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Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor Recreation in Erie

The Erie region calls out to adventurous souls looking to embrace the thrill and serenity that only the great outdoors can offer. Whether you find joy in gliding down snowy slopes, exploring rugged trails, seeking tranquility while casting a line, or simply reveling in the beauty of nature, Erie has it all. With expansive landscapes and pristine waters, it’s the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park is more than just a beach destination: it’s Erie’s top location and year-round playground for outdoor recreation.

Bicycling at PISP Gibbens WEB

Hiking and Biking

The 13-mile paved Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail encircles the entire park and is great for nature walks and bicycling adventures set among the scenic shorelines of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie. Coastal Living Magazine ranked the multi-purpose trail fourth on its list of the 18 best bike rides at beaches. For more rugged explorations, Presque Isle features fifteen unpaved trails ranging from easy to challenging. Bicycle rentals are available at Presque Isle Yellow Bike Rental located on the park grounds

Sailing and Boating

Set sail on Lake Erie or the waters of Presque Isle Bay: the picturesque environment and stunning views create an idyllic backdrop for your maritime adventure. Whether you’re gliding across the tranquil bay or exploring the open waters, there are ample opportunities for leisurely cruises, thrilling water sports, or simply enjoying a peaceful day on the waves. For a scenic ride and a history lesson, embark on a 90-minute narrated boat tour aboard The Lady Kate. Docked at Perry Monument, the tour offers day and sunset sails for a unique view of Presque Isle’s shores, lighthouses, wildlife, and other historical sites.

Fishing and Wildlife

Presque Isle is home to an assortment of wildlife, including migratory birds, numerous species of fish, white-tailed deer, raccoons, foxes, and amphibians. Cast your line and test your angling skills in Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay. Common species found in Lake Erie are perch, bass, walleye, trout, and steelhead while Presque Isle Bay catches can include panfish, northern pike, crappies, and muskellunge. Popular fishing locations are the lagoons, all boat landings, the East and West piers, Waterworks area, the Perry Monument, and The North Pier. Presque Isle is considered to be one of the top birding hot spots in the country due to its location along the Atlantic Flyway, making it a favorite spot for birds to stop, feed, and rest on their migration across Lake Erie. More than 339 species of birds have been documented at the park.

Presque Isle State Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to sunset. Restroom facilities are located throughout the Park, with three open year-round: Public Safety Building, Rotary Pavilion, and the Perry Monument.

Hiking

Hiking is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the Erie region’s natural beauty. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the lush woodlands and scenic trails found at Asbury Woods, Erie Bluffs State Park, and Wintergreen Gorge. Wintergreen Gorge, part of the Greater Erie Regional Trail Network, was named a "2022 Great Place in PA" by the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association. Traverse the rugged paths where sunlit filters through the canopy of trees, as you wind your way along gurgling creeks and serene streams, it’s the perfect setting for contemplation and rejuvenation. From the breathtaking lake views atop Erie Bluffs to the colorful wildflowers at Asbury Woods, Erie’s hiking trails cater to all skill levels.

Biking

With a network of well-maintained biking trails and scenic roadways, Erie is the only county in Pennsylvania with three official BicyclePA State Routes (A, Y and Z) and three national bike routes: Northern Tier Bicycle Route (4,265 miles), the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route (2,006 miles) and the Underground Railroad Spur (153 miles). Enjoy the freedom of being on two wheels as you pedal along the shores of Lake Erie on the Bayfront Promenade, part of the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, and experience refreshing breezes and stunning views. Explore Erie’s beautiful countryside, where farmlands and charming towns are nestled among acres of vineyards, rolling hills, and forests. Each July, Erie hosts Lake Erie Cyclefest, an all-cycling weekend for cyclists of all ages who are invited to participate in self-supported rides on routes that feature Erie’s vast terrain from sandy beaches and Downtown Erie to old-growth forests and fragrant vineyards.  

Fishing

With the perfect location along the shores of Lake Erie, the Erie region is renowned for its abundant fish populations and diverse angling opportunities. Lake Erie was recently ranked #3 out of the Top 100 Best Bass Lakes of the Decade by Bassmaster magazine and is a popular haven for anglers seeking adventure and the chance to reel in a memorable catch. Whether you’re casting your line from a pier, fishing from a boat on the open waters of Presque Isle Bay or Lake Erie, or wading through creeks and streams, you’ll be greeted by a wealth of species including walleye, steelhead, pike, panfish, bluegill, yellow perch, and large and smallmouth bass. Lake Erie’s nutrient-rich waters and favorable conditions contribute to the exceptional fishing experience, drawing anglers from across the globe.

