As the grey skies and the bitter temperatures grace us with their presence for the next couple months and the urge to hibernate starts to creep in, resist the temptation to hide and venture north for a family fun day. Located near the entrance to Presque Isle State Park at 301 Peninsula Dr Erie, Pa 16505, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center has something for everyone in your group.
The Tom Ridge Center hosts a permanent exhibit about Presque Isle in an interactive setting with interesting displays. If you are a parent, might I suggested a little research on the Pa wildlife identification, in the off chance you may get the chance to challenge your child in a “who knows more” about the animals game. Since the kids typically feel they have the advantage it is nice to once in a while show them you still have a trick or two up your sleeve.
For the teenagers, who probably did not want to come along because there was a school field trip years ago and they have already been there, done that. There is currently a fantastic Lake Erie Shipwreck display on the second floor that will be there for the winter season. Filled with artifacts from shipwrecks and tales of lost vessels, it is sure to be a hit.
No trip to the Center is complete without a view from the observation tower and with an elevator for easy access there is no reason to forgo the opportunity. At the top, the incredible sight of frozen Lake Erie awaits you in the winter months and it definitely is a camera moment. It is also a pretty cool view of Waldameer and the Ravine Flyer Roller Coaster for those who have ridden this ride.
The Big Green Screen Theater is located at the Tom Ridge Center and sports a number of great films for all ages and interests. The 4 story screen, 45 foot wide screen will have you totally immersed in which ever film you chose to see. Currently for the winter season running Monday through Friday are three great films covering a variety of interests. Aircraft Carrier, Walking with Dinosaurs: Prehistoric Planet and Flight of the Butterflies run at least twice daily. The weekends have a special treat for the young ones in the group featuring The Gruffalo film and Gruffalo related activities. For more information about the film times and special ticket pricing please be sure to call the Tom Ridge Center at 814-838-4123 or visit them on the web at www.biggreenscreen.com
For those who need a shopping fix, a wonderful gift store is located on site with a vast amount of unique and interesting items. A snack shop is also available to allow your day to continue without grumbly bellies.
While you are in Erie, a drive through the Presque Isle State Park is also a great time. See the transformation of the beach as the winter weather has frozen the sand into its own sculptures. Be aware! Do not venture out onto the frozen sand because there may be unstable areas that could lead to serious injuries. This is a cool thing to see, but from a safe distance.
Keep an eye open for the snowy owls who have made frequent visits to the park. They can be easily overlooked with their white plumage, but if you do happen to spot one make sure you have your camera ready.
As always, I hope that you have a wonderful trek with your family or friends and remember... in the words of the great JRR Tolkien “Not all those who wander are lost”
