Two practical self-guided driving routes showcase Pittsburgh’s history effectively.
The standout “Pittsburgh to Logstown Settlers History” tour (via VoiceMap app) brings the region’s Native American story to life through well-researched narration.
Equally worthwhile, the “Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike” tour offers a fascinating look at pioneer settlement and transportation history – I especially appreciate its flexibility with lifetime access.
These tours are your best bets for an independent exploration of Pittsburgh’s past.
Let’s examine the details of each recommended route.
Key Points
- Two notable self-guided driving routes in Pittsburgh highlight the region’s historical significance using the VoiceMap app for audio guides and navigation.
- The “Pittsburgh to Logstown Settlers History Tour” focuses on Indigenous history before European settlement and offers offline access to content.
- The “Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike Tour” provides insights into the turnpike’s development and early settlers, with offline access to maps and audio.
- The self-guided tours cater to various interests, including Indigenous and pioneer histories, and offer a flexible and independent exploration of local history.
- The availability of additional tour segments, such as “Drive PA Indian Paths: Eastbound Turnpike Part 2,” encourages further engagement with Pennsylvania’s rich historical past.
Pittsburgh to Logstown Settlers History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour
For the self-guided driving tour from Pittsburgh to Logstown, travelers can explore the rich Indigenous history of the region. The tour, which features a self-guided audio guide, explores the area before European settlement, focusing on the original Wild West town of Logstown.
The journey begins at the forts at the Forks of the Ohio, providing a historical context for the tour. Travelers can explore the tour at their own pace, with lifetime access to the audio guide. The tour is accessible through the VoiceMap app, which offers offline access to the audio, maps, and geodata.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for infants who can sit on laps. The tour starts at the Duquesne Incline Parking in Pittsburgh and ends in Logstown, Ambridge, and is open daily from 7/15/2020 to 9/15/2025.
The tour has received mixed feedback, with positive comments on the historical information and family experience, but some criticism on the app’s usability and directions. However, it’s noted as a good option for exploring history during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read our full review: Pittsburgh to Logstown Settlers History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour
Travelers can embark on an enlightening journey through Pennsylvania’s rich history along the Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike. This self-guided audio tour, offered by VoiceMap, takes participants on an exploration of the region’s past, complete with offline access to maps, audio, and geospatial data.
The tour begins at the PA Turnpike Pittsburgh Interchange Milepost 56.6 in Monroeville and concludes at the South Somerset Travel Plaza. Along the way, the audio guide provides captivating insights, allowing travelers to discover the stories behind the turnpike’s development and the area’s early settlers.
With lifetime access and a straightforward installation process, this tour offers a flexible and immersive experience. Travelers can start, pause, or restart the tour at their convenience, exploring the route at their own pace.
At the end of the journey, they’ll have the opportunity to download the next leg of the tour, “Drive PA Indian Paths: Eastbound Turnpike Part 2,” ensuring a seamless continuation of their historical exploration.
Read our full review: Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Pittsburgh offers a rich tapestry of historical and scenic wonders, easily explored through self-guided tours. From tracing the steps of early settlers to traversing the renowned Pennsylvania Turnpike, these tours provide an immersive experience, unveiling the city’s captivating past and showcasing its natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or a road trip enthusiast, these self-guided adventures promise to leave a lasting impression.