Uncovering PA

27 Fantastic Things to Do in Erie, PA

The best things to do in Erie, PA

Located in northwestern Pennsylvania, Erie is an often-overlooked city by PA travelers. However, those that venture out to the state’s fourth-largest city are in for a big surprise as there are a ton of fantastic things to do in Erie, PA.

Whether you enjoy seeing great art, learning interesting history, drinking delicious beverages, or simply relaxing in the outdoors, there’s a bit of something for everyone in Erie.

So, the next time you are trying to figure out what to do in Erie, PA, here are a few of my personal favorite things to do in and around the city.

Presque Isle State Park

The beaches of Presque Isle State Park is one of the best things to do in Erie.

No visit to Erie is complete without spending some time in Presque Isle State Park . The most visited state park in Pennsylvania, Presque Isle is a peninsula that juts out into Lake Erie and provides a ton of recreational opportunities for those visiting the city.

The biggest draw of the park is its many great beaches. These are the only surf beaches in Pennsylvania and are great for playing in the water or just relaxing on the bach.

The park also features miles of hiking and biking trails, a free pontoon boat ride , kayak rentals , and much more.

Erie Maritime Museum

The interactive USS Lawrence in the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie PA

The Erie Maritime Museum is located along the Erie waterfront and focuses on the city’s maritime history.

While many topics are covered, the main focus of the museum is the War of 1812, and, more specifically, the Battle of Lake Erie. The museum features many great displays related to this often-forgotten era, including a recreation of USS Lawrence inside the museum.

Outside the museum, you can often find and tour the Flagship Niagara. This is a replica of the most important ship from the Battle of Lake Erie and the official flagship of the state of Pennsylvania.

Bicentennial Tower

Visiting Erie Bicentennial Tower in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Located between the Erie Maritime Museum and the waterfront Sheraton Erie Bayfront is the Bicentennial Tower .

Built in 1996 to celebrate the city’s bicentennial, this tower stands nearly 200 feet tall and offers commanding views of downtown Erie, Presque Isle, and, on a clear day, across Lake Erie to Canada. There is also great signage that offers information about the area.

Lady Kate Boat Tour

Take a Presque Isle Boat Tour when looking for what to do in Erie, PA

If you want to get out on Lake Erie and learn more about the history of the region, a ride on the Lady Kate is a perfect choice.

The boat leaves from a dock at Presque Isle State Park and takes visitors out onto the lake along the park’s beaches. Along the way, guides offer information about the history of the region, the geology of Presque Isle, and much more.

If you are looking for a way to relax and still learn about the area, this is definitely one of the top things to do in Erie, PA.

Erie Bluffs State Park

Erie Bluffs State Park is a great place to visit in Erie PA

Erie Bluffs State Park is located west of the city, but if you are looking for the best things to do in Erie, you won’t want to miss this great spot.

The park is relatively undeveloped with only a few trails meandering through it. However, the trails make their way to the shores of Lake Erie along these impressive bluffs. In fact, it’s said that the park is home to one of the largest swaths of undeveloped land on the Pennsylvania shores of the lake.

This is a fantastic spot to head if you want to enjoy Lake Erie away from the crowds.

Presque Isle Lighthouse

Sunset at Presque Isle Lighthouse in Erie PA

Presque Isle Lighthouse is one of the three lighthouses located in the city and is on the grounds of Presque Isle State Park.

Built in 1873, the lighthouse still provides navigational aid to ships sailing on Lake Erie.

Visitors to the site can tour the ground floor of the lighthouse keeper’s home and climb to the top of the tower for a spectacular view over the lake.

Orangutans at the Erie Zoo in Erie, PA

The Erie Zoo is located south of the downtown area and is a great place for animal lovers to check out.

The zoo traces its roots back to the late 1920s and features more than 400 animals including popular species like lions, tigers, orangutans, and rhinos. The zoo also features a train ride and a carousel.

Erie County’s Covered Bridges

Take a Erie County Covered Bridge driving tour

If you are looking for things to do in Erie County beyond the city and lakeshore, a drive to the county’s two covered bridges is a great activity.

The two covered bridges are located in opposite ends of the county and are in very different conditions.

Harrington Covered Bridge is located in the western part of the county and is in very good shape. In fact, I’d say that it’s one of the nicest covered bridges in northwestern PA.

On the other hand, Waterford Covered Bridge in the eastern part of Erie County is one of the worst, still-standing covered bridges I’ve seen. Still, it’s a great drive out to see this historic spot.

Scallywags Pirate Adventures

Crew members on the Scallywags Pirate Adventures in Erie PA

If you are visiting Erie with kids, Scallywags Pirate Adventures is one of the most fun things to do in northwestern PA.

Scallywags Pirate Adventures run 90-minute themed cruises that feature a fully-scripted story of adventure. Kids will have a chance to become honorary pirates and then help to find a treasure and defeat the evil Captain Skull.

Scallywags also offers adult booze cruises several times per week throughout the season.

Lake Erie Wine Country

One of the best things to do in Erie, PA is to enjoy the many award winning wines.

The shores of Lake Erie is one of the eastern United States premiere grape-growing and wine-producing regions.

Head east from downtown Erie, and you’ll soon come to fields of grapevines that stretch for as far as the eye can see. Because of this, it should then come as no surprise that there are some great wineries to explore in this region.

There are nearly two dozen wineries to be found here, about half of which sit between downtown Erie and the New York border. There are also some great wineries just over the border including Mazza Chautauqua Cellars .

Lake Erie Ale Trail

A flight of beers at Nostravia Brewing in Erie, Pennsylvania

If beer is your drink of choice, the Lake Erie Ale Trail features approximately a dozen different breweries in Erie, PA , and the surrounding area. These breweries range from small brewpubs to large operations that ship their beer regionally.

A few of my personal favorites are Voodoo Brewing Company, Black Monk Brewery, and Erie Brewing Company.

Schaefer’s Auto Art

A bee at Schaeffer's Auto Art near Erie, PA

Located a short drive from the city, Schaefer’s Auto Art is one of Pennsylvania’s most interesting art exhibits and a must-see for any lover of art or quirky things.

These art pieces are located in the yard of the Schaefer family, but visitors are allowed to drive up and walk around the exhibits. These unique creations are made entirely out of various car parts that have been welded together to create whimsical creatures and art displays.

Waldameer Amusement Park

A ride at Waldameer Park in Erie, Pennsylvania

Waldameer Amusement Park is located next to the entrance to Presque Isle State Park and is a great way to spend a summer day or evening.

This free-admission park gives you the option of an all-day ride pass or to pay as you go for the rides you want to hop on. In addition to a waterpark, Waldameer has rollercoasters, kid’s rides, and even shows.

While all 50 rides at the park are fun, Ravine Flyer II gets the most attention, having been named one of the top 10 wooden rollercoasters in the world.

Asbury Woods

Kids hiking the Boardwalk Trail at Asbury Woods in Erie Pennsylvania

Asbury Woods is located southwest of downtown Erie and is a great spot for a hike. And, whether you are looking for a short walk in the woods or a longer jaunt, this is a perfect place to head.

Asbury Woods features over 200 acres of protected land, several miles of hiking trail, a nature center, and a lot more.

I especially enjoyed the trails around the small nature center that took me on a boardwalk over a marsh and through a wooded area with some incredible large trees.

Pulakos Chocolates

Pulakos Chocolates is one of my favorite things to do in Erie, Pennsylvania

There are several great chocolatiers in Erie, and Pulakos Chocolates is among the best.

Pulakos traces its roots back to 1889, and they have been producing great chocolate ever since, including the regional specialty sponge candy. If you’ve never had sponge candy, this is a great spot to try it while you are visiting Erie.

At certain times of the year, Pulakos also offers tours of their factory in Erie.

Erie Art Museum

Visiting the Erie Art Museum is one of the best things to do in Erie, PA

The Erie Art Museum is located in the heart of the city and is one of my favorite museums in Erie.

While it’s not large, the museum does a great job showcasing a lot of art within its galleries. Without a doubt, my favorite is their “Everything but the Shelves” exhibit. In this gallery, they hang literally every piece of art in their permanent collection. It’s a lot of fun to explore this space, and I found myself noticing a ton of amazing pieces of art. 

Goodell Gardens

Visiting the Goodell Gardens and Homestead in Edinboro.

Located in the southern Erie County community of Edinboro, Goodell Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden and arboretum.

This 78-acre site offers many incredible gardens to explore, including both native plants and more rare specimens. The site is also home to the largest paper birch tree in Pennsylvania and Azaleas and Rhododendrons that date back to the 1920s.

Tom Ridge Environmental Center

Displays at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center in Erie, PA

If you want to learn about the history and geology of Presque Isle, there’s no better place to visit than the Tom Ridge Environmental Center .

The center is completely free to visit and offers fantastic exhibits about the area that are designed for both kids and adults. There is also a tower you can climb for great views of Presque Isle Bay.

If you are looking for one of the best things to do in Erie, Pennsylvania, on a rainy day, the center also features a large-screen movie theater that features a variety of films for an additional cost.

ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum

Child playing at expERIEnce Children's Museum in Erie PA

If you are looking for fun things to do with kids in Erie, PA, the expERIEence Children’s Museum is a great destination. 

Featuring 50 different exhibits on the museum’s three floors, there’s something for every child from babies to eight-year-olds. The exhibits here encourage kids to play, create, and use their imagination to explore the activities and learn more about the world around them.

George Washington Statue

George Washington Statue in Waterford Pennsylvania

When he was just 21, a young George Washington , who was then an officer in the British army, was dispatched to the French Fort LeBeouf to deliver a letter telling them to leave.

While his mission wasn’t a success, his visit to present-day Waterford in eastern Erie County is marked with a unique statue . What makes this statue unique is that it is the only one in the entire world that depicts George Washington in a British uniform.

If you find yourself looking for something to do in Waterford, this is a neat little stop to make.

Sara’s

Food from Sara's a great restaurant in Erie PA

I don’t usually include restaurants on lists like these, but Sara’s is as much an experience as it is a restaurant.

This Erie institution has been operating since 1980 but feels much older than that (in a good way) thanks to the kitschy decor. Located at the entrance to Presque Isle State Park, this a great place to grab a bite to eat or some ice cream after a fun day exploring the park.

Sara’s also features a large campground that includes tent sites right on the beaches of Lake Erie.

Hagen History Center

Displays inside the Hagan History Center in Erie, Pennsylvania

The Hagen History Center is the museum of the Erie County Historical Society and offers a fascinating look into the history of northwestern Pennsylvania.

Located inside the Watson-Curtze Mansion, the museum showcases this incredibly beautiful home and what life in Erie was like in the past. Exhibits showcase topics such as the War of 1812, locally made toys, and industries that thrived in the county.

You can also see Frank Lloyd Wright’s office (which was originally located in San Fransisco), items related to several military generals, as well as information on the Battle of Lake Erie.

The Victorian Princess

The Victorian Princess offers site-seeing tours of Erie, PA

The Victorian Princess is a three-level paddlewheel boat that takes riders on a tour of Presque Isle Bay.

Leaving from a dock adjacent to the Bicentennial Tower, the boat takes hour-long sightseeing cruises seasonally that provide narration about the region. There are also a variety of other trips on the Victorian Princess such as dinner cruises, happy hour cruises, and more.

Lake Shore Railway Museum

The Lake Shore Railway Museum is worth the drive from Erie, PA

If you love trains, a drive out to North East, Pennsylvania, to visit the Lake Shore Railway Museum  is a must.

This great museum features a variety of historic railroading equipment ranging from large engines and passenger cars to small memorabilia from the region’s railroading past. The pieces at the museum are in a variety of stages of restoration, and work continues on them as money becomes available.

This museum is located adjacent to working trail tracks, so you’ll also have the chance to see modern trains traveling the rails during your visit.

Erie Land Light

The Erie Land Light in Erie PA

The Erie Land Light is located on the mainland just east of downtown Erie. This light was originally built in 1818, but the current structure dates back to 1867 and was permanently decommissioned in 1899.

While the lighthouse is not normally open, it’s still interesting to head to the small park that surrounds it and see this piece of Great Lakes’ history and learn more about its impact on the region.

Erie Seawolves

Erie Seawolves baseball game

If you love baseball, you won’t want to miss a chance to see the Erie Seawolves .

The Seawolves are the Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and play their games at UPMC Park near downtown Erie. This stadium feels quite small, even by Double-A standards, ensuring that there are no bad seats in the house.

If you are looking for some affordable evening fun in Erie, PA, this is a great option.

Wintergreen Gorge

One of the best hidden gems in Erie for hikers is Wintergreen Gorge .

This gorge features a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail that features several small waterfalls and a beautiful vista. The trail, portions of which are handicapped accessible, runs through this nearly 250-foot-deep gorge and along one of northwestern PA’s most beautiful waterways.

Do you have a favorite thing to do in Erie, PA that we didn’t include? Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for more places to visit in the Great Lakes Region ? Check out our favorite things to do in Venango County , our top picks for things to do in Crawford County , and our weekend guide to Meadville .

Great places to stay in Erie

  • Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel - A fantastic hotel with lakefront views.
  • Country Inn and Suites - Rated the best value in Erie on Trip Advisor.
  • Victorian Inn - A historic bed and breakfast located close to downtown Erie.
  • Cobbleston Inn and Suites - A nice hotel near Lake Erie and Presque Isle.
  • Find more great places to stay on Airbnb!

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

Map of the Great Lakes Region

More nearby places worth exploring

Visiting the Incredible Hagen History Center in Erie, PA

Visiting the Incredible Hagen History Center in Erie, PA

Hiking the Falling Run Nature Trail in Goddard State Park

Hiking the Falling Run Nature Trail in Goddard State Park

Visiting the Covered Bridges of Erie County, Pennsylvania

Visiting the Covered Bridges of Erie County, Pennsylvania

Beer and Waterfalls at Cobblehaus at the Falls in Mercer County, PA

Beer and Waterfalls at Cobblehaus at the Falls in Mercer County, PA

Find more things to do in the great lakes region.

Jim Cheney of UncoveringPA

Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

5 thoughts on “27 Fantastic Things to Do in Erie, PA”

24. Catch a live performance at the Warner Theatre. Opened by Warner Brothers in 1931 this movie palace has a 60′ screen & holds over 2,000 people. No longer a regular movie theater, the city maintains it as a venue for plays, concerts, & even hosted an international film festival.

Great list. Thanks for sharing. Romolos chocolates are also delicious. Located on W 8th Street by the Bayfront highway. Erie also has many walking trails. “Greater Erie Regional Trails/Erie”.

Frontier Park – hiking trails throughout, an aboretum, summer time movies in the park. Cascade Creek flows through emptying into Lake Erie, nice trout stream easily accessible to anglers of all ages. The multi purpose trail along the bayfront ends here on Erie’s west side then continues on road over to Presque Isle and all the way to the Ohio state line.

I grew up in Erie but moved away at the end of the 60’s. Loved this list.

Go in The WinterTime when snow comes up to one’s waist sometimes and it comes off Lake Erie for great skiing, ice skating, walking in the snow, get a hot-chocolate and an ice cream (I grew up in Henry’s on 18th Street between two poolrooms and wonderful foods, not to mention what my dad Henry made, an mexican sunday ice cream with chocolate, spanish peanuts, whip cream, roasted peanuts, popcorn (three movie theaters within a block), and a walk in Erie Cemetery in Summertime and Wintertime out to The Beach (Peninsula Park, Waldameer too). What a life! HJH

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One Weekend In Erie, PA: A Local’s 3-day Guide to Erie

Erie, Pennsylvania is one of the top five largest cities in Pennsylvania, and it’s an underrated destination to spend a weekend. It’s a hidden gem nestled on the shores of Lake Erie! 

Steeped in rich history, dotted with charming shops, and boasting a vibrant cultural scene, Erie has so much to offer if you look close enough. Whether you’re seeking sandy beaches and water activities, exploring historic sites, or indulging in delectable culinary delights, one weekend in Erie promises both an exciting and diverse experience. 

