Ever get the urge to run away to an island? Act on it and go to Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pennsylvania, for a casual weekend. Don’t forget the bathing suits, sand toys, sunscreen and hiking shoes.
Stop at Tom Ridge Environmental Center for interactive educational exhibits, a movie and a climb up the glass-enclosed, 75-foot observation tower. Drive the one-way loop road parallel to the multi-purpose trail and stop at the beaches of Presque Isle Bay.
Adventurers will enjoy a nature scavenger hunt on primitive trails that traverse swamplands, oak-maple forests, and sand plains. The 7-mile-long peninsula is a National Natural Landmark for at least 325 species of migrating, native, and endangered birds. You can rent a pontoon boat or kayaks at the Canoe and Boat Livery on Graveyard Pond to explore natural habitats for wildlife living in interior lagoons.
When you find wide Pettinato Beach, throw down the blanket and pull out the picnic lunch. Afterward, slather on sunscreen and lie out in the sun or build sandcastles. When you grow restless, rent a bicycle, a surrey or roller blades at the Waterworks Pumphouse area and get some exercise on the multi-purpose trail. History buffs may enjoy a Lady Kate boat tour to explore three historic lighthouses.
Downtown Erie is only four miles east. Tour the tall ship U. S. Brig Niagara at the Erie Maritime Museum, take in an Erie Seawolves baseball game, hang out at the Erie Zoo & Botanical Gardens or shop at Bayfront — you’ll be glad you gave in to the urge to run away.