Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright

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Fallingwater is a house built between 1936 and 1939 over a waterfall in southwest Pennsylvania.  Frank Lloyd Wright, America’s most famous architect, designed the house for his clients, the Kaufmann family.  It instantly became famous, and today it is a National Historic Landmark.

Why is it so famous?  It’s a house that doesn’t even appear to stand on solid ground, but instead stretches out over a 30’ waterfall. It captured everyone’s imagination when it was on the cover of Time magazine in 1938.

The Kaufmanns were from Pittsburgh, PA. They owned Kaufmann’s Department Store, a very exciting and elegant place to shop in the 1930s.  (Today, it is part of the Macy’s chain). Edgar Kaufmann and his wife, Liliane, had one son, Edgar jr.

The Kaufmanns lived in the city, but like many other Pittsburghers, they loved to vacation in the mountains southeast of Pittsburgh. They could hike in the forest, swim and fish in the streams, go horseback riding, and do other outdoor activities.

Pittsburgh at the time was sometimes called the “Smoky City,” due to the amount of air pollution from Pittsburgh’s steel industry. People who could afford to take the train to the mountains ($1 round trip) relished the chance to breathe fresh, cool mountain air.

The Kaufmanns had a summer camp for the department store employees, located along a mountain stream called Bear Run. When the Great Depression made daily living so hard for so many people, the employees no longer had time or money to come up to Kaufmanns Summer Camp.  But Mr. and Mrs. Kaufmann and their son dearly loved the mountains, and decided to make the summer camp their own country estate.

Fallingwater is 20 minutes from Confluence.

Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Rail Trail

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Besides the two Frank Lloyd Wright homes—Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob—the most popular attraction among guests staying at our vacation rentals is the bike trail. In many cases, it rivals a visit to nearby Ohiopyle. In fact, from most of our homes, the trail is practically right outside your door.

Just as visitors travel from across the country and around the world to tour Fallingwater, they also come to ride the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), one of the nation’s premier rail-trails.

The GAP follows a former railroad corridor that has been transformed into a scenic biking, walking, and hiking trail stretching from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, where it connects with the C&O Canal Towpath and continues all the way to Washington, DC.

If a 300+ mile adventure isn’t on your agenda, the trail also offers excellent day-trip options right from our properties. Shaded by trees and winding alongside the river, it’s a pleasant ride even on warm summer days.

From River Road, cross the Youghiogheny River Bridge and turn left to follow the river downstream toward Ohiopyle, approximately 11 miles away. Or turn right and follow the Casselman River upstream to the town of Rockwood, about 18 miles from the bridge. Either direction offers beautiful scenery, gentle grades, and a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands.

There is a well stocked bike shop in Confluence, Confluence Cyclery as well as shops in Ohiopyle and Rockwood. Looking for a bike tour, check out local company, Wilderness Voyageurs.

For more information about the trail visit here.

Bike rentals and repairs at Confluence Cyclery

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Need a bike rental or repair during your stay? Confluence Cyclery is the local bike shop in downtown Confluence and a convenient resource for both visitors and residents. They offer bike rentals, e-bike rentals, repairs, tune-ups, accessories, and cycling gear.

Whether you’re planning a ride or need help with a flat tire or mechanical issue, the knowledgeable staff at Confluence Cyclery can get you rolling. If you’re staying in the area and looking for a reliable bike shop, this is the place to go.

New Winery! Vin De Matrix

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Vin De Matrix Winery is inspired by the star Vindemiatrix, the third brightest star located in the Virgo constellation.  Its name means “The Grape Gatherer.”  

Head winemaker, Joshua has been at for more than two decades and when he and his wife, Lee, opened Vin De Matrix Winery 6 years ago, it was with the intention to craft wines with integrity.

 Joshua’s mastery of blending and application of the latest technology dovetail art and science in his winemaking approach.   His extensive professional experience in these areas enables him to successfully craft distinctively delicious artisan wines without manipulating with colorings, flavorings, additives, or concentrates.  

VDX Winery takes the personal approach to our hospitality: tastings are individualized, table-side wine flights in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. They do accept reservations. Hours on their site and phone is 814-926-2009.

 Vin De Matrix is located in Rockwood–just a short, scenic drive from Confluence.

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Mountain Pies- pizzeria and bakery

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Mountain Pies is located at 4633 National Pike (Historic Route 40) and open year round. They feature both the savory pies of Paddlers Pizza and the sweet pies from the Ohiopyle Bakery. Family owned and community minded.

Only 18 mins away from Confluence, but if they have the staff, they’ve been known to meet guests 1/2 way (Tub Run) for delivery but they have dine in service as well.



Check out their site for the menu and hours. And more information about Mtn Pies Restaurant and the 2 Ohiopyle seasonal locations (Paddlers Pizza and Ohiopyle Bakery).

Braddock’s Restaurant and Tavern

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Braddock’s Restaurant and Tavern is located at 3261 NATIONAL PIKE, FARMINGTON, PA, 15437.

Open year round, spacious and family friendly.

“your favorite mountain top cooking while bringing an intimate and family atmosphere”

And don’t forget to add a little history to your trip and visit Braddock’s grave–right next door.

IN 1804, WORKERS REPAIRING A stretch of the old Braddock Road uncovered human remains buried in the roadbed. The discovery was at Great Meadows near what is now Farmington, Pennsylvania. Among the remains, they found buttons from the uniform of a high-ranking British military officer, which helped to identify the body as that of Major General Edward Braddock. The burial site was near the location where Braddock reportedly died from wounds suffered during the Battle of the Monongahela.

Farmers’ Markets in the area

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Ligonier Country Market

With over 130 Vendors, you’ll be able to find all kinds of fresh picked produce, a wide variety of flowers from annuals to perennials to fresh cut arrangements. We have straight from the farm beef, poultry and eggs, along with specialty breads, pastries and hot cooked foods. Honey and maple syrup too. Also available are tons of handmade crafts including jewelry, purses, country crafts, wood items, pet items, dog treats, candles and much, much more. 

Saturdays mid May through beginning of October.

Located at: Corner of West Main Street & Springer Road, 110 Andi Lane, Ligonier, PA 15658

Springs Farmers’ Market

Voted “Best in Somerset County”, Largest in the area – produce, baked goods, flowers, large flea market, quality crafts. From the farm to our market – over 80 local farmers and craftsmen provide a wide selection of fresh picked produce, home baked goods, quilts, and local raised plants. Enjoy browsing among the antiques, tools, and flea market items. You will find artists displaying paintings and crafted artwork as well as new jewelry, leatherwork, and one-of-a-kind woodwork items. Breakfast and lunch counter on grounds.

Saturdays end May through end of September.

Located at: 1711 Springs Road, Springs, PA 15562