Pleasant Ridge Park 42322

Pleasant Ridge Park April 23, 2022

What do blooming cherry blossom trees, construction equipment, frisbee golf, and muddy trails have in common? You can find all of these things right now at Pleasant Ridge Park!

Weather reaching up to 70 degrees brought us to Pleasant Ridge Park for a little stroll. Even though it rained early Saturday morning, we decided to grab the dog and head to the park; clearly we were hoping it wasn’t too muddy throughout the woods.

FYI: Because this is an update on a previous wandering, we’re linking the article with general information on Pleasant Ridge Park here. With that in mind, check out how our visit on April 23, 2022 went!

With the rain, comes mud.

Currently, the park is pretty muddy. On our walk, we went through several areas of thick, wet, “your shoe will stick in this” mud. The kiddos had a really hard time getting through some of it and had to be picked up. The dog needed a bath when we got home. Our shoes are all being washed. If you don’t like mud, don’t plan a walk here for at least a week. If you don’t mind mud, head on over!

A section of the trails through the woods
“Your shoe will stick in this” mud

It’s that time of year…

Another thing we would caution you about is to check yourself and your dog for ticks. We found 2 on our pup when we arrived home. This shouldn’t deter you from going as it is to be expected in the woods this time of year, but be aware of it and make sure to check your dog any time they spend long periods of time outside.

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Get out your camera!

On another note, the cherry blossom trees are starting to bloom and they are absolutely gorgeous. If you’re a fan of pink trees, head to the park and get some photos as they have 2 on the outskirts of the parking lot, across from the sports fields.

Blooming Cherry Blossom Tree
Perfect Photo Spot

Construction Vehicles

Upon entering the parking lot, you’ll see several construction vehicles currently parked (or at work, depending on when you visit) on the edge of the lot by the fields. They were simply parked during our visit as it was a Saturday afternoon, so we were unable to tell exactly what they were there for. From the looks of the parking lot and the vehicles, our guess is the parking lot refurbishment. If you know what’s going on, please drop us a comment!

Parking Lot

No matter what reason they were there, we had fun looking at them. The littles loved seeing the big vehicles. If you head to the park be sure to take a peek, but remember to keep a safe distance; we kept about a 15 foot distance. It’s important to let kids know this is a “looking” experience and not to touch them. If they look forward to seeing construction vehicles up close and personal, Equipment Day at the zoo is scheduled for 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2022.

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Golfing at the park…with a frisbee?

Walking around, we saw several “holes” (they look like big metal and chain baskets) set up as we went on our walk, and noticed several signs warning you to watch out for flying discs. Pleasant Ridge Park now boasts a disc golf course throughout their 80 acres of park. If this is something you’re interested in, you should definitely go check it out. Although we didn’t play ourselves, we did see other people playing.

Frisbee Golf Hole

We never saw a flying disc or feared getting hit by one, so don’t let this stop you from coming to the park. There are strict rules the disc golfers must follow, signs posted throughout to let you know where you could run into someone playing the sport, and pathways to walk as they play the course.

For more information about disc golf, specifically at Pleasant Ridge Park, please click here.

Final Thoughts:

Although very muddy, we still managed to have a lot of fun on our visit! The mud is not bad at all in the grass near the cherry blossom trees, so if you just want to visit those and play at the small playground, you won’t end up with soaking wet shoes like we did after venturing through the trails. If you do want to venture through the trails, in its current state after the rain, we would recommend visiting the open areas before you head into the woods and get muddy.

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On this trip, we were thankful to be wearing our Vessi shoes. Our feet were completely dry because of our Vessi’s yet again! A walk in the wet, sticky mud never felt so dry! Vessi makes 100% waterproof sneakers that we highly recommend. We have an exclusive code for $20 off your first purchase of $100 or more. Click here to be directed to Vessi’s website to browse and use our code!

[Editor’s note: Please be aware that we are not affiliated with The Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival in any way. This is true of all of our posts. We simply enjoy wandering around Erie as we know finding what to do in Erie, PA area can be hard.]

This post contains affiliate links for a product. If you buy something, we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

5 Coffee Shops for Studying in Erie, PA

5 Coffee Shops for Studying in Erie, PA

We know what time of year it is. Finals week is quickly approaching and end of the semester projects are due. Knowing there are many colleges in the Erie area, we wanted to highlight a few coffee shops students may want to stop by to have a cram session or work on a project while taking in some much needed caffeine, and maybe even grab a bite to eat!

Pressed

If you’re looking for a place to not only grab a coffee and study, but do a little shopping for books and gifts too, Pressed is a super cool place to visit. Head into the bookstore first and pick up some new reading material (or bring your own) and then walk through the doors into the coffee shop to grab a drink and a snack to enjoy while you read. Hightops, tables, and a couch provide different locations for you to relax while you indulge (in studies or coffee, or both). You can also sit outside, right in front of the shop. This is a great option for Gannon and Mercyhurst students, as it isn’t a very far drive from either. Open from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10:00 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays, convenient for those of you who may have evening classes.

