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LGBTQ+ Travel

Pridefest Parade 15 of 34 credit David Tamulonis

Travel with Pride in Erie

The Erie region celebrates and supports the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and Intersexed and Ally/Asexual (LGBTQ+) community.

Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or are an ally, ALL are welcome!  

Erie strives to be a welcoming, equitable, inclusive community where we celebrate our rich diversity of cultures. Everyone has their own individual set of talents, skills, and perspectives. We believe that the color of your skin, the language you speak, the part of the world you come from, the faith you practice, your customs, your sexual orientation, and your gender preference, all make you the unique person you are and that each and every person brings value to our community.

Plan a trip to Erie Pennsylvania and experience a relaxing, stress-free getaway filled with love and acceptance.  

Photo credit: David Tamulonis

Experience Inclusivity and Diversity in Erie – Perfect Score on LGBTQ+ Equality Index!

In 2022, the City of Erie did something amazing - scoring a perfect 100 out of 100 on the Municipality Equality Index (MEI)! Erie’s perfect score on the MEI sets it apart as one of just five cities in Pennsylvania that demonstrate a sincere commitment to valuing and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The MEI considers several important factors including non-discrimination laws, LGBTQ+ employee resource groups, inclusivity of city services, law enforcement practices, and municipal leadership’s stance on equality.

For anyone looking for a welcoming place to live, work, or play, Erie is a perfect choice, treating all individuals with respect and dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. To learn more about the incredible work and advocacy in the City of Erie, click here.

Upcoming Events 

Pride month and every month have many events focused on celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. We welcome everyone to join us!  For a year-round list of LGBTQ+-related events and happenings, you can also visit the NW PA Pride Alliance, Greater Erie Alliance for Equality, or Erie Gay News calendars.  
Show off your pride every day with some 2023 NW PA Pride gear

Tuesday, October 3: Banned Book Drive, 6-8 p.m., Journey to a Trauma-Informed Life

Friday - Sunday, October 6-8: Michelle Michaels Pink Party Benefit Weekend 8 p.m. - 2 a.m., Zone Dance Club. 

Sunday, October 22: Haunted Drag Brunch, Noon, The Zone Dance Club 

Friday, October 27: Aging with Pride Movie Night, 7-10 p.m., "Rocky Horror Picture Show", Erie Movie House

Erie's Queer Happy Hour: Every Wednesday of the month, Oasis Pub. 6 - 9 p.m.

Bears Do Dinner - Each month this group picks a new location around the area to enjoy a social dinner. The places and dates/times are based on a group majority and establishment hours of operation. Interested in learning more? Request to join the Facebook group and post a message for information and answers to questions.

Queer Open Mic - Every third Thursday of the month from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Compton's Table, a sustainable organization where queer youth and young adults find community, are seen, valued, and affirmed. Hosted by Gwen Elaine. All queer performers are welcome!

Annual Events 

Erie Pridefest and Pride Parade 

Drive Your Pride at Presque Isle State Park

Erie Pride Picnic at Presque Isle State Park 

Erie Pride Day at Waldameer Park & Water World 

Get Involved!

Supporting your LGBTQ+ family and friends is so much more than rainbow flags. It is about recognizing and remembering the struggles that the LGBTQ+ community has faced to achieve equal justice and opportunities. There are a number of local, regional, and national organizations that advocate and do everything from fighting for LGBTQ+ rights and offering health services, to providing educational programs and managing emergency helplines.  

AFAR LGBTQ+ Travel Information and Resource Guide

Partner Spotlight

Dobbins Landing Spring 2022 EB 2

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 16 – October 29. 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, our 8-acre bigfoot corn maze, slide mountain, ball zone, game garden, pedal carts, corn box, Tiny Town, animal exhibits, mindbender mazes, trike track, tire fort and so much more! Plan a birthday party with a campfire spot! PLUS, this year we have added tons of new events that are included with admission!

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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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Cart/Horse

Cart/Horse Distilling is a first-generation woman-owned distillery, pioneering the craft in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Handcrafted care never goes out of style. We put that artistic attention into every bottle of our small batch spirits. Cart/Horse proudly produces rum, whiskey, vodka, gin, and several award-winning specialty liquors. Our robust cocktail menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients for each custom-built drink.

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AHN Saint Vincent- Award-Winning Medical Care

AHN Saint Vincent has been here from the beginning, providing award-winning inpatient and outpatient medical care. Need express care? We’ve conveniently placed AHN facilities on the west and east side of Erie, just walk-in! AHN Saint Vincent is not only recognized locally (Erie’s Choice- Best Hospital) but nation-wide, so you can expect high-quality care, greater safety, and better results.

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Oliver’s Bayfront Mini Golf

This 18-hole course is the newest addition to Oliver’s Beer Garden, offering stunning views of Erie’s Bayfront and the Bicentennial Tower. Play your round and then enjoy delicious food & drink from the snack bar or Oliver’s Food Truck!

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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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Millcreek Mall

The Millcreek Mall features more than 160 stores, restaurants, and fun for the whole family on Upper Peach Street, Erie’s most popular shopping district! Shopping in Erie means no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Choose from a variety of hotels located on the Mall property and just minutes away at the intersection of Peach Street and Interstate 90.

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Airport Image Spotlight

When you have an opportunity to fly, give Erie a try - support your hometown airport!

Direct daily flights to Charlotte. Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte with connections to many other destinations.

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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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bayfront grille

Outdoor Dining at the Bayfront Grille

The Bayfront Grille Restaurant at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel is excited to announce that our Bayside Patio is open for Lunch and Dinner. Please check Open Table for reservations or contact the restaurant directly at 814-454-2005.

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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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814 Photo

Showcasing the incredible year round beauty of the City of Erie and its surrounding areas, commonly referred to as its area code "the 814". Explore some of Erie County's most breathtaking landscape photography.

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Country Fair

We proudly opened our doors in Erie in 1965. A lot has changed between now and then, but our mission remains the same – offer fresh food, from our favorite local brands, at a convenient location. In one stop, you can fill up your gas tank and grab breakfast, lunch, groceries and a bottle of wine or a 6-pack to go. We look forward to serving you and your family during your trip to Erie!

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern is sure to give you an unforgettable and care-free dining experience. Enjoy a nautical atmosphere with a beautiful view of Presque Isle Bay.

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