Skip to Main Content

VisitErie Blog

Erie Sign Winter lake erie photo

The Best Places for Outdoor Winter Fun in Erie, PA

Monday Nov 21st, 2022

The snow has arrived in Erie and that means SNOW MUCH FUN is waiting to be had!  So layer up, grab your friends and family and head outdoors for some wintry adventures!  

AsburyWoods Winter Wonderland 14

Asbury Woods


With over 216 acres, 5 miles of trails, cross country skiing and snowshoeing is a great way to embrace Erie's chilliest season.  Fun for all ages and skill levels. Check out clinics, rentals, nature explorations, bird watching, community and school programs and the popular Maple Festival populate the winter months. Winter Wonderful is coming back to Asbury Woods! The boardwalk adjacent to the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center at Asbury Woods will be lit up each night in December (except December 24 and 25) from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. for the community to enjoy a peaceful evening stroll on the boardwalk through the woods. Holiday lights will twinkle in the woods and wetlands along the boardwalk which covers 1/3 of a mile. Stop inside the Nature Center and view the animal exhibit and browse holiday items for sale in the expanded gift shop with products from local artisans.

Resize Bayfront Ice 009 February 15 2022 X3 Gibbens

Ice Fishing


Presque Isle Bay was named as one of the Top Winter Fishing Destinations in the Country by FishingBooker.  When the ice is at least 6” thick, Presque Isle Bay is the most popular ice fishing spot along with Horseshoe Pond and Misery Bay in Presque Isle State Park. Most ice fishing is for pan fish, especially perch or the occasional steelhead. Fish USA is a great resource for ice fishing tips.

VisitErie Mount Pleasant 060 December 23 2019 X2 v2

Mount Pleasant of Edinboro


Featuring downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snow programs, lessons and a tuning shop, Mount Pleasant offers so much for winter lovers in the heart of Erie County’s Snow Belt.  Six manmade trails and four natural trails with most trails lit up at night to allow for safe night skiing and snowboarding. The 600’ tubing hill has 8 lanes for the ultimate outdoor winter fun – bring your own tube or use theirs! A new addition has been added, a 120-foot long covered conveyor lift!  This conveyor lift will greatly increase the beginner terrain and allow for more effectively educate new skiers and snowboarders.

presque isle winter

Presque Isle State Park


Open year-round the Park’s multi-purpose trail is cleared of snow from the main entrance to the Public Safety building.  Call ahead to check which areas are open for walkers, cross country skiers and snowshoeing. Ice dunes along the shorelines are popular with visitors, however, due to hollow, hazardous conditions, please enjoy them from a distance.  

Frontier Park w Bridge lake erie photo

Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park (LEAF)


Frontier Park features paved, natural and gravel paths for walking, cross country skiing or snowshoeing. While there, discover the Benjamin Winter Garden, only the third of its kind in the United States.  The garden showcases plants that are at their best when most other plants are asleep. Bring your sleds and enjoy an afternoon of fun on the hill. Photo by @Lake_Erie_Photo on Instagram.

Peek n Peak Skiing 1

Peek 'n Peak


Get ready for a totally tubular experience on one of the Peek’s 14 tubing lanes.  Ride the “Magic Carpet” lift, try Lunar Lights Tubing or test yourself at the Peak’s progressive Terrain Parks (180, 360 and 540 degrees) that are designed to challenge skiers and riders.  

Bluffs Waterfront Biddle 2021

Erie Bluffs State Park


Erie Bluffs is the largest undeveloped stretch of land overlooking Lake Erie and is a great place for a natural winter nature hike.  The Park features a variety of environmental education and recreational programs year-round including guided walks, hands on activities and evening programs.

Partner Spotlight

the cork

The Cork 1794

The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.

Learn More

dobbins landing

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.

Learn More

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!”

Learn More

Corporate Events Port Farms

Port Farms Corporate Events

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!

Learn More

upmc

UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

millcreek mall

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.

Learn More

Untitled design 1

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

Direct Daily Flights to Charlotte and Chicago.
Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines and United Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte and Chicago with connections across the country and around the world. Book your flight today at www.aa.com or www.united.com

Learn More

spotlgiht the cove

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More