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What's New in Erie 2023

Tuesday Dec 27th, 2022

Here’s a look at what’s new in Erie, Pennsylvania for 2023!

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Mount Pleasant of Edinboro recently upgraded its facility to include a new 120-foot covered conveyor lift. The new addition will increase the beginner’s terrain and allow Mount Pleasant the ability to educate new skiers and snowboarders more effectively. The facility has also completed major renovations to the rental shop with an expanded area for customers. Opening in July 2023, Mount Pleasant will unveil “Mount Pleasant House”, a six-bedroom house that will be available for short-term winter and summer rentals, allowing families and friends to vacation slope side. Image from Mount Pleasant of Edinboro.

Beginning in January 2023, the former Hooch and Blotto’s Sports Bar and Grill at 8071 Peach Street will be the new home for Quaker Steak & Lube restaurant and duck pin bowling. Duck pin bowling is a variation of the sport of bowling, using smaller, lighter balls and pins. 

Gallery Night April 2022 erieartmuseum 3 for blog

The Erie Art Museum is celebrating its 100-year anniversary in March 2023. From stand-alone art sculptures to moving exhibit walls, the Erie Art Museum has seen tremendous growth from its small beginnings at the former Cashier’s House to the 80,000 square foot multi-level, multi-room space that opened in 2010. The Museum’s collection features more than 8,000 objects and exhibits from local, regional, and national artists. Photo by Erie Art Museum.

The National Comedy Center in nearby Jamestown, New York is celebrating the legendary “King of Late Night” Johnny Carson with a new exhibit titled: “Johnny Carson: An Immersive Experience”. The new theatrical experience includes 30 digital projection screens that surround the audience, as well as newly enhanced holographic technology with Jimmy Fallon as the hologram host. Video presentations feature interviews with Steve Martin, Martin Short, Bette Midler, Jay Leno and more, along with archival video from Carson’s Tonight Show.

 

Mat Racer

Touted as the most thrilling water attraction in park history, Waldameer Park and Water World plans to make a big splash in summer 2023 by launching the Rocket Blast Water Coaster. The new water attraction/water coaster uses inflatable rafts to carry riders at high speeds down 50 feet with long, downhill stretches, and uphill water jet blasts across a 450-foot course taking its riders up and down and even intertwining them with existing water slides.  

Lavery Brewing has acquired the former Hungry Howie’s space on West 12th Street, which was in the same building as Lavery’s, allowing them to move forward with a new development project that will expand their seating capacity and add more restrooms. The opening is planned for early spring 2023.  

CompassionateHartMassage provided by CompHeart

A Compassionate Hart Massage Therapy is increasing its space from 1,000 square feet to 2,300 square feet. With this expansion comes the addition of a wider range of healing modalities to complement massage therapy including two Sensory Deprivation Float Rooms with client-controlled light and sound, a Himalayan Salt Cave with a Halogenerator for dry salt therapy, a cryoskin machine for cryo-physio pain as well as body-sculpting, an infrared light therapy for resolving deep inflammation, and a BioMat amethyst crystal bed.  

Scheduled to open in June 2023, Ascend Erie is a 25,000 square foot, two-story rock climbing gym located at 5th and State Street.  The new attraction will offer bouldering terrain, up to 52’ tall rope walls, yoga classes and workshops, fitness and training areas, youth programming, slacklines, retail and concessions, group spaces, and community events. Ascend Erie is the latest in a line of new businesses opening in Erie’s thriving Downtown District including the Flagship City Food Hall, Flagship City Public Market and Rita’s Downtown Erie at The Shops at 5th and State.

Sheraton Erie Exterior Dusk provided by Sherton for blog

The Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel has begun a $7.5 million renovation project. The eight-story, 200-room hotel located on Erie’s Bayfront will get new furniture throughout the building, new fixtures, hallway carpeting, and lighting.  The hotel’s restaurant, The Bayfront Grille, will also receive new furniture, equipment, and an updated dining layout. The new designs will have a maritime theme that is consistent with the hotel’s location on the waterfront. Work is scheduled to be complete by summer 2023. 

The Presque Isle Gateway District Plan is continuing with additional progress scheduled throughout 2023. With a goal to revitalize the West 8th Street corridor and the Gateway to Presque Isle between Pittsburgh Avenue and Peninsula Drive, the plan will create a welcoming, walkable streetscape using utility relocation, sidewalks, landscaping, decorative lighting, and road enhancements.  

