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VisitErie Blog - family+fun

Aerial photos of PI fall814.photo 2

Friday Sep 15th, 2023

The Best Places to Enjoy Fall Foliage in Erie County

Fall in Erie is a magical time filled with crisp air, pumpkin patches, fall events and spectacular colors! The Erie region is one of the best places in Pennsylvania to experience fall’s beauty up close, especially when reflected in the waters of Lake Erie.

Water World 2 Gibbens resize

Tuesday Aug 1st, 2023

How to Stay Cool This Summer in Erie PA

With miles of pristine sandy beaches, exhilarating water parks, invigorating splash pads, and a plethora of other options that will truly embrace your love for aquatic activities, the Erie area is brimming with refreshing options.

Flower Fest by gardens of erie

Thursday Jun 29th, 2023

Say Cheese! The Best Places to take a Picture in the Erie Region

The Erie region has many unique locations that are considered to be picture perfect. Here are a few suggestions of the best places to take a picture in the Erie area. 

Fireworks credit D Tamulonis v2

Thursday Jun 1st, 2023

Happy Birthday America! Great Ways to Celebrate Independence Day in Erie PA

Independence Day weekend in Erie, PA is packed with cherished traditions, friendly gatherings, picnics, parades, dazzling fireworks, and other festivities commemorating America’s independence. 

Virginias BeachCamping from VA Beach

Thursday Jun 1st, 2023

The Best Camping Sites in Erie, Pennsylvania

Escape from the daily grind and camp under the stars in Erie PA.

Couple sailing via yoursailingadventure 2

Friday May 26th, 2023

Great Ways to Get Out on the Water in Erie PA

The Erie area provides the perfect setting for a host of water-based activities. Regardless of whether you own a boat or not, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in some outdoor fun.

Tower Sunset lake erie photo

Thursday May 25th, 2023

The Best Places to Catch an Erie Sunset

Erie, Pennsylvania is considered by many to have some of the best sunsets in the world. Photo by @robhornaman.

Fun Park mini golf credit eriesportscenter

Thursday May 11th, 2023

Summer Fun Things to Do With Kids in Erie, PA

Indulge in a summer filled with making memories and budget-friendly family fun on Erie’s beautiful shores.

Kite Beach by darlagraffphotography

Tuesday May 9th, 2023

7 Favorite Summer Activities at Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park is a National Natural Landmark and Erie’s top attraction, especially in the summertime. From pristine beaches to a rich history and natural beauty, a visit to Presque Isle promises endless fun and excitement, making it the perfect destination for a memorable summer getaway

Presque Isle Sunrise over Lake 2021 resize

Tuesday May 2nd, 2023

Free Things to Do in Erie - a Budget-Friendly Guide to Spring and Summer Fun

The Erie area is packed with free festivals, events, attractions and activities to help you plan your lake escape and save a few dollars.  

Goodell Poppy Arbor 1024x768 from Goodell

Friday Apr 21st, 2023

Celebrate Mom – Unique and Fun Ideas for Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and pay tribute to the remarkable birth mothers, adopted mothers, grandmothers, great-grandmothers, mothers-in-law, or other motherly figures by expressing our heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering love and support. 

Asbury Woods Green Roof

Friday Mar 31st, 2023

Eco-Friendly Escapades: Green Attractions and Earth Day Celebrations in Erie, PA

Erie County is home to numerous environmentally friendly attractions or "green" wonders.

Bicentennial Tower sunset SnapsbySean

Wednesday Mar 1st, 2023

Unwind and Explore - Five Ways to Spend a Spring Day on Erie’s Waterfront

Now that warmer temperatures are on the way, are you ready to “spring” out of the house and find some fun things to do? Photo by @SnapsBySean

 

 

Splash Lagoon ropes provided by Splash v2

Thursday Dec 29th, 2022

Fun Indoor Activities to Do with Kids in Erie, PA

Solve the problem every parent faces when hearing “we’re bored!” and “there’s nothing to do!” by treating them to an indoor adventure at one of Erie’s kid-friendly indoor attractions!

Erie Sign Winter lake erie photo

Monday Nov 21st, 2022

The Best Places for Outdoor Winter Fun in Erie, PA

The snow has arrived in Erie and that means SNOW MUCH FUN is waiting to be had!

FallHarvest 1 courtesy PortFarms

Tuesday Sep 20th, 2022

Five Family-Friendly Fall Festivals

Fall is a time for colorful leaves, Halloween costumes, hay rides, pumpkin spice everything and some of Erie’s favorite festivals.

Hagen Campusphoto3

Tuesday Jul 5th, 2022

Get to Know the Hagen History Center - Where History Inspires

The Hagen History Center, formerly known as the Erie County Historical Society, is a museum campus located in downtown Erie with a focus on the history of Erie County over the past 200 years. 

Lake View CC 002 May 23 2022 X2 small file v2

Tuesday Jun 14th, 2022

Father’s Day in Erie PA – Fun Things to Do with Dad

If you’re scratching your head over what to do for dad this Father’s Day, never fear!  The Erie region has some great ideas to help you along. 

Erie Food Tours

Wednesday May 19th, 2021

Top 5 Tours to Try in Erie County

Hop in your car or explore on foot, Erie has plenty of self-guided driving and walking tours to keep you busy for days.

Partner Spotlight

bayfront grille

Outdoor Dining at the Bayfront Grille

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.

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Summer Days at Port Farms

Join us for Summer Days at Port Farms from August 5th through September 10th! Enjoy 5-acres of u-pick flowers, themed festivals every weekend, special events, dances, live music, farm treats, specialty drinks, 20+ farm attractions and more! There is something for everyone.

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erie events spotlight

Erie Events

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.

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CartHorse Spotlight 400 x 300

Cart/Horse

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.

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AHN Saint Vincent- Award-Winning Medical Care

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.

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Olivers Mini Golf Spotlight 400 x 300

Oliver’s Bayfront Mini Golf

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!

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mazza spotlight

Mazza Vineyards and the South Shore Wine Company

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.

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Airport Image Spotlight

When you have an opportunity to fly, give Erie a try - support your hometown airport!

Direct daily flights to Charlotte. Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte with connections to many other destinations.

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Dobbins Landing Spring 2022 EB 2

Dobbins Landing

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.

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u pick 6 spotlight

U Pick 6 Craft Beer Pubs & Restaurants

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!”

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Hamot Spotlight 400 x 300

UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

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.

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814 photo Spotlight 400 x 300

814 Photo

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.

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Mall Image Spotlight v2

Millcreek Mall

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.

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the cove from the cove site

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

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.

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