Looking for all of the day trip fun without all of the vacation getaway cost? Then visit Crawford County!
Full of inexpensive entertainment opportunities, you can fill your day with indoor and outdoor recreation, delicious (and affordable) meal stops or even find a new wardrobe by thrifting in our secondhand shops. Plus, Crawford County hosts monthly and annual events that don’t cost a dime to attend. In this blog, we share our inside tips on how to spend a fun-filled Saturday in Crawford County for under $100. Get ready to create your own daytripping experience based on your interests!
Locations for Nature Lovers
Enjoy a fee-free day as you explore the natural beauty of Crawford County which includes a variety of state parks and local green spaces.Whether it’s hiking, biking, kayaking or just relaxing in nature, you’re sure to find exactly the eco-friendly adventure you are looking for here.
- Tamarack Lake – From fishing & boating to kayaking and canoeing, this 500-acre reservoir park is a beautiful hidden gem just outside of Cochranton, Pa.
- Oil Creek State Park – Hiking, biking, camping, kayaking… the world is your oyster at this historic park where the oil industry began!
- Cora Clark Park – Enjoy this easy, relaxing nature trail and park in Meadville.
- East Branch Trail – Once a bustling railroad bed, visitors can hike, bike and even rollerskate on this 3-mile paved trail.
Delicious Lunch Options
Looking for lunch options that will fill you up without emptying your wallet? These locations offer inexpensive choices you’ll love with meals available under $10.
- Whole Darn Thing Sub Shop – This small sub shop in Meadville’s downtown is the perfect lunch location. A local favorite, they make subs, wraps, salads and more that you’ll love.
- Hole-in-One Hoagies – As the name suggests, this shop is near a golf course in Cambridge Springs! Enjoy sandwiches, salads, wraps and wedges so good, you’ll come back again and again.
- Julian’s Bar & Grill – On Meadville’s bustling Chestnut Street is a delicious restaurant that fundamentally changes traditional diner food. Taste gourmet burgers, wraps and salads with magical flavor combinations in an artistic setting.
- Diamond’s All Star Grille – Another Chestnut Street gem, this classic diner has a wide menu with delicious comfort food options.
Fun (& Budget-Friendly) Activities
Needing indoor/outdoor pursuits for the whole family? Try these family-friendly activities at a bargain-lovers price!
- The Movies at Meadville – Watch the latest blockbuster movie or old favorites at this locally-owned movie theater. With new movie prices at $9 for adults and $8 for children and matinee prices at $7 for everyone, this is a perfect experience for date night or family night.
- Bowling – Take to the alleys with your favorite people! Play competitively or just for fun at one of Crawford County’s bowling lanes. Play at Plaza Lanes in Meadville for $4.25 per game and $2.50 per shoe rental. Or, head next door to Cochranton Lanes at $3.50 per game and $1.50 for shoe rentals. They also have a Rock & Bowl event during weekends in the fall for $11 per person!
- Putt-it Miniature Golf – An outdoor favorite, Meadville’s putt putt course is sure to entertain! At $5 a game for adults and $4 a game for kids 10 and under, this is truly a classic family favorite. They also have batting cages!
- Thrifting – Shopping second-hand
- Second Chance – This great store features a selection of affordable clothing, household items, jewelry, food and more. And, to make your bargains even sweeter, the proceeds support our furry friends at the Crawford County Humane Society.
- Center for Family Services Thrift Store – Shop with a purpose at the CFS Thrift Store! Each purchase from this nifty shop supports local family education services and people in need.
Mark Your Calendars for These Free Events
Crawford County is brimming with exciting events to attend for all ages! Bring the entire family or your friends to these free and free-to-attend events that are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face in every season!
- Maple Taste & Tours – Hosted by the Northwest Pennsylvania Maple Syrup Producers Association, this self-guided tour leads maple syrup lovers to participating sugarhouses to taste their wares and learn more about the craft. Every spring is a little sweeter!
- Second Saturdays – This free-to-attend summer monthly event includes vendors, live music, shops, farmers markets and other fun surprises.
- 55th Halloween Parade – Get your spooky on at this free celebration of all things Halloween. Dress up, collect candy and cheer on the fright-filled floats built by our hard working residents. This year, it’s circus-themed, so pull out your clown shoes and lion’s manes!
- Meadville Light Up Night – Grab a hot chocolate and get in the holiday spirit by watching Christmas lights glow, window shopping, enjoying live music and more in Meadville! Many of the downtown shops offer special sales or items, so you can cross off a few items from your Christmas list.
Build Your Own Affordable Day Trip
From exploring our cool communities to adventuring through our downtown shops and stores to enjoying our region’s exciting events, there is fun to be had around every corner. Our friendly residents and affordable options make this a weekend must for families and individuals who are looking to save money while having unique experiences. And these options are just a taste of what Crawford County has to offer! Check out more ways to make the most of your stay here or start building your itinerary on our app.