Meadville PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Meadville, Pennsylvania.
1. Read Between the Signs
UNIQUE ROAD SIGN ART
Read Between the Signs is an outdoor art installation featuring thousands of recycled road signs, creatively assembled into vibrant murals along the highway. Visitors can admire this imaginative display that both celebrates and repurposes local history and industry in a dynamic roadside gallery.
2. PennDOT Road Sign Sculpture Garden
CREATIVE SCULPTURE DISPLAY
The PennDOT Road Sign Sculpture Garden features whimsical and captivating sculptures made from decommissioned traffic signs. This dynamic public art spot highlights community creativity while providing a fun photo opportunity for travelers and locals alike.
3. Ernst Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
Ernst Trail is a popular multi-use path that winds through picturesque woodlands and wetlands just outside downtown Meadville. Ideal for biking, walking, or birdwatching, the trail offers peaceful natural beauty and a glimpse into the region's diverse ecosystems.
4. Woodcock Lake Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Woodcock Lake Park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking along the serene shores of Woodcock Creek Lake. The park's scenic vistas and well-maintained facilities make it a favorite spot for family outings and nature lovers.
5. Meadville Market House
HISTORIC FARMERS MARKET
The Meadville Market House is the oldest continuously operating market house in Pennsylvania, serving as a lively hub for local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. Guests can enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, and unique crafts year-round in this charming, historic marketplace.
6. Baldwin-Reynolds House Museum
HISTORIC MANSION MUSEUM
The Baldwin-Reynolds House Museum showcases 19th-century architecture and the storied lives of influential Crawford County residents. Guided tours reveal exquisite period furnishings and offer fascinating stories from Meadville's past.
7. Johnson-Shaw Stereoscopic Museum
HISTORICAL STEREOSCOPE COLLECTION
The Johnson-Shaw Stereoscopic Museum houses an extensive collection of vintage stereographic images and viewers, documenting the evolution of three-dimensional photography. Visitors are treated to immersive exhibits that highlight the artistry and innovation of this forgotten medium.
8. Greendale Cemetery
PICTURESQUE HISTORIC CEMETERY
Greendale Cemetery is renowned for its beautifully landscaped grounds and impressive collection of historic monuments and mausoleums. The tranquil setting provides a reflective walking space steeped in local history and natural splendor.
9. Meadville Railroad Depot
VINTAGE TRAIN STATION
The Meadville Railroad Depot stands as a testament to the city's significant railroad past and features engaging displays of local rail memorabilia. Train enthusiasts and families alike enjoy exploring this slice of industrial heritage.
10. Academy Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Academy Theatre is a beautifully restored landmark offering a rich schedule of live performances, from plays and musicals to concerts and community events. Its elegant architecture and vibrant arts scene make it a centerpiece of Meadville's cultural life.
11. Crawford County Fairgrounds
ANNUAL COUNTY FAIR SITE
Crawford County Fairgrounds hosts one of Pennsylvania's largest and oldest county fairs, drawing crowds for livestock shows, concerts, rides, and traditional fair foods. The facility also serves as a year-round venue for a variety of festivals and public events.
12. Diamond Park
CENTRAL TOWN SQUARE
Diamond Park is Meadville's historic town square, featuring lush greenery, memorials, and a gazebo that regularly hosts community events and outdoor performances. Its inviting ambiance makes it a popular gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
13. Allegheny College
PRESTIGIOUS LIBERAL ARTS CAMPUS
Allegheny College, founded in 1815, is one of the nation's oldest liberal arts colleges and boasts a picturesque campus with historic buildings and walking trails. The college enriches the community with public lectures, art exhibits, and cultural activities throughout the year.
14. Conneaut Lake
LARGEST NATURAL LAKE NEARBY
Conneaut Lake, located just west of Meadville, is the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania and a beloved destination for boating, swimming, and lakeside relaxation. The area is also known for its charming resort community and recreational opportunities.
15. Erie National Wildlife Refuge
PROTECTED NATURAL WETLANDS
The Erie National Wildlife Refuge, northeast of Meadville, preserves vital wetland habitats that support a diverse array of birds and wildlife. Nature trails and observation areas offer excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the region's ecological richness.