The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Greater Pittsburgh Homeowners – Part 3

Being new in town — especially during the holidays — can be stressful and intimidating, even for those who are hyper-social. But there’s no better time than the holidays to get out and explore western Pennsylvania!

That’s why the Weaver Homes team of Butler, Allegheny and Beaver County locals has curated some great adventures for you to give to someone in your life who might need a good reason to explore their new town and have fun while doing it!

Try your luck with one of these curated tours throughout a specific district and grab a gift (or a gift card) from each!

Historic Harmony Village:

Start with a specialty coffee and some of the most creative and delicious crepes you’ll ever try at Wunderbar (253 Mercer Street, Harmony, PA 16037). This is a perfect place to start your tour of Harmony Village and will get you warm and caffeinated for the rest of your day.

If you’re not a coffee person, or it’s a bit later in the day, The Two Fraus Bakery offers to-die-for fresh German pretzels and authentic baked goods. We think the smells alone of this local gem are enough to make lasting memories.

Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, a short stroll to Bottlebrush Gallery is in order (539 Main Street, Harmony, PA 16037) — where you can enjoy the works of a variety of eclectic artists. From photographers to glassblowers, there is something new to see every day.

Stroll through scores of classic vinyl records and enjoy the nostalgia or catch a live music concert in the evening as a perfect way to put a bow on your exciting, delicious and fun day at Historic Harmony Village.

Zelienople:

Nearby Zelienople is packed full of wonderful shops on a family-friendly main street and also offers a fantastic night out on the town. Room to Grow Toys (146 S. Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063), is just one of the stores where kids and adults alike will enjoy shopping for unique and fun gifts. It’s one of the few remaining independent toy stores and we absolutely love its classic atmosphere.

Down the street, stop in at Little Green Bookstore (104 N. Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063) — one of the most adorable independent bookstores you’ll ever visit, and just recently moved into a brand new space. They offer hundreds of books and dozens of genres to choose from, so you’ll have no problem finding the next favorite title for the bookworm in your life, young or old.

And when it’s time for lunch or happy hour, you won’t have to leave main street because Shubrew (205 S. Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063) is the place to be. Their pop-up holiday bar hosted on the rooftop is an incredible experience with fabulous food and cocktails that will exceed your greatest expectations.

We hope that this guide (and ICYMI—check out part 1 and part 2) has provided you with many new favorites and plenty of ideas for gifts to give your loved ones. And from the Weaver Homes team to you and your loved ones, we wish you a very happy holiday season and a new year filled with joy and incredible memories.

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Greater Pittsburgh Homeowners – Part 2

Welcome back to Weaver Homes’ 2022 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide! In case you missed it, part 1 of our guide was all about restaurants, food and drink in western Pennsylvania that our team can’t get enough of. In part 2, we’re going to share some of the local experiences that we love. 

Whether it’s a trip to a boutique to pick out an unforgettable keepsake, a fun cooking class or an evening at the theater, this list will give you and your loved ones priceless memories they can look back on fondly for years to come.

Get crafty with an art, pottery or cooking class, perfect for kids, teens and adults:

Board and Brush Pittsburgh North

Aspiring carpenters and artists alike are welcome at Board & Brush, Pittsburgh’s DIY Wood Sign Workshop. These fun and creative classes fill up quickly, so book your in-person or virtual appointment and make something beautiful!

3802 Gibsonia Rd,
Gibsonia, PA 15044
https://boardandbrush.com/pittsburghnorth/

Truthful Art Studio 

A private paint party (wine, optional) is an undeniably fun occasion and Truthful Art Studio goes the extra mile to tailor your event for your unique needs, whatever they may be. Book your event, from 5 to 24 attendees, in the studio, at the venue of your choice or online via Zoom.

519 Perry Way,
Zelienople, PA 16063
https://www.truthfulart.com/

Izabella’s Gourmet Chow 

What better way than a kid’s cooking class to sneak in a little bit of self-reliance while having a blast making something yummy with your kiddo. Plus, Izabella’s Gourmet Chow teaches kids as young as 3 years old  the origin of these foods and their cultures.

Book your online or in-person class at https://www.izabellasgourmetchow.com/

Everyone knows about Pittsburgh’s thriving arts scene — but these local theaters have fantastic talent and offer a fun evening of culture:

Comtra Theater

This holiday season, Comtra theater is presenting Miracle on 34th Street – The Musical. It’s one of our favorites — and apparently other’s too. Tickets are selling fast!

20540 Route 19,
Cranberry Twp, PA
https://www.comtratheatre.org/2022-season/

Lincoln Park Theater 

Whether you see a fun and whimsical production like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jr., or one of the many upcoming holiday orchestral performances, Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center offers a chance to see future stars shine on stage.

