your neighborhood: Ligonier

With attractions and activities that appeal to almost any interest, Ligonier is the perfect western Pennsylvania locale for a summer day trip. The town is easily accessible by U.S. Route 30, and its location in the heart of the Laurel Highlands region makes the trip a particularly scenic one.

History buffs will find a number of diversions in Ligonier, beginning with the fort that gave the town its name. Fort Ligonier played a significant role in the French and Indian War, providing supply storage and a staging area for British troops as they marched toward Fort Duquesne. Interestingly, Fort Ligonier served as a British outpost for eight years, during which it was never captured by enemy forces.

Visitors not only can tour the restored fort itself, but they can explore the accompanying museum, which features historical exhibits and an art gallery, as well. Want a little more action? Head to town during Fort Ligonier Days, a three day festival that commemorates the Battle of Fort Ligonier. The festival, generally held the second weekend in October, includes a re-enactment of the battle.

Another entertaining historical site is located just a few miles down Route 30 in Laughlintown. The Compass Inn is a refurbished stagecoach stop that was originally built in 1799. Docents clad in attire of the early 1800’s lead a 90-minute tour that offers a perspective not only on travel during the early 1800’s but also on everyday life. Highlights include a life-sized stagecoach and Conestoga wagon and a functional blacksmith shop and cookhouse.

Early 19th century stagecoaches and, more specifically, the road built to let them travel between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, essentially laid the foundation for modern-day Ligonier. Originally home to just a handful of families, the town boomed as its convenient location served as an ideal stop for travelers.

In many ways, Ligonier hearkens back to yesteryear. Its buildings feature historical architectural touches, and the borough’s central business district, known as the Diamond, has the feel of a colonial town square.

That business district features an eclectic collection of charming shops and boutiques that specialize in everything from high-end kitchen wares to horse-themed merchandise. Antique lovers have a number of options at their disposal, and bargains abound for bibliophiles in Ligonier’s second-hand bookshops, including a small one that is housed in the town’s library. With paperback titles starting at $2 and magazines on sale for a dime, this “store” is a gem.

Shoppers could spend a good chunk of the day exploring only the stores in the Diamond and its immediate vicinity, but those who don’t walk a little farther along Main Street will miss out on businesses that offer some of the most unique merchandise.

It’s easy to work up an appetite (and a thirst) after all that shopping, and a trip to the Ligonier Tavern can satisfy both. The Tavern still serves food and drink to the town’s residents and visitors, just as it has since 1927, according to the plaque outside of its front door. Additional dining choices range from pizza to sushi.

Ligonier truly does have something for everyone. Outdoorsy types will appreciate the winding hiking trails at Powdermill Nature Reserve, a research station of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History that also includes an educational and exhibit center. The recently refurbished Darlington Station draws in train enthusiasts interested in the history of the 10-mile Ligonier Valley Railroad that once linked the town with Latrobe.

Of course, no list of Ligonier attractions would be complete without a mention of Idlewild Park. From Story Book Forest for the youngest tykes to Soak Zone for bigger kids looking for more adventure, the entire family can find something to love at this Pittsburgh-area tradition.