Searching for a peaceful getaway in the Laurel Highlands? Head to Ligonier! Nestled in scenic western Pennsylvania, Ligonier charms with historic sites, mountain views, and fun for all ages. Whether you’re exploring a frontier fort, hiking woodland trails, or strolling a quaint downtown, Ligonier delivers small-town magic and outdoor adventure.
Ligonier, PA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike and explore Laurel Mountain – Hike, bike, or ski your way through this scenic mountain escape.
- For History Buffs: Step back in time at Fort Ligonier – Tour an authentically reconstructed 18th-century British fort with engaging exhibits and events.
- For Shoppers: Browse shops in downtown Ligonier – Discover boutiques, gift stores, art galleries, and antique treasures around the charming town square.
- For Couples: Unwind at Idlewild & SoakZone – Enjoy nostalgic rides, lazy rivers, and kid-friendly charm in one of America’s oldest amusement parks.
- For Families: Picnic and play at Ligonier Beach – While the historic pool is closed, the surrounding park remains a popular family recreation spot.
Best Time to Visit Ligonier, PA
The best time to visit Ligonier is from late spring to mid-fall (May to October). Mild weather and seasonal festivals make this an ideal time for outdoor fun, hiking, and exploring the area’s colonial history and attractions.
How to Get to Ligonier, PA
- If you are traveling by car: Ligonier is located along U.S. Route 30, about 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh and 3.5 hours from Washington, D.C. or Cleveland.
- By Plane: The closest airport is Arnold Palmer Regional Airport (in Latrobe), about 20 minutes away, with service from Spirit Airlines.
- By Train/Bus: Amtrak and Greyhound service nearby Latrobe or Greensburg, followed by a short drive to Ligonier.
Where to Stay in Ligonier, PA
- Recommended for Families: Ramada by Wyndham Ligonier – Centrally located with an outdoor pool, breakfast, and easy access to attractions.
- For Couples: Thistledown at Seger House – Boutique inn with elegant rooms in a restored Victorian mansion near the town square.
- For a Cozy B&B Stay: Campbell House Bed & Breakfast – Charming B&B with homemade breakfast, walkable to shops and restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Ligonier, PA
⮕ Fort Ligonier
Explore historic fortifications and discover fascinating artifacts from the French and Indian War.
Fort Ligonier is a British fort located in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, constructed in 1758, during the French and Indian War. The fort was a staging area for the 1758 Forbes Expedition. . During the 1763 Pontiac's War, the fort was a crucial link in the British supply and communication lines. It was attacked twice and surrounded by the Native Americans, but was never conquered by an enemy during the eight years of its existence. The fort was decommissioned in 1766. The fort has been reconstructed since and today has a small museum with various artifacts from its battles. Guided tours of the fort are offered to the visitors. Cannons are fired on Fort Ligonier Days.
200 S Market St, Ligonier, PA 15658, Phone: 724-238-9701
⮕ Ligonier Country Market
Visit this vibrant market and savor fresh produce, crafts, and local delights.
Ligonier Country Market is the largest and oldest market in Western Pennsylvania selling produce only. The market is located on the Loyalhanna Watershed Farm near Ligonier, Pennsylvania. Every Saturday from Memorial Day weekend through the first Saturday in October about 130 vendors offer their wares from eight in the morning to noon. They offer fresh produce, fruit, meats, poultry, plants and perennials. Many farmers sell heirloom tomatoes and other vegetables. Most farmers use organic farming methods and sell organic produce. Shoppers can also find freshly baked breads, pastries, hot cooked foods. honey and maple syrup. Handmade crafts are also available, including jewelry, country crafts, pottery, pet items, dog treats, candles, soaps and more.
Loyalhanna Watershed Farm, Ligonier, PA 15658, Phone: 724-858-7894
⮕ Idlewild and Soak Zone
Enjoy thrilling rides and cool off in exciting water attractions with kids.
Idlewild and Soak Zone, locally known as Idlewild Park, is a kids' amusement park in the Laurel Highlands near Ligonier, Pennsylvania, about 50 miles from Pittsburgh. The park was originally founded in 1878 by Thomas Mellon as a campground along the Ligonier Valley Railroad. Idlewild is the oldest amusement park in Pennsylvania and one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the States. The park has won a number of awards, including as the best children's park in the world from Amusement Today. The park expanded significantly during the first half of the 20th century, with a number of new rides. A Philadelphia Toboggan Company Rollo Coaster was added in 1938. The park hosts the Ligonier Highland Games, a Scottish athletic and cultural annual festival.