1 Lincoln Park,
Midland, PA 15059
https://www.lincolnparkarts.org/

At local specialty shops and boutiques, a one-of-a-kind gift awaits for someone special in your life:

Baseball Card Castle 

You’re sure to find a great piece of sports memorabilia for the Steelers, Pens or Pirates fan in your life at Baseball Card Castle in Cranberry. Take one stroll through the nostalgia-filled aisles and you’ll know exactly what we mean.

20555 Route 19,
Cranberry Twp, PA 20555
https://www.baseballcardcastle.net/

Pisarick Flower Farm

Pisarick Flower Farm is well-known by locals for two big reasons — its stunning scenery that serves as the backdrop for events and weddings, and its gorgeous daily-harvested flowers, used to make perfect, one-of-a-kind wreaths and other gifts. Visit the Holiday Shop until December 18th!

365 Browns Hill Road,
Valencia, PA 16059
https://pisarcikflowerfarm.com/

Keffala’s Designs

Explore unique gifts, attire, and sweet treats at Keffala’s Designs, that will have you discovering new treasures every time you visit. This Butler boutique is full of personality and charm.

790 Pittsburgh Road,
Butler, PA 16002
https://www.keffalasdesigns.com/pages/brands-we-love

kat & willie 

If she’s fashion-forward, the stylists at kat & willie boutique in Wexford can put together an outfit that will make her look great. They’re a great follow on Instagram and they offer gift cards, too!

617 Warrendale Road, Suite F
Gibsonia, PA 15044
https://www.katandwillie.com/

Mainstream Boutique

This local boutique’s mission is “to love, strengthen and celebrate women through fashion.” Enough said. They’re a must-visit if you’re not a fan of fast fashion and want to look great (and feel great about the clothes you wear.

20325 Route 19, #7
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
https://mainstreamboutique.com/pages/cranberrytownship

With a list full of ideas on what to give to the special people in your life, you might be wondering what to do about those in your life that might be new to the Greater Pittsburgh area. Stay tuned for Part 3 of this gift guide, where we’ll curate fun experiences for those new to our town.

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Greater Pittsburgh Homeowners

These are a few of our favorite things…

In addition to building beautiful new homes throughout North Pittsburgh for over three decades, Weaver Homes’ team members are residents ourselves. So you might say we know our way around town — and are experts on things to do and places to see in Butler County, Allegheny County, Beaver County and beyond.

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us, the mad dash to prepare for the rest of the Holiday season is underway. And if you’re shopping for a life-changing purchase for your family (like, say, a new home…), we know how hard it can be to check off each special person on your list and find a thoughtful, fun gift for everyone.

That’s why the Weaver Homes team is here to help! We’ve put together the ultimate gift-giving guide for our local area. You won’t go wrong with any of the local attractions below.

Treat your favorite foodie to one of our team’s favorite restaurants:

Kelly O’s Diner

This local breakfast and brunch spot has been featured on Food Network’s Diners Drive-Ins & Dives and Triple D Nation. Get here early, as the “Breakfast of ChampYINZ” wraps up serving their deliciousness at 2pm daily.

100 Fowler Rd Suite 10,
Warrendale, PA 15086
https://www.kellyos.com/

Freedom Farms Farm to Fork Kitchen

At Freedom Farms, “Farming is King.” So you can expect the freshest ingredients in their “nutrient-dense” sandwiches and soups. It’s one of our favorite belly-warming lunch destinations in Butler.

759 Pittsburgh Road,
Butler, PA 16002
https://www.freedomfarmspa.com/sandwich-shop-1

Shopping for a budding chef? Give them the gift of the highest quality local meats and spices:

Rath Farms

If you’re looking to prepare a feast for your family or friends, Rath Farm’s premium, farm-raised beef, chicken and pork are a great choice. Shop with this family-owned business to experience a true farm-to-table experience!

1328 Mars Evans City Road,
Evans City, PA 16033
https://rathfarms.com/

Thoma Meat Market

For nearly 80 years, Thoma Meat Market has provided western Pennslyvanians with an authentic, old-fashioned butcher shop and meat market. In addition to the finest quality meats, Thoma also has a large variety of deli lunch meats and other treats in their retail store!

748 Dinnerbell Road,
Saxonburg, PA 16056
https://www.thomameat.com/

Oil & Vinegar Pittsburgh

Oil & Vinegar Pittsburgh in Seven Fields offers a culinary adventure and features only the highest quality products, imported from international countries and produced by local farmers and craftsmen. Whether you’re looking for a special ingredient, a staple for your pantry or a personalized gift, you’ll find it here!

522 Northpointe Circle,
Seven Fields, PA 16046
https://www.oilandvinegarusa.com/store/oil-vinegar-pittsburg/

Does your special someone have a sweet tooth? We have the answer:

Speckled Hen Chocolate Company

Open Tuesday to Saturday, Speckled Hen Chocolate Company in Saxonburg has it all—from classic fudge, caramel apples, bark, truffles and even vegan treats. While you’re grabbing a gift, pick up a chocolate-covered Twinkie for yourself. You can thank us later!

