Things To Do
in Unity

Unity is a quiet rural township in Westmoreland County, just a short drive from Pittsburgh's metro area. It features rolling farmland, wooded trails, and friendly local communities that preserve small-town charm. The area blends outdoor recreation with easy access to urban culture, making it a practical base for day trips.

Expect seasonal scenery, farm markets, and relaxed evenings in local eateries.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local diner, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee and homemade pancakes. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, admiring the charming architecture and learning about the town's rich history from informative plaques. Don’t forget to stop by the local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Unity Museum to delve deeper into the town’s past and discover fascinating exhibits on local culture and heritage. After your museum visit, enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby park, surrounded by beautiful greenery and the sounds of nature. Spend some time relaxing or playing games in the park before continuing your exploration.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head to a cozy bistro for dinner, where you can enjoy a farm-to-table meal made from locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the picturesque sunset over the water. Cap off the night by attending a local music event or theater performance, immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day by indulging in a breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries at a beachside café, with the sound of waves crashing in the background. After breakfast, grab your beach gear and head to Unity Beach for a morning of sunbathing and swimming in the refreshing ocean. Don’t forget to explore the tidal pools and observe the fascinating marine life that thrives in these natural habitats.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, sign up for an exciting water sports session, choosing from options like paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing to get your adrenaline pumping. After a thrilling ride on the waves, take a break for lunch at a beachside shack, enjoying classic seaside fare like fish tacos or clam chowder. Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging on the sand or participating in beach volleyball with fellow visitors.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head back to your accommodations to freshen up before dinner. Treat yourself to a seafood feast at a renowned local restaurant, where you can enjoy the catch of the day while overlooking the ocean. After dinner, consider joining a sunset cruise to enjoy stunning views and perhaps spot dolphins playfully swimming in the distance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$40-70
🏨Hotel/night (mid-range)$120-180
🚗Gas per tank$40-70
🛒Monthly groceries$300-600

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, scenic countryside with easy access to Pittsburgh for day trips
  • Strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere
  • Rich regional food influences and farmers markets
  • Limited public transit within Unity; car is often necessary
  • Smaller nightlife and dining options compared to a major city
  • Winter driving can be challenging due to rural roads

Places to Visit in Unity

Visit one of these nice places.

Unity Vista Point

A scenic overlook offering panoramic views of rolling hills and farmland, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.

Old Stone Bridge

Historic bridge with rustic textures and reflections in a calm stream, ideal for moody twilight photos.

Riverside Meadow

Open meadow along a quiet river with golden hour light and wildlife activity.

Culinary Guide

Food in Unity

Unity’s local cuisine leans into farm-to-table produce, hearty comfort foods, and Pittsburgh-area flavors influenced by German and Slavic heritage. Expect hearty breakfasts, savory pies, smoked meats, and plenty of seasonal produce sourced from nearby farms.

Unity Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogi with onions and sour cream

A nod to Eastern European influence, commonly found at family-run diners and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Kielbasa and kraut skillet

Smoky sausage with tangy kraut and mashed potatoes—a comforting, savory staple.

Shoofly pie

A molasses-based PA Dutch dessert, often available at bakeries and diners.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Unity Farmers Market

Seasonal stalls offering fresh produce, baked goods, and locally raised meats; best experienced in the morning.

Westmoreland County Street Food Lane

A string of food trucks and pop-up stalls in nearby towns—great for quick bites and regional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences four seasons: warm summers, colorful autumns, cold winters with occasional snow, and mild springs. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed, with thunderstorms more common in summer and rainfall throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly nod or handshake is common; addressing people by Mr./Ms. and last name is polite in formal settings.

Punctuality

Arrive on time for appointments and reservations; casual events may be more flexible, but punctuality is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for travelers with standard precautions: keep valuables secure, stay aware of your surroundings at night, and use reputable transportation options after dark. Stay informed about weather-related closures in winter and be mindful of rural road conditions during ice storms.

Tipping in Unity

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the U.S., tip 15-20% at restaurants; rounding up at casual counters is common. Tip service staff in hospitality and tours accordingly.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments; cash is handy at farmers markets and small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with humidity; thunderstorms are possible. Stay hydrated, plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings, and seek shade near trails and parks.

Fall

Colorful foliage and cool, comfortable days. Great for hiking and photography, but bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow. Layered clothing is essential; some outdoor trails may be icy, so wear sturdy boots and check conditions before hiking.

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes and frequent showers. Pack a compact rain jacket and enjoy late-season wildlife viewing.

Nightlife Guide

Unity at Night

Unity’s nightlife is low-key, with local bars, cafes, and small breweries offering craft beers and live music on select evenings. Expect a relaxed ambiance, friendly crowds, and a chance to mingle with residents at community-oriented venues.

Hiking in Unity

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Unity Hills Nature Trail

Gentle loop through woodlands with scenic viewpoints and wildlife spotting.

Riverside Gorge Trail

Waterfront route with river views and shaded sections—great for a cool day hike.

Old Mill Loop

Historic site with rolling terrain, historical markers, and a family-friendly path.

Airports

How to reach Unity by plane.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Major gateway located about 25-40 miles from Unity; typical drive 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Arnold Palmer Regional Airport (LBE)

Located in Latrobe, roughly 40-50 miles away; convenient for domestic flights and short trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is best in village centers and near parks; many areas are car-dependent with limited sidewalks in rural sections. Some charming stretches offer safe, pleasant strolls, especially around markets and riverfronts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Long-standing family-oriented communities with friendly neighborhoods and good school access nearby.

Young professionals

Commuters to Pittsburgh and remote workers attracted to a lower cost of living and a rural-urban blend.

Retirees

Residents drawn to quiet surroundings, healthcare access in nearby cities, and a slower pace of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American football

Local high school games and community leagues; strong local enthusiasm for fall football.

Baseball

Community leagues and nearby minor or college games; parks with family-friendly facilities.

Golf

Numerous public and semi-private courses in the region for year-round play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light outside peak hours, with heavier congestion on major routes like I-376 and the PA Turnpike during rush times. Public transit focuses on connections to Pittsburgh; most visitors rely on car travel to explore Unity and the surrounding area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Unity.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose from seasonal salads, vegetable-forward dishes, and hearty grain bowls; ask for vegetable-based sides and avoid meat broths when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via regional clinics and hospitals in the Pittsburgh metro area; major networks and urgent care centers provide comprehensive services within a reasonable drive.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide