Recreation

Crawford County has four distinct seasons, each with its own color and splendor, and the opportunities to enjoy each one. Numerous lakes, streams, state parks and woodlands provide a playground for limitless activities including boating, swimming, camping, canoeing, hiking, biking, bird watching, ice skating, skiing, cross county skiing, hunting and fishing. more

Among the many natural wonders experienced in the region, probably the most notable is French Creek, a national treasure which arises in New York and flows 117 miles through northwestern Pennsylvania, including all of Crawford County, until it meets the Allegheny River. Its high water quality, rich history and bio-diversity offer both educational and recreational opportunities.

Yearly events in the county are numerous and varied, only a few of which are the Thurston Classic Hot Air Balloon Event; the Pymatuning Waterfowl Expo; the Crawford County Fair, the largest agricultural fair in the state; the Pymatuning Pioneer & Arts Festival; Winter Fun Days, the Tour de Tamarack Bike Race, the Antique Auto Show at the Drake Well Museum and the Oil Festival in Titusville.

Attractions to the county include Conneaut Lake, the state's largest natural lake, with swimming, boating, fishing; and the Canadohta Lake Resort area with year-round activities for all ages centered around the state's second largest natural lake. The Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad takes you on a relaxing train ride through the "valley that changed the world" with the discovery of oil. The historic Riverside Inn, in continuous operation since 1885, offers dinner theatres, special events and numerous activities in a quiet and gracious atmosphere.

Team sports are always an important aspect of recreational activity. While no professional teams reside in the county, there is quick and easy access to pro football, baseball, hockey and basketball games in Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Buffalo; as well as semi-pro team games in Erie and Youngstown. However, there numerous sites throughout the county providing locations  for sports participation at all levels, including softball, baseball, football, basketball, ice hockey, tennis, and soccer. One location, the Meadville Area Recreational Complex, is a 47-acre multi-faceted recreational facility with an indoor regulation ice rink and a year-round indoor/outdoor aquatic center. Of course, no area is complete without its golf courses. The county's 13 courses provide challenges enough for everyone from the beginner to the experienced golfer.

Culture

While Crawford County's location to larger urban areas enhances the cultural and entertainment possibilities available to its residents, there are numerous possibilities available right at home.

Allegheny College has a strong commitment to the community and while its students give thousands of hours to community service every year, the school opens its doors to the public for the cultural and entertainment events held at the college.

Founded in 1885, the Academy Theatre has brought great art and entertainment to the region for over 100 years. It continues this tradition today through its community theater, special events for adults and children, and its concert film series features. The Meadville Council on the Arts presents concerts, art exhibits and classes throughout the year; and the Meadville Community Theater has provided live theater to the area for over 40 years.

Museums providing insight into the rich heritage of Crawford County include:

• Baldwin-Reynolds House
• Drake Well and Museum
• Johnson-Shaw Stereoscopic Museum
• John Brown Farm, Tannery and Museum

Baldwin-Reynolds House Museum

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Economic Progress Alliance of Crawford County

764 Bessemer Street, Suite 101

Meadville   PA  16335

814-333-2299

04/21/2008