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Take a Golf Getaway in the Mid-Atlantic


Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,
Each month, MATPRA distributes a press release designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics four months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email (dseymour@visitlebanonvalley.com).


 If you’re looking for a new course to play this year, look no further than the golf courses of the Mid-Atlantic. From scenic overlooks and lush fairways to challenging terrains and historic grounds, discover some of the best clubs and courses in the Mid-Atlantic. Add on a few nights at a local inn, bed-and-breakfast, or hotel, and make it a golfing getaway!

MARYLAND

Calvert County (MD)
Tee up for the ultimate golf getaway in Calvert County! Play a round at Chesapeake Hills Golf Course in Lusby, an 18-hole, par 72 course just minutes from scenic Solomons. Enjoy a driving range, pro shop, and a brand-new clubhouse with a full-service bar and grill. In Owings, Mellomar Golf Park offers a nine-hole regulation course, a par-27 course, an 18-hole disc golf course, and mini golf. For family fun, K&K Adventure Park in Prince Frederick features mini golf, batting cages, and more. Stay overnight at a charming inn or hotel and make it a weekend to remember!
Visit Calvert

Cecil County (MD)

Send it Sailing! Opening in June at Patriot’s Glen Golf Club in Elkton Maryland – a state of the art, double decker driving range with In-Range technology.  Whether a beginner or seasoned pro, refine your skills and take your game to the next level.  Open year round with heated bays, and food & beverage service. Book an overnight stay nearby to experience Cecil County’s boat rides, vibrant small towns, paddling adventures, hiking, fishing, local beer and wine, and waterfront eateries with Chesapeake Bay inspired cuisine.  From golf to good eating!  DiscoverCecil.com
Cecil County Tourism

Talbot County (MD)

Escape to Talbot County, Maryland to practice your swing this season.  Tee off for a world-class experience with a stay at the Inn at Perry Cabin, where the Links at Perry Cabin, designed by the legendary Pete Dye offer a premier golf experience.  Or, hone your skills with the 15 new “Power Tees” at the Hog Neck Golf Course, which features a driving range, 18 hole round, and a 9-hole Executive course.   As a premiere Chesapeake Bay destination, Talbot County offers over 600 miles of shoreline, historic small-town charm, a vibrant arts scene, and exceptional cuisine.
Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism

PENNSYLVANIA

Butler County (PA)

Butler County offers 10 golf courses, all conveniently located within a 30-minute radius. Notable options include:
Cranberry Highlands Golf Course: A premier public course in Western Pennsylvania, featuring two putting greens, a driving range, a practice bunker, and a clubhouse with a golf shop, grillroom, and event facilities. It’s easily accessible from the PA Turnpike and I-79, and only 30 minutes from Pittsburgh.
Slippery Rock Golf Club: A semi-private, 18-hole ClubCorp-affiliated course. Amenities include the Twisted Oak Tavern restaurant and bar, a pro shop, and year-round indoor golf simulators.
Experience Butler County PA

Clearfield County (PA)

Visit Clearfield County has some of the most beautiful, unique, and well-groomed courses offered anywhere. Whether you are looking to hone in on your golfing skills or to challenge the experienced golfer in a low-pressure atmosphere, give one of our 6 courses a try. Each course is carefully created for all skill levels starting with putting/chipping greens, to long-range driving, turns, and sand pits on one of our PGA-rated golf courses. Some of the golf courses even offer lodging, so plan a weekend getaway and stay in Clearfield County, PA where the views are breathtaking, and the courses are pristine.
Visit Clearfield County

Happy Valley (PA)

Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, is a premier golf destination featuring stunning courses for every skill level. From scenic public greens to elite country clubs, golfers can enjoy challenging play surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up a club, Happy Valley’s diverse courses offer the perfect blend of relaxation and competition. With a range of 9 to 27-hole courses, you can tailor your experience to fit your game. Tee off against a backdrop of rolling mountains and lush landscapes—there’s no better place to golf, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors than Happy Valley. HappyValley.com/happy-valley-guides
The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau

Juniata River Valley (PA)

The scenic and challenging 6,519-yard course at Lewistown Country Club, designed by world-renowned architect Donald Ross, is one of the finest in the region. Tucked away in the rural outskirts of Lewistown, the course offers stunning panoramic views of the Juniata River. After a rewarding round of golf, unwind at the club’s restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the picturesque views from the patio overlooking the greens.
Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau

Lancaster County (PA)

