A two or three-day winter weekend escape to Erie promises unforgettable memories for the whole family. While it’s impossible to experience everything the region offers, a few must-visit spots will ensure a memorable trip. From plunging down water slides at Splash Lagoon to exploring the history of Presque Isle State Park, your two or three-day getaway awaits. Here are some fun suggestions to help you plan. (Header photo credit: Carly Shoulders)

Day 1

Morning: Fuel up with a hearty homestyle breakfast at Avanti’s, a local favorite since 1975. Breakfast is available all day, including a wide selection of omelets, a classic choice.
Mid-Morning: The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is a free attraction that details the formation and inhabitants of Presque Isle State Park, Erie’s top attraction, through two floors of interactive exhibits. There’s also a 75-foot observation tower with panoramic views of Lake Erie.
Lunch: Everyone is part of the family and welcomed with open arms at Roma’s Italian Kitchen. Known for its fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and more than generous portions, this family-forward restaurant offers traditional Italian fare, family-style options, and delicious house specialties such as the lasagna, one of Erie’s best.  
Afternoon: Spark your family’s creativity with a hands-on pottery class at Allen Stoneware Gallery. This interactive experience is perfect for groups up to 16 and appropriate for ages 8 and up, offering step-by-step guidance to help everyone craft two functional take-home pieces.
Dinner: Enjoy outdoor winter waterfront dining from the comfort of a fully heated igloo at Two45 Waterfront Grille! The igloos accommodate up to eight guests and offer stunning views of Erie’s Bayfront in all its winter splendor.

Day 2

Morning: Give a Crepe/La Creperie adds a delicious twist to breakfast with homemade savory and sweet crepes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. A fan favorite is the Fosters Banana Caramel, featuring your choice of an orange or vanilla crepe filled with sliced bananas and house-made cinnamon caramel sauce. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.
Mid-Morning: Indulge in Erie’s iconic sponge candy at Romolo Chocolates—a crispy honeycomb toffee coated in milk or dark chocolate. Pair it with handcrafted cocoa from the Cocoa Café.
Lunch: Quaker Steak & Lube is a hit with families thanks to its fun atmosphere, flavorful wings, and kid-friendly menu. The added bonus of duckpin bowling makes it an ideal dining and entertainment spot.
Afternoon/Evening: Consistently ranked as one of the “Top 10 Water Park Resorts” in the country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice, Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park has attractions for every member of the family - including towering slides, gentle splash zones, a tiki bar for the parents, and the largest indoor wave pool in the eastern U.S.. In addition, Splash Lagoon has an arcade, tree tops ropes course, on-site dining, and is conveniently connected to three hotels.

Day 3 Add-On

Morning: The day begins with breakfast at The Bakery on 5^th, where American and Turkish flavors come together in a tempting array of sweet treats, coffees, hot chocolates, and teas. From muffins and shortcakes to Midye Baklava, a nutty, buttery Turkish delight cut into small mussel-like shapes, there’s something for everyone.
Mid-Morning: Create, explore, imagine, and play at the expERIEnce Children’s Museum. Fresh off a multi-million dollar renovation and expansion, the museum now features three floors of immersive exhibits, including Lake Life, an Erie-themed interactive water play that is the second largest water table in the country.
Lunch: Even the pickiest of eaters will find something they love at The Flagship City Food Hall. This family-friendly community dining hub showcases all local vendors, such as ippa Pizza, Cheeserie, Noodlelove, and Taco Cantina.
Afternoon: Five Iron Golf seamlessly blends indoor golf and entertainment for a fun family experience.  State-of-the-art simulators allow you to play on renowned golf courses from around the world or enjoy interactive video games that are suitable for all ages.
Dinner: You can’t help but smile at the cheerful robots delivering meals at SobaEra-Tsaocaa. These friendly robots (with human helpers) bring flavorful dishes of Asian fusion cuisine, including steaming bowls of ramen and pho, perfect for a chilly winter day. Don’t miss the Tsaocaa bubble tea, a fruity fun drink with chewy tapioca pearls.

Lodging

• Elevate your Erie getaway by staying in a luxurious treehouse. Nestled in the woods just outside the city, Lake Erie Treehouses feature modern amenities set amidst a peaceful winter landscape.
• Three hotels directly connect to Splash Lagoon, a convenient benefit, especially during colder weather.
• Click here for a complete list of Erie County lodging options.

Know Before You Go

• Call ahead to reserve igloo space at Two45 Waterfront Grille: 814-240-7263.
• Splash Lagoon offers a variety of family-friendly overnight packages.
• Parking in Downtown Erie is easy to find with ample street and ramp options.
• Make sure to order your free copy of the 2026 Erie Visitor Guide for more trip inspiration!

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