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Exploring Erie’s Bayfront District: A One-Day Guide

Thursday Aug 8th, 2024

Erie’s Bayfront District is located along the southern shores of Presque Isle Bay. This vibrant area is home to an array of diverse attractions, waterfront restaurants, comfortable hotels, and stunning waterfront views.  It’s also compact and walkable, so you’ll only need to park once to explore with ease, just remember to wear comfortable shoes. There’s metered street parking along Lower State Street and two public parking garages; one at the Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel and one next to the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel. If you've never explored this part of Erie, here are a few ways to spend a well-rounded summer or fall day. (Photo by 814.Photo)

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Morning: Start Your Day Right

Fuel up for the day at the Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel’s The Bistro. With a variety of menu items including avocado toast, eggs prepared to your liking, fresh fruit, Starbucks® coffee, and specialty beverages, The Bistro has healthy options to give you the perfect start to your day. Dining is available inside or outside on the hotel’s spacious outdoor patio with views of Presque Isle Bay.

Tower w Mural from Erie Arts Culture

Mid-Morning: Iconic Landmarks and History

At the foot of State Street stands one of Erie’s most recognizable landmarks, the Bicentennial Tower, built in 1995 to celebrate Erie’s 200th anniversary. Towering at 187 feet, it offers stunning photo ops with a picturesque waterfront backdrop. Visitors can take the elevator or climb 210 steps to the top observation deck for panoramic views of Presque Isle Bay, Lake Erie, and even the Canadian shoreline 27 miles away. From the top, you can also get a birds-eye view of the tower’s lower deck featuring “Flotsam,” a vibrant 12,000-square-foot mural. The Bicentennial Tower is open daily year-round. Accessing the upper deck costs a small admission fee, but it's free on the first Tuesday of each month (excluding holidays and weather permitting).

The Erie Maritime Museum tells the fascinating story of Erie’s role during the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie through a diverse exhibit collection. Many of the museum’s exhibits refer to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, a naval commander who played a significant role in the War of 1812 and is known for his victory in the Battle of Lake Erie and coining the phrase “Don’t Give Up The Ship”. Additional museum exhibits speak to Erie’s commercial fishing history and the recreational importance of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie.

GUIDED BAYFRONT TOURS

Erie’s Bayfront is fun to explore on your own, but if you enjoy the company of others, consider joining one of Tour Erie’s guided walking tours. Combining education, fun, and a bit of exercise, Tour Erie offers two leisurely Bayfront tours. “The Best of Erie’s Bayfront Tour” and “The Eerie Stories, Legends, and Lore Sunset Tour”. Both tours run throughout the summer and begin at the Bicentennial Tower. Tours last 90 minutes and cover approximately 1.5 miles over relatively flat terrain. To learn more about each tour, click here.

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Lunch: Scenic Dining

Speaking of Erie's famous Commodore, Oliver’s Rooftop, Beer Garden, and Mini Golf, an inviting trio of relaxation, entertainment, and fun named in honor of Perry—are located adjacent to the Maritime Museum. Oliver’s Rooftop Restaurant is found on the top floor of the Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront Hotel, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, giving diners breathtaking views of Presque Isle, Lake Erie, and the Bayfront District. Their signature dish, a delicately-crusted parmesan Lake Erie walleye, is a must-try for lunch or dinner.

Afternoon: Relaxation and Fun

After lunch, challenge your family and friends to a friendly game at Oliver’s Mini Golf. The 18-hole, 57-par course features unique obstacles and terrains, making each hole an adventure. Between rounds, relax with refreshing craft beverages and enjoy the lively atmosphere at the adjacent Oliver’s Beer Garden.

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 Dinner: Waterfront Dining

Steps away is Hidden Harbor, a waterfront collection of restaurants including Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill, Erie’s only floating restaurant! With open-air seating, beautiful waterfront views, and a Key West-themed atmosphere, Woody’s is a favorite summertime spot for perfectly cooked Angus smash burgers, loaded fries, and creative cocktails such as the citrusy Wobbly Worm or tropical Mermaid Marina. During summer weekends, Woody’s and nearby establishments are buzzing with the sounds of local music and the lively chatter of patrons.

Evening: Sunsets and Serenity

End your day with a unique experience of the city and one of Erie’s world-class sunsets aboard the Lettie G. Howard. Built in 1893, this National Historic Landmark departs from the foot of State Street for daytime and sunset sails from mid-May through October (weather permitting). Passengers can relax and listen to the ship's history or help the crew set the sails, offering a memorable step back in time on one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia-style fishing schooners.

Partner Spotlight

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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 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

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 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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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

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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 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

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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.

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

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.

Soak in the fun!

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

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!