The art of winemaking is woven into Conneaut Cellars owner Joal Wolf’s story. Growing up in the 1960s, he spent many days watching his father make wine. That family heritage created the award-winning Conneaut Cellars Winery & Distillery, a piece of Conneaut Lake history that is stitched into the fabric of its homegrown culture.
Joal Wolf
The Conneaut Cellars story actually begins in 1982 with Joal’s father, Dr. Alan Wolf. Before establishing the winery, Alan worked for the United States State Department in Germany, where he placed political refugees as winery workers. His goal was to make distinctive wines reflecting the northeastern climate of Lake Erie.
Still in the same location near the southern shore of Conneaut Lake, Joal continues that legacy today as president of the winery.
“We have been here 40 years, and we make history just by being present and here this long,” Joal said.
At its founding, Conneaut Cellars was the first winery in Crawford County and one of only a handful in the state. It also has the distinction of being the first distillery in the lake region of northwestern Pennsylvania since Prohibition.
Joal’s story took a detour into business school and the military before he came back to the family business.
“From the time I was young I was a part of it. I’d go downstairs and help my dad, be a runner to get corks, hold tubing. I was very accustomed to it,” Wolf said. Still, by the time he was in college, he was skeptical about his father’s plans for a winery. When people began to show interest, though, he began to take notice as well. Eventually, he came home and took on the business.
As Wine Master, his wine has earned international, national and state competitions.
“For 40 years we have been winning medals, which tells you something,” he said. “We are able to compete, and that provides a good service to the people of Pennsylvania. There’s a gem here. You can get something at a good quality and at a good price point.”
The winery is a “one-stop-shop” with tasting and a wide variety of products. It offers a broad spectrum of wines, ports,, vermouth, ciders and distilled spirits from its artisan approach to winemaking and distilling, all done at its facility. Joal uses local grapes from the Lake Erie region and local grains from western Pennsylvania.
Conneaut Cellars labels its products with names that are a nod to local history and the area. Princess Snowater, for example, is a Catawba wine that pays homage to the Native American word “Conneaut,” which means “snow waters.”
The winery sits at a location rich in history as the site of the French Creek feeder canal in the Erie Canal system. The lake itself was formed from glaciers, and demand for ice from the lake led to a booming ice harvesting industry.
“I look right across the street and can see where the ice houses were. The railroad also used to come right through the area,” Wolf said.
Its natural history is also significant as the location of a woolly mammoth discovery and behind the winery is an eagle nesting site.
Wolf isn’t content to rest just on history, though, and strives to improve and develop new products for people to enjoy. More recently, Joal partnered with Meadville Distilling to bring back Meadville Rye Whiskey, a true Pennsylvania rye made using the original pre-Prohibition recipe.
“I love the history and we’re making history here, but to me what’s special is having a good quality product and having a 40-year-history of a variety of award-winning products,” Wolf said.
One of Crawford County’s natural gems, Pymatuning Lake provides a picturesque backdrop for many of the stories told here in Crawford County. One of these stories starts with a group of volunteers from across the region that plays a role in making visits to Pymantuning into treasured memories for visitors and residents alike.
These volunteers make up the Pymatuning Lake Association, a volunteer-run organization that has worked to promote, preserve and enhance the lake and surrounding area since 1945 — almost as long as the lake itself has been around.
While visitors have recognized Pymatuning Lake as a great natural destination for decades, it took the 2020 pandemic for one volunteer, Katie Wickert, to discover just how much the lake area offered right in her own backyard.
Katie Wickert
“The Covid shutdown and working from home gave me a chance to reset a little bit,” Wickert said. “I discovered the Pymatuning State Park holds free programs every month. They held a birding program, and I went.”
That first outing expanded her own backyard to 16,000 acres, which she began spending more time exploring and photographing. To this day, she is still discovering all the park has to offer and has since joined in the volunteer efforts as a member of the board.
The association puts on three fishing tournaments each year – crappie in April, walleye in May, and the Kids Fishing Derby in August. They are also involved with the Linesville State Fish Hatchery and help with projects to enhance the area, such as a new playground at the Tuttle Point Campground (which since this article was written has been completed).
Pymatuning Lake
“What is so great, is it truly is a group of dedicated volunteers – residents, people who have cottages, people who have fallen in love with the area,” Wickert said.
