The Cove Bayside Restaurant and Tavern: After a full-scale renovation last summer, The Cove opened for the season with a fresh nautical look, a revamped menu, and the same unbeatable bayfront views. The 40-foot tiki hut adds a breezy, island-style touch, a perfect setting for sipping a tropical cocktail or digging into a plate of lobster nachos.

Edinboro Lake Resort Sunset Grill: Right on the edge of Edinboro Lake, the Sunset Grill offers casual waterfront dining in the picturesque town of Edinboro. With salads, sandwiches, burgers, and craft beer on the menu, plus live music Thursday through Sunday, it’s a low-key spot to kick back and take in the view.

Oliver’s Beer Garden: With up-close views of Presque Isle Bay and the Bicentennial Tower, Oliver’s is the place to unwind with cold beer, adult slushies, and casual food truck fare. Live weekend music adds an energetic vibe, making it a spot you’ll find hard to leave.

JR’s on the Bay/Sloppy Duck Saloon: There’s nothing quite like summer at The Duck. A local favorite, this laid-back Erie Bayfront hangout comes to life with colorful bungalows, tiered decks, a roomy patio, and a sprawling tented space for dancing, sipping, dining, and soaking in the views.

Pier 6 Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: Perched atop the Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel parking garage, this seasonal spot offers sweeping views of Presque Isle Bay from two spacious rooftop patios. Cozy up by a fire pit, sip under an umbrella, play cornhole, or settle into a lounge chair to enjoy a great meal and conversation.

Rum Runners: One of Erie’s go-to summer hangouts, Rum Runners is accessible via land or lake, with direct boat access to its sizeable patio. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arriving early can help you secure a prime spot for incredible sunset views and live music.  

Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill:  Erie’s only floating restaurant brings together casual eats, drinks, and live music, all in a breezy, Florida Keys-style setting. It’s a relaxed spot where delicious smash burgers and playful cocktails such as the Wobbly Worm are best enjoyed with a breeze and a view.

Sara’s: Just outside the entrance to Presque Isle State Park, Sara’s welcomes visitors with its bright red picnic tables and playful 50s-style décor. It’s the kind of spot where a Smith’s foot-long hot dog or an orange-vanilla twist feels just right, especially on a warm Erie summer day.

Cloud 9 Wine Bar and Restaurant: Tucked in the middle of Downtown Erie, Cloud 9 pairs elegant small plates and a well-curated wine list with front-row views of city life. The sidewalk patio is also pet-friendly, making it a central spot to do a little people-watching with your furry friend as the city buzzes around you.

The Cork 1794: The stylish outdoor patio at The Cork welcomes guests in for a leisurely lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch while relishing in a creative menu sourced from local ingredients. Its outdoor space is thoughtfully designed with a decorative pergola, large-screen TV, and heaters that extend patio season through early fall.

Give A Crepe LaCrepErie: When the weather is top-notch, outdoor seating is set up at this neighborhood gem. With gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options, anyone can enjoy their delicious sweet and savory crepes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.  

Luckie Louie’s Beer and Wieners: For hot dogs with personality and a huge cooler of craft beer to match, Lucky Louie’s keeps things fun and flavorful. With names like Nacho Average Wiener and Asian Invasion, plus picnic tables to kick back with your beer and dog, it’s an easy-going spot that doesn’t take itself too seriously.