Seasonal Activities

Seasonal Activities in Erie

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 some of Erie’s favorite activities every season.

Spring

Shake off those winter chills and embrace the arrival of spring in Erie! Race outside to welcome warmer temperatures and fresh spring air. Take yourself on an adventurous bike ride or hike across the many trails of the Greater Erie Regional Trail Network. Cast your line in Lake Erie’s many tributaries, creeks and streams to try and hook a prized Erie Steelhead. Root, root, root for the home team at UPMC Park for the start of the Erie SeaWolves AA Baseball Team season. Say hello to your favorite animal friends when the Erie Zoo opens its gates for another Zoo-rrific year. Hit the links at one of Erie's pristine golf courses, and make a weekend of it with dinner, drinks and a hotel stay afterward.

Lake View CC 002 May 23 2022 X2 small file v2

Summer

Plan a family-friendly getaway and get ready for summertime fun in the sun! Erie’s summer months are filled with ways for you to heat things up or cool off and chill. The beaches of Presque Isle are the area’s most popular summer spot for summer fun, with soft, sandy beaches and refreshing waters. Don’t forget to cool off at Sara’s on your way out with their famous orange twist cone! Splash around at Waldameer Park & Water World or take the family for a fun round of miniature golf. Kick back with an ice cold beer on a steamy summer evening along the Lake Erie Ale Trail. Soak up the summer sun and listen to live summer music concerts or embark on an educational boat tour of Presque Isle Bay. Catch Erie’s world class sunsets from the deck of the Victorian Princess. Sample incredible food and stroll the streets of Downtown Erie on an Erie Food Tour.

Fall

The fall colors in Erie are nothing short of spectacular. Beautiful golds, fiery reds and brilliant oranges fill the area from Presque Isle State Park to Lake Erie Wine Country. The best fall foliage views can be found from atop the Bicentennial Tower or the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. Breathe in the fragrant smells of Erie’s vineyards as they mingle with crisp Lake Erie breezes. Browse local art gallery exhibits or take in a riveting theatrical performance. Shop roadside stands and farmers markets for the best locally grown products such as concord grapes, apples, squash and cider. Spend the day driving scenic byways like the Great Lakes Seaway Trail or historic Pennsylvania Route 6. Challenge your friends to a round of golf among the region’s sprawling fairways and end your day with a great meal and a great view of live thoroughbred horse racing (through October 27, 2022) at Presque Isle Downs and Casino.

Winter

When the snowflakes begin to fall, Erie transforms into a wintry wonderland packed with snowy adventures! Whether you enjoy the briskness of the outdoors or the cozy warmth of indoors, there’s so much to do here. Plan your winter retreat and book a week or weekend at one of Erie’s many hotels, cabins or bed and breakfasts. For downhill skiing, snowboarding or tubing, test your skills on the slopes at Peek ‘N Peak Ski Resort or Mount Pleasant of Edinboro. Bundle up the kids for a day of sledding at Frontier Park or escape the cold temperatures and splash around in the tropical 84 degree comfort of Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park. Grab a seat at Erie Insurance Arena for a fast-paced Erie Otters OHL Hockey game or do some holiday shopping at the Millcreek Mall. Spend time here during the holiday season attending our area’s special events, performances and celebrations.