Explore the rugged countryside filled with pristine parkland, hiking trails and sacred monuments that offer moments of quiet reflection. While the ornate Somerset County Courthouse dominates the town’s ultra-modest skyline, the quaint city center is dotted with a mixture of late 19th-century colonial revival, Queen Anne and craftsman buildings, some of which house cozy cafes and antique shops. Between stepping back in time to enjoying the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Somerset.
Parkland Paradise
Set out for a day of adventure at the 4,062-acre Laurel Hill State Park. Enjoy an afternoon of fishing or rent a rowboat, canoe or kayak to explore Laurel Hill Lake. Traverse the rugged mountainous terrain via 15 miles of hiking or biking trails. Kooser State Park offers 250 acres of dense forests in the Laurel Highlands. Fish for trout in Kooser Lake, dine on a picnic lunch in a shady oak tree grove or enjoy nearly 2 miles of hiking trails. During the winter months, you can strap on skis and hit nearly 2 miles of cross-country skiing trails.
Relaxation and Recreation
Sample wine at the family-owned Glades Pike Winery, which hosts special events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and crafts festivals showcasing works by local artists. To schedule a behind-the-scenes tour, simply call ahead. If you’re in the mood to stretch your limbs and breathe in crisp air, head to 3,213-foot Mount Davis, located just 40 minutes southwest of Somerset in Forbes State Forest. Pennsylvania’s highest peak is dotted with hiking trails, some offering lookout points with sweeping views of the colorful canopy of trees below.
Honoring Heroes
Pay respects at the Flight 93 Memorial, 25 minutes northeast of Somerset. The site includes a visitor’s center where you can learn more about the lives and actions of the American heroes who were on the 9/11 flight. Or, visit the Quecreek Mine Rescue Site where, in 2002, a five-day rescue effort ensued after nine area coalminers were trapped 240 feet below ground. Today, the successful rescue is celebrated at the site, where you can view a statue commemorating the event and take a peek inside the mine’s entrance.
Dining Out
Fill up on succulent ribs, chicken, pulled pork and beef brisket at JB's Roadhouse BBQ. You’ll successfully avoid wasting food when your kids order smaller portions from the children’s menu. Dine outside on rustic picnic tables or pick up your food to-go from the charming, makeshift drive-through window.
Ready to travel? Find hotels in Somerset.