Feel the need to get away but want to stay close to home because of the pandemic? We get it! So we've rounded up five great staycation ideas for the Erie area. Whether you want to get away overnight or just for a day trip, here are five ways to enjoy a staycation within a short drive of Erie, Pa.
1. Super skiing
Peek'n Peak Resort in Chautauqua County, New York, is just a 30 to 40 minute getaway from Erie, which makes it an easy day trip. Or stay overnight in the lodge! Don't want to ski? There's also tubing, or you can even rent a day pass for their pool and hot tub.
Please note: There may be travel restrictions in place due to the pandemic. Please check with local and state governments before traveling across state lines.
(An FYI: I took this video before the pandemic. Masks are required while at the Peak!)
2. Go splash!
People travel hundreds of miles to visit Splash Lagoon Water Park — and it's right in our backyard in Erie! You can visit for the day or take advantage of one of their frequent specials that combine an overnight stay with passes to the waterpark.
3. Explore a winter wonderland
So many of us never visit Presque Isle State Park in the winter ... but it is MAGICAL! Spend a day at our amazing Erie park after a fresh snowfall and you'll be hooked. Right now is a great time to see the ice dunes on the beaches, a phenomenon that is unique to the Great Lakes and arctic beaches. Want to make it an overnight? This is a great time to get a deal at one of the beautiful bayfront hotels, where kids can swim and you can relax in the hot tub after a day outside for about $100 a night on weekends, and less on weekdays.
4. LOL at the National Comedy Center
Located in Jamestown, N.Y. — about an hour drive from Erie — the Comedy Museum is sure to be a hit with the whole family. We had to drag our kids, then 7 and 9, out after a day there!
You can turn this into a weekend getaway with a stay at the beautiful Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, which opened in 2018 in Celoron, N.Y. The hotel is even offering a "Hilarious Getaway" package which includes two tickets to the Comedy Center and a $30 meal voucher to Lakehouse Tap and Grill.
Please note: There may be travel restrictions in place due to the pandemic. Please check with local and state governments before traveling across state lines.
5. Take a covered bridge tour
Did you know Ashtabula, Ohio, is home to 19 covered bridges? They're beautiful in summer, but we love them in winter too. Set out from Erie with a great song list, car games, and lots of snacks and see how many covered bridges your family can find! Find lunch at one of the dozen restaurants and foodie shops along Bridge Street in Ashtabula Harbor.
Please note: There may be travel restrictions in place due to the pandemic. Please check with local and state governments before traveling across state lines.