And they’re not the only ones who love the park. In fact, Pymatuning State Park is the second-most visited state park of the Commonwealth’s 141 parks, with 2.5 million visitors a year. It is also the largest reservoir in Pennsylvania and is the location for the headwaters of the Shenango River. Historically, Pymatuning played an important role in the 1970s rehabilitation and re-population of eagles as an original nesting site, and today you can still spot them fishing around the lake.
Wickert has visited 139 of the state’s parks but says Pymatuning still stands out as a special place.
“The thing that is really special to me is just the diversity of the park – areas of the park are still really wild. There is boating, fishing, bird watching, limited hunting – there is something for everyone there,” Wickert said.
The area is slated for many additions and improvements including the second phase of paving the Spillway Trail, which has seen a 600 percent growth in usage.
In June of 2022, a rehabilitated historical truss bridge used in Oil Creek Township in the 1870s will be placed at the crossing of Linesville Creek. Tuttle Point Campground, which has been closed for 15 years, will undergo a multi-million-dollar rehabilitation starting this spring and be open for the 2023 camping season.
In 2021, Pymatuning State Park marked the 100th anniversary of the land acquisition that formed it, and Wickert said there is plenty more for people to discover and enjoy in the next 100 years around the lake. There is a plethora of free programming like hiking yoga, kayaking, kids fishing programs and that are all free for the taking.
Plot Twist Farm in Guys Mills delivers fresh, no-spray produce to Crawford County doorsteps and the Meadville Market House.
Farm owners Jason and Stella Ruggiero are what you’d call “market gardeners.” This means they’re small-scale farmers who sell directly to customers.
Silas, Stella and Jason Ruggiero
The couple farms approximately 4 acres nestled in the woods on a Dingman Road hillside. They use a walking tractor and hand tools to cultivate about 75 125-foot garden beds. High tunnels, or unheated greenhouses, help grow almost year-round. The entire farm is surrounded by a 7 ½-foot tall deer fence, which was constructed using a CARES Act grant distributed by Crawford County.
Every June through October, the farm operates a CSA (community supported agriculture) program. In this program, CSA members receive 18 weeks of fresh-picked produce. Home delivery is offered in many parts of Crawford and Erie counties and CSA members can pick up their weekly shares from the farm’s walk-in cooler or at Core Goods, a local, sustainable grocery store in Oil City.
Plot Twist Farm
During the growing season, you can shop at the farm’s stand at the Meadville Market House farmers market, every Saturday morning. The farm also sells produce at Edinboro Market.
Plot Twist Farm’s specialty is greens, including lettuce, kale and Swiss chard. The farm also grows potatoes, garlic and onions. Other crops include heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, celery, cabbage, beans, squash and watermelons. Herbs are also a farm staple, as well as shoots and microgreens. The farm has never used a single herbicide or pesticide.To learn more about the farm or join the CSA, visit plottwistfarm.com, where you can also catch up on the latest Plot Twist Farm stories from Stella’s farm journal.
If there is one thing we could all use; it is a little fresh air. With the stress and extra screen time this past year has caused for all of us, it is time to get out, literally. So, what’s stopping you from reconnecting with nature? Start planning today to get outside and take advantage of what Crawford County has to offer.
There’s Always Something To Do
More than just hiking, Crawford County has many opportunities to enjoy nature in creative ways at our state or local parks. You can try your hand at birdwatching, nature photography or even plant identification. Activities like these are not only great ways to get outside, but they provide tangible memories of your visit and can be enjoyed with little to no investment.
There’s also lots of more active ways to participate in the outdoors. For those who love a good outside sport, Crawford County has disc golf courses offering three levels of difficulty. Disc golf is growing in popularity with many places to play around the county. It is also easy to learn and great for all ages. For a more relaxed workout, let the fresh air and natural light give you a boost by taking your fitness routine outside. Give outdoor yoga or tai chi a chance. Your mind and body will thank you.
To round out your Crawford County adventure, why not add a treasure hunt, through Geocaching or WayMarking? Both online platforms use GPS to take you to interesting locations, often sharing a bit of history along the way. For example, the machinery at Meadville’s Pomona Park, which gave way to Meadville’s iconic name “Tool City,” is one of the locally listed historic sites. Once you try one of these outdoor activities, you’ll be hooked.
