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Celebrating Women-Owned Erie County Businesses

Tuesday Feb 22nd, 2022

March is Women's History Month and to celebrate, VisitErie is shining a spotlight on four local, and amazing, women business owners.

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Dena Rupp - Purrista Cat Cafe

Purrista Cat Café - Dena Rupp, Owner

Purrista Cat Café is Erie’s newest coffee shop (opened in February 2022), created by cat lover, coffee enthusiast and Erie native Dena Rupp. Ever since encountering her first pet café during her travels, Dena has been committed to bringing a cat café to her hometown.  Purrista Cat Café offers a relaxing social environment in Downtown Erie, serving fine espressos, specialty coffees, teas and pastries while also providing the opportunity for guests to interact with adoptable cats in a clean, stress-free environment. “For me, a female entrepreneur is someone who chooses to go out of her comfort zone, takes risks, and is not afraid to share her experiences, positive or negative, with others. She also supports and lifts up her fellow female friends.”

 

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Heather Hart - A Compassionate Hart Massage Therapy

A Compassionate Hart Massage Therapy –Heather Hart, Owner/LMT

Owning her own business was always in the back of Heather Hart’s mind while she was working at medical facilities and spas around Erie.  In 2010, she opened A Compassionate Hart Massage Therapy.  Promoted as “Erie's premiere massage therapy and bodywork studio”, A Compassionate Hart is located in (appropriately) the “heart” of Downtown Erie and features three massage rooms with five employees focusing on managing stress to pain relief.  Heather plans to expand her business even more within the next year.  “I think the advantage of being a women business owner is all the community support and help you get from others. I know a lot of people say women have a hard time getting along, but I have found that to be the opposite of the truth among entrepreneurs.

Pineaplpe Eddie Karen Thomas
Karen Thomas - Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro

Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro – Karen Thomas, Owner

Starting a restaurant like Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro was a lifelong dream for sisters Karen Thomas and Adrienne Paul.  After spending fifteen years in the corporate and private sector of the hospitality field, their dream came to life and Pineapple Eddie opened its doors in July 2011.  Since then, it has established itself as one of Erie’s finest local restaurants.  The restaurant’s Haitian and American South inspired menu features items such as shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, griyo (cubed fried pork shoulder), jerk chicken and homemade desserts. “You want to be committed to building a solid foundation and then ‘brick up’ because the trends, distractions and haters are coming.  Even at your weakest moments your ‘bricks’ stand and resist weakness and remind you of your commitment.”  

Kelly Karns Landscape
Kelly Karns - Erie Food Tours

Erie Food Tours – Kelly Karns, Owner

Erie Food Tours is a fun way to experience Erie County’s history and culture, all while sampling delicious local food and drinks.  Since its creation in 2015, Karns and her team take patrons on guided food tours, sharing Erie’s history at local landmarks and historic buildings, while visitors enjoy samples of local cuisine!  Erie Food Tours run May through October in Downtown Erie and the nearby town of North East. “Getting the right people ‘on the bus’ - on your team - is essential to your success.  I have an amazing group of tour guides (all female!) who have carried Erie Food Tours throughout each season and we’re only getting better!  I also collaborate with phenomenal restaurants who give us their best food, drinks, and service at every tour visit.”

Partner Spotlight

splash lagoon partner spotlight

Treasure Island Arcade at Splash Lagoon

Looking for something fun to do? Spend a day in the Treasure Island Arcade, where no water park admission is required! The Treasure Island Arcade is home to over 100+ games! From sports games and racing games to retro games and all-new VR motion games, there is something fun for everyone to enjoy!

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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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port farms spotlight ad photo 400 x 300

Fall Harvest at Port Farms

Happy Fall Y’all! Come enjoy the farm during Fall Harvest season September 14 – October 31. Grab your friends and family and enjoy a variety of fall themed activities for every age. With over 25 attractions, our guests create long-lasting memories worth repeating. General admission includes wagon rides, an 8-acre corn maze, slide mountain, ball zone, game garden, pedal carts, corn box, Kid’s Village, animal exhibits, mindbender mazes, trike track, tire fort and so much more! Plan a birthday party with a campfire spot! PLUS, enjoy themed events and character visits!

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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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ASCEND spotlight ad photo 400 x 300

COME SEE WHAT ASCEND ERIE IS ALL ABOUT!

ASCEND is a community hub in downtown Erie that features climbing, fitness, yoga, youth programming, and so much more. We opened up last year and would love to meet you! Visit on your own, with friends and family, or book a team-building event with your coworkers.

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Tia Book Cellar

Tia Book Cellar is an independent bookstore offering new and bargain books, unique gifts, puzzles, and games for all interests and ages. Located across from Gibson Park in North East, their brand embodies the local business model and the local grape heritage. Tia's believes that "there is always … local, an alternative, and a story." They look forward to helping you discover your next read or gift here.

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Now Open in Downtown Erie

Five Iron Golf is blurring the lines between indoor golf and entertainment. State-of-the-art simulators and world-class instruction meet premium events and amenities plus delectable food and cocktail menus.

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miac postmodern jukebox partner spotlight

MIAC Live: Postmodern Jukebox

Famed “Pop Music in a Time Machine” concert act Postmodern Jukebox brings their 10th anniversary tour to Mercyhurst University’s Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Concertgoers can expect a dazzling trip through the PMJ Universe — where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, swing, Doo-wop, and Motown, and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists.

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Zoo partner spotlight

Discover the wild wonders of the Erie Zoo!

Home to over 300 animals from around the world - the zoo offers an immersive experience with a variety of engaging exhibits, from playful otters to majestic big cats. Enjoy up-close animal encounters, special events, and interactive keeper talks that inspire conservation and a deeper connection to nature. Whether you're visiting with family or friends, the Erie Zoo is the perfect destination for fun, education, and unforgettable memories. Join us in supporting wildlife and conservation efforts!

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Set sail for an inspiring dining experience! Enjoy a unique casual dining experience on Erie's Bayfront. The Cove's nautically inspired decor and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay will have you feeling the venturous spirit of those who live their lives on the sea.

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 458-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services. The hospital serves as a regional referral hub and is the only accredited trauma center in the region.

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Two45 Waterfront Grille Now Open!

Savor an exquisite waterfront dining experience at Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, where culinary excellence meets panoramic views. This signature restaurant invites you to indulge in a delectable journey with a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients and global inspirations while overlooking the serene waters of Lake Erie.

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Visit Edinboro, PA!

Edinboro Community and Economic Development is a regional Edinboro area non-profit committed to fostering positive community-wide growth. Through economic and civic initiatives, the ECED seeks to empower the Edinboro community to effectuate targeted change to meet current needs and build regional resilience. Edinboro is a unique area where rural and urban values intersect, and the best "small town America" qualities shine.

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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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Dobbins Landing Spring 2022 EB 2

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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Exclusive Tourism Rewards

If you live more than 50 miles from Millcreek Mall, stop by the Customer Service Center to register. You’ll receive a Guest Rewards Tourism Program Luggage Tag. Scanning the QR Code on it will reveal special offers from participating mall merchants. If you spend $200 or more that day, take your receipts back to the Customer Service Center and you’ll get a FREE $20 Mall Gift Card. You get rewarded just for shopping!

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One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row