Beyond the slopes and trails, the Laurel Highlands has a growing food, drink, and small-town scene. Here's where to go near Hidden Valley, Seven Springs, and Somerset County.
Half the fun of a Laurel Highlands trip is the in-between time — the farm stands, breweries, and small towns you discover between adventures. Here's how to eat and explore like a local.
The trail towns
- Ohiopyle — tiny but mighty, with casual eateries, ice cream, and outfitters built around the falls and the GAP trail.
- Confluence — a charming GAP-trail town where three rivers meet; great for a relaxed lunch and a riverside stroll.
- Somerset — the county hub, with everyday essentials, classic diners, and farm-to-table options.
Local flavors
The region leans into its agricultural roots: roadside farm stands in summer, maple everything in late winter, and a steady crop of craft breweries and cideries. Ask locals where they're drinking — the scene changes fast as the area grows.
Beyond food
- Laurel Caverns — Pennsylvania's largest cave, a great rainy-day option
- Flight 93 National Memorial — a moving, beautifully designed site near Shanksville
- Seasonal festivals — from summer concerts to fall foliage celebrations
For current hours, events, and the full regional directory, lean on the publicly funded Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau at GoLaurelHighlands.com — it's the most reliable, up-to-date guide to the area. Then bring it all home to a full kitchen and a fire pit at the cabin.