The Sky’s The Limit
There are plenty of resources out there to get you started. Try an online search for trails or parks in your area or visit the links section at Crawford County Conservation. If you are new to hiking or other outdoor sports, be sure to take time to prepare yourself and your family by letting someone else know you are headed out and bring plenty of water, snacks, good shoes, sunscreen and insect repellant. Not only is outside one of the best places to be, the benefits to your health and well-being are endless. Escape the chaos of everyday life and make your 2021 an open-air year to remember.
As a local government entity, the Crawford County Conservation District was established in 1956 to promote the value of conserving soil and water to area farmers. Today, Districts all across PA have evolved to include almost every area of natural resource conservation including erosion and sedimentation control, floodplain management, waterway protection, forest management, agricultural land preservation, dirt, gravel, and low volume roads, environmental education and much more. For more information visit us online at crawfordconservation.com
– Written in collaboration with Tracey Crawford of the Crawford County Conservation District.
Heading to Meadville? Stopping through on your way from the East Coast to Chicago? If you like nature, charming towns and great food, I have the perfect day planned for you!
Every great day starts with coffee. This charming spot downtown Meadville has delicious cold brew, scones and a super cute sitting area on the second floor. Eat in or take your coffee to go and explore all the shops downtown.
If you’re looking to work off some of that caffeine with a nice walk,this five-mile paved trail is close to downtown, dog-friendly and easy to navigate. Denver and I made so many dog friends!
Eddie’s is a Meadville must when in Meadville. Head to the original location on Conneaut Lake Road for the full experience. Open since 1947, this local favorite uses Smith’s footlong hotdogs which are a staple in the northwest PA region.
Right down the road from Eddie’s is another local favorite – Hank’s! This family-owned business has delicious treats and still uses the original machines from when they opened in 1952. It seems like everyone had the same idea – I ran into multiple people there that had just eaten lunch at Eddie’s.
From there, head outside Meadville to do some more exploring. The Linesville Spillway is a beautiful, fun stop for the whole family. It’s sometimes called the place where ducks walk on fish because there are so many! Look for birds in the sky as well – it’s a commonplace to spot raptors.
On your out of town from Meadville, end the day with a drink and some live music. This sprawling green space is the perfect place to wind down after a full day of fun. Mortal’s Key uses Old World recipes to brew their craft beers and the dining environment is great, too. It’s dog-friendly, super relaxed and a great way to wrap up your visit!
Hannah is a travel, wildlife and environmental sustainability influencer who spends weekends camping in her renovated van across the country. She loves to share her passion for the environment, birds and travel experiences in a variety of multimedia formats on social media and blogs.
There is so much to do in Crawford County! This beautiful area is full of hidden gems and parks to explore. My favorite memories from my visit were definitely the birding, landscape photography and unexpected finds.
Linesville Spillway is particularly popular with waterfowl, herons and birds of prey because of the habitat and plentiful fish population. On a slow walk around the edge of the water I was able to see and hear songbirds along with the herons, ducks and osprey.
This area also offers incredible opportunities for sunset photography. I had a fantastic view from the Pymatuning State Park Linesville Campground. There are some amazing spots by the water to camp and watch the lake.
Erie National Wildlife Refuge is a must for bird nerds. Tsuga Trail is the perfect birding location because it covers so many different landscapes. Eastern wood-pewees were plentiful in the forest, song sparrows sing in the fields and the marsh areas provide habitat for a variety of species.
The refuge and Tsuga Trail are also ideal for landscape photography – the trail goes through so many vastly different and stunning areas. The grove of towering pines had to be my favorite.
Hidden Gems
Greendale Cemetery is a great hidden gem for wildlife and photography. Not everyone thinks of cemeteries as a must-see, but they have a lot to offer. The rhododendrons are stunning when in bloom and the ravine that runs through the middle of the cemetery is a great spot to look for wildlife or simply enjoy the sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for deer! If you’re looking for a quiet, beautiful and peaceful place to spend a few hours this is definitely for you.
Though many people know about Ernst Trail, it might not be the first place that comes to mind for nature and wildlife photography. The five miles of paved trail is great for exercise. If you slow down and take your time, this is definitely a hidden gem for landscapes and wildlife. Look for warblers in the spring, quaint bridges along the path, flowers, birds and deer.
