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Arts & Entertainment

Arts & Entertainment in Erie

The energy of the Erie region’s arts and entertainment flows through downtown to the surrounding communities and it is electrifying. From immersive experiences, live concerts, and mesmerizing stage productions to profound artwork that stirs your thoughts and talent that is truly awe-inspiring, Erie offers top-tier cultural attractions for everyone in an affordable, convenient, and charismatic environment.

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Must-See Museums

Erie’s museums present a rich tapestry of cultural exploration, each with its own distinctive appeal. From diverse art forms and special exhibitions to maritime tales and inspiring historical journeys, it's an immersive blend of discovery. The Erie Art Museum is home to a remarkable collection of more than 8,000 artifacts. This curated treasure trove features strengths in American ceramics, Tibetan paintings, amazing photography, and an assortment of rotating artist exhibitions that showcase local, regional, national, and international talent. Voyage into Erie’s maritime past at the Erie Maritime Museum, anchored by the U.S. Brig Niagara and the Schooner Lettie G. Howard. Both historic vessels serve as floating educational museums, offering public sails from May through October. The museum itself regales visitors with fascinating stories of Erie’s role in the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie.  Transforming history into a tangible experience, the Hagen History Center campus, once known as the Erie County Historical Society, takes guests on a captivating journey spanning two centuries of Erie’s past including “The Story of Us” exhibit, the grand Watson-Curtze Mansion, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s original San Francisco Office.

Arts and Entertainment Museums Theaters

Museums and Theaters

Catch riveting concerts and theatrical performances, national touring acts and outstanding exhibits or fill your day with enlightening museum gallery tours. The Erie area is a proud home to many theaters and museums, each with their own distinct characteristics.

The stars shine bright over the Erie Playhouse, the 12th oldest community theater in the nation. The Playhouse’s season consists of high caliber dramas, comedies, musicals and youth theater. Located right in the heart of Erie, All An Act Theatre provides a variety of thought-provoking performances in an intimate space. Its mission is to present a venue that is accessible and affordable for all theater lovers. For those who enjoy dinner and a show then the Erie Station Dinner Theatre is the place to go! Set in a vintage train sleeping car, the Station’s season includes their annual medieval feast production along with rousing sing-a-longs and silly farces.

The Erie Art Museum houses a collection of over 8,000 objects, with strengths in American ceramics, Tibetan paintings, Indian bronzes, photography, and comic book art. In addition to its regular collection, the Erie Art Museum also features special artist exhibits, an annual Juried Spring Show, Gallery Nights, Saturday tours, special events and performances throughout the year. The Erie Maritime Museum, the home of Erie’s Flagship U.S. Brig Niagara and Lettie G. Howard Schooner, tells the story of Erie’s maritime history and heritage of the Greater Erie region and the War of 1812. The museum’s centerpiece exhibit is the U.S. Brig Niagara, a floating maritime museum and active sailing vessel docked behind the museum. Formerly known as the Erie County Historical Society, the Hagen History Center Campus showcases the history of Erie County over the past 200 years in addition to special exhibits, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s original San Francisco Office.

 Warner Theater

Erie’s historic Warner Theater is an art deco and french renaissance-styled theater listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The theater was commissioned in 1929 by the world-famous Warner Brothers and completed a $17 million renovation and restoration in 2022. In addition to hosting national touring acts, Broadway shows and regional performances, the Warner is also home to the Erie Philharmonic. 

Going to see a show? Take advantage of the EMTA's Cultural Loop Free Trolley!

The Cultural Loop, a partnership between the Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) and the Erie Philharmonic, is a free trolley service providing Saturday evening service to popular events and activities throughout Downtown. For service times and stops, click here. 

 

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Public Art

Take a walk or a drive through Erie County, and you'll find colorful, towering masterpieces that reflect the diverse people and neighborhoods of the region. More than 80 murals are located throughout Erie County, with more than 30 additional murals planned for 2023 through an initiative by Erie Arts & Culture. Take a self-guided tour and get inspired by the creativity of local muralists and residents. The majority of murals are not artificially lit, therefore viewing them during daylight hours is recommended.

Download the Erie County Mural List 

Downtown Erie Sculpture Walk

The Downtown Erie Sculpture Walk features 15 sculptures in Downtown Erie and the Bayfront District, representing the work of 13 different artists from throughout the United States. The inaugural set of sculptures are on display through August 2023. For a list and map of current sculptures, click here.

 

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Make it and Take it

Take a piece of your trip home with you when you create your own works of art at places like Board & Brush Erie and Allen Stoneware Gallery. From family gatherings to birthday parties, bachelorette celebrations or co-worker team building, no artist experience is needed to have a fun, hands-on learning experience!

Located at the Village West Shopping Plaza, Board & Brush is a space for groups to gather and create a variety of wood decor projects in an entertaining atmosphere where BYOB and snacks are encouraged! Visitors can choose from more than 400 different types of signs to personalize during an instructor-led workshop.

Enjoy a fun, relaxing afternoon creating a unique piece of stoneware pottery from scratch at Allen Stoneware Gallery, located at The Shops at The Colony. Led by local artist and master potter, Vicke Allen Shea, the two-hour classes are perfect for small groups of two to eight people. In addition to classes, Allen Stoneware Gallery also features a distinctive collection of handmade pottery, gifts, and artwork that is inspired by the natural beauty of Presque Isle State Park.

 

Erie's Art & Entertainment Scene

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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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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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Covert Escape Game

814-315-9694
2061 West 8th Street
Erie , PA 16505

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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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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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Lake Erie Speedway

814-725-3303
10700 Delmas Drive
North East, PA 16428

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National Comedy Center

716-484-2222
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

814-528-5257
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

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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