Enjoy the lush fairways of Lancaster County, as its dozen-plus public courses range in skill level from beginner to experienced and often boast spectacular scenery too.  From splendid layouts like Pilgrim’s Oak and Tanglewood amid the rolling hills of the “southern end,” to other appealing tracks like Foxchase and Crossgates, players won’t lack for choices—especially with several 9-hole and par-3 courses also available (and the fun of 10 mini golf venues).  As host county of the 2015 & 2024 U.S. Women’s Open and high-school home of golfing great Jim Furyk, Lancaster offers terrific links.
Discover Lancaster

Laurel Highlands (PA)

Celebrate The King of golf in his hometown. Arnold Palmer’s Country Club, where the seven-time major champion learned to play, isn’t open to the public, but two lodging options provide access. Stay in an-own property home or at the SpringHill Suites in Latrobe and get in the game. Standard greens fees apply. Reservations and tee times must be made in advance.
Swing by the Latrobe airport for a selfie with Arnie’s statue, grab a version of the lemonade he made famous, then play a round at the Northwinds Peninsula Golf Club at Indian Lake, the first course designed by Palmer.
GO Laurel Highlands

Lawrence County (PA)

The Avalon Field Club at New Castle was established in 1923 as the New Castle Field Club and the original club crest is still hanging in the renovated Great Room in the Clubhouse. The golf course was originally designed by world-famous golf architect A. W. Tillinghast and the layout includes all his trademark features of great greens and fairways, coupled with the perfect blend of risk and reward.
Visit Lawrence County

Lebanon Valley (PA)

Discover the charm of the Lebanon Valley, home to seven exceptional golf courses, each with unique challenges nestled in breathtaking scenery. From P.B. Dye perfection at Iron Valley Golf Club where you’ll find a links style front nine and tree-lined back nine, to the bent grass fairways that weave effortlessly around the Swatara Creek at Pine Meadows Golf Complex, the Valley has a course for all skill levels.
Visit Lebanon Valley

Potter-Tioga Counties (PA)

Tioga and Potter Counties offer golfers destinations nestled in the scenery of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon country! The Tyoga Country Club and other nearby courses offer a wide variety of ranges and greens for you to tee off and enjoy a relaxing game.  Combined with time spent exploring the famed canyon, stargazing at Cherry Springs State Park, and enjoying the dining and hospitality you’ll discover across the region, we are sure you will delight in what the region has to offer. Rolling hills, mountainous scenery, well maintained greens, and full-service amenities offer the perfect spot for group outings and tournaments!
Visit Potter Tioga

Raystown Lake Region (PA)

Nestled in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, Huntingdon Country Club offers an 18-hole course perfect for both novice and experienced golfers. After your round, enjoy a delicious meal at McKinley’s. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, try the indoor golf simulator instead! Extend your stay at the charming Gage Mansion Bed & Breakfast in Downtown Huntingdon—just a short 7-minute drive from the course. It’s the perfect spot for guests who came along but prefer to explore local shops and stroll through town rather than spend time on the course.
Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau

York County (PA)

Located in South-Central PA, York County has many public golf courses making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy scenic courses like Briarwood and Honey Run Golf Clubs, both known for their well-maintained fairways and welcoming atmosphere. For a complete weekend getaway, Heritage Hills provides a premier 18-hole championship course, upscale dining, accommodations, and spa services, perfect for a relaxing retreat. Whether you’re seeking a casual round or a full resort experience, York County offers everything you need for a memorable golf getaway.
Explore York

VIRGINIA

Fairfax County (VA)

With more than a dozen golf courses in Fairfax County, ranging from par three to championship length and various difficulty levels, beginner golfers through experts will find a suitable option. Notable greenways include a Fred Couples-designed course in a tranquil setting to the Mid-Atlantic’s “100 Must-Play Courses.” Plus, the area is home to two of the Top 50 public golf ranges in America, including various interactive simulators, golf lounges, and mini golf. (Have you ever played putt putt 11 stories in the air?) Book a stay at one of Fairfax County’s 100+ hotels and make a weekend of it!
Visit Fairfax

Lexington and Rockbridge County (VA)

Lexington Golf & Country Club in Lexington, Virginia welcomes visitors to their 18-hole course, Jewel of the Valley. Rated 71.2 by USGA with a slope rating of 131, two 9-hole loops roll across 200 acres with the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop. Though Lexington Golf & Country Club is a private club, the public is welcome to schedule tee times after noon and within seven days of their visit. An on-site restaurant, Tri-Brook Grill, offers refreshments before or after a round.
Lexington & the Rockbridge Area Tourism Development

Loudoun County (VA)

Close to the banks of the Potomac in Sterling, east Loudoun, Algonkian Golf Course is one of the finest public courses in Virginia, with 18 holes of immaculately maintained Bermuda grass fairways, a tree-lined front nine with three water holes and a back nine with doglegs and hazards. Work on your swing beforehand on the driving range facing the river. Lansdowne Resort nearby is the perfect place to stay: a luxe lifestyle property with 45 holes of its own, including championship courses by Robert Trent Jones and Greg Norman, the latter with a seasonal restaurant, Turnberry’s, at the 9th hole.
Visit Loudoun

