April 01, 2024
Nestled in the heart of northwestern Pennsylvania, you can find eight lakes, 93 streams and two springs in Crawford County. This totals up to 48 miles of water trails and over 17,000 acres of boatable water to enjoy! There are more activities than you can count in the Crawford County, Pennsylvania area. You can find amusement and make family memories to cherish for years to come in Crawford County.
Invoke your inner curiosity by going geocaching or taking a scavenger hunt supported by the French Creek Valley Conservancy. Go biking or hiking on one of the nine trails, perfect for beginners and outdoor zealots alike. Either way, you’ll be able to delight in observing all the foliage and animals only nature can provide. Our Ernst trail just doubled in length, connecting two major towns and ending in a winery on one side – what’s not to love about that?
Conneaut Lake greets you as Pennsylvania’s largest natural glacier lake with three different beaches: Conneaut Lake Park Beach, Fireman’s Beach and Midway Beach, making it one of the best lakes in the area. Pymatuning State Park is one of the largest parks in the commonwealth and boasts the largest lake — Pymatuning Reservoir. Whether you’re testing your sea legs out at the family-friendly weekend sailing camp, watching the natural phenomenon of thousands of carp at the Pymatuning Spillway, or taking advantage of one of several activities like fishing, swimming and camping, you’re sure to make unforgettable memories. In warmer months, keep your eyes on the sky to spot bald eagles and other raptors that are fond of nesting in the area.
Meanwhile in Meadville, the Baldwin Reynolds House Museum offers free summer tours from Memorial Day until Labor Day. The museum was once the home to Henry Baldwin, a supreme court judge. Now it serves as a historical hub for culture, education, and art. The Crawford County Historical Society also offers historic cemetery tours of Greendale Cemetery, a well-loved green space and nature photography hot spot plus you won’t want to miss the 1,500 rhododendrons in the late spring and summer!
It’s no surprise that one of the original 13 colonies boasts a rich history, including the birthplace of the modern petroleum industry. Located in Titusville, Drake Well Museum recounts the start and development of the U.S. oil boom that soon turned into a global enterprise. Indoor and outdoor exhibits are available for visitors to explore, featuring orientation films, exhibits, operating oil field machinery and historic buildings. Hop on the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad to share the fun of train travel and relive the start of the U.S. oil industry. This three-hour train trip takes you on a scenic ride through Oil Creek State Park, learning about the people and history of the area along the way! Keep your eye out for special events throughout the year such as Murder Mystery Dinners, Wine Tasting Rides, October Fall Foliage Rides, a spooky Halloween Train Ride, and a magical Santa Train.
Summer is a magical time in Crawford County with exciting cultural events, live music and local farmers markets all season long! One event you don’t want to miss is the largest agricultural fair east of the Mississippi — better known as the Crawford County Fair. Stop by to see the demolition derby, sample food from local restaurant vendors, spectate agricultural contests, enjoy live music and watch a brilliant fireworks display.
When the weather starts to cool down and the leaves begin the change, fall is in full swing in Crawford County. Winter is also a great time to visit when the holiday magic is in the air. There is no shortage of activities to do in Crawford County. From recreational activities to educational opportunities to festivals, there will always be something to experience no matter your budget. Explore other family-friendly things to do on your trip.
With over 54 overnight accommodations, great “foodie” destinations, and live entertainment at every corner, we are rich with possibilities for large- or small-scale vacations. Looking for a great Lake for swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, & water skiing? We have 8! Stay at a lake front hotel, cabin or cottage or enjoy a historic Amusement Park, Conneaut Lake Park. Pymatuning State Park was voted Top 10 in the Nation for Best Family Fishing Vacation in the Nation. Pymatuning Lake is PA’s largest man-made reservoir & covers 17K acres. This is the place where Ducks walk on Fish!
From train rides, paddle boat rides, amusement parks, and museums, to live performances theaters, dining with entertainment, live music & fairs and festivals, Crawford County, PA is your one stop shop. Do you have a golfer in the family? The Golf courses here are for the amateur to the experienced. Pricing for 18 Holes with Cart will blow you away.
There are so many fun things to do in Crawford County & great places to eat. With all the quaint B&B’s, Hotels, Cabins, Campsites, and Cottages, you should stay for the whole weekend!
For more ideas and up-to-date event listings, get our DIGITAL ONLY 2024 Visitors Guide. To download our app and find additional information, visit our website for at visitcrawford.org.
