Located in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, Conneaut Lake is home to breathtaking natural scenery and a variety of family-friendly activities. Whether you want to enjoy the showstopping ice sculptures, taste local wines at the winery or learn about the history of this lake-side town, this destination has something for everyone.
The best time to visit Conneaut Lake is from mid-May to early October, when day and night temperatures are mild and comfortable. This is the time of year when many of the area’s best events take place, including the festival of arts, the largest agricultural fair east of Mississippi, and a parade and pumpkin drop. It’s also when you can ride the train and pony rides at Pymatuning Deer Park, or enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the lake.
A few years ago, the once-famous Conneaut Lake Park was on the brink of bankruptcy, but in 2006 it began a brick-by-brick fundraising campaign to restore some of its rides and the hotel. The park also acquired the Flynn House, a historic structure built in 1939 by the original owner of the park, who sold it in 1995 after he became bankrupt.
In 2011, the Trustees of Conneaut Lake Park reached an agreement with Swank’s Steel City Shows to manage the park. In addition to the rides and attractions at the amusement park, there is a full-service restaurant, a gift shop, an ice cream parlor and a snack stand.
Another unique attraction near Conneaut Lake is the PennDot Road Sign Sculpture Garden in Meadville, 10 minutes away. This quirky public art project features recycled signs from Pennsylvania state highways and roads shaped into barns, houses, trains, hot air balloons and a locomotive. It’s the perfect photo op for those who are looking to snap some unusual pictures.
The Baldwin-Reynolds House Museum, also known as the Mount Vernon of Meadville, is a southern-style Greek Revival mansion built in 1843. The museum contains various exhibits that showcase the rich history of Crawford County and Meadville. It also offers a variety of educational and community events throughout the year that help to promote its mission to preserve and collect historical materials related to Conneaut Lake. The museum is a must-see for history buffs and art lovers alike. Its gift shop is the perfect place to purchase a souvenir from your trip to Conneaut Lake. For an extra-special treat, book a guided tour of the museum. You’ll be able to learn more about the history of this lovely place while you enjoy the beautiful architecture and artwork inside. conneaut lake activities
