Downtown Erie is a vibrant destination undergoing a renaissance, with revitalized historic buildings, new businesses, and exciting public developments. Its compact, walkable layout makes it easy to explore in a day, offering a more approachable feel compared to larger cities. Erie’s downtown thrives on a close-knit, community-driven atmosphere, with most businesses locally owned, creating a personal touch that’s less corporate. State Street, the main artery dividing the city's east and west sides, is brimming with activity. Cheerful storefronts, colorful murals, ample parking, and well-lit streets create a welcoming experience. For your next visit, here’s how to spend a perfect day in Downtown Erie.

Morning: Energize and Indulge

ASCEND Climbing, one of the first tenants in a new building at West 5th and State streets, offers indoor rock climbing for all levels and morning yoga classes, an invigorating way to start your day. Just steps away is Bakery on 5th, a woman-owned Turkish bakery serving up delicious coffee, lattes, and treats, including their must-try Midye Baklava: delicate, crispy layers of phyllo filled with pistachios or walnuts, folded into a seashell shape, and soaked in sweet syrup.

Mid-Morning: Artful Discoveries

A visit to the Erie Art Museum near East 5^th and State streets offers an exploration of more than 8,000 mixed media works by local and regional artists, alongside renowned names like Georgia O'Keeffe and Picasso. The museum also hosts community events, including the annual Masquerade at the Museum, quarterly Gallery Nights, and Art After Dark, a monthly series with live music, guided tours, and refreshments. Regional artists are also showcased at the nearby Glass Growers Gallery, featuring handcrafted gifts and fine art.

Lunch: Local Plates, Global Tastes

The Flagship City Food Hall showcases Erie’s diverse cuisine. Located in a repurposed building with entrances on State Street and North Park Row, this communal dining spot features a contemporary design mixed with historical accents and exclusively houses local food vendors. Dina’s Authentic Dominican Kitchen offers flavorful options, especially its signature dish, La Bandera. This traditional Dominican meal lets you choose between stewed chicken, beef, or pork to pair alongside rice, beans, and tostones (fried plantains). La Bandera, meaning “the flag,” is a staple of Dominican cuisine and represents the colors of the Dominican flag.

Afternoon: Fashion and Felines

Across the street from the Food Hall’s State Street entrance is The Shops at Fifth and State, an eclectic mix of local merchants, providing a truly unique shopping experience. Find a curated selection of stylish, locally inspired apparel and accessories that celebrate Erie’s spirit at City Supply by Erie Apparel. The Dollhouse at Pointe Four, a charismatic boutique, showcases sustainable fashion and chic vintage items. Just three blocks south on W. Eighth Street, you’ll find Purrista Cat Café, a cozy spot where you can recharge with a Salted Caramel Latte in one hand and a cuddly, adoptable cat in the other.

Dinner: Wok This Way

Around the corner near E. Ninth and State Streets is Like My Thai, an unassuming restaurant on the outside that’s a sensory explosion inside. From the tempting aromas of Thai spices to the lively banter between staff and customers, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. The best seats are at the counter, where you can watch chef and owner Mike Augustine expertly cook in multiple woks while spiritedly chatting with customers. Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles are two of his signature dishes, but he often has specials depending on available ingredients such as Korean Fried Chicken and a feisty red curry called the Angry American.

Nightlife: Erie After Dark

After dinner, the fun continues. Downtown Erie offers a variety of nighttime activities no matter the season. Music and merriment spill out of restaurants and taverns along State Street on weekends such as U Pick 6 Tap House and The Plymouth. At the same time, Perry Square, the city’s central park, hosts a multitude of concerts and events such as Celebrate Erie and the Erie Winter Carnival throughout the year. The historic Warner Theatre and Erie Insurance Arena are go-to destinations for regional and national entertainment, while Kellar’s Modern Magic & Comedy Club offers a more intimate yet equally captivating time.