Richmond Region (VA)

In the Richmond Region, hit the links in picturesque New Kent County at Royal New Kent Golf Club, one of Golf Digest’s 100 Best Courses, or The Club at Viniterra, a championship course designed by renowned architect Rees Jones. Afterwards, toast to your victory or soften the blow of defeat at one of the region’s wineries, like New Kent Winery or Jolene Family Winery. When you’re ready to hit the hay, Shenandoah Mansions, the latest boutique hotel in downtown Richmond, is ready to welcome you for some rest and relaxation.
Visit Richmond VA

Staunton (VA)

Gypsy Hill Park Golf Course is a scenic 18-hole, par-71 public course nestled in Staunton, Virginia’s historic Gypsy Hill Park. Known for its rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, and challenging layout, the course offers a rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels. Established in 1919, it boasts breathtaking views and a welcoming atmosphere. The facility includes a pro shop, practice areas, and affordable rates, making it a local favorite. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned golfer, Gypsy Hill Park Golf Course provides a relaxing yet challenging round in a picturesque setting.
Visit Staunton, VA

WEST VIRGINIA

Hampshire County (WV)

Join the “Future of the Fairway” sport of FlingGolf!  Played with a regular golf ball on regular golf courses, this one stick for your drive, chip and putt, simplifies the game for everyone of any ability.  The WV FlingGolf mecca is Capon Springs in Hampshire County, where the first ever national doubles championships will take place May 30-June 1, 2025.  A PRO-AM event is open to first time flingers, with significant prize money!  All five WV State Park resort golf courses provide free clinics/demos and equipment. Join in the fast-growing fun for the whole family activity!
Hampshire County CVB


About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

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Keep it Fresh with these Must-Visit Farmers Markets in the Mid-Atlantic


Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,
Each month, MATPRA distributes a press release designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics four months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email (dseymour@visitlebanonvalley.com).


With summer around the corner, consider stories about the wide variety of fresh, in-season produce available at Mid-Atlantic farmers markets and roadside stands in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. To learn more about a featured destination, click the link below each excerpt to contact the destination directly.

DELAWARE

Kent County (DE)

Central Delaware has plenty of farm-fresh produce to go around and many farmers markets to explore! All year round, you can try Spence’s Bazaar & Amish Market in Historic Downtown Dover, a market that has been operating for over 85 years, or Fifer’s Orchards & Farm Store, located in Camden-Wyoming. When it gets warmer in May, you can go to the Harrington Farmers Market, Riverwalk Farmers Market, Tidal Market at Johnny Cake Landing, or the Wyoming Station Farmers Market! No matter where you stay in Central Delaware, a farm-fresh bite is just around the corner.
Visit Central Delaware

MARYLAND

Calvert County (MD)
Support local farmers and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce and goods at Calvert County’s farmers markets! Shop Tuesday afternoons at CalvertHealth in Prince Frederick, Thursday afternoons at Dunkirk District Park, and Saturday mornings in both North Beach and Lusby. From farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade treats, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to savor the best of Calvert County’s local flavors. Check out our Community Events calendar for details and make farmers markets a part of your summer routine!
Visit Calvert

Kent County (MD)

The Chestertown Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike! Held every Saturday all year round, in historic downtown Chestertown, this vibrant market showcases the best of Kent County’s agriculture, arts, and community spirit. Stroll through the picturesque square and discover fresh, locally grown produce, artisan crafts, homemade baked goods, and more. Meet friendly vendors, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and support small businesses. Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or simply looking for a taste of authentic Eastern Shore charm, the Chestertown Farmers Market offers a delightful experience year-round. For more information, visit Chestertownfarmersmarket.org.
Kent County Economic & Tourism Development

PENNSYLVANIA

Butler County (PA)

Butler County boasts a vibrant agricultural scene, with numerous farmers markets offering fresh, local produce and goods. From May through October, seasonal markets pop up across the region in Butler, Cranberry Township, Mars, and Slippery Rock. These markets provide a platform for local vendors, farmers, and gardeners to connect with the community.

For those seeking fresh finds year-round, Butler County also features several indoor farm markets, including Freedom Farms Farmers Market, Harvest Valley Farm Market, and Butler Farm Market.
Experience Butler County

Gettysburg & Adams County (PA)

The rolling hills surrounding Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, are home to one of the top apple-producing regions in America and a thriving agricultural community. A short drive from the historic downtown, you’ll find farms and markets run by families who’ve farmed this land for generations.

