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About

About Erie, Pennsylvania

Welcome to Erie, Pennsylvania’s fifth largest city and Pennsylvania’s only Port on the Great Lakes. Located on beautiful Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie, Erie 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’s Byway™), and Historic Pennsylvania Route 6. Erie is home to approximately 260,000 residents and is a true gem of Lake Erie.  The Erie region offers a wide range of fun, affordable things to do. Erie’s easy to navigate street system allows for little to no traffic headaches, making it effortless to get from point to point. Set your course for our welcoming shores and get ready for a stress-free, relaxing adventure.

ABOUT

About VisitErie

Mission Statement: VisitErie is the leader of marketing Erie’s tourism industry and promoting its economic growth.

The Erie Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (EACVB) was formed as a division of the Erie Area Chamber of Commerce in 1961 and was formally named the “Erie Tourist and Convention Bureau”. The EACVB separated from the Erie Area Chamber of Commerce in July 2001 and became a stand-alone 501(c)6 organization. The Bureau was re-designated the official Tourism Promotion Agency for Erie County, and in October 2007, the Erie Area Convention & Visitors Bureau officially changed its name to VisitErie. Since its separation from the Erie Area Chamber of Commerce, VisitErie has taken on the responsibility for managing three visitor centers (I-90 Eastbound near OH/PA border, I-79 Northbound (near Edinboro) during the summer months, staff the Erie Visitor Center located inside the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, established a Convention Sales & Services Department, a Communications Department, and the Erie Sports Commission.

As Erie County’s official Destination Marketing Organization, VisitErie provides visitors and residents with the most up-to-date information on Erie’s tourism product through the annual Erie Visitors Guide, ‘Hello Erie’ trip planner app, the VisitErie.com website, social media channels, and other relevant materials. 

Erie’s Tourism Industry

Erie’s tourism industry is the third largest in Erie County, annually generating more than $1.2 billion in visitor spending and more than 15,000 jobs. Though Erie is known for its busy summer season, VisitErie and its partners are working to transform the Erie area into a four-season destination, offering fun affordable activities for all types of audiences.

 2022 Annual Report

Staff and Board of Directors

VisitErie Staff:

John Oliver, President and CEO
Emily Biddle, Director of Marketing and Research
Christine Temple, Director of Communications
Janice Friedrichsmeyer, Director of Partnership
Hannah Stancliff, Director of Convention Sales and Services
Mary Morgan, Marketing Coordinator
Mary Lou Schuler-Karr, Administrative Coordinator

Erie Sports Commission Staff:

Mark Jeanneret, Executive Director
Ben Huggler, Event Services Director
Chris Rosato, Jr., Events and Marketing Manager

VisitErie Board of Directors:

Board Chair - Carla Higgins, ERIEBANK
Vice-Chair - Gus Pine, Erie Events
Treasurer - Terry Cascioli, Decision Associates
Secretary - Elliott Ehrenreich, Phillips Lytle LLP
Past Chair - Brian Gorman, Waldameer Park and Water World

Troy Bingham, Erie Sports Center
Jaime Cieszynski, Erie Otters
Pam Forsyth, Lilly Broadcasting
Matthew Greene, Presque Isle State Park, DCNR
Gary Hendricks, Presque Isle Downs & Casino
Martin LaMar, Erie-Western PA Port Authority
Paul Leroux, Cobblestone Inn and Suites
Anne Lewis, Red Letter Hospitality
Aaron Loncki, City of Erie

Derek Martin, Erie Regional Airport Authority
Vicke Marz, Victoria Inn
Jennifer Reed, Relish Inc.
Chris Scott, Scott Enterprises
Brian Shank, Erie County Council
Jim Sparber, County of Erie
Karen Thomas, Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro
Stacy Tupek, Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel

Partner Spotlight

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When you have an opportunity to fly, give Erie a try - support your hometown airport!

Direct daily flights to Charlotte. Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte with connections to many other destinations.

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the cork

The Cork 1794

The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.

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dobbins landing

Dobbins Landing

Located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie, the Port of Erie has been promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on the waters of Lake Erie since 1959.

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bayfront grille

Outdoor Dining at the Bayfront Grille

The Bayfront Grille Restaurant at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel is excited to announce that our Bayside Patio is open for Lunch and Dinner. Please check Open Table for reservations or contact the restaurant directly at 814-454-2005.

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Corporate Events Port Farms

Port Farms Corporate Events

Treat your employees to a unique, country experience that is sure to inspire with all of the magic the farm has to offer! Located just outside of Erie, Port Farms offers a charming countryside venue for your next company retreat! Our unique space is located on 200 rural acres and includes everything you will need to host a successful work session, work event, or company picnic. Learn more about how we can help you plan the perfect event!

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erie events spotlight

Erie Events

Erie Events manages a four facility entertainment complex that includes the Warner Theatre, Erie Insurance Arena, Bayfront Convention Center and UPMC Park. These four venues host a variety of events that include world-class entertainment, family friendly shows and sporting events.

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Cart/Horse

Cart/Horse Distilling is a first-generation woman-owned distillery, pioneering the craft in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Handcrafted care never goes out of style. We put that artistic attention into every bottle of our small batch spirits. Cart/Horse proudly produces rum, whiskey, vodka, gin, and several award-winning specialty liquors. Our robust cocktail menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients for each custom-built drink.

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millcreek mall

Millcreek Mall

The Millcreek Mall features more than 160 stores, restaurants, and fun for the whole family on Upper Peach Street, Erie’s most popular shopping district! Shopping in Erie means no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Choose from a variety of hotels located on the Mall property and just minutes away at the intersection of Peach Street and Interstate 90.

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Join us today! The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern is sure to give you an unforgettable and care-free dining experience. Enjoy a nautical atmosphere with a beautiful view of Presque Isle Bay.

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u pick 6 spotlight

U Pick 6 Craft Beer Pubs & Restaurants

Erie’s own local craft beer pubs are a must-visit! With 4 great locations, just pick one that’s convenient for you! A casual, family friendly dining experience with something for everyone! To view our menu, check out what’s on tap, or get to directions to our pubs, learn more now!”

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upmc

UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 423-bed hospital in Erie, PA, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services, and serves as a regional referral hub and Level II Trauma Center.

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mazza spotlight

Mazza Vineyards and the South Shore Wine Company

The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.

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