Erie is in the path of totality for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse! As we prepare to welcome potentially unprecedented crowds to Erie County for this once-in-a-lifetime event, please utilize the resources below for your planning.
Pennsylvania is expected to see between 52,00 and 207,000 visitors according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com and the majority of those visitors are expected in Erie County. Please share your plans with VisitErie so that we can get the information to the correct groups to ensure our community is prepared to offer a safe and memorable event!
If you have any questions or feedback, please reach out to Janice Friedrichsmeyer at (814) 454-1000.
Communities across the country learned so much from the last Total Solar Eclipse to sweep the United States in 2017. The information below was pulled from a variety of case studies from 2017 Eclipse destinations, as well as best practices from eclipse experts. You can utilize a full library of resources at eclipse2024resources.com.
Data from "Being in the Shadow" White Paper by Dr. Kate Russo
Data from "A Case Study in Preparing Small Town, USA for a Super Bowl-Like Event" by Brook Kaufman, Visit Casper
Read both resources and other 2017 impact data here.
Read the full list of recommendations from the American Astronomical Society Solar Eclipse Task Force here.
Eclipse Preparedness Checklists by business type, created by VisitErie, are available for download below.
Food and Beverage Attractions and Business Events Retail Accommodations
It's not a matter of if people will travel to Erie for the Eclipse - it's a matter of how many. When deciding how to welcome visitors, consider making the experience extra special with an eclipse-related package, special menu, or off-season access to an amenity or location that's typically not open in April.
Examples include:
If you're planning something special to commemorate Erie's Total Solar Eclipse, submit the details using the form below. We'll reach out with any questions, and will compile the information to share with visitors.
UPMC Hamot is a 445-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania. It is a regional hub for specialized health care, including advanced surgical services, private intensive care suites, and the area’s only accredited trauma center.
$5 First Fridays through November, offering everyone a $5 Day Pass all day long! In town for a minute? Purchase a 3-Day Pass (for less than the price of 2 day passes) and visit up to 3 times in a 7-day span! Plus, shoe and chalk rentals are on the house for first-timers.
Located at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, Two45 pays homage to the precisde moment in history that Oliver Hazard Perry bravely led the US Navy on the path to victory during the Battle of Lake Erie. As a tribute to our fair city, the restaurant offers upscale, traditional American cuisines with a focus on seafood adn coastal fare. Chef's specialities include macadmania-crusted grouper filet, premium beef cuts, and bone in tomahawk pork chop. Private dining room available.
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.
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.
In honor of its Centennial year, the Erie Zoo invites guests to be part of a century-long legacy of discovery, conservation, and connection. Throughout this year’s celebration, visitors can enjoy special events, interactive keeper talks, and up-close animal encounters that inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether it’s a family outing or a day of adventure with friends, the Erie Zoo continues to be a cherished destination for fun, education, and unforgettable memories.
Families can escape the cold at Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort, where it’s always 84 degrees and tropical. This Polynesian-themed destination features nine water slides, pools, hot tubs, a multi-level Tree House, and a massive arcade for all-day family fun. Recently ranked the No. 2 Best Indoor Water Park in the U.S. by USA Today’s 10Best, Splash Lagoon is the ultimate cold-weather getaway.
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.
Hop aboard the Presque Isle Water Taxi for a scenic ride across the bay! The “Aquabus” departs Dobbins Landing on the hour and Water Works pier on Presque Isle on the half-hour, providing a quick ride to the beaches and trails at Presque Isle State Park. The vessels provide capacity for 30 passengers and 5 bicycles and include bathroom facilities on board. Private charters and sunset cruises are also offered during the summer season.
Dine. Sip. Enjoy the view. Admire the stunning views of the Lake Erie bayfront, either from Pier 6 Rooftop Bar or Bay House Oyster Bar. Pier 6 offers indoor and outdoor dining, with two rooftop decks. Bay House provides an upscale experience as Erie’s Only Fresh Oyster Bar & Wood-Fired Argentine Grill. All in one location, with two unique experiences.
Happy Fall, Y’all! Celebrate the season September 13 – November 2 with 25+ attractions for all ages—wagon rides, an 8-acre corn maze, slides, pedal carts, animal exhibits & so much more! Enjoy themed events, character visits, and even campfire spots. Create memories worth repeating! Located just 13 miles south of I-90.
Erie Events plays a pivotal role in hosting a diverse array of events, including concerts, Broadway productions, family shows, and sporting events. Visit the five venues: Erie Insurance Arena, Waner Theatre, Bayfront Convention Center, UPMC Park and the Rebich Investments Amphitheater at Liberty Park.
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.
Get ready for another season of world-class performances as the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture returns with an electrifying 2025–2026 lineup spanning genres, generations, and global influences.
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!
Welcome to The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant and Tavern. We invite you to enjoy a unique dining experience on Erie’s Bayfront with our nautically inspired decor, a carefully crafted menu, and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay. With both indoor and outdoor seating right next to the bay, we want to be your destination of choice when you “just want to get away from it all” but without having to go far.
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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