From April through October, Adams County Farmers Market brings together local vendors selling produce, meat, eggs, dairy products, baked goods, and more at Gettysburg Rec Park. In the countryside, check out the markets at the Historic Round Barn, Hollabaugh Bros., and Boyer Nurseries & Orchards — where freshly harvested produce is sold steps from where it’s grown.
Destination Gettysburg

Lancaster County (PA)

Lancaster County is bountifully blessed when it comes to farmers markets and roadside stands, starting with Lancaster Central Market – the nation’s oldest continuously-operating farmers market, dating from 1730. Two of our other grand-daddies are Roots Country Market & Auction in Manheim, founded in 1925, and Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction in Ephrata, operating since 1932. Come and enjoy the fresh produce, amazing selection, and incredible bargains. It’s a PA Dutch tradition!
Discover Lancaster

Laurel Highlands (PA)

There’s a reason that Ligonier Country Market, which is celebrating its 50th year in 2025, has been voted as the best farmers market in Pennsylvania. The largest and oldest farmers market in Western Pennsylvania, it’s a Saturday morning staple in this portion of the state. The Laurel Highlands region has strong agricultural roots, and the 120 vendors who gather in a large field outside the idyllic town of Ligonier offer freshly picked produce and flowers along with straight-from-the-farm beef, poultry, and eggs. Fresh breakfast and lunch options abound, and local artisans provide handmade crafts, jewelry, country crafts, and much more.
GO Laurel Highlands

Lebanon Valley (PA)

From salty soft pretzels at Foltz’s to indulgent opera fudge (a Lebanon County delicacy!) at Candyrama, the Lebanon Farmers Market provides a delicious cross-section of the flavors that make the Lebanon Valley special! Housed in a historic building with a storied history, the Farmers Market also features vendors for poultry, baked goods, seafood, cheeses, sushi, and more. While you’re here in the Lebanon Valley, be sure to pick up farm-fresh produce at one of the countless family-owned and -operated roadside stands that are sprinkled across the region.
Visit Lebanon Valley

Susquehanna River Valley (PA)

Fresh seasonal produce straight from the field, mouth-watering homemade desserts, and a wide variety of local products await you at the Lewisburg Farmers Market, one of the largest farmers markets in the region with a rich heritage dating back to 1937. Open every Wednesday from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. year-round, this Central PA treasure boasts over 100 vendors selling everything from cut flowers to local honey and maple syrup, from cheese to coffee, and a wide variety of crafts. Discover why locals consider the Lewisburg Farmers Market one of the best of its kind at www.LewisburgFarmersMarket.com or find them on Facebook.
Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau

York County (PA)

Spring in York County is a haven for those craving fresh, seasonal produce. In downtown York City, the iconic Central Market House, a beloved local staple since 1888, boasts over 50 vendors offering everything from fresh veggies to baked goods. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the historic Penn Market, in operation since 1866, where vendor-owned stalls serve up meats, cheeses, wine, and, of course, vibrant produce. For a truly hands-on experience, markets like Orchard Valley Farm and Flinchbaugh’s Orchard & Farm Market invite you to pick your own fruits—perfect for a memorable, Instagram-worthy adventure while supporting local farmers! Please visit YorkPA.org as hours vary by location.
Explore York

VIRGINIA

Culpeper (VA)

Find local farm produce, baked goods, eggs, meat, and more all year long at the new Buzzing Around Farm indoor farmers market in Culpeper, Virginia. You can also plan to stop by the open-air annual Downtown Farmers Market just around the corner. Open seasonally every Saturday from May – October, visitors can explore a wide range of local and regional farm offers, crafters, live music, and more!
Culpeper Department of Tourism

Danville & Pittsylvania County (VA)

Experience the vibrant community spirit of Danville’s Farmers Markets. Every Saturday from May 4 to October 26, the downtown market features local vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, locally raised meats, homemade baked goods, and handcrafted items. During peak season, the Market opens on Wednesdays (July 3 to August 28). The Virginia Grown Farmers Market at Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex, open Saturdays from May to September, features local farmers, florists, beekeepers, and artisans. These markets celebrate Virginia’s rich agricultural heritage, providing a warm, family-friendly setting where every visit is an opportunity to connect, savor, and support local traditions.
Visit SoSi

Fairfax County (VA)

No matter where you are in Fairfax County, you’re a stone’s throw from a fresh and local farmers market. Home to nearly 20 different markets on most days of the week, many only sell what they raise on their farms or make from scratch. In addition to produce and home-baked goods, others offer artisan crafts, textiles, and gifts made locally in Fairfax with love.
Visit Fairfax

Shenandoah County (VA)

