From beaches, to the water parks, to the place where "the ducks walk on the fishes' backs," PA's Great Lakes Region promises to be a real family adventure. There's probably a lot you might not know about our region…
Did you know Erie is home to the Ravine Flyer II? This roller coaster was featured in the New York Times and won the coveted Best New Ride at the 2008 Golden Ticket Awards. The Ravine Flyer II is a real thriller with its three giant drops, six tunnels, 90-degree track banking, tons of air time and speeds of over 60 mph.
Or how about that Sharon, PA is home to the world's largest candy store? Daffin's Candies, has gained a national name for its delectable milk and semi-sweet chocolate candy. The store features "The Chocolate Kingdom" a realm that is inhabited by a 400-pound chocolate turtle, a 125-pound chocolate reindeer and 75-pound chocolate frog. Chocolate castles, a train, a village, and a Ferris Wheel brings this whimsical land to life. Guests come from all over the world to see the unique display of solid-chocolate creations and sample free chocolate. Kids of all ages will love visiting PA Great Lakes Region.
The Bookamer Family Farm is a circle farm, meaning all animals, plants, land and caretakers work together to have a farm eco-system that works using each other to the benefit and well being of the whole. We use the animals for not only the products for which the produce or give, but also in the protection of each other, fertilizer of land and plants, and reduction of pests, each working for and with each other. Our animals include: fish pond, ducks, geese, chickens, rabbits, cows, pigs, mini-donkeys, Alpacas, we also have Icelandic sheep with the traditional herding dogs, and cats for rodent control. We grow many gardens with orchards and feel we can help someone with any size land from a lot to many acres learn how to live more efficiently (green if you will) with waste being a word of the past. Waste is created by not knowing the next use for something.
Canadohta Lake offers a unique experience that partners lovely natural scenery with fun attractions, shopping, dining and overnight accommodations all centered around Pennsylvania’s second largest natural lake.
Travel back in time to a century-old amusement park that will be sure to still show you a fun day. The very feel of the park, indeed even its aroma, hint of a long and steady past there for us to enjoy. Conneaut Lake Park is a salve to nerves stressed to the breaking point – truly a place of relaxation and refreshment.
So, we offer you to take a ride back in time, to remember and to relive, and to make new memories as patrons and lovers of Conneaut Lake Park. Ride 80+ rides, cool off in the lazy river or on the water slides, relax on the beach, or stroll down the 600-foot boardwalk. Hold on tight, and enjoy the ride!
“Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, Conneaut Lake Has It All!” Whether you’re looking for peaceful waterfront serenity, unique shopping experiences, a variety of savory dining opportunities, or the thrill and nostalgia of a ride on our classic wooden roller coaster, the “Blue Streak”, at Conneaut Lake Park, we have something for everyone. And we’ve reserved a spot for YOU!
Awards 4 $1000 scholarships yearly to Crawford County high school seniors. Affiliated with Scholarship America – Dollars for Scholars.
The mission of Hog Heaven Rescue Farm is to rescue, rehabilitate and foster abused, neglected and unwanted hoofed animals. We take these animals in and provide vet care, feed and farrier care. We work on getting these animals healthy physically, emotionally & socially. We then adopt them out to loving homes forever.
The farm operates on the funds provided by the cofounders, as well as from increasingly generous community donations.
We carry alpaca fiber products such as hats, gloves, socks, stuffed animals, scarves and much more! Not only is alpaca wool soft like cashmere, it’s warmer, lighter and more durable than wool, as well as comes in 22 natural colors. We are proud to bring you the finest organic-fiber fleece around.
Sit back and relax as we take you on a relaxing cruise on Pennsylvania’s largest natural lake. Learn about the evolution of the Conneaut Lake area through historical narration by Capt. John Bertera. The Kaylee Belle Tour Boat rekindles a long tradition of commercial navigation on Conneaut Lake. Originally built in 1969 for the Columbus Zoo, she now graces the waters at Conneaut Lake Park. Narrated cruises on the hour, private parties and weddings available. Tickets may be purchased at the Kaylee Belle on the grass pier in Conneaut Lake Park. Cruise tickets: $8.00 per person, $2.00 children under 6. Party Rates Available. For further information, call Capt. John at 814-439-0066 or kayleebelle@zoominternet.net
Originally constructed in 1939, the Fish Culture Station is situated on 97 developed acres of land. Visit the earthen ponds and two-story aquarium that is visited by an average of 80,000 people per year.
