Summer in Erie, PA, offers endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. Whether you're frolicking in the waters of Lake Erie or strolling through the zoo, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the top five must-do activities to make the most of your Erie summer getaway, promising a memorable vacation for the whole family. Cover photo: Jeremy Bickling

1. Soak up the Fun at Waldameer Park and Water World
   Experience over 100 thrilling rides, slides, and attractions at Waldameer Park and Water World! This locally-owned, family-run amusement park is celebrating its 128th season, offering endless fun and excitement for the entire family. Thrilling rides and family classics such as the Ravine Flyer II coaster, Wacky Shack, and Thunder River will keep everyone entertained throughout the day. Then there's Water World, an impressive water park full of wet and wild fun including The Battle of Lake Erie family complex, and a Kidz Zone, perfect for smaller children. Water World's Giant Wave Pool and the addition of six new shade cabanas offer parents a relaxing retreat while the kids splash and play. Waldameer also features midway games, tasty summertime food, and the sights and sounds of a family-friendly park offering free parking and admission (Waldameer only). Combo passes are available for guests to enjoy both parks at an affordable price.
   
   
2. Spend a Perfect Day at Presque Isle State Park: Presque Isle State Park arches into Lake Erie (named "Best Lake" and "Best Lake For Water Sports" in the 2024 USA Today 10Best Reader's Choice Awards Poll!), providing families endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Spend your day swimming in the refreshing waters of Lake Erie at one of its eleven sandy beaches, exploring the park’s scenic trails, or simply spending quality time together with a picnic. Picnic tables and charcoal grills are conveniently located throughout the park. Although the park itself does not have concession stands, you can pack your own snacks or get something to-go at Sara’s Restaurant, a colorful 50s diner-inspired restaurant near the entrance to Presque Isle State Park. Sara’s offers tasty summertime favorites including hot dogs (Smith’s brand made in Erie!), burgers, fries, milkshakes, and creamy orange/vanilla twist soft serve. End your day watching a breathtaking sunset over Lake Erie, as the dazzling colors reflect across the water.
   
   
3. Set Sail with the Scallywags: More than just a boat ride, swashbucklers of all ages can experience the thrills of being a pirate aboard Scallywags Pirate Adventures. The bright red galleon-style ship takes you on a 90-minute interactive cruise of Presque Isle Bay packed with engaging activities including a delightful storyline where passengers must help the Scallywags crew defeat the evil Captain Skull and his attempts to claim the pirate treasure. There are ship-to-ship water cannon battles, face painting, pirate costumes, pirate-themed activities, dance parties, and a kid-friendly sword fight guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Once the treasure is found, each child leaves with a piece of the found treasure.
   
   
4. Summer Days of Fun and Flowers at Port Farms: Experience the distinct charm of rural Erie County on a real working farm! During its "Summer Days" event in late summer, Port Farms is filled with more than five acres of vibrant fields of flowers and family-friendly activities. Their annual Summer Days event provides the perfect setting for families to enjoy a memorable day exploring this working farm and participating in a variety of kid-friendly activities and attractions. Let the kids play to their hearts' content in the Bubble Hut, where they can make gigantic, colorful bubbles, get up close to Port Farm’s goat family on Goat Mountain or have fun catapulting apples across a field with an apple cannon. Summer Days run from August 3 through September 8, with a different event each weekend including Sweet Summer Days (August 3, 4, 9-11) and Blooms, Bubbles and Butterflies (August 16-18, 23-25). Summer Days is also pet-friendly! In between watching the kids play, parents can sip a local craft beverage from Port Farms' Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales. There are loads of options to feed everyone. At Poverty Knob, you'll find a variety of shareable appetizers and pizzas. Jerry’s Smokehouse & Grill offers smoked pulled pork sandwiches, fresh-cut fries, and handmade burgers, while the Harvest Barn Café features fresh-baked goodies. Summer Days ticket information can be found here.
   
   
5. Roar into Adventure at the Erie Zoo: With captivating attractions and a streamlined design, the Erie Zoo is a refreshing departure from sprawling metropolitan zoos, allowing families with young children to explore its exhibits and wildlife in just an hour or two. The Zoo features more than 400 animals and multiple exhibit areas. Families will love saying hello to the mother-son orangutan duo in Wild Asia or walking freely among a troop of kangaroos and wallabies inside the Australian Walkabout. Other Zoo favorites are the Wildlife Carousel and the Safariland Train. The North American River Otter exhibit is the Zoo’s newest addition, allowing visitors to get an up-close look at playful residents Max and Mimi.