Ranking fifth in Virginia in agricultural production, the farming industry is the backbone of Shenandoah County’s economy.  It’s no wonder this region was once known as “The breadbasket of the south.” Today visitors can experience the agricultural heritage of this area through the many locally infused restaurants and hands-on experiences like picking your own berries, pumpkins, and grape stomping. We invite you to meet the local producers by visiting the many roadside stands, nurseries, farm markets, wineries, and seasonal farms in the Northern Shenandoah Valley.
Visit Shenandoah County Virginia

Staunton (VA)

The Staunton Farmers’ Market is a vibrant, producer-only market in the heart of downtown Staunton, showcasing the best of the Shenandoah Valley’s local agriculture and artisanal goods. Open Saturdays from April through November, the market features farm-fresh produce, pasture-raised meats, dairy, baked goods, flowers, and handcrafted items—all grown or made within a 75-mile radius. Visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere while supporting local farmers and makers committed to sustainability and quality. Located in the Wharf parking lot, the Staunton Farmers Market is a beloved community hub that connects residents and visitors with fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced products.
Visit Staunton, VA

Waynesboro (VA)

The Waynesboro Farmers Market is more than just a market—it’s a gathering place where local farmers, artisans, and community members come together to celebrate fresh, local food. The market is open May-October, every Saturday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., rain or shine! The market takes place under the pavilion in Constitution Park, just steps away from the vibrant, historic downtown and right on the South River Greenway. Take advantage of the paved two-mile path before or after you visit the market and get a dose of fresh air to go with your fresh, local food!
Visit Waynesboro


Apply NOW for MATPRA’s Media Marketplace!
Are you ready to uncover fresh, compelling stories in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic? Join us at the 2025 annual conference, August 12-14, where travel journalists and PR experts come together to network, brainstorm, and arrange visits to unique destinations across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. This year’s host, Reading & Berks County, Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, invites you to dive into its rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. There will also be pre- and post-FAM opportunities across the region.

Don’t miss out on the chance to be one of only 60 journalists to experience this one-of-a-kind region and connect with industry professionals at MATPRA’s Media Marketplace. Apply online at https://matpra.org/media-marketplace/marketplace-application/ by March 28, 2025!


About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

Erie PA 2025 – Five New Things to Try

Debuting in Summer 2025!

Erie, Pennsylvania is set to impress in 2025 with exciting new experiences. Here’s a look at five must-try additions to the region’s ever-growing lineup of things to see and do!

  1. Waldameer Park and Water World will welcome a new family thrill ride, the Time Twister, in May. This $2.5 million, 35-foot attraction promises an exhilarating experience, sending riders spinning, floating, and twisting in all directions. “It’s a twisty and spinny experience with a great color scheme and awesome nighttime lighting,” said Brian Gorman, Waldameer’s vice president of operations. “It’s a lot of fun to watch, even if you’re not a thrill-seeker.” Watch a sneak peek of the ride here. The excitement continues with Water World improvements, including an expanded entrance, a new swim shop retail building, and upgrades to the Potato Patch and Sundeck Café.
  2. Get ready for an adventure millions of years in the making! The expERIEnce Children’s Museum has unveiled its latest exhibit, Dino Discoveries, in the museum’s traveling exhibit space on the basement level. Visitors can unearth fossils, explore interactive displays, and even roar alongside a life-sized triceratops. Highlights include dig pits, a reading nook, and a build-your-own dinosaur skeleton. Dino Discoveries is currently on display through April 2025, with new exhibits rotating every six months in the museum’s traveling space.
  3. The Hagen History Center is gearing up for an exciting 2025 with three new exhibits and a major addition. On the third floor of the Watson-Curtze Mansion, 100 Years of the Erie Zoo highlights the zoo’s history through animal displays, timelines, vintage photographs, and artifacts. On the second floor, Made You Look delves into the captivating world of advertising, showcasing iconic signs and the art of branding from familiar and forgotten names. Also on the second floor, Triggering History: Legacy of Erie Firearms features weaponry made, used, or discovered in Erie. In the summer of 2025, the Frank Lloyd Wright Welcome Center will open in the Exhibit Building adjacent to the Carriage House. This new addition will enhance the experience for architecture enthusiasts visiting the Frank Lloyd Wright San Francisco Office exhibit.
  4. A new restaurant is set to open just south of Erie, bringing moonshine and waffles together in a fresh dining concept. The collaboration between Before The Barrel Distillery and A Waffle Miracle food truck will transform the former Dan’s Boardwalk Restaurant on Route 8, just south of Interstate 90, into an exciting new culinary destination. Before The Barrel owner Bernie Blore shared, “We’re hoping to be open very soon. Our goal is to create food and beverages that are distinct and handcrafted, incorporating Before The Barrel spirits into the food while also keeping waffles as a core menu component. This is an exciting opportunity, blending our specialties into something even more special.” Expected to open in January, the yet-to-be-named restaurant will also feature creative takes on bar food favorites like wings and pizza.
  5. The Erie Zoo is marking a major milestone, celebrating 100 years of wildlife, conservation, and family fun. What began as a small animal collection has blossomed into an institution offering visitors of all ages the chance to connect with over 400 animals from around the world. In 2025 the zoo is in the midst of planning exciting events, programs, and opportunities to get involved, celebrating its rich history while looking forward to another century of impact. Zoo visitors are also invited to share their favorite Erie Zoo stories, photos, and special moments here.

