Destinations by how you get there
Ohiopyle State Park, PA
For those seeking outdoor adventure, Ohiopyle State Park provides a wide range of activities in a natural setting.
- Getting there. By car, Ohiopyle is about 69 miles and approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Pittsburgh without traffic.
- Day one. The Youghiogheny River Gorge offers whitewater boating opportunities. Visitors can also bike the Great Allegheny Passage and explore more than 80 miles of hiking trails, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
- Day two. Consider visiting Meadow Run, where natural waterslides allow you to sit in the creek bed and ride the water. More hiking trails remain to be explored.
- Worth knowing. This state park attracts many visitors annually. Check the park's official website for current conditions and hours before your visit.
Morgantown, WV
Morgantown is a university town with a blend of cultural and outdoor activities, reachable even without a car.
- Getting there. A Greyhound bus from Pittsburgh to Morgantown takes around 1 hour 20 minutes and covers approximately 75 miles. Greyhound offers 4 daily departures for this route.
- Day one. Explore the city's offerings, which include checking the performance schedule for the historic Met Theatre, as suggested by the Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Art Museum of WVU houses 3,000 pieces across 5,400 square feet of exhibition space.
- Day two. For outdoor enthusiasts, hike the Coopers Rock State Forest Tyrone Trail Loop or explore the 91-acre WVU Core Arboretum.
- Worth knowing. Always check bus schedules with Greyhound for any updates or alerts.
Cumberland, MD
Cumberland offers a mix of history and outdoor recreation, particularly for those interested in trails and rail.
- Getting there. Driving from Pittsburgh to Cumberland takes approximately 2 hours via Interstate 79 South to Interstate 68 East.
- Day one. Cumberland is the terminus of the C&O Canal and the start of The Great Allegheny Passage, as noted by the Maryland Office of Tourism. This nearly-level, 12-foot wide path is an internationally recognized recreation biking and hiking trail.
- Day two. Take an excursion on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. They offer a three-hour round-trip Frostburg Flyer excursion from Cumberland to Frostburg Depot.
- Worth knowing. Check for Western Maryland Scenic Railroad schedules and availability when planning.
Erie, PA
Erie is a lakeside destination with beaches and a developing craft beverage scene, suitable for a relaxed visit.
- Getting there. The fastest Greyhound bus from Pittsburgh to Erie takes around 3 hours 20 minutes and covers approximately 152 miles. By car, it's about 128 miles.
- Day one. Spend time along Lake Erie, which offers seven miles of sandy beaches.
- Day two. Explore the Lake Erie Ale Trail, with new offerings always brewing at local microbreweries and distilleries.
- Worth knowing. Erie is a year-round destination, suitable for activities from sunbathing on the beach to snowshoeing the trails, according to VisitErie. Always check bus schedules with Greyhound for any updates.
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland presents a robust cultural scene, with museums, markets, and musical history easily accessible.
- Getting there. From Pittsburgh, Cleveland is about 133 miles and approximately 2 hours 40 minutes by car without traffic. FlixBus offers 4 daily bus rides with weekend trip options.
- Day one. Visit the historic West Side Market in Ohio City, which features over 80 family-owned booths selling a variety of foods. Later, explore the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to see rock relics like Michael Jackson's white sequined glove.
- Day two. Experience the Cleveland Museum of Art, where admission is free. You can also explore different neighborhoods or revisit areas from day one.
- Worth knowing. Destination Cleveland highlights these as top attractions. Check bus schedules with FlixBus or Greyhound for any service alerts.
Gettysburg, PA
For those interested in American history, Gettysburg offers a profound look into the past.
- Getting there. From Pittsburgh, Gettysburg is about 186 miles and approximately 4 hours 00 minutes by car without traffic.
- Day one. Start at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center to experience the museum, film, and cyclorama painting. Park rangers offer programs exploring key moments and locations on the battlefield.
- Day two. Engage with living history demonstrations, which help bring the past to life with the sounds of artillery and the flash of bayonets. Explore more of the battlefield on your own.
- Worth knowing. Parking at Gettysburg National Military Park lots is free and available daily from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. The National Park Service provides detailed information on things to do.
How to choose
When selecting a getaway, consider the total travel time versus your available weekend hours, especially if prioritizing car-free options like bus travel. Reflect on whether you seek active outdoor pursuits, cultural experiences, or historical immersion to match a destination to your ideal trip.
Always confirm operating hours for attractions and transport schedules closer to your travel date to ensure a smooth trip.
