Explore the Laurel Highlands...
Where America's 250th Comes Alive!

As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, the Laurel Highlands is where America’s story isn’t just remembered, it’s lived. From the earliest battles that sparked a new nation to modern-day moments of courage, this region offers travelers a journey through history, heritage, and breathtaking beauty. Join in our community events throughout the year or visit one of our many historic or cultural treasures to connect to the American spirit.
Celebrating in the Laurel Highlands
Experience The Unlikely Union: A Storytelling Symphony
Experience The Unlikely Union: A Storytelling Symphony featuring Professor Greg Jackson of the hit podcast History That Doesn't Suck and the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra, led by maestro Daniel Meyer.
Filmed live at The Palace Theatre in Greensburg, this powerful performance combines captivating storytelling and soaring music to bring America’s first century to life. The story begins right here in the Laurel Highlands with George Washington’s defeat at Fort Necessity, through the bold Declaration of Independence, and into the trials of the Civil War—witnessing the resilience of an unlikely union that became a nation.
Watch with the whole family and experience history in a whole new way on the PBS app. Or tune in to WQED on July 5th at 4:00 pm, WPSU on July 26 at 6:00 pm, or WQLN on for the broadcast.
Laurel Highlands Bells
As part of America250PA, artist-designed Liberty Bell replicas are being placed in every PA county. These fiberglass bells will be adorned and magically transformed by local artists and sponsored by businesses or individuals.
Two of America’s 250 Right Here in the Laurel Highlands
When Smithsonian Magazine selected 250 places across the nation to celebrate America, two of those iconic destinations were right here in the Laurel Highlands: Fallingwater and the Flight 93 National Memorial.
PA Highway of Heroes
Six Cities. One Road. Countless Sacrifices. Follow Pennsylvania’s Highway of Heroes along the historic Lincoln Highway, U.S. Route 30. Travel from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh and experience six historic sites that reflect the nation’s enduring legacy of courage, sacrifice, and freedom.