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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 choose to indulge in activities on the water or embrace the charm of its shores, an array of opportunities awaits against the stunning backdrop of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie.
Set between Downtown Erie and Presque Isle Bay, Erie’s Bayfront District presents an ideal setting for memorable family outings or exciting nights out with friends. Discover the Erie Maritime Museum, where you can tour and sail aboard two historic vessels, the U.S. Brig Niagara and the Schooner Lettie G. Howard, and explore three floors of nautical exhibits that tell the story of Erie’s pivotal role in the War of 1812 and The Battle of Lake Erie. Get a bird’s –eye view from atop the 138-foot Bicentennial Tower on Dobbins Landing, or take a stroll along the Bayfront Promenade. During the spring and summer months, live music and spirited conversations fill the air at Rum Runners, JR’s on the Bay/Sloppy Duck Saloon, and Oliver’s Beer Garden. As the weather cools and autumn and winter set in, the festivities move indoors to local restaurants such as Oliver’s Restaurant and Rooftop Bar, The Bayfront Grille, and Bay House Oyster Bar and Restaurant.
Located at the foot of State Street, the iconic Bicentennial Tower stands proudly as a symbol of Erie’s rich heritage. Built in 1996 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Erie’s founding, this magnificent landmark is a must-visit during your time in Erie. Prepare to be captivated by breathtaking views of Presque Isle Bay, Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park, the City of Erie, and the surrounding landscapes from atop its 138-foot observation platform. On exceptionally clear days, it’s possible to see Long Point in Ontario, Canada, 27 miles away! Admission is free to explore the lower-level observation platform, concession stand, and gift shop, however, there is a small fee to access the top. On the first Tuesday of each month from April to October, admission is free (weather permitting and excluding holidays). Tickets are available for purchase at the gift shop located at the base of the tower.
Hours:
May: open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Memorial Day to Labor Day: open daily 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
You just can’t top dinner with a view in Erie! Erie's waterfront restaurants offer dining by rooftop or right along the water’s edge. Set the scene for a romantic date night with dinner at Oliver’s Restaurant and Rooftop Bar or Pier 6 Rooftop Bar & Restaurant or enjoy a meal under the lush flowering canopy at Smugglers Wharf. Hidden Harbor offers some of the area’s best waterfront dining at its locations: The Cove, Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill, Oliver's Beer Garden, and Rum Runners. Relax with a craft beverage and spend a leisurely meal watching the boats sail by. The Bay House Oyster Bar and Restaurant features a unique wood-fired Argentine grill and floor-to-ceiling windows for expansive views of Presque Isle Bay. Dine on one of two inviting decks at Jr's on the Bay, The Sloppy Duck Saloon, and dance the night away on their spacious outdoor patio. Enjoy spectacular views year-round at world-class waterfront restaurants such as The Bayfront Grille (inside the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel), or The Shoreline Bar and Grill (inside the Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront Hotel).
Presque Isle State Park is Pennsylvania’s only “seashore” and a designated National Natural Landmark. French for “almost an island”, Presque Isle is a 3,200-acre peninsula curving gently into Lake Erie with seven miles of beaches, picnic areas, two lighthouses, and a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities. Presque Isle boasts distinctive qualities that set it apart from other beach destinations, and its eleven beaches each possess unique attributes that make them truly special. Beach 11 is popular for families with younger children due to its shallow, calm waters, playground area, and concession stand. It’s also one of the largest beaches at the park, giving visitors lots of room to spread out and enjoy the sun and sand. Beach 8 (Pettinato Beach) features a ramp that provides ADA access to the water’s edge and Beach 7 (Waterworks Beach) is home to a catch-and-release fishing pond. Experience the peace and tranquility of the park’s lagoon systems via kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to get up close to a variety of plant life, turtles, beavers, and waterfowl. Presque Isle Boat Rental located at the lagoon boat launch provides all the equipment you need plus eco-friendly guided tour options. Presque Isle State Park’s swimming season runs daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day, from Noon until 7:15 p.m.
Sail along the calming waters of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie from the deck of a historic vessel, a three-level paddlewheel boat, and even a pirate ship! Sightseeing boat tours are available from May through October aboard the Lady Kate for 90-minute, narrated tours or delight in dinner, brunch, themed party, or sunset cruises aboard the Victorian Princess. Embark on a swashbuckling pirate voyage aboard Scallywags Pirate Adventures where everyone is an official member of the crew. Private and public day and evening sails are available May through September aboard the impressive Sotto Voce sailboat at Your Sailing Adventure.
Rent your own watercraft to enjoy the waters of Lake Erie at your own pace. Small and large watercraft including jet skis, pontoon boats with tubing options, motor boats, canoes, paddleboards, kayaks, and more are available throughout the summer at Port Erie Sports, Presque Isle Boat Rental, and Hidden Harbor Boat Rentals. Surfing equipment, rentals, and even lessons are available throughout the summer from The Isle Surf & Skate. Put your fishing skills to the test for fresh perch and walleye on a Lake Erie fishing charter. GypsyLyn Fishing Charters and Tight Lines Sport Fishing both offer individual and group excursions throughout summer and early fall.
814-434-3307
12670 Edinboro Road
Edinboro, PA 16412
814-452-2744
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-602-5846
12 East Dobbins Landing
next to Woody's Backwater BARge & Grill
Erie, PA 16507
814-449-9012
150 East Front Street - Erie Maritime Museum
Erie, PA 16507
814-920-9666
130 E Front Street
Erie , PA 16507
814-838-3938
Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle Canoe & Boat Livery
Erie, PA 16505
814-836-0201
Perry Monument at Presque Isle
Erie, PA 16501
814-833-3604
Presque Isle State Park, east of Beach 6
Erie, PA 16505
814-833-7424
Foot of Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
814-835-8900
Waterworks Beach area
Presque Isle State Park
Erie, PA 16505
724-880-1283
Captain John E. Lampe Marina, Foot of Port Access Road
Erie, PA 16507
814-459-9696
Foot of State Street/Dobbins Landing
Erie, PA 16507
Wolverine Park Marina
34 State Street
Erie, PA 16507
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!”
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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