How To Be A Tourist In Lawrence County

Located on the outskirts of the Pittsburgh-New Castle-Weirton Combined Statistical Area, Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, gives locals tons of things to do without sacrificing a laid-back, small-town existence. Whether you live near Lawrence County or you’re coming from hundreds of miles away, you’ll find tons of things to do. Without knowing what the county has to offer, however, you may struggle to find things to do in Lawrence County.

Without further ado, here’s our guide on how to be a tourist in Lawrence County.

Spend Some Time on Lawrence County’s Lakes and Rivers

As part of Appalachia, Western Pennsylvania is filled with breathtaking natural scenery that locals and visitors alike enjoy. Lawrence County has dozens of lakes and rivers that you’ll want to check out during your visit.

If you already own one, we recommend bringing along a boat to take advantage of Lawrence County’s many boat launches. If you don’t already have one, take a trip over to the small town of Portersville in Butler County to rent a boat from Crescent Bay Boat Rental. You can rent kayaks, rowboats, or paddleboats for as little as $15.

Lawrence County has several boat launches, including the 50-mile-long Slippery Rock Creek. You can conveniently launch from McConnells Mill State Park, where you’ll find tons of other activities.

Enjoy the Outdoors at McConnells Mill State Park

Whether or not you plan on traversing Slippery Rock Creek by boat, McConnells Mill State Park is a must-visit attraction for anybody visiting Lawrence County.

McConnells Mill State Park is a 2,546-acre park that’s home to a National Natural Landmark, the Slippery Rock Creek Gorge. Open every day of the year from dawn until dusk, you’ll enjoy hiking all or part of the 15-mile-long Slippery Rock Gorge Trail. This well-renowned trail is home to five beautiful waterfalls:

• Kildoo Falls
• Breakneck Falls
• Grindstone Falls
• Alpha Falls
• Hell’s Hollow

Catch a Show at Westminster College

Although just 1,300 students attend this private liberal arts school, Westminster College attracts visitors from across the Quaker State. The school is arguably best known for the Westminster College Celebrity Series, which has hosted world-renowned acts such as:

• The Temptations
• LeAnn Rimes
• Glenn Miller Orchestra
• The Ten Tenors
• Preservation Hall Jazz Band

Single tickets start at just $27 per event and range up to $62 per event for premium seating. Westminster College also offers season subscriptions, which let you grab tickets before the general public, give you unsurpassed service, and offer 100% free parking and shuttle service.

Have a Cup of Joe or Dine at Local Restaurants

Although it isn’t home to any Michelin Star restaurants, Lawrence County offers plenty of homegrown dishes that you’ll fall head over heels for. Some local favorites include Mary’s Restaurant and Bakery, Edwards Restaurant, and Hazel’s Restaurant, all of which are in New Castle.

Don’t forget about Lawrence County’s great coffee spots, including Mohawk Coffee House and National Grind Coffee and Tea Shop.