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Fall Presque Isle from Presque Isle

The Best Places to Enjoy Fall Foliage in Erie County

Saturday Oct 1st, 2022

Fall in Erie is a magical time filled with crisp air, pumpkin patches, fall events and spectacular colors! Erie County is home to some of the best places to experience fall’s beauty up-close, especially when reflected in the waters of Lake Erie. Take a scenic drive, go for a relaxing walk and snap plenty of Instagrammable photos along the way throughout the month of October.  This year, Erie’s peak week for fall foliage is October 16 - 22, however, watching the month-long transformation from verdant green to vibrant reds, oranges and golds can be just as fascinating.  For serious “leaf peepers”, Pennsylvania provides weekly fall foliage reports complete with helpful tips and resources for optimum viewing. Share your favorite fall foliage photos and use #VisitErie!

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Presque Isle State Park

Perhaps the best place for the most gorgeous fall foliage in Erie County is Presque Isle State Park.  For fantastic views, walk or drive among the 13 miles of trees, shrubs, flowering plants flanked by Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie.  The sequence of warm sunny days and chilly nights provide the perfect scenario for the leaves to shine in a brilliant display of fall colors. The best places for memorable photo opportunities can be found at the Presque Isle Lighthouse, Perry Monument, The Feather (pictured) and simply everywhere in between.  Find a map of locations here

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Asbury Woods

The winding trails and towering trees that call Asbury Woods home set the scene for a perfect fall foliage adventure.  Some of the most beautifully colored trees on Asbury Woods’ 200-acre property can be found just inside the main entrance in front of the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center.  The oaks, maples, beech and tulip trees are bursting with color and ready to be the backdrop for your fall photos.  For added opportunities, stroll along the wooden boardwalk trail, make the short walk to Walnut Creek or journey a little farther to Brown’s Farm. 

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The Great Lakes Seaway Trail

Take a scenic drive to Lake Erie Wine Country along Route 5 in Erie County, also known as the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, where you will not only encounter spectacular views but the fragrant aroma of grapes ripening on the vine. The Great Lakes Seaway Trail is a 518-mile National Scenic Byway stretching from the Ohio/Pennsylvania border to Sackets Harbor, NY along the Lake Erie coastline.  For a complete fall experience, grab a photo of yourself with family and friends in front of Mazza Vineyards or Penn Shore Vineyards, both located along this scenic route. 

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Frontier Park/LEAF

Wander among the hundreds of deciduous trees, shrubs and flowers found at the Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park to see a striking showcase of fall colors.  Frontier Park is a viable and sustainable green space located in the heart of Erie featuring more than 1,000 trees.  Get a fall feast for the eyes by meandering through the park’s elaborate labyrinth, going for a streamside stroll along Cascade Creek or sharing a walk with your four legged friend on the multi-purpose pathway.    

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Wintergreen Gorge

Delight the senses with the crunch of leaves underfoot, the babbling sounds of Four Mile Creek, the smell of fresh forest soil and the breathtaking views along the six mile expanse of Wintergreen Gorge in Harborcreek, PA.  The gorge was carved from shale and sandstone by the creek and is a partially mature forest featuring large quantities of its namesake American Wintergreen plants with bright red berries.  Grab the best fall foliage shots from atop the gorge’s overlook or its tranquil waterfall.

Harrington Covered Bridge

Historic PA Route 6

Amidst a stunning sea of color winds historic Pennsylvania Route 6, the perfect route for a fall foliage road trip through southern Erie County. Erie County's portion, Route 6N, leads visitors through the charming towns of Edinboro and Corry as well as Albion, PA where covered bridge enthusiasts will find the picturesque Harrington Covered Bridge. This well-maintained, still functional bridge was originally built in 1870 and rebuilt in 1962.  Following Route 6 from one side of Pennsylvania to the other is a leaf peepers’ dream, traveling through endless forests of ever-changing leaves, friendly small towns, overlooks, shops, restaurants and parks.

Partner Spotlight

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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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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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.

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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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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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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!

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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.

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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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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.

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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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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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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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