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Ferris Wheel 1 provided by Waldameer RS

Erie, PA Summer Guide: 5 Must-Do Activities for Families

Wednesday Jun 26th, 2024

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.  

Partner Spotlight

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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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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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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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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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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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the cove Partner listing 400 x 300

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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Hamot Spotlight 400 x 300

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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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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Award-Winning Compassionate Care

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

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.

One stop convenience.

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

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.

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.