Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant: The stylishly trendy Bay House prides itself on two things: delicious cuisine from its unique wood-fired Argentine grill, and spectacular vistas of the waterfront and Erie’s dazzling sunsets. In addition to being one of the Bayfront District’s newest establishments, the Bay House is the only restaurant that features a fresh oyster bar.

JR’s on the Bay/Sloppy Duck Saloon:Residents and visitors flock to “The Duck” every spring and summer to take advantage of its abundant outdoor dining options. With colorful bungalows, multi-level decks, an ample patio, and a huge outdoor tent complete with a dance floor and bar, there is room for everyone to take in the beautiful waterfront views of Presque Isle Bay and Erie’s world-renowned sunsets.

Oliver’s Beer Garden: With great views of Erie’s Bayfront, Presque Isle Bay, and the Bicentennial Tower, Oliver’s Beer Garden is one of the Bayfront’s standout attractions. Cold beer, adult slushies, and delicious food are plentiful at Oliver’s on-site food truck, while you dance to live music (Fridays through Sundays), enjoy a round of mini golf at Oliver’s Mini Golf, or unwind with friends amidst a relaxed picnic table setting.

Pier 6 Rooftop Bar & Restaurant:Perched atop the Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel parking ramp, Pier 6 invites guests to dine, sip, and take in panoramic views of Presque Isle Bay from two expansive outdoor patios. Both offer a variety of seating options complete with outdoor fireplaces, umbrella patio tables, comfortable lounge seating, cornhole boards, and open spaces to encourage mingling.

Rum Runners: Since 1988, Rum Runners has been a fixture of Erie’s Bayfront district and is a popular summer hangout for those arriving by land or sea. With front-row seats of Presque Isle Bay on its tropical-inspired outdoor patio, space to tie up your boat, live weekend music, and fantastic fare, Rum Runners is the quintessential spot for summer dining!

Two45 Waterfront Grille at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel: Formerly known as the Bayfront Grille, this new restaurant is where history meets culinary excellence. Inspired by the Battle of Lake Erie, Two45 features upscale seafood-forward American cuisine and spacious indoor and outdoor seating with up-close vistas of Presque Isle Bay.

Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill: Experience food, drinks, lively conversation, and live music from Erie’s only floating restaurant!  Bar and table service are available on water or land at this Florida Keys-inspired open-air BARge featuring casual fare, and a cheeky cocktail selection such as the Mermaid Marina and the Wobbly Worm.

The Brewerie at Union Station: Real food, real beer, real historic atmosphere, and trains barreling by are what you’ll find at The Brewerie’s Trackside Beer Garden. Located on the Brewerie’s upper level, the beer garden stands out as a truly distinctive outdoor venue. Complete with picnic tables, a bar, bocce courts, and even active train tracks, it offers an experience like no other for you to hang out with fresh handcrafted ales, a creative menu featuring beer-inspired dishes, and a fun game of bocce.

Calamari’s Squid Row: Mixing big city vibes with community warmth, Calamari’s has been a staple of downtown Erie for decades. Their casual chic outdoor patio is tucked between buildings and provides an intimate space for Sunday brunches, acoustic musical performances, or dinner under the stars. (Photo credit: meowwwwza on Instagram)

The Cork 1794:The inviting and stylish outdoor patio at The Cork beckons guests to indulge in a leisurely lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch while relishing in a creative menu sourced from local ingredients. Its outdoor space is thoughtfully designed with a decorative pergola, large-screen TV, and heaters, ensuring that The Cork can extend patio season through early fall.

Edinboro Lake Resort Sunset Grill:The Sunset Grill is the only spot on picturesque Edinboro Lake to enjoy casual lakefront dining. In addition to its wide selection of salads, sandwiches, burgers, and craft beer, the Sunset Grill features live music Fridays through Sundays with performances from local talents in a variety of styles.

Luckie Louie’s Beer and Wieners: If you want elevated hot dogs with funky names and an impressive selection of craft beer to wash it down, Lucky Louie’s will not disappoint. With more than 25 different wiener options like Nacho Average Wiener, A Little Violent, and the Neener Wiener, plus an extensive selection of craft beers to-go, it’s a culinary adventure you’ll not soon forget. Enjoy your decked-out wiener and ice-cold beer on one of the many picnic tables scattered throughout the grounds.  

Sara’s: Located at the entrance to Presque State Park, the vibrant red picnic tables and funky 50’s style décor at Sara's set the scene for an enjoyable date night or family outing. Make sure to try Sara’s signature Smith’s foot-long hot dogs or an orange and vanilla twist before or after your visit to Presque Isle for an authentic Erie summertime experience!  

Underdog BBQ: You’re invited to be a part of the latest Underdog addition as you dine al fresco on their newly opened outdoor patio. Mouth-watering barbecue showcasing Underdog’s signature sauces, smoked meats, homestyle sides, and desserts is sure to satisfy your barbecue cravings. Plus they offer a special Bark-Uterie board for your four-legged friend!