I went for exercise in the park at Hartwood Acres but I left with more – that nice feeling that you get when you end up having an experience that is both unexpected and lovely.

After hiking the trails to the Hartwood Mansion, I happened to meet a person who used to be a docent at the historic landmark home. She told me all about the history of the place as we walked along with her friendly dog. And she also gave me a recommendation for lunch at the nearby Hartwood Restaurant, which was so nice.

Sometimes the best experiences are the ones that don’t need to be planned – they just find you.

One of the many trails in Hartwood Acres, a 629-acre park in Allegheny County.

One of the many trails in Hartwood Acres, a 629-acre park in Allegheny County.

Three of the public art sculptures throughout Hartwood Acres.

Three of the public art sculptures throughout Hartwood Acres.

The Hartwood Mansion was erected in 1929.

The Hartwood Mansion was erected in 1929.

The flower garden at Hartwood Mansion is beautiful and great for butterfly-watching.

The flower garden at Hartwood Mansion is beautiful and great for butterfly-watching.

An ornate bench at Hartwood Acres.

An ornate bench at Hartwood Acres.

Bonus photos with this friendly Standard Poodle.

Bonus photos with this friendly Standard Poodle.

Several headstones make up a dog cemetery that honors the memory of family dogs throughout the years.

Several headstones make up a dog cemetery that honors the memory of family dogs throughout the years.

Beet and asparagus salad al fresco at Hartwood Restaurant.

Beet and asparagus salad al fresco at Hartwood Restaurant.