Every local has heard the refrain: “Erie is beautiful…in the summer.” But what about the other nine months of the year? Winter doesn’t have to be something we simply survive or spend wishing away. Research shows that cultivating a positive winter mindset—embracing the season rather than bracing for it—can transform the way we live, connect, and thrive.

That’s the idea at the heart of Après Moi, Misselthwaite Manor’s cozy wintertime third-space. Nestled in our 1882 Victorian’s attic, Après Moi is an après-ski–inspired dry speakeasy where neighbors can gather, warm up, and share in community during the darkest months. Here, you can unwind with neighbors over a warm beverage—or retreat to a quiet nook to read, reflect, or savor the view.

The name Après Moi comes from Madame de Pompadour’s famous phrase “après moi, le déluge” (after me, the flood). Once, it spoke to facing an uncertain world by looking out for yourself and your own. We like to imagine it a little differently: as a reminder that we’re all part of something bigger than ourselves. A promise to leave something good behind—to plant trees whose shade we may never sit under, and to make a little more room for the people and creatures who come after us.

Think of Après Moi as Whippy Dip’s frosty and festive sister down the block—a playful, welcoming, distinctly local gathering spot—but for winter. Whether you’re seeking a cozy evening retreat from the chill or looking to book a magical venue for an intimate gathering, Après Moi offers a space to pause, connect, and savor the season together. Every gathering, festive beverage, and shared moment in this hidden haven is part of a living ethos—making something good together during the coldest months that will endure well beyond the thaw.