Erie County is home to many attractions that are environmentally friendly, or “green.” Through certain guidelines, materials and practices, eco-friendly attractions produce less greenhouse gas emissions making them less harmful and more helpful to the Earth. Discover our region at these green attractions.
Through conservation of natural places, outdoor recreational opportunities, and environmental education experiences, Asbury Woods (pictured) strives to appreciate and protect natural spaces. The Andrew J. Conner Nature Center was designed with sustainability in mind including a geothermal heating and cooling system, vegetative “living” roof, natural lighting and solar heating. The meadow areas of the Brown's Farm property tell the ecological stories of interconnected ecosystems, changes to ecosystems, diversity of habitat, and human impacts on ecosystems. Read more about the meadow's current restoration project.
The Erie Art Museum’s 2015 building addition was Erie’s first attraction with a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, the second-highest level of sustainability achievement according to the U.S. Green Building Council. The museum’s green features include water-efficient fixtures, high competence heating and cooling system and recycled, rapidly renewable, low-emitting and certified construction materials.
Presque Isle State Park is a National Natural Landmark with miles of beaches and outdoor recreation. In 2021, Park officials announced a new climate and sustainability plan to bring the Park to net zero energy. The Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) is an educational and research center about Presque Isle. TREC’s green features include a floating floor to hide utilities, renewable resources, plant-based material floors, natural sunshade windows, solar panels and rainwater filters. (Pictured)
The Erie Zoo strives to foster a greater sense of awareness, stewardship and conservation of animals and plants. The water systems in some animal exhibits use recirculated water and the Zoo composts the herbivorous animal waste as well as kitchen scraps from animal diets. Most of their concession products are made from biodegradable or recyclable materials and the Zoo Gift Shop is bag-less.
LEAF is a tree museum inside Frontier Park with more than 1,000 trees. They promote environmental wellness for children, families and individuals with educational opportunities and outdoor experiences. LEAF is currently working on a project called ReLeaf, aiming to plant one tree for each citizen of Erie County outside of Frontier Park.
Looking for something fun to do? Spend a day in the Treasure Island Arcade, where no water park admission is required! The Treasure Island Arcade is home to over 100+ games! From sports games and racing games to retro games and all-new VR motion games, there is something fun for everyone to enjoy!
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.
If you live more than 50 miles from Millcreek Mall, stop by the Customer Service Center to register. You’ll receive a Guest Rewards Tourism Program Luggage Tag. Scanning the QR Code on it will reveal special offers from participating mall merchants. If you spend $200 or more that day, take your receipts back to the Customer Service Center and you’ll get a FREE $20 Mall Gift Card. You get rewarded just for shopping!
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!”
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.
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.
Savor an exquisite waterfront dining experience at Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, where culinary excellence meets panoramic views. This signature restaurant invites you to indulge in a delectable journey with a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients and global inspirations while overlooking the serene waters of Lake Erie.
Tia Book Cellar is an independent bookstore offering new and bargain books, unique gifts, puzzles, and games for all interests and ages. Located across from Gibson Park in North East, their brand embodies the local business model and the local grape heritage. Tia's believes that "there is always … local, an alternative, and a story." They look forward to helping you discover your next read or gift here.
Five Iron Golf is blurring the lines between indoor golf and entertainment. State-of-the-art simulators and world-class instruction meet premium events and amenities plus delectable food and cocktail menus.
Aaron Tveit makes his much-anticipated return to Mercyhurst University's Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Thursday, May 1. He earned a Tony Award his performance in “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” and has appeared in a wide range of stage, television, and film projects, including “Next to Normal,” “Schmigadoon!”, “Les Misérables,” and “Grease: Live.”
Home to over 300 animals from around the world - the zoo offers an immersive experience with a variety of engaging exhibits, from playful otters to majestic big cats. Enjoy up-close animal encounters, special events, and interactive keeper talks that inspire conservation and a deeper connection to nature. Whether you're visiting with family or friends, the Erie Zoo is the perfect destination for fun, education, and unforgettable memories. Join us in supporting wildlife and conservation efforts!
A Creative Building in Erie's Little Italy. If you are looking for an authentic place eat and hang out in, you've found the right place! Presley and Pear Arts and Crafts recently opened and is a unique and inspiring place to take the kids during the day & for adults to attend Creative Workshops in the evenings!
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.
ASCEND is a community hub in downtown Erie that features climbing, fitness, yoga, youth programming, and so much more. We opened up last year and would love to meet you! Visit on your own, with friends and family, or book a team-building event with your coworkers.
Edinboro Community and Economic Development is a regional Edinboro area non-profit committed to fostering positive community-wide growth. Through economic and civic initiatives, the ECED seeks to empower the Edinboro community to effectuate targeted change to meet current needs and build regional resilience. Edinboro is a unique area where rural and urban values intersect, and the best "small town America" qualities shine.
Welcome to The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant and Tavern. We invite you to enjoy a unique dining experience on Erie’s Bayfront with our nautically inspired decor, a carefully crafted menu, and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay. With both indoor and outdoor seating right next to the bay, we want to be your destination of choice when you “just want to get away from it all” but without having to go far.
Poverty Knob offers hand-crafted beer, cocktails, mocktails and delicious sharable food year-round. The brewery is family and dog friendly with both indoor and outdoor spaces. We offer games, music and entertainment for all ages.
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
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