There are dozens of things to do in Conneaut Lake. From chilling at the beach to exploring the town’s history and heritage, there are plenty of activities for you and your family to enjoy.
Located along Midway Drive, Fireman’s Beach is a popular destination for families and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding lake. This beach also hosts various activities throughout the year for its visitors.
1. The Woolly Mammoth Sculpture
A new woolly mammoth sculpture has been installed at the University of Illinois, bringing a touch of prehistoric Champaign-Urbana to campus. The mammoth stands near the Natural History Building, where a real mammoth once roamed some 30,000 years ago.
The sculpture was designed by Taylor Studios and was built on site by the University of Illinois’ Facilities and Services. It was chosen to represent the mammoth because it reflects the geological and biological history of Illinois. The project was funded through the Art in Architecture program, which requires large federal buildings to set aside a percentage of their construction costs for art.
The lake also features a family-friendly beach, Midway Beach. The beach is managed by the Midway Civic Club and has a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing or taking photographs.
2. Fireman’s Beach
As Pennsylvania’s largest natural glacier lake, Conneaut Lake has a lot to offer visitors, whether they’re looking to go boating or shop for local food. Guests can tour the lake on an old paddlewheel steamboat or try a locally-produced wine at Conneaut Cellars Winery. They can also taste a variety of delicious treats at the coffee shops and restaurants.
The town’s official group that chronicles the area’s history is called the Conneaut Lake Area Historical Society, and its museum along North 3rd Street is a must-see attraction. It contains various exhibits about the area’s past, including woolly mammoth bones and other historical artifacts.
3. Silver Shores Restaurant
The Silver Shores Restaurant has been serving comfort food to the local residents and travelers for more than a century. Its popularity has been a factor in the town’s tourism development. It also has a reputation as an important cultural center. Several notable works of art have been created at the establishment.
Located along North Third Street, the Conneaut Lake Area Historical Society is the official group that chronicles the area’s rich history. Its museum features woolly mammoth bones and various historical artifacts. The organization also offers educational events and other monthly programs.
As Pennsylvania’s largest natural lake, Conneaut Lake is a scenic destination. It is also home to many unique attractions. From summer arts festivals to ice sculptures and flagpole holiday decorations, the community has something for every season.
4. Ghost Lake 13 Years of Fear
Located along Center Street West, this haunted attraction features 13 levels of terror, where you can experience a nightmarish journey through demon clowns and gates of hell. This place has earned a name for itself in entertaining locals and tourists alike.
Aside from being the state’s largest natural glacier lake, Conneaut Lake Park (CLP) is a family-friendly amusement park that offers one of the country’s oldest wooden roller coasters and many other fun rides. It also hosts community events like summer arts festivals, winter ice sculptures, flagpole holiday decorations and more.
For a relaxing and serene experience, you can also visit the Barbara J Cruises, which has regularly scheduled lake cruises that will take you around the beautiful lake. This company also specializes in private cruises for families, friends, and groups.
5. PennDot Road Sign Sculpture Garden
The borough of Conneaut Lake sits on the southern end of Pennsylvania’s largest natural glacier lake and is known for its dozens of outdoor recreation activities. From a scenic lake cruise to an old-fashioned amusement park, this Crawford County town offers something for everyone.
Located along Smock Highway in Meadville, the PennDOT Road Sign Sculpture Garden is an odd but creative public art installation that features recycled signs made into various shapes and forms. Previously called “Read Between the Signs,” this unique art piece was created by a collaboration between art students at Allegheny College and DoT employees who had extra road signs on hand.
Another popular activity in this historic town is touring the Baldwin-Reynolds House Museum, a Southern-style Greek Revival mansion that houses an assortment of art and historical exhibits. The renowned Pymatuning Deer Park is also worth visiting and is home to a petting zoo, pony rides, and train rides.conneaut lake activities
