Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands will be featured in an upcoming episode of “Beyond Your Backyard,” a travel series exploring and promoting regional on-and off-the-beaten-path eateries, attractions and other activities locals favor.
Seasoned travel personality Erik Hastings — also known as Erik the Travel Guy — produces and hosts the syndicated PBS show, now in its second season.
The episode will air on WQED at 7:30 p.m. June 24; 12:30 a.m. June 25 and 2 p.m. June 30, according to a Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau spokeswoman.
Armchair viewers will visit Fort Ligonier, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Bittersweet Café in Farmington, Idlewild & Soak Zone, Ohiopyle State Park, the Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College and more.
“The Laurel Highlands is a perfect example of a destination worthy of discovery,” Hastings says.
“I was surprised at the breadth of activities for the entire family. I loved Fort Ligonier and learning about what happened there. I also became a whitewater rafting convert on my visit. I’ll be back for a full weekend of taming that river. Of course, Nemacolin was amazing at every turn. My room, the food, the service … simply perfect,” he says.
“Erik and the crew have traveled to so many incredible locations all over the country,” says Anna Weltz, Visitors Bureau spokeswoman.
“Welcoming them to the Laurel Highlands and showcasing just a bit of what our dynamic region has to offer was an honor. The episode does a wonderful job of enticing the viewers to learn more about the adventure, food, architecture, culture, and history we have to offer,” she adds.
The show also can be viewed online at pbs.org