Five Must-Try Erie Comfort Foods

credit R. Frank Media

When Erie residents need a break from the fast-paced world, they turn to certain comfort foods that evoke tradition, warmth, and community where each plate tells a story and every bite is a flavorful journey. These five must-try dishes are some of the local favorites, craved for their authentic flavors and nostalgic vibes.

  1. Take Me to the Greek
    Erie Greek sauce, a regional favorite, can be found at several local restaurants, each giving it its own twist. According to the owner of iconic eatery Panos Restaurant Evan Legace, Erie Greek sauce originated from Greek immigrants, including Legace’s great-grandfather. “My great-grandfather started selling street meat in New York City, developed a Greek sauce, and moved to Erie to open a restaurant. He invited friends from the street food scene to join him, which sparked friendly Greek sauce competitions.” So what exactly is Erie Greek sauce? It’s a distinct blend of meat and spices similar to chili but with a finer texture and no beans. Legace noted, “We use 100% beef with no fillers, natural fat, and spices that are slow-cooked for six hours.” At Panos, Greek sauce covers hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, and even omelets; a messy but napkin-worthy indulgence. A Greet dog with Greek fries is a frequent choice for lifelong Erie resident Paula Bruno-Umlah, a regular customer for decades. “Panos flavors their Greek sauce perfectly; plenty of spice but not too spicy, with just the right consistency,” she said.

 

  1. A Slice of Heaven
    Dawn Van Scoter isn’t just the owner of The Lawrence Park Dinor, the only diner in Pennsylvania listed on the National Register of Historic Places, she’s also the mastermind baker behind its scratch-made pies and cheesecakes. Every slice is a taste of tradition with her own personal twist to beloved family recipes. “I use many of my mother’s recipes from her collection that goes as far back as the 1960s, with some modification,” Van Scoter says. Pie flavors vary by season, but apple, coconut cream, and the customer-favorite peanut butter pie are available most days. Some of her more imaginative creations include margarita cheesecake, chocolate caramel coconut cookie cheesecake, and trash can pie; a salty-sweet indulgence of pretzels, peanuts, caramel bits, chocolate chips, and coconut. Whole pies, cheesecakes, and custom orders are available with advance request.

 

  1. Cue the Q
    Erie is best known for its stunning lakeside views and beaches, but it’s also home to the national, award-winning barbecue at Federal Hill Smokehouse. In just eight years, this no-frills eatery near East 26th and Peach Streets has become an Erie institution for mouth-watering ribs, brisket, smoked sausage, and turkey. Food & Wine magazine even named it Pennsylvania’s “Best Barbecue in Every State” for the last four years. Owner and pitmaster Ryan Atzert smokes more than two thousand pounds of meat each week, serving it up with classic barbecue sides: coleslaw, pinto beans, potato salad, and mac and cheese. “For me, it started as a fun hobby 16 years ago, making barbecue for friends,” said Atzert. “I decided to roll the dice, open my own place, and it took off in a big way.” His secret to success? “There’s no big secret really; just salt, pepper, and time, lots of time,” he explained. If you’re new to Federal Hill, arrive early—they sell out fast.

 

  1. It’s a Wing Thing
    Chicken wings are a finger-licking staple of Erie’s casual cuisine scene: fried or baked, bone-in or boneless, wet or dry, sweet or hot. At 6 Pack House of Beer, you’ll find it’s the perfect spot to satisfy your wing cravings and pair them with an ice-cold beer. Here you can choose from 12 drafts on tap and a 17-bay beer cooler, which features options from the Lake Erie Ale Trail. Co-owner Alice DeGeorge, a true wing enthusiast, shares, “We serve over 60 pounds of wings weekly, offering more than 24 flavors. Our house-made sauces include Hot Heads, Ghost Face, and our signature 6 Pack House Sauce, a sticky-sweet hot barbecue. That’s our best seller.” Each month 6 Pack House of Beer creates a bold inventive flavor. This November, the “Thanksgiv-wing” celebrates the start of the holiday season. The wings are tossed in dry stuffing mix and rosemary, fried, and finished with a house-made cranberry sauce that’s infused with Great Lakes Cran-Orange wheat beer. For the best deal, don’t miss Wing-It Wednesdays, with $2 off traditional or boneless wings by the pound (dine-in only).

