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The tours are available at no cost on the free 'Hello Erie' Trip Planner App.
VisitErie has partnered with the creators of A Shared Heritage Tour and Erie Arts & Culture to create the African American Heritage Trail, a tour that celebrates Erie County Black History, available through VisitErie’s ‘Hello Erie’ trip planner app. The Erie African American History Tour features historic points of interest, public art, and businesses that pay tribute to the City of Erie's African American heritage, including the church where internationally celebrated soloist and composer Harry T. Burleigh sang in the choir. New Jerusalem, one of Erie's oldest neighborhoods, is where African American families provided much-needed refuge for men and women fleeing enslavement through the Underground Railroad.
Explore Erie’s three lighthouses: the Presque Isle Lighthouse, the North Pier Light and the Erie Land Lighthouse. The Presque Isle and Erie Land Lighthouses offer visitors the chance to climb their towers and take in panoramic views of Lake Erie and Presque Isle State Park, all while learning the history and function of each light. The North Pier Light is on the tip of the north pier at Presque Isle State Park just past the entrance to the Coast Guard Station. Although it’s not an actual house, the North Pier Light is available to view year-round. Public tours of the Presque Isle Lighthouse and the Land Lighthouse run May through September.
Erie County is home to more than 50 historical markers, each one dedicated to either a person, place or event that has had a historical significance to Erie County, Pennsylvania, or the country. Travel throughout the City of Erie and surrounding towns of Union City, Corry, Edinboro, Girard, Waterford and others to discover such markers honoring the Erie Extension Canal, Fort LeBoeuf, Harry Kellar, Perry's Shipyards and Miracles on Maple Hill. Click here to access the tour information.
Historical marker information was compiled by Bethany DeMuth from the Erie Times-News.
More than 85 public murals are located throughout Erie County, providing visitors with the perfect Instagram-worthy self-guided tour. Mural enthusiasts should seek out the photogenic “Flotsam” mural located on the second level observation deck of the Bicentennial Tower or “Rudy”, a larger than life mural covering the side of Mid-City Towers in Downtown Erie. Explore by yourself or with family and friends and be inspired by the creativity of Erie’s local muralists and residents. Most of the murals are located outside, however, there are a few located inside area businesses. The majority of murals are not artificially lit, therefore viewing them during daylight hours is recommended.
Download the Erie County Mural List Download the Mural Google Map.
PA Route 6 Public Art and Mural Trail
The newly unveiled trail consists of more than 50 stops throughout the 11-county PA Route 6 corridor, including Erie County. Each stop can be viewed through an interactive map that pinpoints the exact location of each art piece and mural. Viewers can click on each pin on the map to see photos and a brief description of what they will find at each stop along the trail.
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.
Purchase the Erie County Historical Society's Home Port self guided driving tour to visit historic Bayfront and waterfront sites. With the purchase of the driving tour ($15), guests will receive the book 'Home Port Erie' by Robert MacDonald & David Frew.
Adventure Cycling Association’s Underground Railroad Bicycle Route, which memorializes the network of clandestine routes by which African freedom seekers attempted to escape slavery before and during the Civil War, is a 1,997-mile bicycle route from Mobile, Alabama to Owen Sound, Ontario that passes through the City of Erie and along the shoreline of Erie County.
This self-guided driving tour through western Pennsylvania follows the route of young George Washington's first military and diplomatic venture from fall 1753 through winter 1754. Today, the route follows major roads, however in some areas there are alternate historic or scenic routes suggested which may more closely align with Washington's travel in the fall of 1753, and these are likely to be back roads.
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.
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.
The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.
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.
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!”
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.
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.
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.
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.
Direct daily flights to Charlotte. Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte with connections to many other destinations.
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.
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!
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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