Spring is for all things fresh – and it’s the ideal time for an arts-focused weekend getaway. The food, the views, and the experiences in Erie, Pennsylvania come alive in new ways after the long winter, making spring the perfect time to get a fresh perspective.

Erie, Pennsylvania is a strong choice for a spring arts getaway thanks to its walkable downtown, local galleries, independent shops and makers, and small towns.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple or planning a weekend with friends, Erie offers a refreshing blend of art, culture, and local flavor—without the crowds of a big city.

Here’s how to spend a spring weekend fully immersed in Erie’s creative side.

Day One: Downtown Galleries

When you arrive, head downtown to Purrista Cat Café. The locally-owned, woman-owned coffee shop features a creative seasonal menu of specialty drinks, not to mention the onsite adoptable cat lounge. Next door, the same owners operate Flagship City Press, a stationery and gift shop known for creative gifts and classes from independent artists and makers, as well as art supplies and paper goods.

Erie’s downtown core is the regional hub for local art and culture, offering Erie’s best art museums and galleries. It’s not what you think when you hear “downtown,”: it’s less corporate, more cobblestone. Check out the galleries at the Erie Art Museum, Glass Growers Gallery, and PACA, but give yourself time to meander. The strollable streets of the Flagship City District are lined with local storefronts, and the Erie Downtown Partnership is often hosting events.

For dinner, stay downtown and keep the creative energy flowing with Asian-inspired cuisine from SobaEra – Tsaocaa or Oba Sushi.

Day Two: Hands-On Creativity

Make a plan for the day to get hands-on to make art of your own. Businesses like Allen Stoneware and Erie Clayspace (located in the PACA building) offer classes that guide visitors through learning how to throw clay to create pottery of their own. If you’re eager to create, but want something a little more introductory, try Claytopia in the West Erie Plaza or Board & Brush in Village West Plaza. The Erie Art Museum offers frequent classes in painting as well.

For the afternoon, venture out into Erie County to explore one of Erie’s small towns, each with their own flair. Corry is a small city in the southeast corner of Erie County known for its artisan energy. Check out shops like the Painted Finch Gallery, Inc., Epiphany’s Emporium, and Hiram’s for local maker goods. On the southern edge of Erie County, Edinboro is an eclectic, artistic college town with a walkable main street, featuring notable shops like Earthshine, Sealed by Nature, and The Cottage Rose.

The flowers and foliage at Goodell Gardens and Homestead in Edinboro provide a brilliant backdrop for spring getaways and photos.

Pair your creative energy with fine dining for dinner. The interior design and aesthetic at The Cork 1794 is magazine-worthy, and the restaurant has been awarded by Wine Spectator for its outstanding wine selection. Or, check out the interesting flavor pairings and elevated dining options at Bar Ronin and Cloud 9 Wine Bar. End the day by soaking in one of Erie County’s most stunning natural assets – the sunsets.

Check the schedule of Erie’s top entertainment and performance venues to see a show while you’re in town. National acts headline at the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture and the Warner Theatre, as well as Kellar’s Magic + Comedy Club. The Erie Philharmonic plays year-round.

If you’re looking to take a trip to celebrate spring, plan a getaway to Erie, Pennsylvania that focuses on art, creativity, and renewal.