Jeff Fuentes Gleghorn
Temperatures are rising as COVID-19 restrictions are falling, meaning that attractions across Pennsylvania are opening up for those of us that are sick of being indoors. Here are four places to visit at the start of summer.
- Kalahari Waterpark at Pocono Manor, PA
One of America’s largest indoor water parks, the Kalahari resort also offers rope courses, ziplines, and an arcade. Day passes are available for purchase for those who don’t want to stay overnight, and the indoor park opens at 10am each day.
- Visit the Pine Creek Gorge, Watson Township, PA
The Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, is a 47 mile long gorge dug by the Pine Creek. It is recognized as a National Natural Landmark by the National Parks Service and by Pennsylvania’s Scenic River Program. There are hiking and biking trails throughout the gorge, which is 4,000 feet wide and 1,450 feet deep at its deepest point.
- Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania, Lititz, PA
The Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania was started by two people in 1980, and over the past 40 years their family has overseen the protection of wolves and wolf dogs in the sanctuary. The Wolf Sanctuary is largely supported by the guided tours offered to visitors. As a COVID-19 precaution, tours are currently by reservation only, and public tour tickets start at $13. Tour guides will lead you to several of the wolf packs, teach you about wolves and wolf conservation, and allow photography with some restrictions. You can see the wolves from behind fences.
- Presque Isle State Park, Erie PA
Presque Isle State Park is a sandy peninsula that stretches into Lake Erie. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources calls it Pennsylvania’s only seashore, and the Tom Ridge Environmental Center at the base of the peninsula offers learning experiences for anyone interested in the local environment and wildlife. The State Park allows several activities, “including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, bicycling, and in-line skating.”
