Estimates Read Time: 10 Minutes

Where to Stay: Brickyard Inn or Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Tucked along the shores of Lake Erie, about 20 minutes east of downtown Erie, North East, Pennsylvania, is a small community packed with character. Rows of vineyards stretch across the landscape, the lake provides a stunning backdrop, and the historic downtown is sprinkled with locally owned shops, restaurants, and places to linger.

Many know North East as wine country, but the region offers so much more: it is a community shaped by agriculture, history, the lake, and generations of people who have called this corner of the Erie region home. Whether you spend a weekend exploring its wineries, relaxing by the water or simply taking in the scenery, North East is the perfect destination for a charming, small-town retreat.

Agriculture and Lake Erie Wine Country

One of the first things you'll notice about North East is the vineyards. The area is home to some of Pennsylvania's most fertile grape-growing land, thanks in part to its location on the Great Lakes and Lake Erie. Generations of farmers have grown grapes here, and the surrounding vineyards remain an important part of the community's identity today.

If you've ever wondered where some of the grapes used to make your favorite grape jelly came from, there's a good chance they were grown here. The area is a major source of grapes for Welch's grape juice and jelly, helping put North East and the surrounding region on the map as an important grape-growing destination.

Today, you can experience that grape-growing heritage for yourself at the area's many wineries. From intimate cavern tasting rooms to picturesque vineyards, North East is the gateway to the largest grape-growing region in the Great Lakes, home to nearly 20 district wineries where you can sample locally produced wines while enjoying the scenery.

But grapes aren't the only thing growing here. North East's agricultural roots stretch across the countryside, with family farms, roadside stands and pick-your-own fields offering fresh fruit throughout the growing season. In late June and July, cherry season brings sweet and tart cherries to local farms and markets. August is prime time for juicy peaches, followed by a long apple season that stretches from August into October, with different varieties ripening throughout the fall. Farms such as Burch Farms give visitors a chance to experience the region's harvest firsthand, whether you're stopping at a roadside stand or filling a basket in the orchard.

Explore Downtown North East Like a Local

Part of the charm of North East is discovering the local businesses that give the community its personality, and the quaint, walkable Main Street in the heart of North East is the place to do it.

As you stroll Main Street and Lake Street, look for the historic plaques displayed on the buildings. Each one shares the year the building was constructed and a glimpse into its past, listing the businesses and uses that once occupied each historic building.

Be sure to spend some time at Gibson Park, a welcoming green space in the center of town. It's a great place to take a break during your downtown stroll and enjoy your purchases.

Of course, exploring North East wouldn't be complete without supporting the local businesses that make Main Street special. Stop into Book Club on Main to browse the latest reads and book-themed gifts, or visit re.FOUND.ry to hunt for a one-of-a-kind vintage find. When you're ready for a bite, local favorites The Shunk and Goat Tavern offer plenty of reasons to stay awhile.

North East Events Throughout the Year

North East's small-town charm really comes to life during its annual events. Enjoy North East hosts a full calendar of festivals, markets, concerts and holiday celebrations throughout the year.

Summer kicks off with the Gibson Park Open Market, held Saturdays throughout the summer beginning in June. Browse local produce, flowers, baked goods and handmade items while enjoying live music, food and drinks from local vendors. It's an easy way to spend a Saturday morning exploring downtown and getting a taste of what North East has to offer.

In July, the North East Firemen's Cherry Festival brings several days of carnival rides, food, games and family fun to town. The longtime tradition dates back to the 1940s and culminates with a lively parade through downtown North East. Cherry Fest is one of the region’s most anticipated festivals, and one that many local businesses embrace, offering cherry-themed specials throughout the week.

As summer winds down and harvest season begins, North East Wine Fest takes over Gibson Park and downtown North East each September. The weekend celebration brings together local wineries offering wine tastings, live music, food and artisan vendors, making it a fun time to experience the region at the height of its grape-growing season.

Summer also brings the Erie Philharmonic Free Outdoor Concerts to Gibson Park. Part of the Philharmonic's summer concert series, these free performances bring orchestral music to the heart of downtown North East, with programs ranging from patriotic favorites to family-friendly selections. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of live music in the park.

As the holiday season approaches, Sugar Plum Shopping turns downtown North East into a festive shopping destination each December. Local merchants offer special sales and promotions, while visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities including live reindeer, ice-carving demonstrations, Santa's Workshop, horse-drawn carriage rides and a Winter Market. It's a fun way to shop local and kick off the holiday season.

The holiday season officially begins with Tree-mendous Night of Lights in late November. Held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the celebration features a festive parade, the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree in Heard Park, live reindeer, free hot cocoa and cookies, music and fireworks.