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 lively nights out with friends. Located in the heart of Erie's Bayfront at the foot of State Street, the iconic Bicentennial Tower stands proudly as a symbol for the region, and is a must-visit spot for photos and sightseeing. Access to the lower-level platform is free and open to the public, and there is a small fee to take in the views atop its 138-foot observation platform, where you can see all the way to Long Point, Ontario on a clear day!
Erie's central Bayfront District is also frequented for its nightlife, with hotels, bars and restaurants with plentiful patio seating, and music venues that make for memorable summer nights.
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 Two45 Waterfront 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 that arches into Lake Erie, and is well-known for its expanse of sandy beaches and myriad of outdoor recreational opportunities. Its eleven beaches cater to different visitor needs: Beach 11 is popular for families with small children due to its protected, shallow water and large restrooms, and three beaches feature 'Mobi Mats' which allow for wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and wagons to more easily access water's edge.
Beyond its beaches, an extensive lagoon system are great for water-based exploration via kayak, canoe, and paddleboard. The state park features a 13-mile flat, paved trail for walking along the shore of Presque Isle Bay on one side, and many access points for fishing and boating.
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. 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.
814-455-6055
1 State Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-434-3307
12670 Edinboro Road
Edinboro, PA 16412
814-452-2744
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
724-316-2529
35 State Street
Erie , PA 16507
814-602-5846
12 East Dobbins Landing
next to Woody's Backwater BARge & Grill
Erie, PA 16507
1200 Lighthouse Street
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
814-452-2628
402 West Bayfront Parkway
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
5 State Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-835-8900
Waterworks Beach area
Presque Isle State Park
Erie, PA 16505
814-453-2627
2 State Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-833-7424
E Fisher Drive
Erie, PA 16507
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
Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
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