Bushy Run Battlefield brings a specific site together with an important chapter of history: it is Pennsylvania’s only recognized Native American battlefield and preserves the site of a decisive battle between the British and Native Americans during Pontiac’s War (1763–64).
Discover History and Art
At West Overton Village, historic buildings and their former uses take center stage. The village preserves 19 buildings across 40 acres and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Seasonal tours offer a chance to visit the 1838 Overholt Homestead and the museum in the 1859 distillery building. Check tour dates before your trip.
The Westmoreland Museum of American Art offers another way to connect with the past. Its permanent exhibition galleries showcase an extensive collection of American art, with a strong focus on the art and artists of southwestern Pennsylvania. In Westmoreland, historic sites and a regional perspective on art come together.
Historic Hanna’s Town also offers an opportunity for a group visit: bus groups and groups of 20 or more can arrange a visit from May through mid-December. Seasonal scheduling depends on the organizers’ availability.
Trails and Landscapes
The Great Allegheny Passage runs directly through Cedar Creek Park, where it can be used for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding. In Cedar Creek Gorge, water cascades over natural slate steps. Visitors can choose between different interests: using a route for multiple activities or taking in a gorge shaped by water and slate.
Keystone State Park spans 1,200 acres. Campgrounds, modern cabins, numerous trails, and a lake are within walking distance. Those interested in biking will also find the Lakeside Trail, which is open to cyclists.
At Powdermill Nature Reserve in Rector, Westmoreland County, the reserve protects and preserves natural habitats where researchers and educators study ecological processes. The site covers more than 2,200 acres of woodlands, streams, fields, and ponds for research and educational programs. The nature center features exhibits on local wildlife, an indoor stream, and the Marsh Machine.
Lakes, Parks, and Activities
At Mammoth Park, a 24-acre freshwater lake offers fishing opportunities and is stocked with fish by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. A very different attraction in the park is the Giant Slide Complex, with two stainless-steel slides about 100 feet long and one 40-foot plastic slide.
Both lakes at Twin Lakes Park are stocked with hardy sport fish. A 2.5-mile figure-eight trail loops around both lakes. The park also has paved stone paths, fishing piers, and accessible picnic and play areas. The loop trail, fishing opportunities, and accessible facilities offer different ways to enjoy a visit.
Northmoreland Lake is also stocked with warmwater fish and trout, and the park hosts an annual fishing tournament. At Bridgeport Dam, the permanent 70-acre pool has a boat launch. Visitors can fish, hunt, and observe nature there. Chestnut Ridge Park offers a 25-acre recreational pool, also with a boat launch, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing, hunting, and other outdoor sports.
For bike rides, the Westmoreland Heritage Trail features two named sections: 8.5 miles from Saltsburg to Delmont and 9.3 miles from Export to Trafford. Route lengths and future connections may change as construction progresses; check route plans before your ride.
For water fun, Idlewild’s SoakZone features a lazy river, water slides, the Little Squirts children’s area, and Hydro Racers slides. As a seasonal attraction, it has its own operating dates, which you should check before your trip. When choosing accommodations in Westmoreland, consider whether culture, biking, nature, or activities on lakes and in parks will be the focus of your trip.
Explore more destinations: Greensburg, Hyde Park, New Stanton, New Florence, Irwin, North Belle Vernon, Latrobe, Donegal, Acme, Ligonier, Delmont, Adamsburg, Scottdale, New Kensington, Jones Mills.
For the overview of the wider region: Pennsylvania.
