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Saras Hotdog Man Andy Teach

Say Cheese! The Best Places to take a Picture in the Erie Region

Wednesday May 11th, 2022

The best types of memories are those best captured by the photographs we take.  Whether they show off your friends, families, a special pet or a selfie, photos are a great way to preserve great times and special moments.  Choosing just the right backdrop for your photos can be equally important to set the scene.  The Erie region has many unique locations that are considered to be picture perfect or "Instagrammable".

Here are a few suggestions of the best places to take a picture in the Erie area.  Be sure to use #VisitErie in your posts too! 
Main photo: Sara’s Restaurant by Andy Teach

Erie sign by Connie Bootz v2

The ERIE Sign

Since it was installed in March 2021, the 10 foot wide, 5 foot high ERIE sign has become a trendy picture spot.  The hard-to-miss bright white sign sits on the bluff at Bayview Park overlooking Presque Isle Bay near the foot of Cherry Street. Find it here.
Photo by Connie Bootz

Dobbins Bicentennial Tower Spring dominidragoone

The Bicentennial Tower

Erie’s most recognizable attraction, the Bicentennial Tower at the foot of State Street is a popular setting for individual photos, wedding parties, family reunions and more.  With its two observation decks and spectacular views of Downtown Erie, Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie, the Tower is a must-stop for memorable photos.
Photo by @dominidragoone via Instagram

TREC observation deck christineserfozo

The Tom Ridge Environmental Center Observation Tower

The views from atop TREC’s 75 foot observation platform provide breathtaking views of Presque Isle, Lake Erie and their next door neighbors, Waldameer Park and Water World. 
Photo by @christineserfozo via Instagram

Erie’s Lighthouses

The Erie Land Lighthouse is located in east Erie at the foot of Lighthouse Street which overlooks Erie and Presque Isle State Park.  The recently renovated Presque Isle Lighthouse includes a new observation platform and landscaped beach area. The North Pier Light, situated at the very tip of the North Pier, provides many photo opportunities of the Light itself and the many sailing vessels that travel through the channel that connects Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie. The Presque Isle Lighthouse and the North Pier Light are inside Presque Isle State Park.  
Pictured: Presque Isle Lighthouse 

Wendy 4 HStancliff

The Boardwalk Trail at Asbury Woods

Set amidst the natural beauty of Asbury Woods is their serene woodland Boardwalk Trail.  Strike a pose along the trail or at its two designated rest areas, Shaw Gazebo and the Wasiesky Teaching Pavilion. The .33 mile trail is accessible from Asbury Woods’ main entrance and the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center east entrance. 
Photo by Hannah Stancliff

Butterfly mural w Connie by Connie Bootz

“The Butterfly Effect” Mural

Showcased on the H & S Computer building at 31 East Main Street in Downtown Girard, “The Butterfly Effect” was created by local artist Lacy Brant.  The mural’s colorful wings feature words and phrases meant to inspire kindness and positivity.  Position yourself in front of it to give the appearance that you have sprouted beautiful butterfly wings. Find the mural herePhoto by Connie Bootz

21 Brix elephant by Kathy Mosier

Ella the Elephant at 21 Brix Winery

When you go to 21 Brix Winery in nearby Portland, NY, be sure to stop and get your picture taken with Ella the Elephant. The vividly pink, eye-catching pachyderm got her name and color from the winery’s Pink Catawba wine, appropriately called “Ellatawba”. Read Ella’s full story here! Photo by Kathy Mosier

Saras Hotdog Man by Michelle DiMarco Nunez

Sara’s Restaurant

Whether it’s gathering around the oversized Simpsons Family display, Humpty Dumpty on a life guard chair, the comical looking Hotdog Man or numerous wacky cardboard cut outs, Sara’s is loaded with fun photo options! Sara’s can be found at the entrance to Presque Isle State Park and is a great place to stop, “say cheese!” and grab some delicious food!  Photo by Michelle DiMarco Nunez

Erie Zoo 069 April 24 2022 X2

The Erie Zoo “Man and Dog” Statue

Swing by the Erie Zoo and just past the back entrance of the Main Building you’ll find a statue of a man sitting on a bench with enough room for someone to sit next to him and admire his best friend.  The “Man and Dog” bronze statue is a perfect spot for a picture...and a rest. 

Pier 6 patio night sydneyseroka

Pier 6 Rooftop Bar and Restaurant

Newly opened on the top floor of the Courtyard Marriott Bayfront parking garage, Pier 6 Rooftop Bar and Restaurant features two sizeable outdoor patio areas overlooking beautiful Presque Isle Bay.  Bring your family and friends and enjoy fabulous food, creative cocktails and of course the view!  Photo by @sydneyseroka via Instagram

WinterGreen Gorge waterfall jude lampman

The Waterfall at Wintergreen Gorge

The Wintergreen Gorge Footbridge, the Gorge Overlook are both cool places to snap a photo but the scenic, cascading waterfall on Four Mile Creek is the most popular.  Wintergreen Gorge is off Cooper Road between Station and Shannon Roads in the eastside town of Harborcreek, PA. Photo by @jude_lampman via Instagram

Port Farms provided by Port Farms

Port Farms Flower Festival

Immerse yourself in five acres of vibrant zinnias and vibrant sunflowers during the annual Port Farms Flower Festival.  The bright cheery colors create the perfect backdrop for your special memories.  The festival typically runs during August and September.  2022 dates coming soon! Photo provided by Port Farms.

Partner Spotlight

spotlgiht the cove

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Join us today! The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern is sure to give you an unforgettable and care-free dining experience. Enjoy a nautical atmosphere with a beautiful view of Presque Isle Bay.

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dobbins landing

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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bayfront grille

Outdoor Dining at the Bayfront Grille

The Bayfront Grille Restaurant at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel is excited to announce that our Bayside Patio is open for Lunch and Dinner. Please check Open Table for reservations or contact the restaurant directly at 814-454-2005.

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Corporate Events Port Farms

Port Farms Corporate Events

Treat your employees to a unique, country experience that is sure to inspire with all of the magic the farm has to offer! Located just outside of Erie, Port Farms offers a charming countryside venue for your next company retreat! Our unique space is located on 200 rural acres and includes everything you will need to host a successful work session, work event, or company picnic. Learn more about how we can help you plan the perfect event!

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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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CartHorse Spotlight 400 x 300

Cart/Horse

Cart/Horse Distilling is a first-generation woman-owned distillery, pioneering the craft in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Handcrafted care never goes out of style. We put that artistic attention into every bottle of our small batch spirits. Cart/Horse proudly produces rum, whiskey, vodka, gin, and several award-winning specialty liquors. Our robust cocktail menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients for each custom-built drink.

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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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When you have an opportunity to fly, give Erie a try - support your hometown airport!

Direct Daily Flights to Charlotte and Chicago.
Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines and United Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte and Chicago with connections across the country and around the world. Book your flight today at www.aa.com or www.united.com

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the cork

The Cork 1794

The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.

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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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upmc

UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 423-bed hospital in Erie, PA, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services, and serves as a regional referral hub and Level II Trauma Center.

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millcreek mall

Millcreek Mall

The Millcreek Mall features more than 160 stores, restaurants, and fun for the whole family on Upper Peach Street, Erie’s most popular shopping district! Shopping in Erie means no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Choose from a variety of hotels located on the Mall property and just minutes away at the intersection of Peach Street and Interstate 90.

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