music lovers will find several iconic venues in the area.

One example is the Pavilion at Star Lake in Burgettstown, the region’s largest premier live concert venue and outdoor music amphitheater.

Located along Route 18 in Burgettstown, this legendary venue can accommodate up to 23,000 guests.

It features a flexible amphitheater, a spacious lawn, soaring views, an intimate VIP Club, and a massive parking lot.

It’s a perfect place for corporate events, conferences, graduations, concerts, fundraising events, and more.

Since it has access to the world’s largest musical entertainment, it hosts concerts for various artists.

Check out the list of upcoming concerts and events, find your favorite artists, buy tickets, and enjoy the fantastic shows at The Pavilion at Star Lake.

Take a Prehistoric Adventure at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village

People climbing down the stairs at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village

Jbarta, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Do you want to experience life for Western Pennsylvania’s prehistoric hunters and gatherers?

As a National Historic Landmark in Avella, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village will show you a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Meadowcroft Rockshelter is North America’s oldest site of human habitation, featuring a massive rock overhang used by the region’s first inhabitants for shelter 19,000 years ago.

Apart from the ancient history, you can also relive rural life more than 400 years ago through its recreated historic villages.

Rocks at Meadowcroft Rockshelter

Jbarta, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

These villages include Eastern Woodland Indian Village from the 16th century, a log cabin and open-sided trading post from the 18th century, and a village from the 19th century with a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and church.

Are you excited to tour this internationally known archeological treasure?

Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historical Village opens seasonally from May through October.

You can purchase tickets in advance online or at the door.

Try Your Luck at Hollywood Casino at the Meadows

Along Racetrack Road in Washington is Hollywood Casino at The Meadows, a one-stop for all your entertainment needs.

It offers tremendous gaming excitement with over 2,500 slot machines, over 65 table games, a poker room with 14 tables, a brand-new sportsbook, and online games.

Try betting on live horse racing, as it has a racetrack with some of the best full-field cards for horse races near Pittsburgh, including the ADIOS Race.

Watch comedy shows at the Meadows Event Center or catch the region’s hottest bands performing live at H Lounge for fabulous entertainment.

Likewise, you may want to check out the 24-lane bowling alley to strike some pins.

Hollywood Casino at the Meadows also features premier restaurants with amazing gaming floor views, a luxurious hotel, a pool, and a fitness center.

View Exhibits at the McDonald Trail Station & History Center

The McDonald Trail Station & History Center is a welcome center in McDonald for the users of both the Panhandle Trail and the Montour Trail and other visitors.

This center has hundreds of vintage photographs, news articles, artifacts, and extensive exhibits about McDonald’s long history, which dates back to 1775.

Topics include early settlement, famous McDonald natives, McDonald’s great oil boom of the 1890s, and the community’s cornerstones, from churches to the trolley system.

The trail station is also a site for many events, including the farmers’ market every Saturday from July to September.

You may also want to browse its gift shop with a selection of McDonald’s memorabilia before leaving and heading out to hike, bike, or explore the trails.

Visit this attraction in McDonald, Pennsylvania, during the weekends from April through October.

Spend the Day at Peterswood Park

Peterswood Park in Peters Township is another best spot because of its many recreational amenities.

The beautiful park is more than 133 acres with four multi-use fields and five ball fields, perfect for those into sports.

Five shelters can seat 40 to 100 people with amenities such as charcoal grills, electrical outlets, lights, and access to washrooms.

There are also two concession stands, plenty of shade from trees, and three playgrounds your kids will love.

You’ll also find a walking trail and an outdoor amphitheater where you can catch concert series, movies, and other fun outdoor events.

In addition, the park features a community recreation center and a skate park behind it.

Peterswood Park is ideal for playing a sport, exercising, catching live entertainment, spending time with family, and relaxing with nature.

Hop on a Kayak at Peters Lake Park

Scenic view of the Peters Lake Park

Bambi2020 / Shutterstock.com

Another excellent attraction in Washington County that deserves a visit is Peters Lake Park.

This tranquil park in Peters Township is 189 acres, with a beautiful lake called Peters Lake.

Have a picnic lunch at the park, stroll along the woodchip walking trail, or watch your kids enjoy the playgrounds.

Likewise, relax on one of the benches, soak up the panoramic views of the lake, and admire the site’s rolling topography.

It’s part of a stream valley heavily wooded with second-generation timber, typical of Western Pennsylvania terrain.

Peters Lake Park also has a fishing pier and kayak launch fishing, kayaking, or canoeing.