A public recreation facility featuring an indoor/outdoor aquatic center, ice rink, outdoor tennis center, picnic pavilions, baseball and soccer fields, skate park, sand volleyball courts and a nature trail.
The largest State park in the Commonwealth! Visit the Waterfowl Museum and multi-story aquarium at the Linesville Fish Hatchery. Newly renovated for 2007 is the Spillway, where “the ducks walk on the fish” to compete for food thrown by visitors! The Park also has three campgrounds for family fun, fishing, walking and hiking trails, water sports and much more.
In 1885, Cambridge Springs became the center for people from miles around, for the healing effects of its mineral springs. The Inn was 1 of 40 hotels and rooming houses at that time and only the Inn remains in active operation. It is enrolled in the National Register of Historic Places.
We invite you to come and enjoy our lovely Inn. We offer dinner theatres, horseshoes, canoeing, croquet, badminton, outdoor swimming pool, shuffleboard, tennis courts, volleyball, arts & crafts shows, a lounge, and more! Take time to visit the beautiful gardens surrounding the Inn. Enjoy the quiet and gracious Victorian atmosphere of years past!
Also (800) 964-5173.
Our mission is to have our theaters promote the excitement and magic of the movies.
This popular hot air balloon event features over 30 balloons and a beautiful night glow with 10 balloons at Allegheny College Sports Complex/Robertson Field. It is held on Father’s Day weekend each year.
Located in the rural foothills south of Lake Erie, and situated on the banks of the historic French Creek, the Venango Valley Inn & Golf Course is a family owned establishment, rich in Pennsylvania history and hospitality. Venango Valley Golf Course is a public, daily fee 18 hole golf course with a fully automated driving range with natural grass tees and two practice greens. A historic inn, built in 1838 serves as the foundation of the clubhouse. In the clubhouse you’ll find one of the finest restaurants in Northwest Pennsylvania. You’ll also find a friendly, full service bar featuring everything from Sprague Brew (microbrew) specialties to Australian Shiraz. Open year round, the restaurant specializes in Italian, Steaks and Seafood, and also serves up a variety of sandwiches, salads, vegetarian and healthy heart entrees.
Erie’s beautiful Bayfront almost had it all, but was in need of one defining element, a focal point; this 187-foot tower, located at Dobbins Landing, provides just that. Built to commemorate the 1995 celebration of the city’s 200th birthday, the tower has proven to be a popular gathering spot for residents and tourists alike. Two observation decks are attainable by elevator and give visitors breathtaking views of Presque Isle and its bay to the north and the sweep of Erie’s historic downtown to the south. Souvenirs and food are available at Niagara Concessions in the tower lobby.
Our Custard is made fresh daily to ensure that you receive the highest quality product we can deliver. At Castle Custard we take pride in producing premium gourmet ice cream with unique smoothness, creaminess and a silky finish. Try it and we’re sure you’ll agree, its freshness and quality are second to none. Visit Castle Mini Golf next door for family fun.
Home of the hockey champion Erie Otters, the Tullio Arena is a true multi-purpose facility, hosting events ranging from concerts seating up to 7,000 fans, and trade shows with 30,000 square-feet of exhibition space…to ice shows, basketball, circuses, meetings and even sit-down dinners complete with in-house catering.
The Erie Otters arrived in Erie in 1996 and feature many of the finest young hockey players in the world. These athletes are destined to become the National Hockey League stars of the future, and they are competing in Erie … TODAY!
The Otters have enjoyed incredible success since making the Tullio Arena their home by winning a number of division and conference titles as well as an OHL Championship.
