2020-12-05 08:01:05
Pennsylvania’s Lake Erie coast features everything you’d want from a beach: gentle waves, ice cream stands—even a lighthouse. But the region boasts more than Lake Erie’s shore. Get a thrill at the horse races or on a wooden roller coaster. Hit the links, and then rest in luxury. Search for wildlife at a nearby preserve. Taste-test wines at a picturesque vineyard, or stroll through art galleries and exhibits. The region’s state parks and glittering lakes teem with hiking, hunting, history, and heritage, offering something exciting for visitors of all ages. “GREAT” DESTINATIONS & SURPRISING STOPS The Great Lakes have shaped the unique landscape, small towns, ambiance, and agriculture of Pennsylvania’s northwestern corner. Check out these off-the-beaten path stops on your explorations around the region. Start by taking a scenic drive along East Lake Road to the family-owned Mazza Vineyards in North East for a tour and tasting amidst lovely Mediterranean architecture inspired by the Mazzas’ Italian heritage. If you prefer hops and barley to grapes, Sprague Farm & Brew Works in Venango has been planting, harvesting, floor malting, and kilning estate barley since 2011. In need of new footwear? Go straight for Reyer’s, America’s Largest Shoe Store, located in Sharon. Browse the astonishing 150,000 pairs of shoes in every size, style, and color imaginable. For some new threads to match, Grove City Premium Outlets has you covered. This premier shopping destination is home to dozens of name brand outlets, including Ann Taylor, Coach, Nike, and many more. Find festive seasonal decorations, gifts, toys, and plants for every occasion at Kraynak’s, a local institution in the town of Hermitage for more than 50 years. From mid-September through December 24, visit Kraynak’s for Santa’s Christmasland, a free indoor display featuring 85 decorated trees and a cast of life-like animated characters. Your adventure would not be complete without some time in the great outdoors. You’ll find fresh air to spare in Pymatuning State Park in Crawford County. It’s one of Pennsylvania’s largest parks, offering boating, fishing, and hiking in the warm months, and snowmobiling, sledding, and cross-country skiing in the winter. In Sandy Lake, Maurice K. Goddard State Park boasts nearly 3,000 acres of open space, including wetlands, old fields, and mature forests that provide habitat for many types of wildlife. Pymatuning Park in Jamestown features 250 animals and birds, with baby farm animals and parakeets to pet and feed. Finally, make your time in this region extra memorable with an overnight escape to Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa in Sharon. This castle-like 1890s mansion is nestled into lush green gardens that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale, and the onsite spa is an ideal place to unwind after sightseeing. HIGHLIGHTS Presque Isle State Park, Erie This 3,200-acre peninsula boasts sandy beaches and direct access to Lake Erie for swimming, boating, and fishing. Learn more about the history of Lake Erie—from the War of 1812 through present day—at the waterfront Erie Maritime Museum, and see if you can catch a glimpse of the U.S. Brig Niagara, a replica of the relief flagship from the War of 1812. Conneaut Lake Park, Conneaut Lake At this historic amusement park, there’s no better way to embrace nostalgia than to ride the Blue Streak wooden roller coaster, which opened in 1938. Edinboro Lake Resort, Edinboro Stay in a cozy cabin just steps from the water, and spend your days boating, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. At night, dine on the lakefront Sunset Grill and listen to live music. Waldameer & Water World, Erie Take your pick from more than 100 rides, roller coasters, slides, and attractions. Ride on the Ravine Flyer II wooden coaster or go body surfing in the 500,000-gallon wave pool. Oil Creek State Park, Oil City Peek into oil history at the site of the world’s first commercial oil well. See exhibits at the Train Station Visitor Center, and then hike past wetlands or kayak the river. Drake Well Museum and Park, Titusville Explore more than 150 years of oil industry history, showcased through artifacts, machinery, interactive exhibits, and a full-size replica of Edwin L. Drake’s engine house and derrick.
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