Grab your binoculars and your camera and head to Crawford County! Blog post by Hannah Brenner
Hannah is a travel, wildlife and environmental sustainability influencer who spends weekends camping in her renovated van across the country. She loves to share her passion for the environment, birds and travel experiences in a variety of multimedia formats on social media and blogs.
Just 35 miles south of Erie is the Erie National Wildlife Refuge in Crawford County. With over 8,700 acres, there is so much for everyone to explore. It’s even dog-friendly (as long as you abide by leash rules), but if you are there for birds and wildlife it’s probably best to leave your pup at home.
The refuge is split into two areas – Sugar Lake Division and Seneca Division. While both are worth a visit, my two favorite trails are in the larger Sugar Lake area. There are many areas throughout the refuge to stop and grab a map, which I definitely recommend because service can be spotty. The county is currently working to improve broadband internet reception across its more rural areas, but for now it’s a good idea to download the area on Google Maps ahead of time.
Along with being great places to hike and have fun, wildlife refuges are also doing important work for our environment. For example, have you ever heard of a northern riffleshell or clubshell mussel? I learned these are endangered/critically impaired species and Erie Wildlife Refuge is the only refuge in the country actively protecting them. French Creek flows right through the refuge and it is the most biologically diverse stream in Pennsylvania.
While there are plenty of opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife, this refuge is known for birds. The most active Ebird hotspot in the area is at Tsuga Trail which begins right at the refuge headquarters.
Wandering Tsuga Trail was delightful. It’s about a mile and a half loop with the option of taking a slightly longer trail at the end. Heading right from the trailhead I found myself in a shady forest with robins and catbirds.
The best part about this trail is how many different areas you get to see. There are trees, wetlands, ponds, wooden bridges, pine groves and each turn looks different from the last. The terrain was easy to navigate and not too long, so I would absolutely recommend it for beginners or families.
After spending about an hour along Tsuga Trail I headed to the Deer Run area. Past the trailhead down the dirt road is an observation deck over a lake. It’s an ideal spot to pack a picnic and your binoculars to spot waterfowl and raptors. This is also the perfect place for anyone that can’t walk long distances or simply prefers to let wildlife come to them. Keep an eye out for wood ducks, hooded mergansers and more.
Overall the Erie National Wildlife Refuge definitely exceeded my expectations and I’ll definitely be back.
Hannah is a travel, wildlife and environmental sustainability influencer who spends weekends camping in her renovated van across the country. She loves to share her passion for the environment, birds and travel experiences in a variety of multimedia formats on social media and blogs.
Crawford County is full of stunning places to explore outdoors. Whether you like the water or the woods, paved paths or meandering dirt trails, there is something here for everyone.
Don’t miss these four spots for outdoor adventures:
For your first stop head to the Linesville Spillway on the Pymatuning Reservoir. It’s the perfect spot to pack a car picnic and enjoy the view.
The Linesville Spillway area is known for fantastic bird watching opportunities, partially because of all the fish that live in the reservoir. There are so many that it’s known as the place where “the ducks walk on fish.”
Pymatuning State Park is the only place in the State of Pennsylvania where bald eagles have nested continuously, so keep an eye out while you explore. Though I didn’t find any bald eagles, I did see ospreys, great blue herons, catbirds, canada geese, ducks and more!
Another thing you don’t want to miss? The incredible sunsets. Here’s my view from the Pymatuning State Park campground.
Fun fact: The Shenango River that flows into the reservoir was named the 2021 PA River of the Year!
The best place to take yourself or your dog for a long walk in Crawford County is Ernst Trail. The paved path is five miles long between Park Avenue Plaza in Meadville and Route 19 and features a wide range of beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
The path was formerly a railroad so it runs along tracks. Ernst Trail also runs along French Creek, which is Pennsylvania’s most biologically diverse body of water. This makes the trail a great place to view plants and wildlife as you get some exercise.
While cemeteries may not be the first place you think of for an outdoor adventure, they are actually great for bird watching and beautiful foliage. Plus, they tend to be a quiet alternative to loud, busy parks.
Greendale Cemetery is known for its beautiful landscaping – you can’t miss the rhododendrons! There are over 1500 in the cemetery and during their bloom people drive from miles away to see them. All of these stunning plants attract wildlife as well. I was able to see deer, birds, bees and butterflies.