 

  1. Layers of Flavor
    Since opening in May 2024, Roma’s Italian Kitchen has earned high praise for its authentic Italian dishes, particularly its lasagna, dubbed “Erie’s Best Lasagna.” It’s a bold claim, but after tasting this classic comfort food, many agree. “The idea behind ‘Erie’s Best Lasagna’ came during an early tasting meeting,” said Executive Chef Scott Croyle. “One manager took a bite and exclaimed, ‘This has to be the best-tasting lasagna in Erie!’” Nick Scott Jr., vice president of Scott Enterprises, the local family-owned company behind Roma’s, added, “The name lived up to the promise. From the start, customers kept saying the same thing. We knew we had a winner.” Made fresh daily, Roma’s lasagna is a generous portion layered with sweet sausage, creamy ricotta, imported cheeses, and Roma’s signature house-made red sauce. This sauce has a hint of sweetness, naturally enhanced with sofrito; a blend of carrots, onions, and whole garlic sautéed in extra-virgin olive oil, crafted with premium plum tomatoes, fresh Italian parsley, and basil. The result? You be the judge. Erie’s Best Lasagna is available for lunch and dinner daily.

10 Things to Do in Winter at Presque Isle State Park

Bundle up with your boots, scarves, and gloves because it’s time to explore Presque Isle State Park in the wintertime! Although Presque Isle is mainly known for its sandy beaches, there are many ways to enjoy and explore the park’s natural beauty any time of year. Here are 10 things to do at Presque Isle that will lift your winter spirits and banish those seasonal blues. For a map of Presque Isle State Park and its trails, click here.

  1.  Snowshoe on Long Pond Trail

This one-mile trail follows the shoreline of Long Pond, one of the ponds within the park’s lagoon, near the entrance to the east pier. The trail is ideal for snowshoe exploration and has great opportunities to see some of the park’s wildlife population, including some very active beavers that typically cut a noticeable path through the trail near the eastern trailhead. Other snowshoe trails at the park include Pine Tree Trail and Ridge Trail.

  1. Educate and Explore at TREC

Although not physically attached to Presque Isle, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (affectionately referred to as “TREC”) is considered the gateway to Presque Isle and an introduction to how the peninsula formed more than a thousand years ago from glaciers and ice melt. This fascinating (and free) attraction features hands-on, educational exhibits, a glass-enclosed observation tower, and Presque Isle Gallery and Gifts.

  1. Spot a Snowy Owl at Gull Point

The snowy owl is the largest of the North American owls and is mainly white with black and brown markings. Some snowy owls are known to migrate from their summer nests near the Arctic Circle to parts of southern Canada and the northern rim of the United States, including Presque Isle. The best place to catch a glimpse of a snowy owl is Gull Point, where they perch on land and short posts waiting for prey. To protect the ecologically fragile area, visitors must use the designated observation platform and trail.

  1. Cross-Country Ski on Fox Trail

The half-mile Fox Trail is across from the Presque Isle Lighthouse, winding through wooded swamps and oak-maple trees, providing a picturesque, forested byway between the Sidewalk Trail and a portion of the Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail. Other trails that are maintained for cross-country skiing include the Sidewalk Trail and Dead Pond Trail.

  1. Catch a Winter Sunset

Presque Isle is known for its world-class sunsets, but in winter it’s a special sight to behold. When the sun sets on the horizon between the snow-dusted sand and the frozen lake, it’s simply breathtaking. Whether you bundle yourselves up on the beach or enjoy the coziness of your car, it is a gorgeous sight to behold. The best spot to catch this amazing show is at Sunset Point, also known as Kite Beach.

  1. Take a Brisk Hike

The Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail sets the perfect stage to enjoy a tranquil stroll along Presque Isle Bay, breathing in the fresh, crisp air among scenic surroundings. In winter, the trail is regularly cleared of snow from the park’s main entrance to the public safety building, so visitors can negotiate the path with ease.

  1. Drive Through Beauty with a Scenic Drive

Experience the winter wonders of Presque Isle from the cozy comfort of your vehicle as you meander through the park’s 13-mile paved loop. To maintain the park’s natural condition and protect its natural inhabitants, the main road is cleared of snow but it is not treated with salt or chemicals.

