Erie County was formed after Pennsylvania purchased the Erie Triangle from the U.S. Government in 1792 for approximately $151,000. Taken from part of Allegheny County, the new county was then named for Lake Erie and the Eriez Native American Indian tribe. The city was laid out in 1795 and became a port in 1801. In 1813, in what is often referred to as Erie’s proudest historical moment, Commodore Oliver Perry defeated the British in the Battle of Lake Erie. At the Battle’s climax, Perry raised his battle flag emblazoned with the words “Don’t Give Up the Ship” and ordered “close action”, severing the British line and leading to the enemy’s surrender.
Erie’s three lighthouses are picture-perfect spots for exploring Erie’s maritime history at your own pace.
Completed in 1873, the lighthouse previously housed lighthouse keepers and their families as well as state park managers before it opened to the public in 2015. The lighthouse is still a working aid to navigation. Public and group tours are available.
Memorial Day to Labor Day: Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
April and October - Open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed November through March
The North Pier Light is sometimes referred to as a lighthouse but technically it is a "light structure”. The black and white, 35-foot-tall tower topped by a light was established at its present location in the 1940s and continues to serve as an active aid to navigation.
The North Pier Light is accessible to the public year-round during regular Presque Isle State Park hours of 5 a.m. to sunset. (Pictured, photo by 814 Photo)
The present lighthouse was built in 1867, and was the first commissioned lighthouse along the Great Lakes. The former keeper's house is separate, and serves as a private residence. The light at the top of the tower functions but is not an active aid to navigation. Public and group tours are available.
April - May: Open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
June - September: Open Fridays through Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed October through March
Grounds are open from dawn to dusk year-round.
The Erie Maritime Museum tells the story of the maritime history and heritage of the Greater Erie region, the War of 1812 narrative, civilian activity and innovation, military service, and Pennsylvania’s contributions to the maritime industry and stewardship of the Great Lakes. Its centerpiece exhibit is the U.S. Brig Niagara, a floating maritime museum and active sailing vessel docked behind the museum. The schooner Lettie G Howard also sails out of Erie, providing additional maritime programs and experiences for visitors.
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. The museum features exhibit buildings, archival and curatorial collections, educational classrooms and the Battles Estates located in nearby Girard, PA.
TREC is an educational center dedicated to teaching visitors about the unique 3,200 acres of Presque Isle, the history of how the peninsula took shape and the many different forms of life that inhabit the peninsula. Called the “gateway to Presque Isle”, TREC is a free facility that features two floors of interactive exhibits, Presque Isle Gallery and Gifts, an orientation movie and a glass-enclosed observation tower with panoramic views of Lake Erie. TREC also serves as a center for research -- contributing to conservation efforts and promoting environmental awareness, helping to preserve the unparalleled beauty of Presque Isle. TREC is open year-round.
160 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-454-1813
436 Walnut Street
Girard, PA 16417
In front of Blasco Library/160 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
45 Main Street
Girard , PA 16417
814-664-4749
945 Mead Avenue
Corry, PA 16407
814-459-5477
20 East 5th Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-459-2463
2116 Chestnut Street
Erie, PA 16502
814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie , PA 16507
2650 PA-505
Erie , PA 16508
2614 Glenwood Park Ave
Erie, PA 16508
814-452-2744
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
356 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-453-3743
420 French Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-456-5969
428 Chestnut Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-796-4014
108 High Street
Waterford, PA 16441
32 High Street
Waterford, PA 16441
814-734-6699
221 Waterford Street
Edinboro, PA 16412
716-326-2003
8305 West Main Road
Westfield, NY 14787
814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16501
814-725-1911
31 Wall Street
North East, PA 16428
1200 Lighthouse Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-449-9012
150 East Front Street - Erie Maritime Museum
Erie, PA 16507
716-484-2222
203 W. Second Street
Jamestown, NY 14701
600 French Street
Erie, PA 16501
1 High Street
Waterford, PA 16441
On the bay side of Presque Isle that overlooks Misery Bay
Erie, PA 16507
814-833-3604
Presque Isle State Park, east of Beach 6
Erie, PA 16505
601 PA-5 Alt
Erie, PA 16501
814-833-7424
E Fisher Drive
Erie, PA 16507
814-474-5855
4302 Avonia Road
Fairview, PA 16415
814-833-7424
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
At the intersection of 1st Ave & W High Street
Union City, PA 16438
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Aaron Tveit makes his much-anticipated return to Mercyhurst University's Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Thursday, May 1. He earned a Tony Award his performance in “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” and has appeared in a wide range of stage, television, and film projects, including “Next to Normal,” “Schmigadoon!”, “Les Misérables,” and “Grease: Live.”
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!
A Creative Building in Erie's Little Italy. If you are looking for an authentic place eat and hang out in, you've found the right place! Presley and Pear Arts and Crafts recently opened and is a unique and inspiring place to take the kids during the day & for adults to attend Creative Workshops in the evenings!
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.
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!”
Poverty Knob offers hand-crafted beer, cocktails, mocktails and delicious sharable food year-round. The brewery is family and dog friendly with both indoor and outdoor spaces. We offer games, music and entertainment for all ages.
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.
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.
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!
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!
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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