Along with all the stunning nature, this cemetery also has a lot of history. It was designated as both a public park and burial ground in 1853 and features some notable gravesites. Keep an eye out for final resting places of inventor Gideon Sundback, Civil War figures and even some of Meadville’s original settlers.
Just 35 miles south of Erie is an expansive wildlife refuge full of trails and adventure.
French Creek flows through the refuge with over 80 different species of fish in its waters. There are also 5700 acres of wetlands and 3487 acres of upland forests to explore. The Tsuga Trail was a delight, winding through a range of mixed forests and wooden bridges.
My favorite part? The birds! Over 230 species can be seen there and the Erie National Wildlife Refuge was designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society.
Eagles, red-tailed hawks and kestrels regularly nest on the refuge. Spring is the best time to see migrating waterfowl such as wood ducks, hooded mergansers, and blue-winged teal. If you’re lucky, the forests are perfect for spotting cerulean warblers, black-billed cuckoos and scarlet tanagers.
If you’re more of a tree person, you’ll be able to find mature maple forests full of red maple, striped maple, mountain maple, white ash, white pine, black cherry and American basswood trees.
These are just a few of the many stunning parks and green spaces in Crawford County. Get out there and explore!
Hannah is a travel, wildlife and environmental sustainability influencer who spends weekends camping in her renovated van across the country. She loves to share her passion for the environment, birds and travel experiences in a variety of multimedia formats on social media and blogs.
For those wanting to spend a rainy afternoon or a whole weekend immersed in history, Crawford County has a number of amenities that connect our region to not just regional history, but major events and individuals who shaped our nation’s past. Join us as we explore everything from timeless architecture to the history of the underground railroad and the man that helped get Andrew Jackson elected President.
Mount Hope: The Baldwin-Reynolds Estate
Image by Valerie Autumn, IG @valerie.autumn
Every town in America, it seems, has their own house museum that relays the history of Dr. or Mr. or Mrs. “fill in name here” that was pivotal in helping to found the area in the 1800s. In Crawford County, however, the house museum was owned by a United States Supreme Court Justice… and he is responsible for helping to acquire Florida, the Missouri Compromise and many of our nation’s tariff laws.
Mount Hope: The Baldwin-Reynolds House Museum was the former home of United States Supreme Court Justice Henry Baldwin, who served on the bench from 1830 through 1844 after spending time in Congress and helping Andrew Jackson get elected President. Baldwin lived in the house a relatively short time (dying within a year of its completion), but his descendants (and future Mount Hope residents) were major figures in the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad as well as much of the development of this region. The house is open as a museum from Memorial Day through Labor Day every Wednesday through Sunday from 12-4pm. More information can be found at their website.
Johnson-Shaw Stereoscopic Museum
Long before television and even radio, people had to find amusements a little differently! In 1892, the Keystone View Company brought three-dimensional imagery to the common American home through the stereoscope – a contraption that exists in the hands of children today as the “View Master.” Keystone View lives, from the world’s leading manufacturer of stereoscopic technology to the world’s leading museum of stereoscopic photography. Come take a trip around the world with Johnson-Shaw without leaving the building. Hours are 10am-4pm on Saturdays. Visit their website for more information.
Greendale Cemetery
Image by Ashley Bradshaw Cramer, IG @fallingleavesphotography
Serving as the main graveyard for the City of Meadville since 1852, Greendale Cemetery is much more than its name implies. The Cemetery is as much a park or arboretum as a burial ground. It features the landscape design of Herman Munz, an architect who helped lay out much of the older section of the cemetery as well as planted thousands of rhododendrons on the property. These blossoms are enjoyed by visitors and locals alike each spring.
The cemetery features walking trails near a waterfall as well as the final resting places of the inventors of the zipper, the wife of a Supreme Court Justice, those involved in the Underground Railroad and many more. Hours are dawn to dusk and respectful visitors are welcome. Read more about the grounds here.
John Brown Tannery
John Brown, the abolitionist responsible for Bleeding Kansas and the Raid on Harper’s Ferry, spent his earlier days in Crawford County, Pennsylvania! Brown, a tanner and postmaster by trade at the time, built a tannery in 1825 and spent the next ten years working on the property as well as being an active stop on the Underground Railroad.
