Winter Discovery Day Presents a Different Way of Loving Presque Isle

Presque Isle Partnership

A visit to Presque Isle shouldn't be just for the sunny days on Erie's calendar – the wintertime offers plenty of opportunities to explore, try a new activity, and get to know our state park during a different season.

SATURDAY, FEB. 7

As we settle into winter along the bright, snowy lake, we're often gifted a picturesque cold-weather landscape. And next month, many local and seasonal activities will too reveal their hidden beauty. Hosted by Presque Isle Partnership, the annual Winter Discovery Day celebrates many family-friendly seasonal activities. Beginners can try their hand at fishing atop frozen waters with equipment provided by S.O.N.S. of Lake Erie. For Presque Isle Partnership, many of these traditional winter experiences are offered as a bridge to their warmer weather counterparts.

Additional family-friendly events for curious outdoorsfolk include a meet and greet with the Red Sky Working Siberian Sled Dogs. This Fairview-based recreational mushing team offers a demonstration of the speed and power of their athletes. A few of the offerings are weather-dependent, including ice fishing and the beginner snow shoe experience. This planned activity allows attendees to experience snowshoeing along nearby trails with DCNR Environmental Educational Specialists.

Hot chocolate will be available for purchase at the Rotary Pavilion, along with bites to eat. And the Presque Isle Lighthouse, which is also offering warm beverages, will be showcasing their own brand of winter charm with an open house. Guests may browse the house museum and gift shop to learn a bit of local history, enjoy a cozy concoction, and get creative with a craft for Valentine's Day.

Additionally, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center is offering discounted admission to the Big Green Screen Theater Special. Showtimes for Wings Over Water, Superpower Dogs, and The Last Reef: Cities Beneath the Sea will be an alternative way for attendees to support and explore Presque Isle.

For those of us in the north, winter can be a blessing or a bane. And often that leaves us wondering if we'd best enjoy our day cuddling in blankets or layering up the sweaters to enjoy a crisp moment outdoors. However, Presque Isle is a year-round experience. And Winter Discovery Day 2026 is a great reminder of the beauty of this season. 

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. // Presque Isle State Park, Waterworks Area (Rotary Pavilion & Shelter #1), 301 Peninsula Dr. // Suggested Donation of $3 // More info: discoverpi.com