In McKean County, Pennsylvania - affectionately known as Trail Central - the trails don’t just lead through forests and scenic vistas. With over 600 miles of hiking, biking, and ATV trails across the Allegheny National Forest, there’s an adventure waiting around every bend… and a drink or dish to reward your effort at the end of the day. From handcrafted spirits and award-winning wines to comfort food that tastes like grandma’s but with better lighting, this region is your next go-to destination for sipping and savoring.

SMALL-BATCH SPIRITS AND LOCAL SIPS

Let’s start with the serious business: drinks. Whether you’re winding down after hiking the Kinzua Sky Walk or just enjoying a weekend away from civilization (and your inbox), McKean County offers plenty of reasons to raise a glass.

Kane continues to serve as a spirited hub - literally. At CJ Spirits Craft Distillery, you'll find high-quality vodka, gin, and whiskey all made with local grains and zero pretension. Their outdoor patio is perfect for a summer cocktail, and their Bloody Marys? Let’s just say they’re practically a meal.

Just up the road, Flickerwood Wine Cellars & Cocktail Lounge mixes local wine with a side of entertainment - think wine slushies, live music, and the occasional conga line. Want more wine? Twisted Vine Winery offers a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu of reds, whites, and fruit blends that even your "I only drink dry reds" friend will secretly enjoy.

Visiting Kane in late June? Be sure to check out Art in the Wilds, an outdoor fine art show set among the trees of Evergreen Park on June 28-29th. It’s a perfect pairing: beautiful art, local flavor, and small-town charm all wrapped into one unforgettable weekend.

Looking for something a little different? Check out the Wilds Sonshine Factory. Yes, it’s a distillery. Yes, they use sunflowers in their spirits. And yes, they also have a gift shop and an educational component. It’s like going to school, if school had cocktails.

In Duke Center, Little Mountain Winery rounds out the county’s beverage tour with handcrafted wines and a laid-back vibe that says, “Come in, sit down, and leave your worries at the door - preferably with the dog.”

BRADFORD BREW STATION: WHERE FLAVOR MEETS FUN

Now let’s talk about Bradford Brew Station, a gem in downtown Bradford that’s equal parts brewery, eatery, and neighborhood gathering place. This isn’t just a place to grab a beer - it’s a place to experience one.

House-brewed favorites like the Pine Acres Pale Ale and the seasonal Smoked Porter go down easy and pair perfectly with the Brew Station’s creative comfort food menu. Think wood-fired pizzas, brisket tacos, and a beer cheese dip that might make you consider relocating. The vibe is industrial-chic with a small-town soul, and the beer flights are a perfect way to taste your way through the local scene without committing too early (we’ve all been there).

THE BEST BITES IN EVERY TOWN

Great drinks demand equally great food, and McKean County delivers on both fronts. Here are five must-visit restaurants that serve as culinary cornerstones of their towns:

Kane - Table 105

This isn’t just a restaurant. It’s the kind of place where the lighting is flattering, the flatbreads are fresh from the oven, and the entrees would impress even your most food-savvy friend from Pittsburgh. Table 105 serves up a rotating menu of elevated American classics and seasonal specialties, all in a modern space right in the heart of Kane. It’s an ideal dinner stop after exploring town, tasting local spirits, or enjoying the creativity on display at Art in the Wilds.

Port Allegany - Eddie’s on Main

Eddie’s is the kind of restaurant where the servers know your name, the specials are written on a chalkboard, and everything tastes like it was made with love and actual butter. Their burgers, sandwiches, and homestyle dinners are local favorites for good reason.

Bradford - Beefeaters

A Bradford staple with a touch of old-school class, Beefeaters serves up prime rib, steaks, and seafood in a historic library setting - literally. Housed in the former Carnegie Library building, this upscale spot blends a rich atmosphere with timeless dishes. Whether you're craving a perfectly seared filet or a slow-roasted cut of prime rib, Beefeaters offers an elegant dining experience with no pretension - just great food and excellent service.

Mount Jewett - Kaffe Sol

Tucked into the center of Mount Jewett, Kaffe Sol is a cheerful café with Scandinavian flair and a knack for cozy. Come for the coffee, stay for the Swedish meatballs, cinnamon rolls, or fresh-baked quiche. It’s also dangerously close to the Kinzua Sky Walk, making it the perfect reward after facing your fear of heights.

Smethport - Cottage House Restaurant

In a town known for its Victorian charm, the Cottage House Restaurant fits right in. This friendly spot offers delicious lunches, daily specials and classic comfort food that hits the spot. Plus, it’s one of the few places where you can still get a full meal and a slice of pie without having to explain what a QR code is.

EAT, DRINK, AND STAY AWHLE

Whether you’re hiking the ANF, taking in the fall foliage, or just exploring Pennsylvania’s best-kept secrets, McKean County invites you to slow down and savor. You’ll find friendly faces, exceptional flavor, and more than a few reasons to come back for seconds.

Plan your culinary and craft beverage escape with help from the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau. From sunflowers in your spirits to syrup-drenched pancakes, McKean County is full of unexpected delights. So come hungry, come curious, and most of all - come thirsty. Grab the Adventure Guide or browse the latest dining and tasting stops at VisitANF.com.