The tannery site is in a great state of preservation and serves as an historic site and tourist attraction near New Richmond. The property can be visited at 17620 John Brown Road, Guys Mills, PA. Check out this listing from VisitPA to learn more.
Woodlawn Cemetery
Just as with Greendale Cemetery, Woodlawn Cemetery is as breath-takingly beautiful as it is utilitarian. The cemetery boasts acres of paths, the grave and monuments for Ida Tarbell, Col. Edwin Drake and more. View “The Driller,” a larger-than-life monument to Drake and oil history, mausoleums dedicated to major players in our nation’s oil heritage and the 1907 statue “Memory,” by Evelyn Beatrice Longman. Hours are from dawn to dusk, and the cemetery can be visited at 892 West Spring Street, Titusville.
Visit our family-friendly trips page to find additional information on how to plan a trip to Crawford County.
June 9, 2021
Meadville, PA — The Crawford County Convention & Visitors Bureau launched a summer campaign intended to help area residents attract friends and family within driving distance of the county in preparation for the summer vacation season. The campaign efforts coincide with current travel trends as COVID-19 restrictions relax across the county.
“We are excited to see more travelers as the country begins to reopen. Since trends are showing that more people are traveling by car, we expect to see many residents inviting their nearby families and friends to what Crawford County has to offer this summer,” Executive Director of the Crawford County Convention & Visitors Bureau Victoria Soff said.
Family-friendly activities the campaign highlights include local boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, as well as farms and orchards. Institutions, such as museums, and live concerts or productions, are among the essential cultural amenities emphasized for families to seek out while away from home.
Outdoor enthusiasts and families can experience Crawford County’s recorded 25,000 acres of parkland, 17,000 acres of boatable waters and 46 miles of trail.
“Featuring local attractions exposes visitors to Crawford County’s rich cultural, historic and natural resources. Not only will this educate and enrich tourists’ experiences, but also be a valuable opportunity to drive revenue for economic development and community growth,” President of the Historical Society and Bureau Board Member Josh Sherretts said.
The area’s cabins, hotels, campsites and bed and breakfasts were among the lodgings cited for visitors to consider during their visitation.
The Bureau released an online resource, https://visitcrawford.org/family-fun/, as a platform to inform potential visitors of the county’s family-friendly activities and local attractions.
Governor Tom Wolf announced that the state’s mask mandate will expire June 28. Many restrictions have already been lifted since June 1, greenlighting businesses, events and venues to open at full capacity.
Were you looking for a fun getaway this weekend? Look no further than Crawford County. Discover unique outdoor and indoor activities that will keep the whole family engaged! Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer or foodie we’ve got you covered — just follow along.
Places to Stay
Finding a place where you can get a little R & R is a crucial start to any vacation. For a place with a view, consider Hotel Conneaut in Conneaut Lake. Nestled right next to Conneaut Lake with a sprawling outside deck that boasts “timeless charm,” this historic boutique hotel offers scenic waterfront views that will not disappoint. Over 100 rooms are available with an array of lodging options, ideal for any budget. Looking for something different? Check out other boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts in the area.
If hotels aren’t your style, browse the area’s cabins and campgrounds. The Meadville KOA or the pet-friendly Linesville Campgrounds at Pymatuning State Park are classic favorites for both locals and out of town visitors! These popular spots both offer waterfront and water-adjacent camping and glamping opportunities, ideal for van campers, RV campers, tent campers or cabin renters.
Pro-tip: plan ahead and book a reservation online or over the phone to secure your spot. While making a reservation, look into renting water sport equipment like kayaks, paddleboards or paddle boats before they’re reserved!
Things to Do
After you’ve settled into your lodgings, it’s time to get out and explore! Conneaut Lake Park is at the top of our must-see list in the area. This popular amusement park houses roller coasters, mini-golf and a water park. The attraction is tentatively scheduled to open on the weekend of 4th of July, 2021 —check their Facebook page for updates!
For those seeking a more nature-driven weekend, drive over to one of the largest state park in the commonwealth — Pymatuning State Park. Visitors enjoy opportunities like guided walks, educational programs and recreational experiences such as kayaking and boating. Pro tip: Don’t forget to stop by the Linesville Spillway, a natural phenomenon you won’t want to skip.
