Washington County’s 23 historic covered bridges offer a tangible thread for discovery. The maps for the Washington County Covered Bridges Driving Tour provide QR-coded information about the bridges and turn-by-turn directions for the tours. The National Pike (Route 40) also runs through Washington County and includes historic landmarks.
An annual reason to visit is the EQT Washington & Greene Counties' Covered Bridge Festival. It takes place on the third weekend in September. Offerings include handmade arts and crafts and homemade food; the program may vary from year to year.
Trails with Different Character
The Montour Trail is a non-motorized multi-use trail in Washington and Allegheny Counties. Its main route is about 47 miles long; including the branches, the total length is more than 60 miles. Trail conditions can change, so check before setting out. The Panhandle Trail is 29 miles long and follows a former railroad corridor through hilly terrain. Most of it lies in northern Washington County. Horseback riding is allowed in the Pennsylvania corridor, but not on the trail itself; check use restrictions before your visit.
History Across Multiple Eras
Meadowcroft’s interpretive villages depict rural life over the past 500 years. The 19th-century Historic Village includes a blacksmith shop and a one-room schoolhouse. The Meadowcroft Rockshelter offers a glimpse into a much earlier period: 19,000 years ago, it served as shelter for the region’s first inhabitants.
The Bradford House is a National Historic Landmark dating to 1788. The home of Dr. Francis J. LeMoyne is also preserved as a historic landmark. Francis Julius LeMoyne opened his home and grounds as stations on the Underground Railroad. Together, these places offer insight into different chapters of history without narrowing the story to a single era.
Cultural Sites and Visitor Information
The Whiskey Rebellion Education and Visitor Center welcomes visitors from April through November, Wednesday through Saturday, without an appointment. Tours are available by appointment with 48 hours’ advance notice. The center is fully accessible. Its exhibits include an 18th-century-style cage bar exhibit and a whiskey still.
A visit to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum includes a guided tour of the Trolley Display Building. Farm visits at The Crafty Alpaca are available by appointment. The two experiences have different focuses: trolley history at one, and a farm visit at the other.
Lakes, River and Night Sky
The trails at Hillman State Park are open to horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking. Seasonal restrictions apply, so check them before your visit. Cross Creek Lake is a 244-acre reservoir in western Washington County. Public fishing and boating are available at Canonsburg Lake; it also has a fishing pier for people with disabilities. Only non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors are allowed on the lake.
At the Mingo Creek County Park Observatory, a program takes visitors on a tour of the night sky; afterward, visitors observe celestial objects through two large telescopes. Public observing has been offered there since 2005. The free public Star Parties take place several times a month. The middle section of the Monongahela River has about 40 miles of riverfront in Washington County and is suitable for year-round floating on the water. Check water conditions and access before taking part in an activity. The Monongahela Aquatorium hosts summer concerts; the program may vary by season.
Discover more destinations: Washington, Canonsburg, Bentleyville, Coal Center, Montour County, Perry County, Delaware, Juniata.
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