Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania Travel Guide

Come enjoy your weekend in Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania!  This small town in southwestern PA is home to only 37 permanent residents!  What Ohiopyle lacks in people, it makes up for with gorgeous scenery and an abundance of outdoor recreation.  Ohiopyle is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains in the Laurel Highlands region.  The closest major cities are Pittsburgh, PA (1hr 24min, 71 miles), Baltimore, MD (3hr 7min, 194 miles), and Washington, DC (3hr 23min, 189 miles).  Ohiopyle is an excellent area for whitewater rafting on the Yough, which even George Washington attempted, biking the Great Allegheny Passage, and hiking Ohiopyle State Park.  Explore local architecture at Falling Water, or swim in the natural waterslides!  After your adventures, savor a bit to eat in the quaint downtown area.  Enjoy the day with your family or as a special day for yourself.  

Ohiopyle is most well known for its white water rafting on the Youghiogheny River.  There are a variety of tours based on skill that covers classes I-V rapids.  If George Washington can try it, so can you!  Ohiopyle is surrounded by Ohiopyle State Park, the main focus of the area.  Hike, picnic, chase waterfalls, or ride on the natural water slides!  The newly constructed visitors center has a great view of the falls and information about the area.  Ohiopyle is a premiere destination for biking, as the Great Allegheny Passage runs right through the park.  The trail extends 150 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Cumberland, MD to join with the C&O canal trail. 

The beauty of Ohiopyle is recognized by many, but maybe none greater than Frank Lloyd Wright, who designed two beautiful homes here.  Falling Water is a major attraction in the area, as the house is built on top of a waterfall!  The other home, Kentucky Knob, is built on top of a nearby mountain.  Both homes can be toured.  While visiting, travel to the Laurel Caverns for a traditional or self-guided cavern tour.

A big day of recreation and exploring requires some fuel!  This tiny town has limited but loved options for visitors.  Head to Bittersweet Cafe to start your day with breakfast and coffee.  After the trail, hit Falls Market Restaurant and General Store for food and a souvenir.  For dinner, grab a pizza from Paddlers Pizza or BBQ and a beer from Falls City Pub.

There are no hotels near Ohiopyle, but there are a few inns.  Book a room at Starlight Hill Bed and Breakfast for accommodations with a yummy breakfast, or stay at the historic Summit Inn, built in 1907.  Sticking with the outdoor theme?  Try camping at Ohiopyle State Park.  If you are looking to book a whole rental for yourself, consider staying in a Vrbo.  Here are some of our favorites: Downtown Apartment for 2 , River Retreat for 10 , and Downtown Retreat for 4

Ohiopyle is the perfect day trip or weekend trip to spend some time in nature.  Not sure when to plan your visit?  Consider planning when one of their festivals is going!  Ohiopyle is home to several festivals including Youghtoberfest, Spirit of the River, and the Annual Buckwheat Pancake Festival. 

Whatever you’re into, Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania has something worth seeing.  We hope this travel guide gave you a glimpse into life in Ohiopyle that can inspire a future visit.

Happy Travels!

The Modern Travel Guide

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