Ernst Trail and the Greendale Cemetery should also be on your itinerary. The Ernst Trail is a paved, five-mile-long trip ideal for cyclists and hikers alike. For colorful foliage and a scenic ravine vista, go to Greendale Cemetery. Experience a spot that’s a favorite to locals and view over 1,500 rhododendrons that bloom on the grounds in the spring and summer months. Pro tip: this historically significant area is a photographer’s dream. Don’t forget to charge your camera and snap some pics!
Venture over to Titusville to dive into the history of the U.S. oil boom at the Drake Well Museum and Park, the birthplace of the modern petroleum industry that grew from Pennsylvania to a global scale. The museum features both indoor and outdoor recreational attractions such as paved bike trails, delayed harvest fly fishing, modern picnic facilities and hiking trails. Start planning your tour here.
After enjoying some of the sights and activities above, try out these local restaurants and cafes to sample some of Crawford County’s favorite meals:
Firehouse Tap & Grill is a uniquely remodeled fire station turned brewhouse located in Meadville’s bustling downtown district. Indulge in some of the best BBQ in the county, with entrees ranging from wings to brisket and smoked pork. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for events and live music.
Pampered Palate Cafe & Bistro is your go-to spot in Meadville for specialty crafted lattes, healthy fruit smoothies and some of the freshest food in town. The bistro serves sandwiches, soups and salads along with fresh-made pastries and baked goods in a relaxed, cafe-style environment. With organic, fair trade coffee and locally-sourced food free of fillers and GMO’s, it’s no wonder this cafe has expanded into the surrounding regions as a local hit.
Crooked Paddle is perfect for the group who wants to dine on homestyle burgers or pizza after exploring Pymatuning State Park. The newly remodeled bar and grill located in Linesville is only half a mile from the Pymatuning Spillway and boasts a large selection of craft beer and seasonal cocktails. Be sure to check for live music and popular, free events like classic car cruises.
Traveler’s Cafe is a Saegertown favorite for those who want to refresh with a coffee, boba tea or fresh fruit smoothie after a long day. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, snag one of their yummy pastries or a specialty frappe that would give Starbucks a run for its money.
Fat Chad’s Tap & Steakhouse is a new Titusville establishment that carries local Pennsylvania craft beer, wine and spirits. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, grab a table and try one of their steak entrees. Don’t forget to check their Facebook for their out-of-the-box specials that change weekly!
Riverside Brewing Company is a Cambridge Springs staple that serves to entertain and replenish hungry visitors. A refurbished rustic barn from the 1800’s, the farm-to-table restaurant partners with local farms and businesses to bring the freshest ingredients to create handcrafted dishes. With a large outdoor patio and bar overlooking extensive landscaping preserved and restored from the historic property, this brewpub is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy craft brews and fine food. The RBC supports local musicians weekly, check their event schedule on Facebook to see who’s playing during your visit.
From lively summer concert series to enriching museum tours transporting you back to the 19th Century, these Crawford County activities share one thing in common: they’re fun for anyone at any age.
There are more activities than you can count in the Crawford County, Pennsylvania area. Whether you have an afternoon or a long holiday weekend, you can find amusement and make family memories to cherish for years to come.
Get Out on the Water
Nestled in the heart of northeast 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!
Conneaut Lake
Conneaut Lake greets you as Pennsylvania’s largest natural glacier lake with three different beaches: Conneaut Lake Park Beach, Firemans Beach and Midway Beach, making it one of the best lakes in the area. For dog lovers in the area, be sure to stop by the Bark Park dog playground and let your furry friends enjoy some off-leash socialization and exercise. As temperatures begin to drop, the lake becomes Ghost Lake — a spooky Halloween area favorite with 13 levels of fear. In colder months, the frozen-over lake transforms into a popular ice fishing spot for anglers of all ages.
Pymatuning Reservoir
Snuggled on the western edge of Crawford County, 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. Stop by in the fall and winter to experience popular activities such as fishing tournaments and an annual December Lighted Tractor Parade.
French Creek State Park
Did you know that French Creek State Park is the largest contiguous block of forest between New York City and Washington D.C.? 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. Campgrounds, cabins and yurts are available for reservation to stay the night at French Creek State Park Campground.
