PA Promotes Winter Tourism with Bunny Hill Weekends for Beginners

Experience Pennsylvania's Winter Wonderland with the Launch of Bunny Hill Weekends

In a bid to enhance tourism and economic growth, Pennsylvania's Governor Josh Shapiro has prioritized investment in the state's thriving $76 billion tourism industry. This initiative aims to support job creation and attract more visitors to the region.

Harrisburg, PA – The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Deputy Secretary of Tourism Anne Ryan recently unveiled the "Bunny Hill Weekends," a special program designed to introduce novice skiers and their families to Pennsylvania's winter sports offerings. This initiative is part of the Shapiro Administration's "Best Winter Ever" campaign, which seeks to draw more tourists to the state during the colder months.

The Visit PA Best Winter Ever campaign invites families and snowbirds to explore Pennsylvania's scenic winter landscapes, diverting them from their usual southern destinations. Governor Shapiro's strategic focus on tourism aims to bolster the state's economy through increased visitor spending.

"In 2025, we want visitors to experience what locals already know — that Pennsylvania has some of the most picturesque and family-friendly winter getaways in this part of the country," stated Deputy Secretary Ryan. "We want everyone to feel welcome to ski our slopes and immerse themselves in our Commonwealth’s scenic landscapes and winter attractions."

The Bunny Hill Weekends will spotlight beginner-friendly skiing across numerous resorts in Pennsylvania, which boasts over 20 ski resorts. These establishments offer various activities such as skiing, tubing, and snowboarding, from the Poconos in the east to the Allegheny Mountains in the west.

Scheduled for February 8-9 and March 1-2, Bunny Hill Weekends come with special promotions at several resorts:

• Blue Mountain Resort in the Poconos: Save $50 on the first person in a Family & Friends Beginner Ski or Snowboard lesson, including rental and a beginner lift ticket. Use code PORA50 at checkout.
• Mount Pleasant of Edinboro in northwestern Pennsylvania: Guests who purchase a beginner ski package online during Bunny Hill Weekends will receive an upgraded full slope lift ticket. Walk-ins mentioning Bunny Hill Weekends can receive the lift ticket upgrade for the beginner ski package, subject to availability.
• Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain in northeast Pennsylvania: Enjoy $10 off a Learn to Package with promo code BUNNY25 at checkout. Walk-ins can receive $10 off the in-person price, subject to availability. Learn more.
• Shawnee Mountain Ski Area in northeast Pennsylvania: The first 50 guests each Sunday get 20 percent off a First Time Ski or Snowboard Package with lift ticket, rentals, and a lesson at 12:00 or 1:30 PM. Use code VISITSHAWNEE at checkout. Available only online.

Furthermore, Visit PA will sponsor Philadelphia's Winterfest ice rink through March 2. This popular attraction, managed by the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation and sponsored by Independence Blue Cross, draws over 350,000 visitors each season, offering ice skating, local cuisine, heated cabins, and fire pits.

The Best Winter Ever in Pennsylvania also features ice festivals, the PA Farm Show, Dark Sky Parks for stargazing, and the famous Groundhog Day celebration in Punxsutawney. From snow sports to cozy retreats, Pennsylvania offers a vibrant winter experience.

For more information on the Bunny Hill Weekend promotions and winter experiences in PA, visit the official website.

Find your next Great American Getaway at visitpa.com and keep up with Visit PA on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube.

Governor Shapiro's Commitment to Tourism and Economic Development

Tourism is integral to Governor Shapiro's Economic Development Strategy, generating $76 billion and supporting over 486,000 jobs annually in Pennsylvania. The 2024-25 bipartisan budget includes $15 million for tourism marketing, enhancing the state's economic appeal and promoting the Great American Getaway brand.

Governor Shapiro: Two Years of Progress

As Governor Shapiro celebrates two years in office, he remains focused on advancing Pennsylvania's position as a leader in innovation and economic development. Visit Governor Shapiro’s Accomplishments website to explore the administration's interactive midterm report and download a detailed PDF overview of accomplishments.