Where Scenic Beauty, Outdoor Adventure, and the Charm of Small Towns Come Together
Nestled in the heart of western Pennsylvania, just over an hour from Pittsburgh or Erie and under two hours from Cleveland, Mercer County is a destination that quietly captures the hearts of travelers. With its rich blend of rolling farmland, inviting small towns, tax-free shopping, and outdoor attractions, it offers something for every kind of visitor.
Whether you’re chasing adventure, planning a restful weekend getaway, or simply looking to reconnect with friends over a glass of wine, Mercer County delivers a refreshing place to do all that and more!
A Premier Golf Destination for Every Type of Player
Golfers from across the region know Mercer County as a hidden gem in the world of public courses. Recognized by Golf Digest as one of the top golf destinations in the U.S., this region isn’t just home to a few standout courses; it offers an entire network of golf courses throughout the area. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for a challenging layout or a beginner who wants a relaxing round with a beautiful view, Mercer County has you covered.
The variety of courses, ranging from historic park-style greens to scenic, tree-lined layouts, makes this region a dream for golf travelers. Even better, many golf properties offer Stay & Play Packages, bundling accommodations and tee times for seamless planning. These packages are perfect for group getaways, couples’ retreats, or corporate outings and often include meals and access to resort-style amenities. Here, golf isn’t just a game—it’s part of the lifestyle.
Outdoor Adventure in Every Season
For outdoor lovers, Mercer County is a four-season playground. The landscape invites exploration, and the county’s commitment to outdoor recreation makes it easy to get outside and stay active, no matter your pace or comfort level.
In warmer months, the Shenango River Water Trail offers a 23-mile route ideal for kayaking and canoeing. As you paddle through the tranquil waters, the scenery unfolds in quiet splendor: a mosaic of wooded banks, farmland, and the occasional blue heron standing sentry on the shoreline. It’s an immersive way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Hikers and bikers will discover miles of trails winding through Maurice K. Goddard State Park and Pymatuning State Park, both of which also provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. In autumn, these trails explode with vibrant foliage, making them especially popular with photographers and leaf-peepers. And for those craving a thrill, Skydive Pennsylvania offers an adrenaline-pumping view of the rolling countryside from 13,000 feet in the air.
Fishing enthusiasts will feel right at home, too. Mercer County’s lakes, creeks, and reservoirs are stocked with a variety of fish species, offering peaceful mornings and exciting catches for anglers, young and old.
Small-Town Charm Meets Big-Time Shopping
While Mercer County is surrounded by natural beauty, its charming downtowns and retail offerings are just as inviting. The region’s shopping scene blends modern convenience with character and variety, making it a favorite among treasure hunters and style seekers.
At the heart of this experience is Grove City Premium Outlets, one of the top outlet destinations in the state. With over 100 designer and name-brand stores and no sales tax on clothing or shoes, shoppers can indulge in retail therapy without guilt. From luxury labels to everyday essentials, it’s all here at unbeatable prices.
Beyond the outlets, Mercer County’s small towns offer one-of-a-kind shopping experiences. Downtown Sharon is home to the perfect places for purchasing gifts, chocolates, clothing, and more! Boutiques in towns like Volant, Greenville, and Mercer showcase Amish-made furniture, vintage finds, locally crafted gifts, and fine art.
No matter where you stop, you’ll find merchants who greet you with a smile and pride themselves on personalized service. This kind of shopping experience turns a day out into a memory.
Only-in-Mercer Attractions
Mercer County’s attractions aren’t just entertaining; they’re unforgettable. With a mix of history, artistry, and pure fun, these local gems offer something truly different from your average tourist stop.
One of the most iconic is Wendell August Forge, where artisans continue the time-honored craft of hand-forged metalwork. Visitors can tour the working forge, watch demonstrations, and shop for heirloom-quality ornaments, trays, and keepsakes that have become favorite gifts across generations.
Families will love Keystone Safari, an interactive walk-through and drive-through zoo that offers close-up views of exotic animals like giraffes, zebras, and camels. Kids and adults alike can enjoy ziplining over the park or feeding the animals for a hands-on adventure that’s as educational as it is fun.
For a quieter, more reflective moment, The Avenue of 444 Flags in Hermitage offers a powerful patriotic experience. This striking memorial honors American servicemembers and stands adjacent to the War on Terror Veterans Memorial, offering visitors a moving tribute to sacrifice, courage, and resilience.
Taste the Region: Flavors Worth the Journey
Dining in Mercer County is more than just a way to refuel—it’s a chance to experience the heart and soul of the region. Here, culinary traditions run deep, and the community’s appreciation for fresh, flavorful food is evident at every table. From family-run diners and rustic roadhouses to upscale dining rooms and cozy cafés, the county offers a variety of options to satisfy each and every appetite.
However, perhaps the most compelling way to explore the region’s flavor is through its celebrated Wine & Brew Trail. This self-guided journey takes visitors through Mercer County’s countryside, linking together an eclectic mix of wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Whether you’re sipping small-batch bourbon, tasting seasonal ciders, or enjoying a crisp local chardonnay, each stop offers a unique glimpse into the region’s craft beverage scene.
Many trail locations feature live music, food trucks, tasting flights, and outdoor spaces ideal for gathering with friends. With new flavors to try at every stop and stunning scenery in every direction, the Wine & Brew Trail is a relaxing, flavorful way to experience the best of Mercer County.
Events and Festivals: A Year-Round Celebration
Mercer County knows how to celebrate, and its calendar is filled with family-friendly festivals and events that bring locals and visitors together for fun, new experiences.
Signature happenings like WaterFire Sharon transform the riverfront into a glowing spectacle, complete with floating cauldrons of fire, live performances, artisan vendors, and gourmet food trucks. Seasonal events, from summer concerts and fall harvest festivals to winter light displays and holiday parades, ensure there’s always something exciting on the horizon.
Whether you’re dancing to live music under the stars or strolling through a craft market with a warm cider in hand, these events make every visit memorable.
Plan Your Getaway Today!
Mercer County, PA, is more than just a place to visit; it’s a place to feel refreshed, inspired, and connected. It’s where golf is more than a game, where trails invite quiet exploration, and where the warmth of the people is as enduring as the beauty of the landscape.
To learn more, plan your visit, or explore Stay & Play Golf Packages, dining guides, upcoming events, and attractions, visit www.visitmercercountypa.com.
Mercer County welcomes you to slow down, stay a while, and create stories worth sharing.
Contact Information
Visit Mercer County PA
Phone: (724) 555-1234
Email: info@visitmercercountypa.com
Website: www.visitmercercountypa.com