Side note: This post was written by Samantha a local of Erie, PA. She’s lived in the city for over 15 years and has prepared the very best 3-day Erie weekend itinerary. Local’s know best! See author’s bio at the end for more about Samantha!

one weekend in erie, pa pin for pinterest

This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you.  There are  only products included that I truly love. I APPRECIATE your support!

Table of Contents

How do I get to Erie?

Erie does have an airport located on the west side of town, but it is small and service is limited. You likely won’t be able to fly direct. However, the Cleveland, OH and Pittsburgh, PA airports are less than two hours away!

Travel to Erie by train is also possible. Erie is serviced by the Amtrak Lakeshore Limited route, which travels between Chicago, New York City, and Boston.

The best way to get around Erie is by car. If you’re not driving to the city, then you’ll need to book a rental car at the airport.

Driving around Erie is easy compared to other larger cities. You won’t have to deal with 16 lanes of traffic or 7 interstates coming together at one interchange. Navigation apps should get you where you need to go relatively easily.

Public transportation is available through the EMTA bus system . The bus system does provide access to some of the best things to do in the city. There are some great spots outside the bus routes, though, that you’d miss without a car to get around.

What is the best time to visit Erie?

erie pa travel guide

The best time of year to visit Erie is undoubtedly during the summer months, from late June to early September. The city is bustling with activity, featuring plenty of events, outdoor concerts, and street festivals during that time.

CelebrateErie is a popular event held in August every year, where much of the main street through downtown is closed to traffic for the weekend to make way for the festival . Live music, vendors, chalk art competitions, and great food fill the streets. Musical artists including Dan & Shay, 3 Doors Down, Blue Oyster Cult, and JaRule have all hosted free concerts on the mainstage at the event.

Winter can be quite cold, with plenty of snow and icy cold winds coming off the lake. There are plenty of opportunities for winter sports and activities, but this isn’t ideal for everyone.

Where should I stay in Erie?

Hotels and places to stay in Erie are generally in clusters around town. The hotels on the bay near downtown are more expensive, but they offer great views and the option to walk to attractions.

Hotels around the I-90 and Peach Street intersection are convenient for shopping if you forgot something at home. Stay in close proximity to the Millcreek Mall or the casino and you’ll have to drive to most attractions, but you can often find better prices.

Erie Hotel Recommendations: 

  • Budget-friendly Option: Baymont by Wyndam, Erie – The rooms have plenty of space and a cozy feel. You’ll have a clean spot to lay your head at night, and prices are often very reasonable.  
  • Mid-range Option: Wingate by Wyndham Erie- Comfortable rooms and included breakfast are some of the highlights of this hotel conveniently located right off of I-90. Shopping is close by, but you’ll have to drive to see the lake.
  • Luxury Option: Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront – This hotel is situated within walking distance of Dobbin’s Landing, great restaurants, and close to downtown. While Erie isn’t a huge “luxury” destination, this hotel has great amenities. Book a room with a bay view so you can watch the sunrise and sunset from the comfort of your room!
  • Dog-friendly Stay: Holiday Inn, Erie – Conveniently located just off of I-90 on Peach Street, this hotel is close to stores and chain restaurants. It’s on a dead- end drive, so you don’t have to worry about tons of traffic when taking your dog outside.
  • Unique Option: Spencer House Bed & Breakfast- Have you ever wanted to spend the night in a 19th Century Victorian Mansion? Now is your chance! This historic mansion is located near “Millionaire’s Row” within walking distance of everything in downtown Erie.

Sample 3-Day Erie Weekend Itinerary

Day 1: spend the day enjoying presque isle state park.

kayaking on lake erie during one weekend in erie

Start the day off by grabbing a unique brunch at Give A Crepe La CrepErie , or grab a quick coffee from Brew Ha Ha at the Colony . Then, you’ll head to the west side of town to explore Presque Isle State Park. 

Start the day exploring the park with a bike ride around the peninsula. The multipurpose bike trail around Presque Isle is 13 miles long and provides a great ride. You’ll have views of the beaches, the bay, and the lagoons as you circle the peninsula.

You can bring your own bike or rent one from the Yellow Bike Rental near the waterworks building and beach 7.

Before you continue on around the peninsula, grab a bite to eat from one of the local food trucks stationed around the peninsula. They’re typically stationed around beaches 6, 8, and 11.

Then, head out on Presque Isle to the lagoons, where you can explore the inner sections of the peninsula on a kayak or paddleboard. The calm lagoons, guarded by the land of the peninsula, make for a perfect spot to explore calm water. You can also access the bay on your watercraft, but the water can be much rougher.

Keep your eye out for wildlife as you explore. You might see turtles sunbathing on a log, birds swooping overhead, or butterflies fluttering among wildflowers on the shores.

After exploring activities on the peninsula, spend some time relaxing on one of Presque Isle State Park’s beautiful beaches . Save this activity for evening and you’ll have the chance to enjoy the most spectacular sunsets on Lake Erie!

After enjoying a day on the peninsula, you’ll certainly be hungry. Enjoy dinner at Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro . You might not expect southern and Caribbean cuisine in Erie, but the food is fantastic.

Day 2: Spend the Day Exploring Downtown

dobbins landing bicentennial tower- things to do in erie, pa

Enjoy a coffee at Ember + Forge downtown on the corner of State and 4th Streets. If you’re up for a walk, head north towards the bay. It’s 0.6 miles to Dobbins Landing , where you can explore the Bicentennial Tower. 

The Bicentennial Tower is a staple in Erie scenes. You can climb to the top during the summer from 10am-9pm daily, weather permitting. From the top, you’ll have views of the bay, Presque Isle, and even to the south shores of Canada on a clear day.

Erie has some great museums and educational opportunities, especially where you can learn about local history. You can tailor your visit to your interests.

Those interested in maritime history should stop at the Erie Maritime Museum . A $10 entrance fee, you can enjoy exhibits dedicated to Oliver Hazard Perry and his accomplishments, including his role in the Battle of Lake Erie, and the War of 1812.

Everyone from local artists to well-known names in art history have displayed collections at the Erie Art Museum . Spend a few hours exploring all of the collections with a $10 entrance fee.

Grab a bite to eat at Bar Ronin , a Japanese fusion style restaurant with a great atmosphere. Pair a bowl of ramen with a sip of traditional sake. 

After dinner, catch a late night show at Kellar’s for a laugh and entertainment. The club has hosted well-known comedians and also magicians including those who have performed on Comedy Central, America’s Got Talent, and Last Comic Standing.

Day 3: Take a Hike & Relax at the Ballpark

entry to the UPMC ballpark during 3 days in Erie

There are some great short hikes in and around Erie. Although Erie Bluffs State Park is about 30 minutes west of town, it’s worth the drive to catch the views from the top of the bluffs out over Lake Erie. At points, they tower nearly 100-feet tall over the lake.

If you’d rather stay closer to town, plan a short hike at Wintergreen Gorge. The trail is 1.2 miles long, passing along Fourmile Creek. The trail ends on the Penn State Behrend campus.

Enjoy an afternoon at the ballpark! Home to the Erie Seawolves, a minor league affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, you can watch a game filled with up-and-comers for a reasonable price. 

UPMC Park is located in downtown Erie on East 10th Street. While you take in the baseball game, enjoy local foods like an Ox Roast sandwich or ballpark staples like hot dogs and nachos.

Erie is home to a great craft brewing community. Erie Ale Works often hosts a local food truck. Lavery Brewing has a small menu with unique brews, and the BrewErie at Union Station cooks up a full menu in the old train station building. 

Want to get out of downtown? Black Monk Brewery serves great Belgian styles and Erie Brewing has a lot of variety, both located on the west side of town.  

