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Things To Do

Things To Do

In Erie, Pennsylvania, you’ll find so much to do, and time to do it all! Erie has things to do for any type of getaway. Relax along the calm waters of Lake Erie, and enjoy the local shopping, restaurants, attractions and festivals that make Erie County an exceptional place to get away. Plan your lake escape your way.

Read on and discover the many reasons why Erie is so amazing!  We also invite you to learn more about LGBTQIA travel as well as Erie's eco-friendly and dog-friendly attractions.

Beaches

Each summer, Erie’s warm temperatures and soothing waters provide numerous reasons to escape the worries of everyday life. One of the best ways to do that is to spend a day at one of Erie’s sandy beaches!

Waterfront

Erie is Pennsylvania’s only port on the Great Lakes: it’s only natural that one of Erie’s best features is its waterfront. Whether you spend time on the water or alongside it, you’ll find an abundance of things to do set against the beautiful backdrop of Presque Isle Bay.

Family Fun

Plot your summer vacations, schedule fall outings, cure those winter blues or make it a spring fling. Whatever the reason or season, make your escape to Erie for entertaining, affordable and family-friendly fun!

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Breweries & Distilleries

Erie is a popular destination for microbreweries and distilleries, each offering their own distinct take on craft beer and spirits with creative techniques, flavors and names.

Arts & Entertainment

Erie’s arts and entertainment scene is a unique blend of metropolitan spirit and small town charm. With engaging settings, riveting concerts and theatrical performances, thought-provoking art galleries, national touring acts and artists, Erie provides high caliber entertainment in an affordable, convenient setting.

Festivals & Events

Mark your calendars and don’t miss any of Erie County’s most popular harvest festivals, touring shows or sporting events! 

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Outdoor Recreation

Whether your adventurous spirit enjoys skiing, biking, running, fishing, camping, horseback riding or just spending the day in nature, Erie offers wide open spaces and fresh waters for outdoor enthusiasts!

Golf

The Erie region is home to many picturesque golf courses that welcome every type of golfer from beginner to aspiring professional. Sharpen your game and test your skills across our sprawling fairways and beautifully landscaped greens. Whether you shoot a 72 or 144, there's nothing like spending a couple hours, or even an afternoon, out on the golf course.

Fishing

Erie County is one of the country’s greatest destinations for fishing! The wide variety of waterways offer diverse game fish species including steelhead, trout, muskie, walleye, pike, bluegill, small and largemouth bass, and perch.

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Dining

Find the best restaurants in the Erie area and a variety of dining experiences. From fine dining to casual, family friendly, ethnic, fusion and grab and go, there is a cuisine to please every palate. You can dine on a rooftop, on the water or the waterfront, bayside, curbside, inside or outside. The possibilities are endless.

Wineries

Erie County is home to one of the largest grape-growing regions in the country, featuring lush lakefront vineyards and charming small towns like North East, where a walkable downtown features local shopping, restaurants and parks, and is the Erie County start to Lake Erie Wine Country.

Spas & Wellness

Pamper yourself by relaxing your mind, body and spirit at one of Erie’s wellness centers and spas. Rejuvenate and soothe your inner being. Erie's wellness centers, massage therapy and spas offer traditional services and new-age healing techniques.

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History & Heritage

Erie’s rich, historical past is filled with innovative thinkers, inventions and discoveries. Explore our region’s museums, monuments and memorials to learn the role that so many people, places and events played to shape our community into what it is today.

Sports

When it comes to sports, Erie has so much to cheer for! Erie County is home to three minor-pro sports teams, four universities with teams represented in the NCAA Divisions I, II and III and a thriving sports tourism scene.

Seasonal Activities

Erie is a great destination for a waterfront escape in any season. Whether it’s sunbathing on the beach or snow shoeing the trails, visitors never run out of things to do. Explore our seasons and discover how Erie can be your complete year-round destination getaway.