The Erie Zoo Education Department offers a variety of programs throughout the year for groups of all ages and abilities. Erie Zoo Tours are walking adventures that take your group to the animals’ exhibits to observe their behaviors and adaptations. If you prefer a Classroom Program, we offer hands-on programs that bring your students closer to wildlife. In the spring, we offer a special classroom program focusing on a new aspect of the Zoo. Overnights for school groups and scout troops will address various topics throughout the year. And finally, we also offer Boy Scout and Girl Scout Programs to help fulfill various scouting requirements.
Eriez Speedway was built in the early 60’s, and has seen many changes over the years. Bob and Kathy Rohrer bought Eriez Speedway in the spring of 2006. Bob has raced, for over 20 years, and understands the drivers needs, and with this in mind, has tried to make everything driver friendly. Kathy has done her best to upgrade the quality and verity of food, you see there today. The most important thing on Bob and Kathy’s mind these days is making Eriez Speedway one of the best dirt track racing in the area.Drivers, fans, good racing, and fun for kids and adults a like, are what’s the most important agenda at Eriez.It is our upmost desire at Eriez Speedway, that each and every year brings new and exciting racing and events.
Join us on a learning adventure! Explore over 55 hands-on exhibits in a “please touch” environment where children and adults learn about natural sciences, social studies, arts and life experiences. Take a tour, have a birthday party, even stay overnight! It all happens here at the Museum. Lunch in the loft, create a craft, breakfast with Santa – a balance of education and entertainment promotes a sense of excitement and discovery in children ages 2-12.
Family First Sports Park is changing lives – using sports as a framework and the influence sports figures have as positive role models. Our goal is to help kids. As our name implies, we focus on strengthening families – helping to raise a generation of physically, emotionally and spiritually strong individuals.
When not sailing or in use with environmental science activities or our Adaptive Sailing Program, the Friendship sloop, Momentum, a United States Coast Guard-inspected vessel, is available for charters on Presque Isle Bay for up to 12 passengers.
Harbor View Miniature Golf is a professionally-designed 18-hole course located in the heart of Erie’s Bayfront. With its scenic waterfall, waterways and landscaping, it provides a beautiful setting that everyone will find appealing. It offers fun and challenge to all ages and skill levels. We offer discounts for senior citizens, groups of 12 or more and party packages.
On behalf of all of our drivers, teams, marketing partners, employees and owners, I welcome you and thank you for being a part of the Lake Erie Speedway family. As always, at Lake Erie Speedway you must remember:
At over 2 million square feet, the Millcreek Mall Complex is one of the largest shopping centers in the United States. The complex consists of more than 10 anchors & department stores, over 143 specialty shops, in excess of 25 restaurants, three hotels and a cinema and a career and technical school. Featuring TAX FREE Shopping on clothing, the Millcreek Mall also offers an Exclusive Guest Rewards discount program for all tourists, visitors and out of town guests.
At over 2 million square feet, the Millcreek Mall Complex is one of the largest shopping centers in the United States. The complex consists of more than 10 anchors & department stores, over 143 specialty shops, in excess of 25 restaurants, three hotels an
For a boat load of fun, choose Port Erie Sports, providing boat and bicycle rentals. The waters of beautiful Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay are waiting for you, with miles of sandy beaches and picturesque sunsets second to none.
Presque Isle Boat Tours welcomes you to the Lady Kate, departing from Perry?s Monument on Presque Isle State Park in Erie, PA. We are here to share important information about our outstanding and natural maritime sightseeing adventure service.
Enjoy slots by industry leaders WILLIAMS, KONAMI, BALLY, ARISTOCRAT and IGT. Get a kick from slots starting at a penny, all the way up to $20 a play. All the excitement on a gaming floor as big as a football field! So, whether your game is video poker or the ring of reel slot machines, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You must be 21 to gamble.
Things to do: swim & sunbathe. run, walk, bike & blade, boat, kayak, hike, picnic, fish & hunt & winter activities.
Water Fun for the whole family – year round!
The Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) is an educational center at heart, dedicated to teaching visitors about the unique 3,200 acres of Presque Isle and the many different forms of life that inhabit the peninsula. TREC also serves as a center for research, contributing to conservation efforts and promoting environmental awareness, helping to preserve the unparalleled beauty of Presque Isle, the site of Pennsylvania’s only seashore. While some facilities along the Great Lakes offer environmental education and others do research, none offer research, education and visitor services in one place, making TREC a unique destination for learning, wonder and fun. We’re open year-round and offer free admission to our interactive exhibits, glass-enclosed tower, and orientation movie. Learn about the history of Presque Isle and how you can contribute to keeping it pristine and beautiful.
Enjoy a brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour cruise on any of two climate controlled decks.
U.S. Coast Guard certified to carry 149 passengers and crew
First and Second Decks are enclosed and can seat 120 in air conditioned comfort
Open Air Third Deck
Full service bar and your choice of Brunch, Lunch or Dinner cruises.
Steel Construction, 112 feet long, paddle driven.
Ideal for receptions, parties, private or corporate outings, or sightseeing.
Newly remodeled in the Winter of 2001 – 2002
Locally Owned and Operated
Waldameer Park and Water World is an amusement park in Erie, Pennsylvania located at the base of Presque Isle. Waldameer is the fourth oldest amusement park in Pennsylvania, and the tenth oldest in the United States. The park is admission-free, with a busy midway, well appointed grounds, and covered picnic facilities. The roller coasters and other major rides require either the display of a paid wristband or the purchase of individual ride tickets. The water park operates an assortment of water slides and raft rides and is admission by fee only.
We’re just off Fry Road in Edinboro PA just seconds from Interstate 79 at Exit 166. We’re 2 hours from Pittsburgh PA, Cleveland OH, or Buffalo NY and only 25 minutes from Erie PA and the Millcreek Mall shopping area. We’re open all year long to view our herd of live bison.
The Farm, Gift Shop and Restaurant are open year round. Please call or e-mail for current hours. Gift Shop & Restaurant Hours: January – March : Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11:00am until 6:00pm. Other days & times by appointment or reservation
Selection of: Bird Feeding, Collectibles, Flower Bulbs, Gifts, Giftware, Greenhouses, Hand-crafted Furniture, Houseplants, Landscape Size Plants, Lawn & Garden, Licensed Sports, Outdoor Furniture, Perennials, Shrubs, Statuary, Toys, Trains, Trees & Water Gardening.
Living Treasures is a wonderful setting for a great family experience! The large petting zoo is the thrill of the day for young visitors, while the exotic animals fascinate young and old alike. Bring your camera for those once in a lifetime photo opportunities.
The 2,856-acre Maurice K. Goddard State Park features the 1,860-acre Lake Wilhelm, which is very popular with anglers. Many recreational activities attract visitors in all seasons. The large lake, abundant wetlands, old fields and mature forests provide a diversity of habitats for wildlife, especially waterfowl, eagles and ospreys.
Pymatuning Deer Park is a family-owned and operated Animal Park located at the southern-most point of Pymatuning Lake in Jamestown, Pennsylvania. Established in 1953, Pymatuning Deer Park has been a family tradition passed on from generation to generation for over 50 years.
There are many outdoor recreational opportunities available at the 11-mile- long Shenango River Lake. Visitors enjoy picnicking, camping, boating and enjoying nature’s beauty at one of the many recreation or access areas.
There are three accepted practices for teaching someone to make their very first skydive, Tandem, Instructor Assisted Freefall or Static Line. Skydive Pennsylvania Skydiving Center offers all three in addition to continued training toward a skydiving license and advanced training toward other licenses or even a career in jumping.
Originally built as a vaudeville house in 1913, destroyed by fire in 1944, then rebuilt as a movie theatre, which closed in 1971. In 1993, after nearly $2 million in renovations, the theatre opened as a new state of the art performing arts center. The main theatre seats 497 and the Little Theatre seats 100.
Scenic, Historical and Educational Tours.
This Wurlitzer Military Band Organ is just
one of the 100+ antique, mechanical musical instruments you will see and hear.
