PENNSYLVANIA’S GREAT LAKES REGION 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. HIGHLIGHTS PRESQUE ISLE STATE PARK, ERIE A 3,200-acre peninsula boasting sandy beaches and direct access to Lake Erie, this is the spot to swim, boat, fish, and spot migrating birds, just 4 miles from downtown Erie. Take the 90-minute guided boat tour on “Lady Kate” to experience the sights, wildlife, and more. SPLASH LAGOON INDOOR WATER PARK RESORT, ERIE Seven exhilarating water slides, a lazy river, wave pool, splash areas, and more — all indoors — provide water fun for the whole family, no matter what time of year you visit. WALDAMEER PARK & 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. MAURICE K. GODDARD STATE PARK, SANDY LAKE The wetlands at this 2,856-acre park are a haven for waterfowl, while the 1,680-acre Lake Helm is heaven for anglers and boaters. During winter months, bring your sled to the 1-acre sledding hill at the dam for some fast-paced fun. East Sandy Creek Venango County Waldameer Park & Water World Erie PYMATUNING STATE PARK, JAMESTOWN TOP TO BOTTOM: OIL REGION ALLIANCE OF BUSINESS, INDUSTRY & TOURISM; WALDAMEER PARK & WATER WORLD As one of the largest state parks in the Keystone State — and boasting the state’s largest lake — this expansive park offers endless recreation: camping, boating, fishing, and swimming. CONNEAUT LAKE PARK, CONNEAUT At this historic amusement park dating back to 1892, there’s no better way to embrace nostalgia than to ride the classic Blue Streak wooden roller coaster, built in 1938. OIL CREEK STATE PARK, OIL CITY Hike past wetlands and waterfalls, or take a self-guided tour of this cradle of the oil industry, which is the site of the world’s first commercial oil well. From March to early June, drop in a canoe to explore the park on a scenic float. 112 Visiting soon? See page 42 for upcoming events.
Pennsylvania Happy Traveler Guide 2020: Page 112
