Where the Great Lake meets carefree summer days, family fun comes in every size; from hands-on museums for little explorers to bike trails and ball games that keep bigger kids moving. The pace is easy, the days are long, and the memories are endless. Beyond the beaches at Presque Isle State Park, there’s even more to discover.

Our family had the pleasure of visiting Erie for three days in July.  We were looking for a destination that would be inclusive and accessible for a variety of needs.

From unwinding on the waterfront to discovering a cozy neighborhood patio, you’ll find that good food tastes even better with a little fresh air.   

In 2026, events will be hosted across the Commonwealth commemorating America's 250th anniversary. Make your way to Erie to dive into history, and mark the occasion, at one of these special events. 

Welcome to Erie, Pennsylvania: a jewel on the lake, and a city on the rise.

A region defined by its location on the lake that shares its name, Erie has been a classic vacation spot for generations, making it feel both familiar and full of new energy.

Some of the best sunsets in the world can be seen from the shores of Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Erie, Pennsylvania is one of the most affordable lakefront destinations for adults looking to explore the outdoors, enjoy local culture, and experience the region’s vibrant food and drink scene—without breaking the bank.

Erie, Pennsylvania is one of the most affordable lakefront destinations for families, especially in spring and summer. With free beaches, low‑cost attractions, and dozens of kid‑friendly festivals, it’s easy to plan a memorable trip without stretching your budget.

This easy two-day itinerary blends snowy fun, great food, and a few local favorites for a weekend that feels both relaxed and memorable.

Everything you need for a fun and easy family getaway is in one picturesque spot at Presque Isle State Park: seven miles of sandy beaches, scenic flat trails, and acres of land to explore. With free parking and admission, Pennsylvania’s most visited state park is an easy destination for families simply looking to take a break.

Erie County offers some of the best hiking in the state, with trails leading to spectacular views of Lake Erie, delicate nature preserves, and hilly climbs. 

Beyond the sand and sunsets are centuries of stories of shipwrecks, vanished cranberry bogs, rare birds, and a lighthouse built brick by brick by boat.

Located along scenic Pennsylvania Route 6 in eastern Erie County, Corry is a reinvented, energetic town filled with community spirit and new growth amidst a rural landscape of farmland and forests.

Situated along the shores of Lake Erie in the northeastern corner of Erie County, the aptly named town of North East, PA is a charming mix of historic buildings, specialty retailers, and restaurants, surrounded by bountiful farmland and more than 30,000 acres of vineyards, the largest grape-growing region east of the Rocky Mountains.

From waterfront celebrations to new attractions and can’t-miss festivals, there are exciting things ahead in Erie.

Explore the sites that tell the story of Erie's history using this three-day itinerary. 

Take a walking or driving tour of these markers and monuments to dive into the moments that have shaped the region. 

Whether you’re craving bold international flavors, indulgent breakfast treats, or classic winter favorites, these seven spots serve up memorable dishes and inviting spaces.

Visit Presque Isle in the winter to experience all the splendor of the season and get a dose of fresh air at Pennsylvania's most visited state park.

A two or three-day winter weekend escape to Erie promises unforgettable memories for the whole family.

If you’d like to have some fun in the flakes, one of the easiest and most pleasurable ways to do so is to strap on a pair of snowshoes and start exploring.

No one does snow better than Erie. Bundle up, grab your gear, and head to one of these five places to embrace Erie's snowy season. 

Fall in Erie is full of flavor, and local chefs, bakers, and brewers are serving up the season in the most delicious ways. From cozy pumpkin curries to spiced cocktails and apple wines, these bites and beverages showcase the best of Erie’s fall food scene.

The largest wine region in the Great Lakes starts in Erie County, and fall is the best time to experience it. Start with the wine but linger awhile to explore the flavors and shops that will perfectly compliment your girls trip or romantic retreat in Lake Erie Wine Country.

You don’t have to travel far to experience a range of complex, award-winning wines that have been recognized among some of the nation’s best.

Whispers of otherworldly secrets and restless spirits beckon, as "Eerie" Pennsylvania readies for its spookiest season.

Just south of Erie lies Edinboro – a college town with a distinctly artsy vibe. Edinboro has a lot of character, and is the perfect place to slow down, get away from city life and spend some time with nature, enjoy good food, and unwind.

Downtown Erie is having a moment. In a city where historic grit meets creative energy, the passion for all things Erie is evident downtown.

Tucked along scenic Pennsylvania Route 6 in southeastern Erie County, Pennsylvania, Corry is a small town that blends historic charm with newfound energy, offering a welcome reprieve from city life.

Start your visit to North East with the wine, but leave time to explore all the shops that make the region truly great.

Local businesses are touting new exhibits, new treats, and new programs to help you make the most out of everyone’s favorite season. Check out these six new things happening in Erie this autumn.

Pennsylvania experiences the longest fall foliage season in the world, often spanning more than six weeks - and there's no better place in PA to experience that than along the shores of Lake Erie. 

Erie is known for its affordable family attractions, with activities for kids of all ages and in any weather! Spending an afternoon at one of these locations will no doubt provide a day of laughs and fond memories of quality time spent together. 

Sunday Brunch: that incredible meal that's both breakfast and lunch that allows you to indulge in both sweet and savory delights.  More than a meal, brunch is a social event, weekend ritual, and culinary celebration rolled into one delicious experience.

Here are eight places to camp, whether you’re planning a family trip with splash pads or a low-key weekend in a lakeside cabin.

Photo: Nicole Sullivan

With both Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay as a backdrop, Erie offers endless ways to connect with the water, whether it’s a peaceful paddle at Presque Isle or sailing aboard a historic tall ship.

Presque Isle State Park stands as Erie's premier year-round attraction, but it truly sparkles during summer. With an abundance of unspoiled natural beauty and beachside fun, it’s the perfect summer escape.

Bringing the whole family for a trip to Erie? Easy. Here are five must-do activities for a summer family getaway in Erie, Pennsylvania. 

In Erie, dogs don’t just tag along, they vacation, too! Whether it’s sniffing out a new trail or splashing in the lake, the region is packed with pup-approved experiences. Here are five ways to make your dog’s trip to Erie as unforgettable as yours. Photo credit: rob.seaman

Looking for a little "me time"? In Erie, there's no shortage of ways to spend a little quality time alone, no matter how you recharge.

Throughout the region, women-led businesses form a vibrant community, from restaurants and coffee shops to wineries and boutiques.

Plan to indulge in pumpkin spice everything while you explore Erie County this fall.

As Pennsylvania’s only city on the Great Lakes, the Erie region has an undeniable charm with distinct qualities that set it apart from other destinations.