Sandwiched Between Pittsburgh And Erie Is A Lakeside Borough With Antique Shops And Nearby Parks

Pennsylvania is packed with small towns that often fly under the radar, many of which offer visitors incredible local experiences. Located between the lakeside town of Erie and the bustling city of Pittsburgh, which is home to America's steepest street, lies a super tiny town that certainly packs a punch. Yes, Portersville is less than one square mile, so it is not hard to see how it can be easily missed when driving north along I-79. But many surprises await those who take the time to stop by. 

This lakeside borough, in Butler County, boasts nearby state parks that are a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and quirky antique shops that add to its overall charm. Given that it is just a 37-minute drive from Pittsburgh and under 90 minutes from Erie, Portersville makes a great base for exploring the surrounding area in both directions. Of course, given its ultra-small size, those seeking vibrant nightlife or a thriving social scene may prefer to base themselves in Pittsburgh and make a day trip to Portersville. But if you seek a quiet ambience, Portersville is a perfect option. 

Visitors can make the most of their time by flying into Pittsburgh International Airport, a 50-minute drive from Portersville, where they can easily rent a car to explore the hidden gems of Butler County. The county prides itself on providing an "adventure around every corner" for visitors to the region, so having the freedom to get off the beaten path is the best way to enhance your experience. 

Portersville has the perfect mix of charm, adventure, and stunning nature to entice visitors. Within five minutes, you can find yourself along the shores of Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park. It's a haven for recreation, with one Tripadvisor reviewer praising it for "awesome hiking and kayaking" opportunities. This 16,725-acre park is one of the largest parks in the area and boasts 42 miles of shoreline as well as 71 miles of trails for those who love hiking, biking, or horseback riding. In the winter, there are miles of snowshoeing trails to take advantage of, making this an exciting destination at any time of the year. If that wasn't enough, this is a mecca for boating. The 2 million people who visit Moraine State Park cannot be wrong, but there is even more to see and do in the area, which adds to the appeal of Portersville. 

The scenery surrounding Portersville comprises rolling hills and rural countryside, which will truly bring about a sense of peace and tranquility, yet you are never too far from action and adventure. McConnells Mill State Park is another fantastic place to visit, just five minutes northeast of Portersville, and here you can surround yourself with incredible views and embark on the challenging Slippery Rock Gorge Trail. Fishing, climbing, hiking, and whitewater boating are common activities here. Those with a keen interest in earth sciences should not miss this park, which highlights unique features carved into the landscape and is included in the state's Trail of Geology. 

Beyond the endless nature spots and exhilarating adventures, Portersville has lots of great events happening throughout the year. Each winter, Moraine State Park hosts Winterfest, with horse-drawn wagon rides, guided hikes, and live music. McConnell's Mill Heritage Festival happens in September and celebrates the history of the old mill, which dates back to the 1800s. For those seeking a truly spooky experience, horror fans will love the under-the-radar macabre museum in Monroeville, just an hour from Portersville, which hosts the Living Dead Weekend each June. 

Apart from diverse events, this tiny town has mouthwatering local eateries and farmers' markets to discover, and one of the best things to do in Portersville is to browse the antique shops. Timeworn Goods and Dunn's Antiques in the heart of town offer a cozy and curated shopping experience, but there are also plenty of other antique hunting opportunities to be had in the surrounding towns. After a spot of shopping, you may want to try out the local bites, and Browns Country Kitchen is one of the best spots in town for hearty dishes. One Google reviewer even described it as "comfort food x 10!"  

If time is on your side and you are seeking a day trip-worthy destination, why not take the 90-mile drive to Erie? Here you can experience  Pennsylvania's only seashore state park with stunning beaches and outdoor recreation, and there are plenty of quality wineries dotted along the lakeside.