Brochures for Download

Want advice for planning your trip?  Call the VisitErie office at (814) 454-1000, and our staff will be happy to answer your questions, and send you any of the below brochures at no cost. 

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5Wits photo

5 Wits

(814) 618-6071
400 Millcreek Mall Blvd
Erie, PA 16509

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All An Act Theatre

814-450-8553
652 West 17th Street
Erie, PA 16502

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AllenStoneware

Allen Stoneware Gallery

814-572-7466
2602 West 8th Street
Erie, PA 16505

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Bicentennial Tower

814-455-6055
1 State Street
Erie, PA 16507

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Board & Brush Erie

814-392-3500
3330 West 26th Street
Village West Plaza
Erie, PA 16506

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ErieArtMuseum

Erie Art Museum

814-459-5477
20 East 5th Street
Erie, PA 16507

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Erie Commodores National Premier Soccer League

814-392-4785
Home field is Erie Sports Center
8159 Oliver Road
Erie, PA 16509

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Erie Events

814-453-7117
809 French Street
Erie, PA 16501

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Erie Insurance Arena

814-453-7117
809 French Street
Erie, PA 16501

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Erie Philharmonic

814-455-1375
23 West 10th Street
Erie, PA 16501

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Erie Playhouse

814-454-2852
12 West 10th Street
Erie, PA 16501

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Erie Station Dinner Theatre

814-864-2022
4940 Peach Street
Erie, PA 16501

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Escape Game Erie

814-580-9905
4838 West Ridge Road
Erie, PA 16506

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Escape Game Erie

814-580-9905
23 W 10th Street
Erie, PA 16501

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ECM Building

expERIEnce Children's Museum

814-453-3743
420 French Street
Erie, PA 16507

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Glass Growers Gallery

814-453-3758
10 East 5th Street
Erie, PA 16507

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Kellar's Magic & Comedy Club

814-461-0911
1402 State Street
Erie, PA 16501

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National Comedy Center

716-484-222
203 W. Second Street
Jamestown, NY 14701

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Oliver's Bayfront Mini Golf

814-920-9666
130 E Front Street
Erie , PA 16507

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PACA - The Performing Arts Collective Alliance

814-616-7222
1505 State Street
Erie, PA 16501

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Painted Finch Gallery, Inc.

814-664-3053
32 North Center Street
Corry, PA 16407

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Play Port

Play Port

814-528-5247
2730 West 12th Street
Erie, PA 16505

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Presque Isle Downs & Casino

866-ERIE-FUN (374-3386)
8199 Perry Highway/Exit 27, I-90
Erie, PA 16509

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Presque Isle Gallery & Gifts

814-835-1384
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505

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Relish Studio & Gallery

814-836-1827
3835 West 12th Street
Erie, PA 16505

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Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort

866-3SPLASH (77-5274)
8091 Peach Street
Erie, PA 16509

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Sunview Golf at Nick's Place

814-734-5098
12246 Route 99
Edinboro, PA 16412

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the Shops on the Hill

Near the Intersection of 26th and Peach Street
Erie, PA 16502

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Waldameer Park & Water World

877-817-1009
220 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505

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Warner Theatre

814-452-4857
811 State Street
Erie, PA 16501

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Partner Spotlight

spotlgiht the cove

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Join us today! 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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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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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

UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 423-bed hospital in Erie, PA, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services, and serves as a regional referral hub and Level II Trauma Center.

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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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the cork

The Cork 1794

The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.

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dobbins landing

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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Corporate Events Port Farms

Port Farms Corporate Events

Treat your employees to a unique, country experience that is sure to inspire with all of the magic the farm has to offer! Located just outside of Erie, Port Farms offers a charming countryside venue for your next company retreat! Our unique space is located on 200 rural acres and includes everything you will need to host a successful work session, work event, or company picnic. Learn more about how we can help you plan the perfect event!

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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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millcreek mall

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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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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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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