Other things to do in Erie:

beach in erie

  • Erie Zoo : Visit the over 400 animals who reside at the Erie Zoo. While it’s certainly on the smaller size, the Erie Zoo is a great spot for families to learn more about animals and conservation. You can also take a short but scenic train ride around parts of the perimeter of the park. Adult tickets cost $12 and children 2-12 have an $8 admission fee. 
  • Waldameer & Water World : Entrance pass fees are based on height. Those over 48 inches tall cost $52, and those under 48 inches tall or over 60 years of age cost $40 for a combo pass. Enjoy water slides and amusement rides, including a roller coaster traveling over Peninsula Drive. When you arrive at the park, you’ll have to get a Wally Card, like a reloadable gift card, as cash and credit cards are not accepted at food kiosks, gift shops, or game stalls.
  • Warner Theatre : Catch a show at the Warner Theatre. The theater is home to the philharmonic, the Lake Erie Ballet, and Broadway shows. Music artists and other performers also travel through, hosting shows at this venue.
  • Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park : Enjoy a walk around the park through 1,000+ beautiful trees and plants. Wander the labyrinth or check out the park’s Griff slides.
  • Take a Wine Tour in Northeast : Heading east of the city along the lake, there are over a dozen wineries that host tastings. Spend an afternoon sampling. During the summer months, wineries often host events including music in the vineyards.

Where (else) to Eat in the City:

  • Mighty Fine Donuts : These donuts have been an Erie staple for decades. While you can find them at a few places around town, go to the shop on the east side for the best selection. The peanut butter filled ones are a favorite.
  • Sara’s : Enjoy a burger or a milkshake in an old-fashioned diner with outdoor seating near the entrance of Presque Isle State Park. The peanut butter milkshakes and orange vanilla twist cones are personal favorites!
  • Federal Hill Smokehouse : Go here for the best smoked plates in Erie. They do sell out, especially on the weekends, so plan to go here for lunch for the best selection.
  • Virgil’s Plate : Only square slices are served at Virgil’s Plate! This pizza joint only uses homemade sauces and doughs for the best tasting pies in the city.
  • The Cork 1794 : Enjoy fine dining with great options prepared by their talented and creative culinary team, including elegant fish dishes paired with delicious cocktails and fine wines.

Other Tips to know before visiting Erie:

sunset on beach in Erie

  • Pack for Weather Variability: Erie’s weather can be unpredictable, especially near the lake. Bring layers and be prepared for both warm and cool temperatures, as well as rain.
  • Try Local Cuisine: Erie boasts a variety of delicious local dishes. Don’t forget to try the famous “Smith’s Hot Dogs” and indulge in freshly caught Lake Erie perch. Finish with some sponge candy from a local shop like Stefanelli’s!
  • Erie loves to host local events like concerts and food festivals. Check local schedules prior to your visit to help plan your stay.

One Weekend in Erie Map

One Weekend in Erie isn’t Enough

As you can see, there’s SO much to do in the Erie that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Erie itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Erie!

What else would you add to this “One Weekend in Erie” Itinerary?

Other Nearby Weekend Trips

  • One Weekend in Cleveland, OH (< 2 hours from Erie)
  • One Weekend in Pittsburgh (< 2 hours from Erie)
  • One Weekend in Detroit (4 hours from Erie)
  • One Weekend in Lancaster (5.5 hours from Erie)

About the Author!

Samantha has lived in and explored around Erie for the last 15 years. She loves to explore a new restaurant or brewery, enjoy a local park with her pups, or sip a new craft beer. She is the creator behind PAonPause . You can follow along on Samantha’s adventures on Instagram!

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erie pa travel guide

208 E. Bayfront Pkwy., Ste. 103 Erie, PA 16507 Phone: 814-454-1000 Region: Pennsylvania's Great Lakes Region

Located on the southern shore of our namesake lake, Erie is Pennsylvania's primary access point to the Great Lakes. We welcome you to visit the Flagship City.

More adventures in Pennsylvania's Great Lakes Region

More ideas nearby.

City Life Uncover the Best Antiquing in Pennsylvania In honor of spring-and the spirit of all things new (and old), roll up your sleeves and try your hand at the time-honored tradition of antiquing! Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual browse ... Read More

Historical Pursuits From Rails to Trails: 21 Paths to Explore in PA In days past, Pennsylvania’s storied railroads crisscrossed the state, connecting the many communities that sprang up along the rail lines and serving as vital conduits for the goods produced by the s ... Read More

New & Improved: The Age of Convenience in the Home

10/25/23 - 09/29/24

New & Improved: The Age of Convenience in the Home

602 East Second Street Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015

Our latest exhibit examines what it means to strive for the American Dream following World War II through the end of the 1970s. Coordinated with the electrification of the country, advancements in mas...