Above: Seating in Coffee Shop
Interested in more info? Click the picture above.
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The Crick Coffeehouse & Eatery

Although it is a small drive from most colleges in the area, we think The Crick is worth it. With seating indoors and outdoors, you can choose your atmosphere. This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a place to study while eating breakfast or lunch. The Crick is great for students who enjoy studying earlier in the day, as it is open from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. every day except Monday, when they are closed.

Outdoor Seating
Some Indoor Seating
More info? Click the photo above.

The Mainstreet Cakery Cafe: 2 Locations

Either location (Fairview or Millcreek) of The Mainstreet Cakery Cafe would be great for studying while grabbing a bite to eat. While both locations offer indoor and outdoor seating, you will find a wonderful atmosphere to dive into your studies while enjoying a coffee, eating a meal, or even indulging in a bakery treat or some ice cream. The tables are spaced well, and it’s a great place to meet up with a group for dinner as you dive into your studies. Open from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. every day except for Sunday, this is for studiers at any time of day.

Outdoors: Fairview Location
Indoors: Millcreek Location
Want more info? Click the picture above.
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Javamango’s Outpost

A quaint coffee shop and small eatery as a pass-through inside of an office building, Javamango’s Outpost offers a few tables and a hightop bar that are perfect for posting up while hitting the books and enjoying some much needed caffeine. Enjoy the calm atmosphere of a quiet space while you get your study on. Open from 6:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, this is for morning and early afternoon studiers.

Want more info? Click the picture above.

Romolo Chocolates

Studying while drinking coffee in a candy store? Initially, it sounds like a bad idea, and quite unattainable. But if you’ve ever been to Romolo Chocolates, you would understand why it’s a good idea. With a quiet atmosphere in the ice cream and coffee shop, you’ll find couches and tables set up for social interactions or some time to yourself. If you’re more of an outside person, you’ll find several tables outdoors in front and to the side of the building, and even heaters available to warm you in the colder months. Enjoy the provided scenery of a fictional alleyway well lit with many Instagram worthy spots to snap a picture in between cramming for your classes. And added to all of that, you can induldge in some amazing sponge candy! Romolo Chocolate is open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturdays, and 10:00 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays.

Above: Seating inside of the shop
Beside: Seating in front of the shop

[Editors Note: We know there are several other coffee shops in Erie, some we have yet to visit and post on our site. We are not trying to be selective, simply offering choices from our current blog posts. If you have any suggestions of other places we could visit and highlight, please comment and let us know! We want to make sure we mention as much of what Erie has to offer as we can! All business hours are current as of 4/18/2022, please check the hours on their Facebook pages or Google Search if you are reading this at a much later date.]

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[Editor’s note: Please be aware that we are not affiliated with any of these businesses in any way. This is true of all of our posts. We simply enjoy wandering around Erie as we know finding what to do in Erie, PA area can be hard.]

Franks Farm Market and Bakery

Frank’s Farm Market and Bakery

Fall is not complete without a trip to Frank’s in Erie, PA! This amazing farmers market provides food that will satisfy any appetite, including a rather large bakery for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Location:

Frank’s Market is located at 5880 Sterrettania Road, Fairview, PA 16415. It is literally right across the street from Walnut Creek Middle School, and conveniently located near Browns Farm. We highly suggest grabbing a treat from Franks and heading over to Browns Farm for a little picnic or walk through the trails! It’s also a great place to stop for an after school snack!

Property Description:

Frank’s Farm Market and Bakery is such a lovely country store and bakery. Park anywhere in the parking lot surrounding the shop, and enter through one of their doors. When we went, the doors were propped open to let in the fresh air. Take a look at the produce and products outside, then walk inside and enjoy the wonderful country atmosphere while you shop!

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What to Do:

There are so many unique finds at Frank’s! First and foremost, because we are doing this post in the Fall, we have to mention that you can get pumpkins here! They also have a beautiful selection of mums surrounding the building and in front of the greenhouses.

You will have an abundance of choice if you’re looking for fruits and vegetables! While browsing, we saw potatoes, onions, apples, carrots, celery, spinach, peas, plums, and pears, just to name a few!

And if you’re looking for other staples, grab some eggs, milk, cheese, and bread while you’re browsing the store for locally grown produce!

One thing you must check out while you’re there is the bakery! Frank’s Farm Market offers a plethora of sweet treats. Everyone with us found something that looked yummy to them behind the glass. And trust us, when we sat down to enjoy those treats, they were just as yummy as we expected!