We invite you to enjoy a visit to the Drake Well Museum, where in 1859 Edwin L. Drake drilled the oil well that launched the modern petroleum industry. Drake Well Museum tells the story of the beginning of the modern oil industry with orientation videos, exhibits, operating oil field machinery and historic buildings in a park setting. Visitors enjoy a variety of special events, educational programs, membership, volunteer and shopping experiences on site.
Now situated in beautiful Titusville, Pennsylvania, Forest Glen Alpacas, LLC is proud to present its award-winning herd of alpacas. Forest Glen Alpacas was born in March 2003 in Wallkill, New York with the purchase of a handful of animals. Now the farm boasts over 20 quality Huacaya alpacas of varying colors, all of which are featured in pictures on every page of this site.
This photo depicts a portion of the mural that lines both sides of the entryway of the National Transit Building. Come and see this beautiful building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
You’ll travel back in time… just by arriving at our home station, an 1892-vintage freight station in Titusville, PA. Our three hour trip will take you to where oil history began. Our tour guides describe the people and places that make up Pennsylvania Oil Country. Your family can share the fun of train travel and relive history.
This natural wonderland of over 7,000 acres, spanning Venango and Crawford counties, was created to preserve the Oil Creek Valley, the heart of the oil boom era. It’s northern border joins Drake Well Museum, and its southern border is just 4 miles north of Oil City.
Outdoor Allegheny River Services provides canoe, and kayak rentals for the Franklin Pennsylvania (mid Allegheny River) Region and trips on French Creek and the Allegheny River from Meadville to Emlenton.
The Pumping Jack Museum’s mission is to collect, protect and display the unique heritage of the town of Emlenton and the surrounding area. Our rich history is a convergence of early oil history and the heritage of the surrounding area. We want to honor all those who have gone before us that worked in the early western Pennsylvania oil fields, refineries and on local farms.
The Allegheny River Trail & the Samuel Justus Recreational Trail is over 25 miles of flat, smooth asphalt surface from Oil City to Emlenton. Oil Creek State Park Bicycle Trail is 9.7 miles of asphalt trail built on a historic railroad grade. The Sandy Creek Trail has 8 miles of asphalt surface, 5 pedestrian-safe bridges and a tunnel. The Two Mile Run County Park Mountain Bike Trails are primarily single-track and challenging and suitable for mountain bikes.
Throughout the Oil Heritage Region
The Riffle Runner is a 24 ft. by 8 ft. john boat, named after a small bait minnow found in the Allegheny River. It is a stable, safety-equipped boat with a flat bottom. It is able to traverse shallow areas, allowing quiet access to the habitats of turtles, beavers and numerous species of birds, including bald eagles and herons.
The Holy Eucharist was first celebrated on the banks of the Allegheny River by British chaplains from Fort Pitt. As the population increased, there was a need for a church to be built in Franklin, Pennsylvania. Land was donated for that purpose, and the first church was constructed in 1826. That served the parish until 1866, when the advent of the oil industry brought a rapid rise in population. The first stone church was built in 1826, near the corner of Buffalo and 12th Streets, but was destroyed by fire in February 1900. The reconstructed, cut stone church reopened on Easter weekend 1901 and was dedicated on St. John’s Day, December 27, 1904.
Since 1866 St. John’s Parish has had a full time rector. Thirteen priests have served in that capacity in the last 142 years.
The Park is now open all year-round. The Family Campground is scheduled to officially open on May 22 for Memorial Day weekend. The park contains 2,695 acres of forest and field, plus 144 acre Justus Lake. Reservations for the Campground, Pavilions, Cottage and the Farmhouse are now being taken for the 2009 season on a first come, first serve basis.
One of the largest family owned museums in NW PA, with 25 full size antique cars and airplanes and over 5,000 miniature vehicles.
Agricultural fair held in August.
The preservation and conservation of its holdings and the beautiful Beaux Arts building it occupies, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Presenting science and technology instruction to students and creating opportunities for the public to enjoy art and musical programs.
The Museum is vitally involved in the region’s cultural and economic growth by collaborating with private, local and state agencies.