The Most Beautiful Islands in Pennsylvania

This may come as a surprise to many people, but Pennsylvania—a state that does not face any seas—is home to tiny picturesque islands. These islands are created from the majestic waters of the Ohio River, Lake Erie, and the Allegheny River, to name a few, making them lake and river islands instead. So while you should not expect cabanas or tropical umbrellas from these beautiful isles, they still have their own unique charm, history, and beauty that make them must-see spots whenever you are in the Keystone State.

Mead Island

Situated in the middle portion of the Allegheny River, this mile-long uninhabited island is hard to miss when kayaking or canoeing down the river in Warren County. Allegheny Outfitters, located in Warren, is an outdoor store that offers kayak and canoe rentals. It also warns beginners to watch out for rough rapids when nearing the island.

Other than the island’s relevance in watersports, Mead Island is also important for being a protected historical spot. Archeologists have excavated a pre-contact Native American village on the island’s premises. To have the full experience of Mead Island, visit the nearby Warren County Visitors Bureau for more information.

Lighthouse Island

Although privately owned, the 22.5-acre Lighthouse Island near Tionesta is open to the public for various activities and celebrations. The island has a mile-long hiking and biking trail, where visitors can loop around the premises and trek or bike along the Allegheny River. Other amenities on the island include a dock, a pier for fishing, a park, and a lighthouse.

However, the lighthouse—called the Sherman Memorial Lighthouse after its designer—is only open for tours to the public a few times a year. During the local Lions Club fundraising events, the owners allow visitors to tour the more than 50-foot tower and experience a one-of-a-kind view of Tionesta and the Allegheny River. If you are interested in a private group tour, an appointment can be arranged for a donation.

Presque Isle

Facing the grand Lake Erie, Presque Isle tops the list of beautiful islands in Pennsylvania for having a state park, stunning sandy beaches, and an iconic lighthouse. The island is highly popular among tourists, with Presque Isle State Park estimated to get four million visitors per year. Locals and tourists love the place for its recreational activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and even inline skating.

Meanwhile, the Presque Isle Lighthouse has quite a rich history in this part of Pennsylvania. The landmark used to be called The FlashLight and was only lit by an oil lamp in a lens. Scenic and educational tours are open for the lighthouse year-round, with varying rates depending on the type of tour you pick.

Herrs Island

Also known as Washington’s Landing, Herrs Island has made quite a comeback over the years, thanks to rehabilitation and cleanup efforts that turned it into a sought-after waterfront residential location in Pittsburgh City. Now, the 42-acre island looks like a paradise, where you can easily enjoy a scenic boat ride via Washington’s Landing Marina or a jog along the Allegheny River at Herrs Island North Park.

The southernmost point of the island, called Scenic Overlook, is a popular photo-op location for its spectacular waterfront views overlooking Pittsburgh’s downtown. The island also has its own restaurant: Redfin Blues. So if you are feeling peckish during your visit, you do not have to leave the island for a proper seafood meal.

Venice Island

Despite its controversial start, Venice Island in Manayunk, Philadelphia, bloomed in beauty for being the home of the Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center. With the serene Schuylkill River as its backdrop, you can catch a sports game or a live performance in this impressive establishment. It can seat 250 people, has a multi-use recreational facility, and even outdoor courts for basketball and volleyball.

Other places of interest on this island include the base and headquarters of the Shoe Box Theatre Collective. Not only is it a beautiful icon for performing arts, but has practical uses too!

City Island

Unlike other islands in the state, City Island is fully decked out in amenities and tourist attractions, all while being near the urban jungle of Harrisburg. The island is home to a baseball field, a football club, a beach club that doubles as a bar and event venue, a riverboat cruise, a train tour, and even a miniature golf field, to name a few.

Catch a baseball game at the FNB Field, home to the Harrisburg Senators baseball team. Toast with your buddies while getting gorgeous riverfront views at the Harrisburg Beach Club. Test your mini-golf mettle at the City Island Water Golf, which is voted the best miniature golf course in Pennsylvania. Lastly, cap your City Island visit on a high note with a train and carousel ride at City Island Railroad.

Brunot Island

Located in the Ohio River in Pittsburgh, Brunot Island’s beauty comes from its history and proof of human ingenuity. It got its name from Dr. Felix Brunot, a French doctor who made this kidney-bean-shaped island his new home in the 1790s.

Today, Brunot Island is home to the Brunot Island Generating Station, a technological marvel that helps power Pennsylvania. It is also proof that Brunot Island has come a long way—from being inhabited by a small family to housing a power plant that supports many households. Although you cannot easily access it, you are welcome to observe its majestic beauty from the township of McKees Rocks, near the historical site of its Indian mound.

Final Thoughts

Most travelers think they know all of Pennsylvania’s tourist and natural attractions already. However, many still don’t know that the Quaker State of the northeastern US surprisingly has a bevy of tiny islands dotting its known rivers and lakes.

Some of these islets remain untouched and are simply homes to local wildlife, while others are fully developed with amenities and attractions ready to cater to even the fussiest of tourists. City Island and Herrs Island feel more like extensions of Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, with Presque Isle acting as Erie’s crowning glory. On the other hand, Mead Island remains pristine and protected by the locals, while Brunot Island shows how far humans have come. If you want something new on your next mid-Atlantic trip, consider visiting these beautiful islands in Pennsylvania!