As August winds down and school supplies begin to fill store shelves, families across Crawford County are holding onto summer just a little longer. There’s still time for one more day in the sun, one more dip in the pool, one more scoop of ice cream. Whether you’re local or visiting, Crawford County offers the perfect backdrop for a final burst of summer fun — packed with parks, pools, lakes, mini golf, and all the small-town charm that makes the season so special.
This is the moment for that last hurrah — and there’s no better place to spend it.
Cool Off Before the Season Ends
When the sun is high and the afternoons are long, water play is a must — and Crawford County has plenty of options to help families beat the heat.
In Titusville, the splash pad at Burgess Park is a favorite for younger children. With colorful fountains and plenty of space to run and play, it’s a safe, simple, and free way to cool down.
Families looking for a more classic swimming experience head to the Meadville Area Recreation Complex (MARC), where the outdoor pool offers slides, a zero-depth entry area, and room to swim, float, and splash away the day.
For those who prefer lakeside lounging, Pymatuning State Park offers public beaches that are ideal for sandcastle-building and shoreline swims. Further west, Fireman’s Beach on Conneaut Lake invites families to settle in with picnic lunches and spend the afternoon swimming with scenic views all around.
Chase the Last Scoops of the Season
No summer sendoff is complete without a cold, creamy treat — and Crawford County has no shortage of local ice cream icons.
Hank’s Frozen Custard in Conneaut Lake has been a beloved stop since 1952, known for its rich custard and nostalgic roadside atmosphere. In Saegertown, the Dairy Inn remains a local favorite for soft serve, sundaes, and generous portions served with a smile.
If your adventures take you near Canadohta Lake, Happi Jax offers a variety of frozen favorites — the perfect stop after a swim or a round of mini golf. In Cambridge Springs, Sweet Anchor blends small-town charm with a mix of coffee, ice cream, and milkshakes, making it a great choice for families with a variety of tastes.
Get Out and Play
For families seeking a little lighthearted competition or unique animal encounters, there are plenty of options to round out a summer day.
At Pymatuning Deer Park near Jamestown, visitors can walk among gentle deer and feed them by hand, while also exploring a variety of other animals including peacocks, llamas, and kangaroos. It’s an experience that combines learning, laughter, and lots of photo ops.
If mini golf is on the list, Putt-It in Meadville delivers fun for all ages with its 18-hole course and batting cages. Over at Canadohta Lake, Runners Miniature Golf brings a lakeside charm to the classic mini golf experience — ideal for families looking to add some friendly competition to the mix.
Catch a Late-Summer Fair
As August unfolds, Crawford County’s local fairs offer the perfect final celebration of the season. Events like the Cochranton Community Fair, the Crawford County Fair, and the Spartansburg Fair bring together rides, games, animal exhibits, food vendors, and entertainment — all the classic elements of summer wrapped into one unforgettable outing.
Be sure to check local event listings and fair websites for dates, times, and schedules.
Soak Up the Final Days
Whether you’re feeding deer, enjoying a cone under the sun, or catching the last ride on a Ferris wheel, there’s something undeniably special about squeezing in just a little more summer. Crawford County offers a collection of simple pleasures and family-friendly attractions that make it easy to say goodbye to the season with a smile.
So before the backpacks are packed and routines return, make time for one more splash, one more scoop, and one more memory. Here’s to a sweet end to a perfect summer — and all the moments made right here in Crawford County.
