Hotel at a Glance: Springhill Suites Erie

Guests can lounge comfortably in full-fledged, suite-style rooms at this hotel, each of which come stocked with a wet bar, mini fridge, plush bedding, and a sofa. Whether staying for business or recreation, they’ll find quick access to downtown Erie, PA and the adjoining lakefront from the I-79 freeway. And with a number of restaurants within walking distance, as well as the nearby Millcreek Mall, they won’t need to venture far for a tasty meal or shopping spree.

• Swim a lap or two in the heated, indoor pool with towels provided.
• Grab a bite to eat at the complimentary buffet breakfast, served every morning for all guests to enjoy.
• Pump some iron with a selection of free weights in the 24/7 fitness center, or take part in a complimentary fitness class.
• Surf the web using the hotel’s complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi.

Erie, Pennsylvania: Wine Country and 19th-Century Mansions

Pennsylvania’s fourth-largest city, Erie, is a bustling place where around 100,000 people live on the shores of enormous Lake Erie. It flourished in the Gilded Age, so don’t miss a visit to Millionaires Row, a section of West Sixth Street lined with 19th-century Victorian mansions. At night, leave the Victorian era behind in favor of the Roaring Twenties and see a show at the ornate 1929 Warner Theatre downtown. It’s home to both the Erie Philharmonic and Lake Erie Ballet.

In the region surrounding Erie, you can drive along the Lake Erie Chautauqua Wine Trail for more than 50 miles of scenic vineyards, rolling hills, and 24 wineries pouring everything from classic European wines like merlot to local varietals like delaware and niagara. Another major attraction is Presque Isle State Park, a National Natural Landmark full of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing and beautiful frozen vistas created by icy waves crashing and freezing to form ice dunes.