Centennial Hiking Challenge

01/10/24 - 09/24/24

Centennial Hiking Challenge

80 East Corydon Street Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701

Come celebrate 100 years of growth and adventure in the Allegheny National Forest by hiking 100 miles. The Centennial Hiking Challenge will take you to over 100 miles of the best and most beautiful tr...

ANF Centennial GeoTrail

01/11/24 - 09/24/24

ANF Centennial GeoTrail

Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701

Explore the beauty of the Allegheny National Forest while learning about its history and ecology. Search for 28 geocaches hidden across the four counties of ANF (Elk, Forest, McKean and Warren countie...

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Things to Do in Erie, PA - Erie Attractions

Things to do in erie, explore popular experiences, tours in and around erie.

erie pa travel guide

Lake Erie Smallmouth Fishing Charters

erie pa travel guide

Lake Erie Walleye Fishing Charters

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Erie Scavenger Hunt

erie pa travel guide

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum Admission

erie pa travel guide

National Comedy Center Admission

Top attractions in erie.

erie pa travel guide

Other Top Attractions around Erie

erie pa travel guide

What travelers are saying

Roger K

  • 0 4.0 of 5 bubbles We will go back Splash lagoon is great! We've been multiple times and always have a blast. If you go make sure you plan to go to Quaker Steak & Lube for your meal. The food is way better and comparatively priced, you just have to get dressed to go. The only reason i did not rate 5 stars is because there are never any tubes!!! you have to wait forever to get a double tube then wait another 20 minutes in line to get to the slides! However, between the wave pool, the hot tube area, and the kids play area and froggy splash pad there is still plenty to do with little ones to keep them occupied and tire them out! Read more Review of: Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort Written February 22, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

John L

  • Presque Isle State Park
  • Waldameer & Water World
  • Erie Maritime Museum
  • Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort
  • Tom Ridge Environmental Center
  • Asbury Woods
  • Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier

IMAGES

  1. Vist ERIE, Pennsylvania

    erie pa travel guide

  2. 28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Erie (Pennsylvania)

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  3. 35 Best & Fun Things to Do in Erie (PA)

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  4. 20 Things To Do In Erie PA In 2024

    erie pa travel guide

  5. Visit Erie: 2024 Travel Guide for Erie, Pennsylvania

    erie pa travel guide

  6. 28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Erie (Pennsylvania) in 2021

    erie pa travel guide

COMMENTS

  1. 27 Fantastic Things to Do in Erie, PA

    There are a ton of great things to do in Erie, PA. Check out a few of our favorite places to visit based on our personal experience exploring this underrated city.

  2. One Weekend In Erie, PA: A Local’s 3-day Guide to Erie

    Sample 3-Day Erie Weekend Itinerary. Day 1: Spend the Day Enjoying Presque Isle State Park. Day 2: Spend the Day Exploring Downtown. Day 3: Take a Hike & Relax at the Ballpark. Other things to do in Erie: Where (else) to Eat in the City: Other Tips to know before visiting Erie: One Weekend in Erie Map.

  3. Erie

    Erie, PA. Region: Pennsylvania's Great Lakes Region. Welcome to Erie, Pennsylvania! Located on beautiful Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie, Erie County is a short drive from the major metropolitan areas of Buffalo, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Toronto via Interstates 79, 90, or scenic routes such as Route 5 (The Great Lakes Seaway Trail - An America ...

  4. Visit Erie

    Visit Erie. 208 E. Bayfront Pkwy., Ste. 103 Erie, PA 16507 Phone: 814-454-1000 Region: Pennsylvania's Great Lakes Region. Located on the southern shore of our namesake lake, Erie is Pennsylvania's primary access point to the Great Lakes. We welcome you to visit the Flagship City. Get Directions Visit Website.

  5. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Erie

    Things to Do in Erie, Pennsylvania: See Tripadvisor's 54,933 traveler reviews and photos of Erie tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in April. We have reviews of the best places to see in Erie. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.