Sligo Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sligo, Pennsylvania.
1. Historic Sligo Furnace Site
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE LANDMARK
The Historic Sligo Furnace Site marks where the 1845 iron furnace operated by Lyon, Shorb & Co. once stood on the banks of Licking Creek. This important industrial heritage site represents the beginnings of Sligo as a community, named after County Sligo in northwestern Ireland. Visitors can explore the remains of this historic furnace that played a crucial role in western Pennsylvania's iron industry.
2. Licking Creek
SCENIC WATERWAY EXPERIENCE
Licking Creek flows through Sligo and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and nature appreciation. The creek was instrumental in powering the historic Sligo iron furnace and continues to be a picturesque natural feature of the town. Its peaceful waters and surrounding scenery make it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
3. Sligo Welcome Signs
IRISH-THEMED TOWN MARKERS
The charming Sligo Welcome Signs greet visitors at each of the town's three main entrances with a smiling leprechaun waving out of an upturned hat. These distinctive markers proudly display the words 'Welcome to Sligo PA' emblazoned on the hat and 'A Touch O' Ireland' running below. The signs celebrate the town's Irish heritage and provide perfect photo opportunities for visitors.
4. Cook Forest State Park
ANCIENT FOREST WONDERLAND
Cook Forest State Park, located near Sligo, features one of the few stands of old-growth forest in Pennsylvania with ancient towering white pines and hemlocks. The park encompasses approximately 8,500 acres of scenic woodland and offers activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing on the Clarion River. Visitors can also climb the 87-foot fire tower for panoramic views of the surrounding forest landscape.
5. Clarion River
SCENIC RIVER RECREATION
The Clarion River, flowing near Sligo, is designated as a National Wild and Scenic River and offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Its clear waters wind through picturesque forested valleys, providing stunning views and access to wildlife viewing. The river has recovered from its industrial past to become one of Pennsylvania's most beloved waterways for outdoor recreation.
6. Foxburg Wine Cellars
LOCAL WINERY EXPERIENCE
Foxburg Wine Cellars offers visitors a chance to sample locally produced wines in a charming small-town setting near Sligo. The winery features a variety of wines made from Pennsylvania-grown grapes, including both traditional and fruit wines. Guests can enjoy tastings, learn about the winemaking process, and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.
7. Allegheny River Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The Allegheny River Trail is a 32-mile rail-trail that follows the former railroad corridor along the scenic Allegheny River near Sligo. This well-maintained trail offers a flat, smooth surface perfect for cycling, walking, and cross-country skiing in winter. Visitors can enjoy beautiful river views, pass through historic tunnels, and connect to other trails in the region's extensive trail network.
8. Lincoln Hall
HISTORIC COMMUNITY BUILDING
Lincoln Hall serves as a historic gathering place in the heart of Sligo, hosting community events and celebrations throughout the year. The building reflects the architectural style of the late 19th century when Sligo was officially organized as a town. It continues to be a focal point for local cultural activities and represents the community spirit of this small Pennsylvania borough.
9. Sligo Shamrock Streets
IRISH HERITAGE TOUR
The Sligo Shamrock Streets feature charming street signs adorned with small green shamrocks throughout the borough. Streets with Irish-inspired names such as Shamrock Drive, Logue Road, Shannon Tipple Road, and Colerain Street reflect the town's connections to its Irish namesake. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided walking tour to appreciate these unique touches that maintain Sligo's 'Touch O' Ireland' character.
10. Foxburg Country Club
AMERICA'S OLDEST GOLF COURSE
Foxburg Country Club, established in 1887, is recognized as the oldest continuously operating golf course in the United States and is located near Sligo. The historic 9-hole course offers beautiful views of the Allegheny River valley while providing a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience. The clubhouse features the American Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, displaying fascinating artifacts from the sport's rich history.
11. Rimersburg Coal Museum
REGIONAL MINING HISTORY
The Rimersburg Coal Museum preserves the rich mining heritage of the region surrounding Sligo through exhibits of mining equipment, photographs, and personal artifacts. Visitors can learn about the dangerous and difficult lives of coal miners who worked in the area during the industry's heyday. The museum offers insights into how coal mining shaped the development of communities throughout Clarion County.
12. Clarion County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Clarion County Historical Society Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of the region including Sligo. Exhibits cover the area's industrial history, including iron production that was central to Sligo's founding, as well as everyday life in rural Pennsylvania throughout the centuries. The museum is located in a beautiful historic building that adds to the visitor experience.
13. Freedom Falls
HIDDEN NATURAL WATERFALL
Freedom Falls is a picturesque waterfall on Shull Run near Kennerdell, just a short drive from Sligo. The falls cascade over a wide rocky ledge, creating a beautiful natural attraction that changes with the seasons and water levels. Nearby stands the historic Rockland Furnace, another remnant of the region's iron industry that complements Sligo's own industrial heritage.
14. The Allegheny Grille
RIVERSIDE DINING EXPERIENCE
The Allegheny Grille offers exceptional dining with stunning views overlooking the Allegheny River not far from Sligo. The restaurant serves American cuisine featuring fresh ingredients and regional specialties in a relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor seating on the deck is particularly popular during warmer months, allowing diners to enjoy their meals while watching boats and wildlife on the river.
15. Foxburg Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Foxburg Antiques offers collectors and casual shoppers alike the opportunity to discover unique vintage items and collectibles near Sligo. The shop features a constantly changing inventory of furniture, glassware, tools, and memorabilia reflecting the rich history of western Pennsylvania. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the carefully curated collection while learning about regional history through material culture.