About Mercer County, Pennsylvania
Mercer County is on the western side of the state of Pennsylvania. Home to many wonderful places to visit. WRHE is located near the heart of Downtown Sharon near the Shenango River. New residents in Sharon and the greater Mercer County area quickly find there’s a lot more to do than you might expect from a small-town region. In downtown Sharon, you can explore local favorites like Daffin’s Candies—often called the world’s largest candy store—or grab food and a fun atmosphere at Quaker Steak & Lube, known for its wings and motorsports theme. The downtown area itself is walkable and full of small shops, art spaces, and seasonal events like festivals, car shows, and holiday celebrations that help new residents quickly feel part of the community.
For outdoor and relaxing activities, Mercer County really shines. Buhl Park is a local favorite with free golf, walking trails, and open green space, while nearby parks and lakes offer hiking, kayaking, and fishing opportunities. If you want something more adventurous, Skydive Pennsylvania gives you a unique way to experience the area from above. Families can visit places like Living Treasures Wild Animal Park, and shoppers often head to Grove City Premium Outlets for tax-free deals on clothing.
Beyond that, the area has a strong mix of arts and culture for its size. Catch a show at ACTS Performing Arts Center, explore local wineries and breweries, or take part in community events throughout the year. Whether you’re into outdoor recreation, shopping, food, or small-town festivals, Mercer County offers a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of ways to stay active and connected—all within a short drive from Sharon.
Must See Places:
Daffin's - world's largest candy store.
The Winner - over 75,000 square feet of women's fashion and accessories.
Buhl Mansion - a luxury castle with a spa and guestrooms.
Tara - a country inn featuring "Southern Hospitality."
Buhl Farm Park and Buhl Golf Course - a legacy recreation space for area residents to enjoy including the nation's only FREE 9-hole golf course.
Kraynak's - a garden center that turns into a giant holiday-themed gift shop with seasonal walk-through Christmas and Easter attractions inside.
About Mahoning & Trumbull Counties in Ohio
WRHE is uniquely positioned along the Pennsylvania–Ohio border, with strong, longstanding connections throughout both Mercer County, Pennsylvania and neighboring Mahoning and Trumbull Counties in Ohio. This regional footprint expands the education experience beyond a single community, offering residents access to diverse patient populations, healthcare systems, and clinical environments. Through these partnerships, WRHE is deeply integrated into the fabric of the Shenango Valley and the greater Youngstown–Warren area, reinforcing its commitment to community-based, patient-centered care.
For those visiting the region, there is a wide variety of things to see and do. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the scenic beauty of Mill Creek MetroParks, known for its walking trails, gardens, and lakes, or enjoy hiking, biking, and waterfront views at Mosquito Lake State Park. The area also offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, including performances at the DeYor Performing Arts Center and exhibitions at the Butler Institute of American Art.
Music and live entertainment are also highlights of the region, with concerts and events hosted at Stambaugh Auditorium and the Warren Community Amphitheatre along the scenic riverfront. Visitors can also experience local history and innovation at the National Packard Museum or enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment at Eastwood Mall Complex. From charming downtown areas to seasonal festivals and community events, the region offers a welcoming mix of small-town character and accessible amenities—making it an inviting place to live, learn, and explore.
Mahoning and Trumbull Counties offer a rich connection to the region’s industrial, cultural, and architectural history. Visitors can explore the legacy of America’s automotive innovation at the National Packard Museum, or step into the past at the Arms Family Museum, which highlights life during the early 20th century. The Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor provides an in-depth look at the steel industry that shaped the region, while the Trumbull County Historical Society preserves local stories through historic homes and exhibits.
From beautifully preserved estates to museums dedicated to the area’s industrial roots, these sites offer meaningful insight into the heritage that continues to influence the Mahoning Valley today—making them worthwhile destinations for visitors interested in history and culture.
Did You Know?
Explore a collection of fun facts that highlight the people, places, and moments that make this region truly one of a kind. From ice cream history and football dynasties to steel industry legends and shopping mall pioneers, the Mercer County, Pennsylvania region — along with neighboring Trumbull and Mahoning counties in Ohio — is full of surprising stories and hometown connections. Discover what makes this tri-county area a unique place to live, work, and learn.
Did You Know?
The influential Buhl family helped shape the history of Mercer County through philanthropy, business leadership, and community development. Industrialist Frank H. Buhl and the Buhl family contributed to projects that supported education, public spaces, and civic growth throughout the Sharon area — leaving a legacy that is still visible in the region today.
Did You Know?
The Cafaro family helped transform retail development in the Mahoning Valley and beyond through the creation of one of America’s early shopping mall empires. Founded by William M. Cafaro in Youngstown, the family’s developments helped shape suburban shopping centers across the country and played a major role in the economic growth of northeastern Ohio during the mid-20th century.
Did You Know?
The influential DeBartolo family from the Mahoning Valley has deep and lasting ties to the San Francisco 49ers. The team was purchased by Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. and remains under the broader DeBartolo family ownership and stewardship today. During their tenure, the franchise became one of the NFL’s greatest dynasties, winning five Super Bowl championships in the 1980s and 1990s — a legacy that continues to define the team’s identity.
Did You Know?
Before Hollywood, the famous Warner Bros. brothers got their start right here in the Mahoning Valley region. The Warner family operated early movie theaters in Youngstown, Ohio and nearby New Castle, Pennsylvania before eventually founding Warner Bros. Pictures in 1923 — helping shape the future of the American film industry from humble local beginnings. Today that same spirit of performance and culture continues in the region through the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, which now carries on the community’s long tradition of live entertainment and the arts
Did you know?
The iconic Good Humor ice cream bar was invented nearby in Youngstown, Ohio in 1920 by confectioner Harry Burt. His creation — chocolate-coated ice cream on a wooden stick — helped launch America’s beloved ice cream truck tradition and became a nostalgic symbol of summertime across the country.
Did You Know?
Tam O'Shanter in nearby Hermitage was once one of the most famous golf destinations in the country. During the mid-20th century, the course hosted nationally televised PGA events and welcomed legendary golfers including Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus — bringing major sports attention to the Shenango Valley region.
More to discover close by...
From Sharon, Pennsylvania, you’re in a great spot for easy day trips or weekend getaways to both Pittsburgh and Cleveland, each offering a mix of culture, sports, food, and outdoor experiences. About an hour away, Pittsburgh is known for its unique skyline and rivers, and there’s plenty to explore. You can ride the historic Duquesne Incline for panoramic views of the city, walk through Point State Park where three rivers meet, or spend time in the Strip District browsing markets and restaurants. The city also has excellent museums, including the Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, plus attractions like Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for nature lovers. Sports fans can catch a game at PNC Park, which is widely known for its scenic views. (Visit Pittsburgh)
Heading about two hours north, Cleveland, Ohio offers a different but equally fun vibe, especially along Lake Erie. A must-see is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, along with cultural hubs like University Circle, where you’ll find major museums and attractions. You can explore local food and history at the West Side Market, relax outdoors at lakefront spots like Lakewood Park, or visit breweries such as Great Lakes Brewing Company for a laid-back afternoon. Cleveland is also known for its arts scene, walkable neighborhoods, and waterfront views, making it ideal for a quick weekend trip with a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. (Visit Cleveland)
Overall, living in Sharon puts you within easy driving distance of two cities that offer very different experiences—Pittsburgh with its historic, hilly charm and Cleveland with its lakefront energy—so there’s always something new to do without traveling far.