REGIONS 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 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. Waldameer & Water World Erie Presque Isle State Park Erie 64 visitPA.com * Explore all of Pennsylvania’s regions at visitPA.com/regions VISITERIE (2 PHOTOS)
Pennsylvania Happy Traveler Guide 2021: Page 64
