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Tom Ridge Environmental Center

The Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) is an educational center dedicated to teaching visitors about the unique 3,200 acres of Presque Isle and the many different forms of life that inhabit the peninsula.

TREC also serves as a center for research -- contributing to conservation efforts and promoting environmental awareness, helping to preserve the unparalleled beauty of Presque Isle, the site of Pennsylvania’s only seashore.

While some facilities along the Great Lakes offer environmental education and others do research, none offer research, education, and visitor services in one place, making TREC a unique destination for learning, wonder, and fun.

TREC is open year-round and offers free admission to its interactive exhibits, glass-enclosed tower, and orientation movie.

Learn about the history of Presque Isle and how you can contribute to keeping it pristine and beautiful.

Presque Isle Gallery & Gifts, inside TREC, is filled with unique gifts for everyone and every budget. All net proceeds from Presque Isle Gallery and Gifts are used for projects at the park and TREC  through the Tom Ridge Environmental Center Foundation.

Hours

April 1 through October 31:
Visitor Center - 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. daily
Park Office - Monday to Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

​Nov. 1 through March 31: 
Visitor Center - Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Park Office - Monday to Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

For additional TREC information, call the park office at 814-833-7424. ​

Things to Do at the Tom Ridge Envir​onmental Center

  • Climb the 75’ tower
  • Explore interactive exhibits
  • Visit Presque Isle Gallery & Gifts to take home "Treasure" from the Isle