They also have plenty of ornaments for your lawn and garden, or to adorn the site a loved one is buried at. They also have decor for inside of your home, such as signs and plaques to put around your house.

Who Can Go:

Come one, come all to this farmers market in Erie, PA! The little one’s will especially love it because, well, bakery items!

Final Thoughts:

Save yourself a trip to the grocery store by heading out to Franks! No, you’re not going to find name brands and random pantry items that you don’t really need, but you will find fresh fruit and vegetables and locally made food! Shopping local is so important, now more than ever! If you’re looking for more farmers markets in Erie, PA to add to the list that you frequent, we suggest adding Frank’s Farm Market and Bakery to that list!

If you’re looking for Fall fun in Erie, PA and the surrounding area, click here!

And for other farmers markets in Erie, PA, click here!

Like what you read? Subscribe below and be notified of new things to do in Erie County whenever we post!

[Editor’s note: Please be aware that we are not affiliated with The Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival in any way. This is true of all of our posts. We simply enjoy wandering around Erie as we know finding what to do in Erie, PA area can be hard.]

Wiser’s Farm Stand October 2021

Wiser’s Farm Stand October 2021

Looking for a pumpkin? How about fresh produce? Maybe some local honey? Check out this farm stand we found while traveling on Route 20 for all the Fall fun in Erie, PA! And get there soon, because they close for the season in 16 days!

Location:

Wiser Farms Farm Stand is located at 8997 West Ridge Road, Girard, PA 16417. This farm stand in Girard, PA is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily, but does close at 5 p.m. on Sundays.

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Property Description:

This is a farm stand, represented by produce, canned goods, and other yummy things underneath a tent. When you’re visiting this location, dress appropriately for the weather, as you will not be entering a physical building.

You’ll also find pumpkins, gourds, and beautiful mums for sale outside of the tent.

What to Do:

This is a great farm stand to purchase various types of produce at! We found an array of great items, both fresh and pantry bound, and just had to purchase some! They have peppers, tomatoes, apples, brussel sprouts, plums, garlic, grapes, potatoes, and more. They also sell apple cider, local honey, various types of jams and jellies, pancake mix, and pickles.

As far as fun Fall activities at Wiser’s Farm Stand, there is a corn maze on the property that you’re welcome to enjoy for no charge! Just be sure to wear the appropriate shoes, as it can be very muddy! They also have various fall displays that you can enjoy photo ops at, which we thought we were wonderful! We especially liked the growth chart where kids can stand and record their height. It would be a great yearly photo to take as you make it a tradition to visit this stand in the Fall! They also have squash bowling, how fun!

On the weekends, Wiser’s offers a special for kids when picking out a pumpkin; with the purchase of a pumpkin, your child will enjoy a cup of cider and a treat! There’s a picnic table set up outside as well, so you can hang out and enjoy your treat and cider!

Who Can Go:

Anyone can enjoy Wiser’s Farm Stand. We did not bring our stroller on this adventure, but think that it would be fine to push anything on the ground, unless there was evident mud and rain, as you are walking on grass, gravel, and dirt.

Final Thoughts:

The experience at Wiser’s Farm Stand on Route 20 was a lot of fun! We would highly recommend this as a fun Fall outing for anyone! Their produce is great, and the people that work there are friendly and welcoming. It’s a great place for both a quick stop and an hour of fun, so stay for as long as you’re able! If you’re looking for farm stands in Erie, PA, we would definitely tell you to stop by.

Are you looking for more Fall activities? Click here.

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[Editor’s note: Please be aware that we are not affiliated with Wiser’s Farm Stand in any way. This is true of all of our posts. We simply enjoy wandering around Erie as we know finding what to do in Erie, PA area can be hard.]

Site Highlight: The Mainstreet Cakery (in Fairview)

Site Highlight: The Mainstreet Cakery (in Fairview)

The Mainstreet Cakery Cafe. This may sound familiar to some of you who frequent our blog, as we’ve already given you a full layout of The Cakery in Millcreek at Copperleaf. However, we recently visited The Cakery in Fairview, and we figured why not give you all a little preview of what that location of The Cakery is like.

So a lot of things are the same. For instance, the menu. The atmosphere is also very similar.

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However, outside of The Cakery in Fairview, there is a covered tent that you can choose to dine under, along with a small gazebo that houses a few two top tables. Under the tent, you’ll find heaters to keep you warm while you enjoy your food on those crisp Autumn days.

We decided to order some Fall drinks, and thought we would detail those for you. One of us chose the Pumpkin Cappuccino. This Pumpkin Cappuccino seriously tastes like you are drinking pumpkin pie. It has a really good amount of spice, but it’s not overbearing. The other drink we chose was the Blueberry Cobbler Coffee. It was good; it definitely had a blueberry aftertaste to it. Oddly enough, we put pumpkin pie spice creamer in it and it was actually very good! But you can definitely put a simple vanilla creamer in. And honestly, chocolate or hazelnut creamer would probably be really yummy in it as well.

