The Region 

Recreational and Cultural Activities near PennWest California

Whether you're interested in exploring nature or big city culture, there are plenty of things to do near PennWest California. 

35 miles

from Pittsburgh, on the banks of the Monongahela River.

1 hour

from ski resorts and recreational activities in Ohiopyle and other state parks.

Minutes

from hiking, biking, kayaking, horseback riding and other activities.

 

Pittsburgh at Your Fingertips

Pittsburgh skyline at night.

Enrich your college education with world-class cultural activities. The city of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been named a "Top Destination on the Rise" by TripAdvisor, and is home to major museums, shopping, concerts, sporting events and more.  

Just 35 miles north of the University, Pittsburgh is easy to get to. Hop on a PennWest California Commuter bus for a ride to downtown, or join one of the many group trips sponsored by the Student Activities Board.  

Things to Do in Pittsburgh

California, Pa.'s Beautiful Backyard

Ohiopyle water fall.

PennWest California's idyllic location in the rolling hills of the Appalachian Plateau provides easy access to outdoor recreational activities at state parks like Ohiopyle, cultural sites like architect Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Fallingwater, and so much more.

Nearby Recreational Activities

  • Camping.
  • Hiking.
  • Swimming.
  • Fishing.
  • Hunting.
  • Whitewater rafting.
  • Canoeing/kayaking.
  • Skiing/Snowboarding.

A University You Can Call Home

As student participates in games on campus. 

PennWest California is not only close to everything, our campus is also a place of its own. PennWest California's robust student life means you'll always have a wide variety of things to do. 

We're also within minutes of great outdoor activities like hiking, biking, kayaking and horseback riding. The Tanger Outlet and other shopping locations are nearby, and the campus shuttle makes regular runs to the local Walmart. It's easy to enjoy nature in the beautiful Laurel Highlands or explore the charming small towns and nearby counties of western Pennsylvania, including:

  • Washington County, PA
  • Greene County, PA
  • Fayette County, PA
  • Somerset County, PA
  • Allegheny County, PA

Visiting PennWest California?

Get directions to campus and recommendations on where to stay.

Virtual Tour