Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village
2759, 401 Meadowcroft Road, Avella, Pennsylvania 15312
About the Business
Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village
Address: 2759, 401 Meadowcroft Rd, Avella, PA 15312, United States
Discover a journey through time at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, a National Historic Landmark located in Avella, Washington County, PA. Just an hour's drive from downtown Pittsburgh, this unique museum and tourist attraction offers an unforgettable day-long adventure for the entire family.
Explore Prehistoric Life:
Step into the world of Western Pennsylvania’s first inhabitants at the Meadowcroft Rockshelter. This massive rock overhang, used as a shelter 19,000 years ago, is the oldest site of human habitation in North America. Take a guided tour of this internationally-renowned archeological treasure and gain insights into the lives of prehistoric hunters and gatherers.
Experience 500 Years of History:
Meadowcroft’s interpretive villages allow you to travel back in time to experience rural life over the past five centuries:
- 16th-Century Eastern Woodland Indian Village: Explore a traditional wigwam and test your aim with a spear thrower.
- 18th-Century Village: Visit an authentic log cabin and open-sided trading post.
- 19th-Century Historic Village: Watch a blacksmith at work, take a lesson in a one-room schoolhouse, and explore a church and other period buildings.
Seasonal Activities and Special Events:
Meadowcroft is open seasonally from May through October. Highlights include:
- Kids Free in August: Thanks to support from Covestro, all children aged 17 and under enjoy free admission throughout August.
- Vintage Base Ball Day: On Saturday, August 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., watch teams in 1860s-style uniforms play America’s pastime using historic rules.
- Blue Star Museums Program: From Armed Forces Day (May 18, 2024) through Labor Day (September 2, 2024), active-duty military personnel and up to five family members receive free admission as part of a national collaboration.
Visit and Enjoy:
Plan to spend at least three hours to fully experience everything Meadowcroft has to offer. Bring a picnic lunch and relax in the beautiful rural setting. Tours of the Rockshelter are offered daily during the season and last approximately one hour. Please check in at the Visitor Center or call 724-587-3412 for more information.
Community Engagement:
- Weeding Parties: Help keep Meadowcroft beautiful by joining weekly weeding parties.
- Special Tours: Join archaeologist Dr. Diane Beynon Landers for an in-depth tour of the Rockshelter.
- Annual Covered Bridge Festival: Visit Meadowcroft during this popular local event to enjoy additional activities and attractions.
Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village is a proud partner of the Heinz History Center, Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, and Fort Pitt Museum, offering a rich tapestry of history and culture for all visitors.
Media Sponsor: Thank you to the Observer-Reporter for their support.
Photos
Contacts
2759, 401 Meadowcroft Rd, Avella, PA 15312, United States
Hours open
Monday:
Closed
Tuesday:
Closed
Wednesday:
10:00 - 16:00
Thursday:
10:00 - 16:00
Friday:
10:00 - 16:00
Saturday:
10:00 - 16:00
Sunday:
10:00 - 16:00
Reviews
"This was a great experience and a lot of fun for my young children (under 5 yo), which I was surprised! Here were interactive things for us to participate in at each "village". They are building a new visitor center, which looks like it will be wonderful once it's complete next year. Definitely recommend"
"It's a great place to visit. It'll be awesome soon as they finish the building... I love the old buildings and tossing the spear. I would have like to see more artifacts on display around the huts and buildings."
"Hidden gem! Meadowcroft is an amazing outdoor museum full of history! Visit the Rock Shelter, Eastern Woodland Indian Village and the 19th Century Historic Village! Lots to see and interact! Immerse yourself in those time periods and truly feel life at that moment! A fun place for the whole family!"
"I absolutely love history, but honestly we were a little underwhelmed by the whole park. Don't get me wrong, it is a beautiful area and the employees are great! The rock shelter is basically an elevated deck where a few times a day a staff member will explain the history (which is interesting). Getting to throw the atlatl and Hatchetts was fun. I just don't know if it was worth the 2 hour drive for us to get there. Now, if you're in the area, check it out! I just don't think I can recommend taking a day to get out there."
"Very interesting place. Not large, but enough for our day trip. We enjoyed the villages, information and interactive activities. Nice walk through some small museums. Great staff!"
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