Skip to main content

Visit Erie

Things To Do
Plan Your Trip
Events

Search:

Search:

Things To Do
Eat & Drink
Plan Your Trip
Erie Events Calendar
Regions
VisitErie Blog

An overhead photo shows a tablescape of breakfast foods

Featured

A Food Lover's Guide to Downtown Erie Restaurants

Local breweries, cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serve everything from elevated comfort food to creative new flavors, making downtown a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Meetings
Erie Sports Commission
Group Travel
About
Media
Partnerships

Events
Free Events

Aerial view of Rebich Investments Ampitheatre during an 8 Great Tuesdays concert.

Free Events in Erie

From concerts and festivals to outdoor movies, community celebrations and family activities, enjoy some of Erie's best experiences without spending a dime.

Free Things to Do in Erie

The best things in life really are free.

Categories

Adults only (21+) Concerts Cultural Events Educational Fairs and Festivals Family Friendly Food and Drink Free Events Outdoor Pet-friendly Wellness

Regions

Downtown Erie Erie Wine Country Presque Isle & Gateway

Date range

From To

Clear filters

Showing 61–65 of 65 occurrences

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle Lights 2026

Presque Isle Lights offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania's most-visited stat...

View Event
Fri Dec 25
Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle Lights 2026

Presque Isle Lights offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania's most-visited stat...

View Event
Sat Dec 26
Asbury Woods

Winter Wonderland at Asbury Woods

Asbury Woods' Winter Wonderland is returning Thursday - Sunday (except December 25) from 5:30 – 8:30...

View Event
Sat Dec 26
Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle Lights 2026

Presque Isle Lights offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania's most-visited stat...

View Event
Sun Dec 27
Asbury Woods

Winter Wonderland at Asbury Woods

Asbury Woods' Winter Wonderland is returning Thursday - Sunday (except December 25) from 5:30 – 8:30...

View Event
Sun Dec 27

Previous 2 3 4 5 6

Partner Spotlight

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

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.

Learn More
Exclusive Tourism Rewards

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!

Learn More
DICK’S Sporting Goods – Erie, PA

The Field at DICK'S Sporting Goods is where passions come to life. Designed to inspire movement and connection, The Field is a destination for community programming, field rentals, birthday parties, youth sports camps and clinics, fitness and yoga classes, product demos, and special events. Community partnerships are at the heart of everything we do, and we're proud to support local teams, athletes, and organizations while creating memorable experiences for all.

Learn More
Sealed by Nature — Handcrafted Soaps and Family Activities

Looking for a unique experience during your Erie County visit? Stop by Sealed by Nature in Edinboro, where creativity, science, and self-care come together in a hands-on experience for all ages. Visitors can enjoy walk-in activities such as painting bath bombs, creating layered bath salts, sculpting with soap dough, and making lip balm. While you're here, browse our collection of handcrafted soaps, bath products, skincare, and gifts made in small batches with carefully selected ingredients. Many of our products are inspired by nature and created right here in our Edinboro workshop.

Learn More
Open During Bayfront Construction: Oliver’s Rooftop

Join us at Oliver’s Rooftop, located on the eighth floor of the Hampton Inn & Suites on Erie’s scenic Bayfront. Open daily, with Sunday brunch from 10 AM–2 PM, featuring chef-inspired specialties. Enjoy inventive cuisine paired with stunning views, unforgettable sunsets, and unique nature watching. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows provide incredible vantage points overlooking Presque Isle Bay. Award-winning and recently recognized as Erie’s Choice Community Choice Awards Best Fine Dining Restaurant (2025). Reservations are recommended.

Learn More
The Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture

Tony and GRAMMY Award winner Renée Elise Goldsberry, best known for originating the role of Angelica Schuyler in the Broadway phenomenon Hamilton, brings her powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence to Mercyhurst University’s Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, Sept. 30.

Learn More
Visit Edinboro, PA!

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.

Learn More
Book Club on Main

Formerly Tia Book Cellar, this is an independent bookstore located across from Gibson Park in North East, offering a carefully curated selection of new books and unique gifts for readers of all ages and interests. Whether you're searching for your next favorite read, a thoughtful gift, or a welcoming place to connect with fellow book lovers, you'll find it here. More than just a bookstore, it is a gathering place offering a variety of events that bring together a love of books with engaging activities and experiences.

