Buhl Mansion Sharon Mazza Vineyards North East “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. CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: VISITERIE; VISITMERCERCOUNTYPA; FRAN BIRES Maurice K. Goddard State Park Sandy Lake 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. visitPA.com 65
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