656 Saxonburg Blvd,
Saxonburg, PA 16056
https://www.speckledhenchocolatecompany.com/

Harvey’s Sweet Shoppe

This bakery in Butler offers an incredible selection of cakes, cookies and cupcakes. Though the most popular staples are a constant, Harvey’s is constantly adding new items to the menu to satisfy your sweet tooth.

148 North Monroe Street
Butler, PA 16001
https://www.harveyssweetshoppe.com/

Looking to satisfy a beer, wine or coffee connoisseur? Think local:

Kairos Coffee Roaster and Tea Company

What’s cooler than sipping a delicious espresso created inside a 1971 vintage Airstream trailer? We can’t think of anything, either.

8001 Rowan Road,
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
https://kairoscoffeeroaster.com/

Stick City Brewing Company

Pick up a gift card, a 6-pack of one of many popular IPAs, Pilsners, Ales or Stouts, and while you’re at it, grab some Stick City Brew merch to wrap up and put under the tree. We love their logo almost as much as we love their inspiring company mission.

109 Irvine Street,
Mars, PA 16046
https://stickcitybeer.com/

House of 1000 Beers

With locations in Warrenton and New Kensington, your favorite beer enthusiast will love a gift card or trip to this renowned restaurant and taphouse. Do they really have 1,000 beers on tap? There’s only one way to find out!

100 Fowler Road,
Warrendale, PA 15086
https://www.houseof1000beers.com/

Narcisi Winery

While the weather outside might be frightful, the wine and food will warm your soul at Narcisi. Stop in to purchase a few bottles or a gift card for a lovely dinner with an incredible atmosphere.

4578 Gibsonia Road,
Gibsonia, PA 15044
https://www.narcisiwinery.com/

In the holiday spirit yet? Stay tuned for Part 2 of the Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide, where we’ll be sharing ideas for experiences and unique gifts that will be remembered for years to come!

Top 3 Points of Interest Near Hidden Falls in Pennsylvania

Every year, thousands of people of all ages move to Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. A diverse county with a combination of urban, suburban and rural characteristics, it’s no wonder it’s so popular. Fox Chapel, a borough just 10 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, is a booming area of the county, and the ideal location for Weaver Homes’ newest Lifestyle Community, Hidden Falls

When it comes to choosing where to build Lifestyle Communities, we always think about what our active adult residents want the most: convenience, active living, easy access to everything. Hidden Falls ticks all the boxes; there are parks and trails, tennis clubs and golf clubs, healthcare and medical facilities, and highways such as Route 8, Route 28, and the PA Turnpike. 

There are plenty of great attractions nearby. From major cities to quaint historical sites, there’s something for everyone. We’ve put together our top 3 points of interest to help you get to know Hidden Falls in Fox Chapel, PA. 

Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve

Beechwood Farms lies just a short walk from Hidden Falls. With its luscious woodlands and carefully managed habitats, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers. It also has educational facilities, a library and DiscoverGround Nature Play Area. This reserve is managed by the Audubon Society and provides a home for plenty of local plants and animals. 

 

Oakmont Bakery

If exploring all that nature has helped you build up an appetite, it’s time to grab a bite to eat. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, head on down to Oakmont Bakery, one of the finest eateries in the state.

For many years, the folks here have been producing a wide variety of treats sure to get your taste buds tingling. They sell all kinds of cakes and other confections, and you can choose to take your food away or sit and eat among the light, airy surroundings of the bakery’s café. Oakmont Bakery is located in Oakmont, just a 10-minute drive from Hidden Falls. 

Breads, buns, croissants. Bakery ingredients on wooden background. Breakfast food concept. Top view

 

City of Pittsburgh

This booming metropolis has something for everyone. There are great museums, like the Andy Warhol Museum, and fascinating historic sites, like the Fort Pitt Block House. There are also some excellent things to eat, including the burgers and sandwiches Pittsburgh is known for.  If you’ve never spent much time in the Steel City, it might be time to change that. There’s something new around every corner, so you’re sure to find something you’ll love.

 

Enjoy Easy Access to Everything With a Great Home at Hidden Falls

If you want to enjoy all of the food and fun, nature and history offered in Fox Chapel and its surrounds, Hidden Falls by Weaver Homes is the answer. We offer a variety of single-level patio homes designed for easier living, with wider hallways, comfort height countertops, lever door handles and other safety and comfort features. 

From peaceful moments on private outdoor patios to daily walks along the trails, Hidden Falls residents will enjoy the benefits of a healthy, low maintenance lifestyle, complimented by the warm feeling of living in a close knit community, not to mention being near everything they need in Allegheny County. Connect with us to learn more about living at Hidden Falls in Fox Chapel, Pennsylvania.