Tag Archives: Mini Golf

Geology enthusiasts are missing out if they haven’t visited Crystal Cave, an old and famous cave site in Pennsylvania.  Crystal Cave was discovered in 1871 by William Merkel and John Gehret while they were looking for limestone.  What they found instead was an underground cave full of beautiful sparkling crystals and rock formations.

Take a tour with a knowledgeable and informative guide, which lasts just under an hour.  You will be given an in-depth history of the cave while your are guided through it.  At the end, see if you can remember the difference between a stalactite and a stalagmite.  The tour also includes a brief movie.  After the tour visit the museum or the rock and mineral shop, where many beautiful crystals and geodes can be purchased.  In the summer months, the cafe and ice cream parlor is open for business.

Crystal Cave’s “panning for gemstones” activity is fun for all ages.  Purchase a bag of dirt and, just like panning for gold, see what treasures you can find!  A miniature golf course is also located on the premises.  Crystal Cave is open from March until November.  The hours are 9am-5pm, with extended summer hours.

963 Crystal Cave Road, Kutztown, PA  19530:  610.683.6765

Rain or shine there is always fun to be had at the Carlisle Sports Emporium which hosts a myriad of exciting indoor and outdoor games!

The Sports Emporium has one of the largest arcades in the area – 20,000 square feet – with over 100 games including video, racing, dancing, and simulation games.  The rock climbing wall is almost like the real thing, as it moves in three dimensions to simulate a true to life experience.  Pay as you go with reload-able play cards.  The more you play, the more discounts you can receive.

Lasertron is the ultimate 3D gaming experience.  With two floors of futuristic visuals and sound effects, this is laser tag at it’s best.  Go-kart racing is a hit with kids and adults alike, with three go cart tracks:  one indoor track, one outdoor “Grand Prix” track for adults, and one “Rookie” track for ages 16 and under.  Get a discount by buying a 6 or 10 pack.  

The Skate Zone Roller Rink is a hardwood-floor rink featuring ambient lighting and music.  Saturday and Sunday matinees are from 1-3:45pm, and Saturday’s evening skate is from 7-9:30pm.  The Sports Emporium also has two large outdoor miniature golf courses for those nice weather days, featuring extensive landscaping.

The Victory Lane Cafe will keep your hunger at bay offering pizza, chicken, fries, snacks, desserts and more.  Think of having a party at the Emporium for adults or kids.  Weekly specials and combination packages can save you a bit more money.  The Sports Emporium is open year round, but the hours change seasonally.  Check the website for more details.

29 South Middlesex Road, Carlisle, PA  17015:  717.258.4741

Image credit:  Thomas Ricker