From up-close animal encounters and gorgeous parks to sightseeing adventures, check out these adventures while summer is still here.

Lady Kate Sightseeing Tours in Erie, Pennsylvania

Climbing aboard the 1952, diesel-powered Lady Kate is a great way to explore the waters of Lake Erie from a new vantage point. Visitors to this vessel in Erie, Pennsylvania's Presque Isle State Park can enjoy sunset cruises for a look at the sinking sun over the waters, or a narrated tour that explores the lake's lighthouses and local sights. With summer coming to a close, it's the perfect time to be out the water, and also enjoy all manner of outdoor recreation before the sunny season ends. Whether you're looking for up-close experiences with animals, farm-fresh eats, gorgeous parks to explore or a little fun with the family, fill your travel calendar with these great destinations.

Knoebels Amusement Resort

People on a ride at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania (photo courtesy of Knoebels Amusement Park)

In operation since 1926, this Elysburg, Pennsylvania, park features a wooden roller coaster, midway games, an 18-hole miniature golf course and plenty of food to go around.

Second Stride Farm

Women looking at horse at Second Stride Farm in Louisville, Kentucky (photo by Tom Adkinson)

Meet retired racehorses in the process of retraining at this Louisville, Kentucky, destination, where visitors can see the horses in the pasture and in their stables.

Neapolitan Pizzas at Hawkins Family Farm

Neapolitan pizza at Hawkins Family Farm in North Manchester, Indiana (photo courtesy of Hawkins Family Farm)

Dine on an Italian specialty al fresco in North Manchester, Indiana, at this family-owned spot that hosts seasonal Friday pizza nights on the farm. 

Midway State Park

Family on Tilt-a-Whirl at Midway State Park in Bemus Point, New York (photo courtesy of Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau)

Established as a trolley park in 1898, this Bemus Point, New York, destination offers classic arcade games, family-friendly rides and a themed mini golf course.

Shawnee State Park

Kayaks at Shawnee State Park in West Portsmouth, Ohio (photo courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources)

Unplug at this Appalachian paradise in West Portsmouth, Ohio, where many migrating birds can be spotted and wildflowers abound.

Point Pelee National Park

Point Pelee National Park in Leamington, Ontario (photo courtesy of Parks Canada)

One of Canada’s smallest national parks, this Leamington, Ontario, spot offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, biking and hiking.

Friendship Botanic Gardens

Pond with fountain and willow trees at Friendship Botanic Gardens in Michigan City, Indiana (photo courtesy of Friendship Botanic Gardens)

Created for the Century of Progress Exhibition in the 1930s, this 105-acre Michigan City, Indiana, park features more than two dozen themed gardens.

Evergreen Lane Farm & Creamery

Goats at Evergreen Lane Farm & Creamery in Fennville, Michigan (photo courtesy of Evergreen Lane Farm & Creamery)

Visit this 40-acre farm and cheese-making operation in Fennville, Michigan, where playful La Mancha goats graze and play. 

Wildlife Prairie Park

Bison and elk at Wildlife Prairie Park in Hanna City, Illinois (photo by Brielle Kuchinski)

Encounter over 180 animals at this Hanna City, Illinois, destination that is home to coyotes, cougars, black bears, bison and more.

Lady Kate Sightseeing Tours

Lady Kate Sightseeing Tours in Erie, Pennsylvania (photo courtesy of Presque Isle Boat Tours)

See Lake Erie from a new perspective on this 1952 diesel-powered boat that has been offering tours in Erie, Pennsylvania, since 2008.

Story: Gracie Metz
Issue: Weekend Guides