2574 US-30, Ligonier, PA 15658, Phone: 724-238-3666
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Laurel Mountain Ski Resort
Hit the slopes and enjoy winter adventures at this scenic ski resort.
Laurel Mountain Ski Resort is revered skiers’ destination located in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, within Laurel Mountain State Park. Laurel Mountain’s Laurel Ridge has the highest vertical drop in Pennsylvania at 761 feet. Double diamond Lower Wildcat Slope is the steepest in the state. The slopes were originally designed by Johann “Hannes” Schneider, renowned Austrian ski guide and European skiing legend. The resort opened in 1940, and some of the original structures, such as its famous Midway Cabin, still stand. The resort was once an exclusive club for the most prestigious Pennsylvania residents, it was gifted in 1964 to the commonwealth and is now accessible to everyone.
Boswell, PA 15531, Phone: 724-238-2801
⮕ Ligonier Valley Railroad Museum
Discover railroad history and admire vintage artifacts at this charming museum.
Located just a few miles from Ligonier, Pennsylvania, the Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum is occupying an original Ligonier Valley Rail Road station built around 1896. The Railroad was founded by Judge Thomas Mellon. It started carrying passenger in 1877 and its last run was on August 31, 1952. The Ligonier Valley Rail Road Association purchased the property in 2005 and opened the Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum on May 21, 2010. The museum’s goal is to preserve and celebrate the history of the Ligonier Valley Railroad. The Museum collection includes more than 3,000 exhibits such as lanterns, locks, keys, dinnerware and a wall map of the right of way of the Ligonier Valley Railroad. There is also a video about the railroad and a few other related videos.
3032 Idlewild Hill Ln, Ligonier, PA 15658-2346
For Art Lovers:
⮕ Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art
Explore captivating exhibits and admire regional artwork in a peaceful setting.
You can’t help but feel inspired by the palpable love and passion seen for the arts at the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art. Established in 1976, the community art museum has been showcasing American art for the Pennsylvania community through its five satellite locations. They have continuously rotating exhibits—some of which celebrate young talent from local schools—along with a permanent collection containing more than 7,000 works of art. Seeking to serve the community, the museum also offers award-winning educational programs for local students. Through their programs, art education is made more easily accessible to the youth.
One Boucher Lane & Route 711 South, Ligonier, PA 15658, Phone: 724-238-6015
Where to Eat in Ligonier, PA
- Recommended for Families: Ligonier Creamery – Treat the whole family to locally made ice cream and nostalgic charm.
- For Comfort Food: The Kitchen on Main – Cozy spot serving creative American dishes and hearty breakfast favorites.
- For a Casual Meal: Carol and Dave’s Roadhouse – Great for burgers, sandwiches, and a relaxed vibe with local flair.
If you are interested in local events:
- For History Lovers: Fort Ligonier Days (October) – Celebrate the fort’s history with reenactments, parades, food vendors, and live music.
- For Music Fans: Summer Concerts on the Diamond – Enjoy free live music Friday evenings in the heart of downtown Ligonier.
- For Holiday Fans: Ligonier Ice Fest (January) – See hand-carved ice sculptures and enjoy winter festivities throughout town.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Ligonier, PA:
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Laurel Mountain State Park (25–30 min) – Hike scenic forest trails, cross-country ski, or enjoy fall foliage views.
- For Skiers: Seven Springs Mountain Resort (30 min) – Hit the slopes, zipline, or relax at this popular year-round mountain resort.
- For Scenic Views: Linn Run State Park (20–25 min) – Explore peaceful hiking trails, picnic spots, and gentle waterfalls.
- For History Buffs: Historic Hanna’s Town (25–30 min) – Tour this reconstructed colonial village, courthouse, and Revolutionary War site.
- For Beer Lovers: Four Seasons Brewing Co. (Latrobe) (20–25 min) – Sample local craft brews in a laid-back tasting room near Ligonier.
- For Train Enthusiasts: Latrobe Station and Derry Railroad Days (20–25 min) – Visit train museums and explore Pennsylvania rail history.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Where is Ligonier located?
- Ligonier is a tiny borough in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, settled in the 1760s.
-
What is Ligonier known for?
- It is well known for Idlewild Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States.
- The town is also famous for the Laurel Mountain Ski Resort, a popular winter sports destination.
-
What historical attractions can visitors find in Ligonier?
- The Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum is located in the former railroad station, preserving local rail history.
- Fort Ligonier was a British fort that was never taken by enemies, making it an important historical site.
-
What can visitors buy at the Ligonier Country Market?
- The Ligonier Country Market sells fresh produce, mostly organic, along with prepared food, pickles, preserves, crafts, flowers, and more.
Plan Your Trip