Pittsburgh Southern Beltway Map Travel Guide
Discovering Pittsburgh’s Southern Beltway
If you’re planning a trip to Pittsburgh and want to explore beyond the city’s bustling downtown, the Southern Beltway is a great place to start. This scenic route takes you through charming towns, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside, offering a glimpse into Western Pennsylvania’s rich history and natural beauty. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey along the Southern Beltway, highlighting the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, and more.
Top Attractions
The Southern Beltway is home to several must-see attractions, including:
- The Meadows Racetrack and Casino
- The Tanger Outlets
- The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum
- The Montour Trail
- The South Hills Village Mall
Whether you’re a history buff or a shopaholic, there’s something for everyone along the Southern Beltway.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, don’t miss out on some of the Southern Beltway’s hidden gems, such as:
- The charming town of Canonsburg, with its historic homes and quaint shops
- The scenic Peters Lake Park, with its hiking trails and fishing opportunities
- The historic Harmony Society Cemetery, where the founders of the Harmony Society are buried
These lesser-known spots offer a chance to get off the beaten path and discover the unique charm of the Southern Beltway.
Food Scene
Pittsburgh is known for its hearty cuisine, and the Southern Beltway is no exception. Some top food destinations along the route include:
- The iconic Primanti Bros. sandwich shop
- The historic Claysville Store, which serves up delicious homemade pies
- The upscale Bistecca Steakhouse and Wine Bar
Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or upscale dining, the Southern Beltway has plenty to offer.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem. Here are some tips for exploring the Southern Beltway without breaking the bank:
- Take advantage of free attractions, such as the Montour Trail and Harmony Society Cemetery
- Visit during the off-season to score deals on lodging and attractions
- Check out local farmers’ markets and roadside stands for affordable and delicious eats
With a little planning, you can enjoy all the Southern Beltway has to offer without spending a fortune.
Outdoor Adventures
The Southern Beltway is a nature-lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, such as:
- Hiking and biking the Montour Trail
- Fishing at Peters Lake Park
- Canoeing the Chartiers Creek
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, the Southern Beltway has something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Historical Landmarks
The Southern Beltway is rich in history, with several notable landmarks along the route, including:
- The Harmony Society Cemetery
- The historic Canonsburg Cemetery
- The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum
These sites offer a glimpse into the region’s past and are a must-see for history buffs.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? The Southern Beltway has plenty of family-friendly activities, such as:
- The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, where kids can ride vintage trolleys and learn about the history of transportation
- The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, which offers family-friendly dining options and a bowling alley
- The Montour Trail, which is stroller-friendly and offers plenty of space for kids to run around
With so many fun and educational activities, the Southern Beltway is a great destination for families.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience, try one of these off-the-beaten-path activities:
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic countryside
- Visit the historic Sarris Candies factory for a behind-the-scenes tour and sweet treats
- Explore the abandoned coke ovens at the Beehive Coke Ovens Park
These unconventional activities offer a chance to see the Southern Beltway from a new perspective.
Natural Wonders
The Southern Beltway is home to some stunning natural wonders, such as:
- The rolling hills and valleys of Washington County
- The Chartiers Creek, a scenic waterway perfect for canoeing and kayaking
- The panoramic views from the top of Bavington Road
With so much natural beauty to explore, the Southern Beltway is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Vibrant Nightlife
After a day of exploring, unwind at one of the Southern Beltway’s many nightlife hotspots, such as:
- The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, which offers live entertainment and a variety of bars and restaurants
- The upscale Bistecca Steakhouse and Wine Bar, which offers a sophisticated atmosphere and extensive wine list
- The rustic Washington Brewing Company, which offers craft beer and pub fare in a laid-back setting
From upscale dining to casual bars, the Southern Beltway has something for every nightlife seeker.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, check out some of the Southern Beltway’s farmers’ markets and specialty shops, such as:
- The Canonsburg Farmers’ Market, which offers fresh produce and handmade crafts
- The historic Claysville Store, which sells homemade pies and other baked goods
- The local Amish markets, which offer handmade furniture, quilts, and other crafts
These local markets offer a chance to support small businesses and sample some of the region’s best products.
Beaches and Mountains
While the Southern Beltway is known for its rolling hills and scenic countryside, it’s also just a short drive from some of Pennsylvania’s best beaches and mountains, such as:
- The sandy shores of Presque Isle State Park, just two hours north
- The ski slopes of Seven Springs Mountain Resort, just one hour east
- The charming town of Ohiopyle, nestled in the heart of the Laurel Highlands
These nearby destinations offer a chance to experience even more of Pennsylvania’s natural beauty.
Cultural Immersion
The Southern Beltway is steeped in history and culture, with several museums, galleries, and cultural centers along the route, such as:
- The LeMoyne House, a historic stop on the Underground Railroad
- The Canonsburg Town Park, which hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year
- The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, which showcases works by American artists from the 18th century to the present day
These cultural destinations offer a chance to learn more about the region’s rich history and artistic heritage.
Art and Music Scene
The Southern Beltway is home to a vibrant arts and music scene, with several galleries, theaters, and music venues along the route, such as:
- The Galleria at South Hills, which features works by local artists and hosts art events and classes
- The Palace Theatre, a historic venue that hosts concerts, plays, and other performances
- The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, which hosts live music and entertainment on weekends
Whether you’re a fan of visual art or live music, the Southern Beltway has plenty to offer.
Walking Tours
If you prefer to explore on foot, the Southern Beltway has several walking tours that highlight the area’s history, architecture, and natural beauty, such as:
- The Washington County Covered Bridges Tour, which takes you through some of the region’s most picturesque covered bridges
- The Canonsburg Historic District Walking Tour, which showcases the town’s historic homes and landmarks
- The Peters Township Library Nature Trail, which offers a peaceful escape into the woods
These walking tours offer a chance to stretch your legs and