Peach Street is one of Erie County’s most recognizable regions: known for its national retailers, major entertainment hubs, hotels and dining. If you’re in town for a tournament, a shopping weekend, or just in Erie to explore, this itinerary uses Upper Peach Street as your starting point to explore things to do, places to eat, and where to stay during your Erie, Pennsylvania getaway.

Day One

If you’re bringing the whole family, plan to spend your first day at one of the nation’s best indoor water parks: Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park. Inside, you’ll find a tropical atmosphere with temperatures always at 84 degrees, and a plethora of slides and splash zones that’ll transport you to another place. Splash Lagoon also features a restaurant for lunch and frozen treats, as well as a bar for the parents to enjoy. When the day is done, don’t bother leaving the premises for dinner. Make your way to Quaker Steak & Lube, attached to Splash Lagoon, for wings and duckpin bowling.  

When traveling with friends or a partner, start the trip by shopping local. Though national chain retailers dominate the Upper Peach Street region, local retailers dot the area and make for a day that feels authentic and charming. On Upper Peach Street, browse handmade artisan pottery at Moosehead Pottery where literally every item is unique. Next door, Luminary Distilling is great for lunch or brunch, but also for picking up a bottle of their craft moonshine, and exceptional rustic donuts and desserts. Pulako’s Chocolates is in the heart of the Millcreek Mall Complex, offering hand crafted chocolates in a tradition that goes back generations. Further north on Peach Street, 814 Vintage Marketplace is home to more than 30 vendors each offering their own niche of vintage items, and Werner Books + Coffee is the community hub for new and used books.

Day Two

Whether you decide to see a movie or do some shopping, the options along Peach Street really are limitless. Head to the Millcreek Mall Complex for major national retailers all in one place, including Build-A-Bear Workshop, DICK’S Sporting Goods, GameStop and more. While you’re there, take advantage of the Millcreek Mall Guest Rewards Tourism Program: if you live more than 50 miles from the mall, stop at the Customer Service Center to register. You’ll get a $20 Mall Gift Card if you spend $200 or more in the same day. Also located in the Millcreek Mall, Round1 Bowling and Arcade has enough arcade games and activities to keep kids entertained all day. End the day with dinner at Storming Crab or Firebirds – their kids menu is noted for its options and affordable pricing.

Day Three

It’s time to get a little active. Start with breakfast at Panos’ for classic diner food to fuel the day. If the weather allows, head to Wegman’s to pick up food and drinks to go before heading to Picnicana Park, one of the area’s best groomed parks and playgrounds, complete with hiking trails and pavilions for enjoying. If the weather isn’t in your favor, check for open skate hours at LECOM Sports Park, or work your way through Escape Game Erie.