Blueberry Cobbler Coffee
Pumpkin Cappuccino

We also wanted to show you the food we got, to give you more ideas of what they serve at The Cakery. One of us got a Mushroom and Swiss Burger with Chips, and the other got a Tuna Melt with Pickles. Both were very good!

Tuna Melt
Mushroom and Swiss Burger

When you go inside of this location, you will enter and immediately see the counter and the bakery case. You can pay for your meal, as well as grab a bakery item to go if you enjoyed your food outside, in front of this restaurant in Fairview, PA. To your left, you will see an entryway into the dining room, and the kitchen behind the dining room. You can also, obviously, choose to sit inside. And if you’re just looking for a bakery item, then by all means, come on in and pick some out!

If you’re interested in a more informative article about The Mainstreet Cakery Cafe, click the photo below to go to our other blog post!

If you’re looking for more places to go, things to do, and seasonal events in Erie County, subscribe to our exclusive email list and never miss a wandering!

[Editor’s note: Please be aware that we are not affiliated with the Main Street Cakery Cafe in any way. This is true of all of our posts. We simply enjoy wandering around Erie as we know finding what to do in Erie, PA area can be hard.]

Fedei Farms October 2021

Fedei Farms October 2021

We’re on a search for the perfect pumpkins in Erie, PA; or in this case, the search for the perfect unique pumpkin. We’ve been to several places lately that sell pumpkins, but this one was different.

Location:

Fedei Farms is located at 7785 Maple Street, Fairview, PA 16415.

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Property Description:

This farm stand is mostly outdoors with no cover. When you pull up to the property, you’ll park in their circle driveway. Walk towards all of the pumpkins, but check out the produce available to your left. The check out stand will be to your right; make sure to say hello to the people who run the stand!

Continue forward and you’ll see pumpkins of all kinds! Set up in rows, these pumpkins mostly differ from each other. Several other Fall gourds are set up around as well.

What to Do:

Fedei Farms prides itself on the unique selection of pumpkins that they carry. In talking with the owner, we found out that she has a desire to provide the most differentiating selection that she possibly can. She wants to be the place where everyone can find their perfect pumpkin, and we think that is really awesome!

With that being said, this would be a great place to come get pumpkins. Walking through the rows, we found pumpkins of all sorts. You can get the original pumpkin, your basic orange, in three different sizes. They also carry white flat pumpkins, peach colored pumpkins, light brown pumpkins, and yellow pumpkins.

If you’re looking for a “warty” pumpkin, you’ll find various options. They carry a light yellow, an orange and green, and a brown “coco puff.”

And for those of you who are looking for something multi-colored, you’ll find dark green and peach, a striped yellow and orange, and a very unique orange, yellow, and green with stripes and squiggles.

They also carry a variety of small gourds, such as tiny pumpkins and squash, octopus squash, and little white pumpkins. You’ll also find Indian corn and mums in several colors and even hay.

While you’re there, don’t forget to take a picture in front of the photo opp spot with the Fedei Farms sign. It has a super cute set up with hay, mums, cornstalks, and pumpkins. You can even pick out your own pumpkins first and put them in the picture with you! And if you’re looking to get a picture of your whole family, they are so kind as to take a photo for you!

And don’t forget to grab some fresh produce while you’re there! We found apples, plums, pears, and several types of peppers.

Who Can Go:

This is a great pumpkin patch to bring anyone to! We think it’s great for kids, especially, because of all of the choices and colors! And for those of you who love to coordinate decor, this is definitely the place for you to choose your pumpkins!

You’ll be walking mostly on grass, which means there may be some mud, so keep that in mind when choosing your shoes. You could push a stroller or wheelchair through the pumpkins, there is more than enough room, just keep the weather in mind!

Speaking of weather and walking in rain and mud, friends don’t let friends have wet feet! Vessi makes 100% waterproof sneakers that we recommend to everyone. Here’s our exclusive code for $20 off your first purchase of $100 or more. Click here to be directed to Vessi’s site to browse and use our code!

Final Thoughts:

We really enjoyed our trip to this pumpkin patch in Fairview, PA. All of the choices made for a very fun experience. If you’re interested in choosing some pumpkins for yourself, they are open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily.

For more Fall fun and activities, click here!

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[Editor’s note: Please be aware that we are not affiliated with Fedei Farms in any way. This is true of all of our posts. We simply enjoy wandering around Erie as we know finding what to do in Erie, PA area can be hard.]

This post contains affiliate links for a product. If you buy something, we may earn a commission at no cost to you.