Take a Selfie with the Singing Statue of Perry Como

Are you a fan of Perry Como?

Even if you’re unfamiliar with him, you should visit the Singing Statue of Perry Como in Canonsburg.

Perry Como was a famous American singer, actor, and television personality born in Canonsburg in 1912.

He was known for his mellow baritone voice and his easy-listening songs.

Como became an audience favorite during a career that lasted for more than half a century.

Canonsburg pays tribute to his legacy by playing legendary hits from his statue outside the Canonsburg Municipal Building.

As one of the must-see sights in the county, the Singing Statue of Perry Como should give you several souvenirs.

Shop ’til You Drop at Donaldson’s Crossroads

Do you love shopping?

Go to Donaldson’s Crossroads Shopping Center, or simply Donaldson’s Crossroads, in McMurray.

This 231,397-square-foot center is the largest open-air shopping complex in Pittsburgh’s southern metropolitan region.

Donaldson’s Crossroads has everything you need for your busy lifestyle.

It features accessories, jewelry, apparel, cards and gifts, health and beauty, sports and fitness, dining options, entertainment, and more.

The shopping mall’s dynamic anchors include T.J. Maxx, Giant Eagle, and Tuesday Morning.

In addition, check out the events it hosts throughout the year, such as the annual Halloween Walk.

Shop ’til you drop at this strategic and convenient one-stop shopping destination!

Join a Guided Tour of the David Bradford House

Facade of the David Bradford House

Midnightdreary, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

As a National Historic Landmark, Bradford House Museum was completed in 1788 on South Main Street in Washington.

The two-story building was constructed in the Georgian style, featuring a side hall entry, dressed stone four bay windows, and a mahogany staircase.

David Bradford and his family only lived in this house for a few years; they were evicted due to his involvement in the Whiskey Rebellion.

After he left, the house sustained severe damage until it became a coffin and furniture store.

Due to its historical and architectural importance, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission restored the house to its former glory.

Take a guided tour of the Bradford House Museum to see fascinating exhibits about Bradford and the rebellion.

Check out the garden, well house, and outdoor kitchen, which features open hearth cooking demonstrations.

See the Glass Artworks at the Duncan & Miller Glass Museum

Along Ridge Avenue in Washington lies the Duncan & Miller Glass Museum, a charming spot that won’t disappoint.

The National Duncan Glass Society maintains the museum to preserve the heritage of George Duncan & Sons and the Duncan & Miller Glass Company.

Here, you’ll be dazzled by the exhibits that feature an elegant collection of glass artworks, glassmaking tools, and memorabilia from 1867 to 1955.

You can also join a guided tour led by knowledgeable docents who’ll walk you through history, glasswork, and the industry’s effect on the region.

The Duncan & Miller Glass Museum also has a gift shop with antique and vintage glassware, beautiful handmade art, glass jewelry, and glass reference books.

Catch Stellar Shows at Little Lake Theatre

Enjoy live theater at Little Lake Theatre in Canonsburg, the region’s premier community theater.

It was founded in 1949, and the initial stage was the center of a barn floor surrounded by wooden folding chairs.

The theater features an intimate 180-seat in the round indoor setting and a fantastic lineup of theatrical experiences that bring fun to its audiences.

With your family, you can watch dramas, comedies, musicals, new plays, classics, and children’s theater here.

The theater also offers summer camps and classes for kids, teens, and adults.

Whether you’re into classics or contemporary works, you’ll find something worth watching performances each season at Little Lake Theatre.

Play Your Best Round of Golf at Lindenwood Golf Club

If golfing is one of your enjoyable pastimes, you have many exciting golf destinations in Washington County.

One of the best golf courses in the area that you can visit is Lindenwood Golf Club in Canonsburg, a golfer’s paradise.

Located on Galley Road in Canonsburg, this public golf course offers a 27-hole championship layout with lush sculpted fairways and picturesque views.

There’s a driving range, a chipping green, a sand bunker, and practice putting greens where you can warm up and practice your swing before your round.

Lindenwood Golf Club has a three-hole executive course, locker facilities, and a well-equipped pro shop.

Enjoy a game of golf with your buddies in a quiet and beautiful setting at Lindenwood Golf Club.

Final Thoughts

Washington County has exciting attractions for people of all ages.

Whether you want to travel back in time or enjoy the present, you’ll always find fun and memorable experiences here.

Enjoy the best things to do in Washington County, Pennsylvania!

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