Learn More
Two45 Waterfront Grille

Experience Erie from the water’s edge at TWO45 Waterfront Grille, located inside the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel. Featuring panoramic views of Presque Isle Bay, TWO45 offers elevated American cuisine inspired by the region’s coastal character. From fresh seafood and premium cuts to creative cocktails and seasonal favorites, every detail is thoughtfully crafted. Whether you’re joining us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a special gathering, TWO45 is where Lake Erie views meet exceptional dining.

Learn More
Warner Theatre

Step inside the historic Warner Theatre and experience one of downtown Erie’s most iconic entertainment destinations. This beautifully restored theatre blends historic charm with modern amenities and welcomes visitors from near and far for an exciting lineup of concerts, comedy, theatre, dance, family entertainment and more. Originally opened as a movie palace in 1931, the Warner Theatre has evolved into a premier performing arts venue while preserving the architectural character that makes it a true Erie landmark. The Warner Theatre is a must-visit stop for anyone looking to experience the culture, entertainment, and energy of downtown Erie.

Learn More
UPMC Hamot – Local Access to Specialized Care

UPMC Hamot is a 445-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania. It is a regional hub for specialized health care, including advanced surgical services, private intensive care suites, and the area’s only accredited trauma center.

Learn More
Discover family fun every season at Port Farms!

From vibrant flower fields, farm animals, and exciting summer events to our famous corn maze, pumpkins, Christmas trees, and festive holiday experiences, there's something for everyone all year long. Plus, enjoy delicious food and craft beer at our family-friendly, year-round brewery

Learn More
Proudly Brewed in the 814

John Russell Brewing Co. is proudly rooted in Erie, Pennsylvania, serving locally brewed craft beer, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere. Located on upper Peach Street, the brewery features a rotating lineup of approachable favorites, seasonal releases, and small-batch brews. Whether you’re catching the game, meeting friends, or stopping in after exploring Erie, it’s a great place to enjoy a fresh, locally brewed pint. You’ll also find John Russell Brewing Co. beers poured throughout the John Russell Hospitality family of restaurants. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a true taste of what’s brewing in Erie.

Learn More
Bicentennial Tower

Take a quick ride up to the observation deck to enjoy the stunning 360° veiws of Presque Isle Bay, Lake Erie, downtown Erie, and even Long Point, Ontario on clear days – all from 138 feet up at Erie’s iconic Bayfront Tower. Snacks and Erie, PA apparel are available for purchase.

Learn More
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
Connect with Nature, Discover the Adventure

Explore the Erie Zoo, where every path leads to something new and exciting. From curious orangutans and playful otters to vibrant gardens and seasonal events, adventure awaits at every turn. Our habitats will bring you closer than you imagine to animals from around the world, creating wondrous and truly unforgettable moments. Your visit isn't about seeing wildlife —it's about connecting with nature, discovering the unexpected, and making memories you'll treasure for years to come.

Learn More
Five Iron Golf in Downtown!

Five Iron Golf is Erie’s premier indoor golf and entertainment destination, blending top-tier technology with a vibrant, social atmosphere. Featuring state-of-the-art TrackMan simulators, a full bar and kitchen, and Duckpin Bowling, it’s the perfect spot to play, practice, or just hang out. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or swinging for fun, Five Iron Golf brings people together through golf, food, and great times.

Learn More

1 / 1

Featured Partners

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie's Choice Best Hospital for ten years in a row.

Learn More
Stay for the Show

Discover five unique venues in the heart of downtown’s entertainment district, with live music, comedy and experiences for every kind of night. Make your visit unforgettable.

Learn More
Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

Learn More
Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

Learn More
Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

Learn More

Discover the best of Erie, Pennsylvania. Your guide to attractions, dining, events, and more.

Explore
Visit
Group Travel
Connect

Contact: Visit Erie
208 E. Bayfront Parkway, Suite 103
Erie, PA 16507
(814) 454-1000 | info@visiterie.com

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm | Sat-Sun: Closed

Follow Us

Newsletter
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Cookie Policy
Contest Rules

©2026 Visit Erie. All Rights Reserved.