American Corn Hole 036 May 15 2021 for blog

The Erie Sports Commission, a division of VisitErie, is looking forward to several new sports tourism developments and events coming in 2023 including two new events: the U.S. Figure Skating Association Intercollegiate Competition at Mercyhurst University (March 24-26), and the American Cornhole League at the Bayfront Convention Center (May 19-21). The Erie region will soon see new pickleball courts at the Erie Sports Center, new multi-purpose trails at Six Mile Creek Mountain Bike Trail by the Northern Allegheny Mountain Bike Association and course improvements at Pleasant Ridge Park Disc Golf.

Partner Spotlight

miac postmodern jukebox partner spotlight

MIAC Live: Postmodern Jukebox

Famed “Pop Music in a Time Machine” concert act Postmodern Jukebox brings their 10th anniversary tour to Mercyhurst University’s Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Concertgoers can expect a dazzling trip through the PMJ Universe — where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, swing, Doo-wop, and Motown, and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists.

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splash lagoon partner spotlight

Treasure Island Arcade at Splash Lagoon

Looking for something fun to do? Spend a day in the Treasure Island Arcade, where no water park admission is required! The Treasure Island Arcade is home to over 100+ games! From sports games and racing games to retro games and all-new VR motion games, there is something fun for everyone to enjoy!

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Exclusive Tourism Rewards

If you live more than 50 miles from Millcreek Mall, stop by the Customer Service Center to register. You’ll receive a Guest Rewards Tourism Program Luggage Tag. Scanning the QR Code on it will reveal special offers from participating mall merchants. If you spend $200 or more that day, take your receipts back to the Customer Service Center and you’ll get a FREE $20 Mall Gift Card. You get rewarded just for shopping!

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Set sail for an inspiring dining experience! Enjoy a unique casual dining experience on Erie's Bayfront. The Cove's nautically inspired decor and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay will have you feeling the venturous spirit of those who live their lives on the sea.

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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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Fall Harvest at Port Farms

Happy Fall Y’all! Come enjoy the farm during Fall Harvest season September 14 – October 31. Grab your friends and family and enjoy a variety of fall themed activities for every age. With over 25 attractions, our guests create long-lasting memories worth repeating. General admission includes wagon rides, an 8-acre corn maze, slide mountain, ball zone, game garden, pedal carts, corn box, Kid’s Village, animal exhibits, mindbender mazes, trike track, tire fort and so much more! Plan a birthday party with a campfire spot! PLUS, enjoy themed events and character visits!

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 458-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services. The hospital serves as a regional referral hub and is the only accredited trauma center in the region.

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COME SEE WHAT ASCEND ERIE IS ALL ABOUT!

ASCEND is a community hub in downtown Erie that features climbing, fitness, yoga, youth programming, and so much more. We opened up last year and would love to meet you! Visit on your own, with friends and family, or book a team-building event with your coworkers.

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Two45 Waterfront Grille Now Open!

Savor an exquisite waterfront dining experience at Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, where culinary excellence meets panoramic views. This signature restaurant invites you to indulge in a delectable journey with a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients and global inspirations while overlooking the serene waters of Lake Erie.

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Now Open in Downtown Erie

Five Iron Golf is blurring the lines between indoor golf and entertainment. State-of-the-art simulators and world-class instruction meet premium events and amenities plus delectable food and cocktail menus.

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Visit Edinboro, PA!

Edinboro Community and Economic Development is a regional Edinboro area non-profit committed to fostering positive community-wide growth. Through economic and civic initiatives, the ECED seeks to empower the Edinboro community to effectuate targeted change to meet current needs and build regional resilience. Edinboro is a unique area where rural and urban values intersect, and the best "small town America" qualities shine.

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Zoo partner spotlight

Discover the wild wonders of the Erie Zoo!

Home to over 300 animals from around the world - the zoo offers an immersive experience with a variety of engaging exhibits, from playful otters to majestic big cats. Enjoy up-close animal encounters, special events, and interactive keeper talks that inspire conservation and a deeper connection to nature. Whether you're visiting with family or friends, the Erie Zoo is the perfect destination for fun, education, and unforgettable memories. Join us in supporting wildlife and conservation efforts!

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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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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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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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Tia Book Cellar

Tia Book Cellar is an independent bookstore offering new and bargain books, unique gifts, puzzles, and games for all interests and ages. Located across from Gibson Park in North East, their brand embodies the local business model and the local grape heritage. Tia's believes that "there is always … local, an alternative, and a story." They look forward to helping you discover your next read or gift here.

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Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row