Things to Do for Couples in Mercer County
Date nights, weekend getaways, and quiet escapes - the best spots for two in and around the Shenango Valley.
You don't need a big city to have a great date night. Mercer County has more than enough charm, good food, and scenic beauty to fill a weekend - or just a Tuesday evening when you both need to get out of the house. Here's where to go when it's just the two of you.
Dinner at Tara – A Country Inn
If you're going to do one truly special dinner in Mercer County, make it Stonewall's Tavern at Tara – A Country Inn in Clark. The setting alone is worth the drive: an 1854 mansion overlooking Shenango Lake, filled with Civil War antiques and Gone with the Wind memorabilia. The steaks are excellent, the service is old-school attentive, and the early bird menu (Monday through Thursday, 3–4:30 PM) is a genuine bargain. For a real occasion, book Ashley's Fine Dining on a Friday or Saturday night - it's a seven-course candlelit affair with white-glove service. Reservations required.
Stroll Downtown Greenville
Greenville's compact downtown is perfect for a casual evening walk. Start at the Greenville Area Public Library (a beautiful Carnegie library), wander past the local shops and boutiques on Main Street, and finish with a movie at the Park Theatre. If you time it right, you might catch a summer concert or a holiday event on the town square. The Shenango River runs right through town, and the riverside path is especially nice at sunset.
Wine and Brew Trail
Mercer County sits along a growing wine and craft beverage trail. Spend an afternoon visiting local wineries and craft breweries - you'll find spots scattered between Grove City, Hermitage, and the surrounding countryside. Most offer tasting flights and outdoor seating with rural views. It's a relaxed way to spend a Saturday, and you'll likely discover a new favorite. Designate a driver or make a weekend of it.
A Weekend at Buhl Mansion
For an overnight escape without the long drive, Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa in Sharon is a luxurious option. The mansion is a stunning piece of Gilded Age architecture - all carved stone, grand staircases, and stained glass. Spa packages are available for couples, and the property sits just blocks from downtown Sharon's restaurants and galleries. It's the kind of place that makes a regular weekend feel like a vacation.
Sunset at Shenango River Lake
Sometimes the best date is the simplest one. Drive out to one of the overlook areas at Shenango River Lake, spread a blanket, and watch the sun go down over the water. The west-facing shore near Clark gives you a wide-open view. Bring a thermos of coffee or a bottle of wine and just be still for an hour. In a county this peaceful, you might as well take advantage of it.
Live Music and Local Events
The Shenango Valley has a surprisingly active live music scene. Venues from Hermitage to Sharon to Greenville host local and regional acts on weekends - check spots like The Clark House, Pub 76 in Stoneboro, and the various taverns along the Sharon–Hermitage corridor. In the warmer months, outdoor concert series pop up at Buhl Park and various town squares. For theater, the Shenango Valley Community Theatre puts on several productions a year and tickets are affordable.
Day Trip to the Amish Country
The villages of Volant and New Wilmington are a short drive south of Mercer and offer a completely different pace. Volant's Main Street is lined with antique shops, crafts stores, and a few excellent bakeries - the kind of places where you can lose an hour without trying. New Wilmington is home to Westminster College and has a quiet, collegiate charm. Stop at one of the roadside stands for fresh baked goods or handmade quilts on the drive back.
In This Guide
- 1.Dinner at Tara – A Country Inn
- 2.Stroll Downtown Greenville
- 3.Wine and Brew Trail
- 4.A Weekend at Buhl Mansion
- 5.Sunset at Shenango River Lake
- 6.Live Music and Local Events
- 7.Day Trip to the Amish Country
More Guides
Things to Do with Kids in Mercer County
Playgrounds, farms, fairs, and family-friendly fun - a parent's guide to keeping the kids entertained around the county.
Things to Do for Older Adults in Mercer County
Scenic drives, community meals, historical landmarks, and relaxed outings perfect for retirees and seasoned locals.
Community-Powered
Know something we missed?
This guide is built by locals like you. Share your tips, favorite spots, photos, and corrections to make it better for everyone.
Contribute to This GuideBuilt by Locals,
for Locals
Every guide on this site is shaped by people who know Mercer County best.
Help Build This Resource
Share What You Know About Mercer County
Our guides grow with every tip, correction, and photo from people who live here and love it here. Whether you have a favorite spot to add or a detail to fix, your local knowledge matters.
- Suggest places, activities, and hidden gems
- Share photos that show off the county
- Flag outdated info or corrections
- Get credited by name with a link to your site