  1. Wildlife Watching

Presque Isle’s location on the Atlantic Flyway makes it a favorite spot for birds to stop to feed and rest on their migration across Lake Erie. More than 330 species of birds have been identified on the peninsula during the winter including geese, swans, and a wide variety of owls. There is a variety of winter wildlife found throughout the park including white-tailed deer, foxes, beavers, rabbits, and raccoons.

  1. Admire Frozen Ice Dunes

Ice dunes form as a result of cold Lake Erie waters, icy temperatures, and strong winds coming together. Found on the lakeside of Presque Isle, ice dunes help to preserve the beaches and protect them from sand erosion. Ice dunes are lovely to look at, but admire them from a distance, as their extreme instability makes close encounters hazardous. Capture their splendor through a photograph so the memories last long after the dunes melt away.

  1. Ice Fishing

The sheltered, frozen waters of Presque Isle Bay, Misery Bay, Horseshoe Pond, and Presque Isle Marina are great locations for ice fishing. Common catches are yellow perch, panfish, northern pike, walleye, and the occasional steelhead. Whether you’re a newcomer to the sport or seeking to upgrade your gear, Fish USA is a one-stop shop with experienced staff and an extensive selection of merchandise.

Know Before You Go:

Presque Isle State Park Winter Hours of Operation
Open daily from 5 a.m. to sunset. Day-use areas such as trails, beaches, restrooms, and the marina close at dusk. After dusk, driving is allowed up to 9 p.m.

Dog-Friendly! Presque Isle is a great place to bring your leashed furry friend along with you for a hike. Remember to do your part to help keep the park clean and pick up after them.

Presque Isle State Park Main Office, inside the Tom Ridge Environmental Center

November 1 – March 31: Open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday.

814-833-7424

Tom Ridge Environmental Center Hours of Operation
November 1 – March 31: Open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday.

Presque Isle State Park Restrooms

Most restrooms are closed during the off-season. Restrooms at Rotary Pavilion, Public Safety Building/Ranger Station, Perry Monument, North Pier, Niagara Boat Launch, and the Lighthouse Beach restrooms are open year-round.

Presque Isle State Park Ranger Station/Public Safety Building

Offering first aid, telephones, restrooms, and maps of the park.

Hours vary depending on staffing.

814-833-7424
Presque Isle State Park Ice Fishing Regulations

Celebrate the Holidays in Delaware with the Newly Launched Hidden Holiday Gems Passport

Delaware's Hidden Holiday Gems logo.

The Delaware Tourism Office announced today its new passport, “Delaware’s Hidden Holiday Gems,” highlighting nine unique attractions in the state celebrating the holidays this season. The passport will run from Nov. 22 to Jan. 6.

“Delaware’s Hidden Holiday Gems is our office’s first short-term passport to be released,” said Jessica Welch, Director of the Delaware Tourism Office. “In light of the holiday season, we hope to attract tourists to each of Delaware’s three counties and experience what they have to offer during this special time of year.”

The mobile passport, also known as a trail, will bring Delaware’s holiday magic to life as it takes travelers throughout the state with three specific destinations to stop at in each of the state’s three regions. From intricately decorated museums to festive light displays, the passport provides an itinerary for holiday travelers to find off-the-beaten-path attractions.

In northern Delaware, the passport will highlight Holidays at Hagley at Hagley Museum and Library, Noël at Nemours Estate, and Holiday Magic at Riverbright Wilmington. Zoo Lights and Christmas Nights at 3 Palms Zoo, Gift of Lights at Dover Motor Speedway, and Ice Skating at Tre Sorelle Dolce will be featured in central Delaware. In southern Delaware, Santa’s House on Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, Schellville’s Enchanted Winter Celebration, and Lewes Lights will also have stops along the trail.

Once participants using the passport check in at three locations within a region, they will receive one of three randomly selected prizes. The prizes will encourage users to visit all of the locations throughout Delaware to win the three prizes available.

Participants can sign up at VisitDelaware.com and gain access to the digital passport. Using location-based technology, users can “check-in” at and track locations they have visited using their phones.

Delaware’s Hidden Holiday Gems passport is one of three trails currently offered by the Delaware Tourism Office. The Delaware On Tap trail takes users throughout the state to visit over 30 craft beverage locations in Delaware. Similarly, the Delaware History Trail takes users to each of Delaware’s counties with stops at historically significant locations in Delaware.

“The goal of these trails is to not only promote local businesses but encourage travel to new places in Delaware that may be overlooked at first glance,” said Welch. “On the way to these attractions, tourists will see all that Delaware has to offer and explore someplace new.”

The Delaware Tourism Office, a division of the Delaware Division of Small Business, promotes tourism and economic growth in Delaware. For more information, visit the official Delaware Tourism website at www.visitdelaware.com or call toll-free at 866-284-7483.