The Best Places to Catch an Erie Sunset

bird flying at sunset over lake davedicello v2

The Best Places to Catch an Erie Sunset

Tuesday Oct 1st, 2024

Erie, Pennsylvania, boasts some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world. The sun’s dazzling colors stretching across the waters of Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay, and Edinboro Lake create an idyllic setting for romantic proposals, casual get-togethers, or simply unwinding. Here are some suggestions on where to go for optimum sunset views.

(Header photo by Dave DiCello)

Year-Round Attractions and Viewing Locations

Presque Isle State Park: Framed by sandy beaches and Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park is one of the most tranquil places to watch the sunset. The most photogenic location with unparalleled and unobstructed views is Sunset Point, situated between Beaches 9 and 10. Other great spots include Lighthouse Beach and Waterworks Beach. Presque Isle State Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to sunset. After sunset, only driving is permitted.

The Bicentennial Tower: Erie’s iconic Bicentennial Tower offers a front-row seat to an Erie sunset over Presque Isle Bay. You can view it from the ground level or take the stairs or elevator to the top observation platform for a spectacular 187-foot bird’s-eye view, weather permitting. The Bicentennial Tower is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Inside, a concession stand is stocked with snacks to make your sunset experience even sweeter.

The Shoreline Bar & Grille: Located on the first floor of the Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel along the shores of Presque Isle Bay, the Shoreline Bar & Grille offers a casual-chic atmosphere to relax and enjoy great food and a crisp glass of while watching the sun set on the water. You can opt to sit on the outdoor patio, with stylish patio seating and firepits, or indoors with views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Liberty Park: Nestled on the western side of Presque Isle Bay, Liberty Park features a spacious grassy area ideal for sunset views. The park also includes a large playground and porta potties, making it a convenient spot for families to play while watching the sun go down. Liberty Park is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Oliver’s Rooftop Restaurant: With sweeping views of Erie’s Bayfront, Presque Isle Bay, and Lake Erie from the top floor of the Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront Hotel, the sophisticated setting of Oliver's Rooftop provides the perfect backdrop to indulge in inventive contemporary American cuisine and the vibrant evening sky.

Shades Beach Park: This small beach in east Erie county offers huge sunset views! In addition to being a great sunset spot, this area also features picnic grounds, play areas, a boat launch, and a giant Adirondak chair facing the main attraction - the sunset over Lake Erie.

Seasonal Attractions

Before visiting, be sure to check the operating schedules of these seasonal attractions, and make reservations and plans accordingly.

Edinboro Lake Resort Sunset Grill: Located on the picturesque shore of Edinboro Lake, the Sunset Grill offers a diverse menu of food and beverages in a casual, relaxed setting. Live music from Thursdays through Sundays fills the air while you savor your meal and take in the stunning sunset. The Sunset Grill is open seasonally from May 1 through October, weather permitting.

Your Sailing Adventure: Experience a Lake Erie sunset like never before from the deck of a luxurious 33-foot Beneteau yacht, the Sotto Voce (“soft breeze”). Sunset cruises depart from Wolverine Marina on Lower State Street for a two-hour sail on Lake Erie complete with regional wine, great conversation, and amazing sunsets. Private charters are also available. Your Sailing Adventure’s season runs from mid-May through September.

Victorian Princess: Docked at the foot of State Street, the Victorian Princess offers leisurely sunset sails on a majestic three-level paddlewheel boat. Elevate your experience with their Spectacular Sunset Dinner Cruise, a lovely blend of Lake Erie’s beauty, world-class sunsets, and a delicious dinner. The Victorian Princess sails from mid-May through October, weather permitting.

Waldameer Park’s Ferris Wheel: Witness breathtaking views of the sunset, Presque Isle State Park, and Lake Erie from the top of Waldameer Park’s Ferris Wheel ride. The 100-foot gondola-style attraction gently ascends, giving you a moment to pause at the top, capture stunning photos, and soak it all in. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the distant shores of Canada. Waldameer is open seasonally from mid-May through Labor Day.