From the time you, as freshmen, move in to the time that classes start, Gannon has your schedule booked.
The days will be sure to include activities that get everyone acquainted with the campus and each other.
The real challenge comes when the events of Preview GU come to a close and the first weekend is upon you.
What do you do?
Where do you go?
Well, we have the answers. Here are some of the hot spots around the city of Erie to take advantage of during the first weeks of school. But remember, visit these places fast, you never know when the first snow is coming.
One of Erie’s oldest parks, Waldameer Park has become one of the top visited amusement parks in the state. The park has everything: food, rides and a full-fledged water park.
It also features a picnic pavilion area that’s used for company picnics, graduation parties, etc.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting time or just want to relax in the pavilion area, Waldameer Park is one of the more enjoyable places to go in Erie.
Waldameer, located across from another place on our list – The Tom Ridge Environmental Center – is home to the Ravine Flyer II, which was voted Best New Ride in the World in 2008.
For eight weeks during the summer, the Amphitheater on the bayfront hosts concerts that feature local artists every Tuesday. The event is a popular one, with crowds that usually reach into the hundreds. Admission is free.
Erie’s very own baseball club – the SeaWolves – play in a very competitive Eastern League at the Double-A minor league level. Home games are played downtown at Jerry Uht Park.
The park has seen its fair share of stars as first-round picks in previous MLB drafts, most notably Bryce Harper, visit the Uht during their team’s road trips.
Every Monday, the SeaWolves feature “Buck Night,” which after admission, fans can buy hot dogs, popcorn, soda and beer each for $1.
One of the most unique places in Erie to visit is Presque Isle, a 3,000-plus acre peninsula just off the tip of Erie. Biking, hiking and going to the beach are just some of the many things to do at Presque Isle.
Just below where Route 97 meets I-90, Erie is home to one of the largest horse racing tracks in the state. Admission is free. The venue also sports a casino that includes 2,000 slot machines, 48 gaming tables, restaurants and lounges.
The mall complex itself features more than 100 stores to shop from that include everything from electronic to apparel to jewelry stores. It also features a recently added food court.
The TREC, located across the street from Waldameer Park, is a exhibit center and museum whose mission is to educate Presque Isle’s visitors. The facility also features a gift shop and cafe.
Perry Square, just a little shorter than one block away from the Waldron Campus Center, is one of Erie’s most popular parks to relax and kick back. In the summer, the park is also host to a wide variety of events, including Rib Fest, Roar on the Shore and Celebrate Erie.
Owned and operated by Millcreek Township School District, the center is dedicated to educating visitors about nature. The center is also home to one of the largest hiking trails in Erie County.
One of the top entertainment venues to go to is the Tinseltown movie theater located at 1910 Rotunda Drive, right off of Upper Peach Street. The theater features a large lobby, concession stands and an arcade area.