Walk Through History on a Museum Tour
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. Special events and educational opportunities are additionally offered on a seasonal basis.
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. Keep your eyes out for events throughout the year such as movies on the lawn, a New Year’s Eve party that invokes everyone’s inner Gatsby and the annual summer Eleanor Davies Croquet Classic. The Crawford County Historical Society also offers historic cemetery tours of Greendale Cemetery, a well-loved green space and nature photography hot spot (you won’t want to miss the 1,500 rhododendrons in the late spring and summer!)
For another exciting, interactive experience head over to Titusville and 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! Tickets for the regular season are $20 for adults, $14 for kids ages two to 12, $18 for ages 60+ with options to upgrade to first class. 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.
Take Part in Local Events and Festivals
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. With free admission for 2021, stop by to see grandstand events such as the demolition derby, sample food from local restaurant vendors, spectate agricultural contests, enjoy live music and watch a brilliant fireworks display.
Do you love art, culture and wine? Then another summer festival to mark on your calendar is the Festival of Arts & Crafts at Conneaut Lake! A family-oriented festival offering artisan goods and local cuisine, this annual event is hosted at the popular Conneaut Cellars Winery. Go check it out and browse an eclectic variety of pottery, metal art, handmade jewelry and outdoor decor.
An hour east of Conneaut Lake lies Titusville, home of the Oil Festival, an annual event celebrating the oil industry. Oil Festival entails concerts, fine art exhibit, antique car show, parade, fireworks, a wine walk, food & crafts – fun for the entire family.
When the weather starts to cool down and the leaves begin the change, fall is in full swing in Crawford County. Celebrate the start to spooky season by attending Pumpkin Fest in Conneaut Lake, the largest fall festival in northwestern Pennsylvania. This free event offers food vendors, hundreds of artisans & crafters, music and more entertainment and family-friendly activities. Don’t forget to stay and watch a crane drop a HUGE pumpkin on top of a car.
Wintertime in Pennsylvania is a whimsical experience. Check out the Ice House Festival and view the spectacle of professional ice sculpture art! Walk on the ice trail along the lake while staying warm by sipping on hot chocolate, or sampling the area’s best chili at the annual chili cook off. For a holiday light show to remember, cruise through Conneaut Lake to see the Trees of Light from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Thousands of Christmas lights and holiday tree lights are on display at businesses, municipal buildings and residential homes that light up the lake in a spectacular view.
Note: events are subject to change due to COVID-19.
Enjoy an Afternoon of Fun at Local Farms and Orchards
Take advantage of Crawford County’s strong agricultural roots by exploring a variety of specialty farms and orchards in the area. Al’s Melons Farm Market is a locally-owned farm market and Conneaut Lake favorite. As the largest greenhouse in the county, it’s the go-to spot for hanging plants and bedding plants! Stop by for seasonal vegetables year-round, with you-pick pumpkins in the fall accompanied by horse-drawn wagon rides and a haunted greenhouse for kids. The farm also sells fruits, meats and cheeses.
Davenport Cidery and Winery in Meadville is the perfect scenic spot to grab a hard cider or craft beer. With a gorgeous outside green space, there’s plenty of room for kids to play outside near the orchard while you sample a flight in the outdoor seating area. If you’re without kids for the afternoon, take a trip to the tasting room or set up a private tasting tour.
Waterford’s Port Farms just outside Crawford County never fails to hold seasonal events throughout the year. Stop by in September and October for fall fun at the farm! General admission includes hay wagon rides, an 8-acre corn maze, slide mountain, ball zone, game garden, pedal carts, animal exhibits, trike track, tire fort and more. After Halloween, the farm turns into a Christmas wonderland of holiday cheer. Cut down your own Christmas tree, pick up a handcrafted wreath, curl up by a cozy fireplace or take the ride of your life on a horse drawn holiday carriage ride.
Fairlamb Lavender Farm is a small family farm in Sandy Lake, located in the neighboring Mercer County. Stroll through their lavender field and take advantage of the variety of pick-your-own species from June through August. Relax and enjoy the rustic barn stone walls surrounding the patio and sample a variety of lavender culinary treats like lavender lemonade and cookies, or browse rustic and vintage antique gifts in their gift shop! For the path less traveled, explore the wildflower path through the woods on the farm grounds to see what unique wildflowers are in bloom.
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.
