Where the Great Lake meets carefree summer days, family fun comes in every size; from hands-on museums for little explorers to bike trails and ball games that keep bigger kids moving. The pace is easy, the days are long, and the memories are endless. Beyond the beaches at Presque Isle State Park, there’s even more to discover.

Activities for Ages 0-5

• expERIEnce Children’s Museum: With three floors of interactive Erie-themed exhibits, kids can climb, build, pretend, splash, and discover, all in a cool, air-conditioned space. Highlight exhibits include “Lake Life” and “My Town”. The museum is spacious enough to move and play, yet manageable enough for easy supervision.
• The Erie Zoo: Compact and welcoming, the Erie Zoo is perfectly suited for younger kids. With more than 400 animals, Wildlife carousel, and the Safariland train ride, there’s lots to see without feeling rushed, including the updated African painted dog and red panda exhibits.
• Sara’s: At the entrance to Presque Isle, Sara’s is one of those places that feels like summer: bright colors, beachgoers in flip-flops, and food that hits the spot. Their orange-and-vanilla twist is a creamy classic that never disappoints.
• Asbury Woods: With 234 acres of fields, forests, and wetlands, families can spend hours exploring the outdoors at Asbury Woods. But beyond the trails, there is so much more for kids to discover: regular programs and events explore animals and nature, and the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center offers hands-on activities, animal habitats, a turtle pond, and more. 

Activities for Ages 6-10

• Scallywags Pirate Adventures: Out on Presque Isle Bay, a bright red pirate ship turns kids into swashbucklers for the day. This 90-minute adventure is packed with water cannon battles, treasure hunts, and high-seas fun.
• Waldameer Park and Water World: With free admission and parking, gentle kid rides, water slides, and old-school charm, Waldameer is made for family days with kids in tow. The new Time Twister ride brings something new for thrill-seekers, while classics like the Whacky Shack never get old.
• Erie SeaWolves AA Baseball: The 2023 and 2024 AA Eastern League Championship Erie SeaWolves offer more than just baseball—think post-game fireworks, theme nights, and a Kids Zone perfect for restless legs. Sundays are especially family-friendly with added activities and food specials.
• Summer Days at Port Farms: Every weekend brings themed festivals, character visits, and live entertainment. Admission includes more than 20 attractions such as the corn box, bubble hut, kids village, plus lots of open space for little legs to roam.

Activities for Ages 11 and Up

• Biking at Presque Isle State Park: Presque Isle’s smooth, flat, paved trail stretches 13 miles through shoreline views and quiet woods; ideal for riders who like a little freedom to explore. Yellow Bike Rental near Waterworks Beach make it easy to hop on and go.
• Nature Explorations: The Greater Erie Regional Trail Network includes more than 15 parks and trails to explore together. Frontier Park stands out with stone bridges, steel slides, and 1,000 trees along Cascade Creek. Read more about hiking trails in Erie County here. 
• Mini Golf and More: Mini golf comes with more in Erie—like go-karts, arcade games, and sweet treats at Sunview Golf or scenic views and a relaxing beer garden with food and snacks at Oliver’s Bayfront Mini Golf and Oliver’s Beer Garden.