Read more about fishing in Erie County here

Water Sports

With expansive coastline and calm waters, Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay is a fantastic destination offering the perfect setting for beginner and experienced watersport enthusiasts. Feel the adrenaline rush as you zip across the water on a jet ski or enjoy the peaceful serenity of gliding atop the water’s surface from a paddleboard, kayak or canoe. Get connected with nature by spending time out on the water on a relaxing sailboat or a thrilling power boat ride. Bring your own or find a variety of personal watercraft available for rent from Port Erie Sports or Hidden Harbor Water Rentals.

Winter Sports

Erie isn’t just a warm weather destination. Erie is a winter wonderland of exhilarating winter sports activities. With snowy landscapes and cold temperatures, the region transforms into a winter playground for snowboarding, skiing, ice skating, and more. Peek’n Peak Ski Resort and Mount Pleasant of Edinboro provide excellent downhill skiing, tubing, and snowboarding trails for all skill levels, complete with well-groomed slopes and amazing views. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, Asbury Woods and Presque Isle State Park provide trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing among beautiful winter scenery.

Hit the Trails

Need inspiration for your next adventure? For wooded or water trails, these songs are perfectly paired for a day in the great outdoors. Check out all of VisitErie's playlists here

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Asbury Woods Nature Center

814-835-5356
4105 Asbury Road
Pet friendly (outside trails only)
Erie, PA 16506

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Beechwood Golf Club

814-833-0527
6401 Gorski Rd
Fairview, PA 16415
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Camp Sherwin/YMCA

814-774-9416
8600 West Lake Road
Lake City, PA 16423

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Culbertson Hills

Culbertson Hills Golf Resort

814-734-3114
301 W Plum St #2122
Edinboro, PA 16412
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Double D.A.B. Riding Stables

716-736-4418
5811 Welch Hill Road
Ripley, NY 14775

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Elk Valley Golf Course

814-474-2356
7085 Van Camp Road
Fairview Township
Girard, PA 16417

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Erie Bluffs State Park

814-833-7424
11100 West Lake Road
Lake City, PA 16423

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Erie Golf Club

814-866-0641
6050 Old Zuck Road
Erie, PA 16506

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Erie KOA Kampgrounds

814-476-7706
6645 West Road
McKean, PA 16426

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Erie Sports Center

412-852-7508
8159 Oliver Road
Erie, PA 16509

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Erie Zoo & Botanical Gardens

814-864-4091
423 West 38th Street
Erie, PA 16508

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FishUSA

800-922-1219
6960 West Ridge Road
Fairview, PA 16415

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Folly's End Campgrounds

814-474-5730
8600 Avonia Road
Girard, PA 16417

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Goodell Gardens & Homestead

814-734-6699
221 Waterford Street
Edinboro, PA 16412

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Greater Erie Regional Trail Network

814-454-1770
150 East Front Street, Ste 300
Erie, PA 16507

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GypsyLyn Fishing Charters

724-316-2529
35 State Street
Erie , PA 16507

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Harbor Ridge Golf Course

814-898-4653
3730 Harbor Ridge Trail
Erie, PA 16510

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Hidden Harbor Water Rentals

814-602-5846
12 East Dobbins Landing
next to Woody's Backwater BARge & Grill
Erie, PA 16507

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Hilltop Hatcheries

814-664-8560
12150 Route 6
Corry, PA 16407

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Hulings Blueberries and Farm Market

814-450-6107
5095 Old State Road
Edinboro, PA 16412

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Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park (LEAF)

814-453-5323
1501 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16505

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Lake View Country Club

814-725-9644
8351 Route 89
North East, PA 16428

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Lampe Campground

814-454-5830
Ft. of, Port Access Rd
Erie, PA 16507

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Land Lighthouse

1200 Lighthouse Street
Erie, PA 16507

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Lettie G. Howard

814-449-9012
150 East Front Street - Erie Maritime Museum
Erie, PA 16507

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Mound Grove Golf Course & Restaurant

814-796-2767
10760 Donation Road
Waterford, PA 16441
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Mount Pleasant of Edinboro- Skiing, Tubing, Walking & Biking Trails

814-734-1641
14510 Mt. Pleasant Road
Cambridge Springs, PA 16403

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Oliver's Bayfront Mini Golf

814-920-9666
130 E Front Street
Erie , PA 16507

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Peek 'n Peak Resort

716-355-4141
1405 Olde Road
Clymer, NY 14724
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Port Erie Sports

814-452-2628
402 West Bayfront Parkway
Erie, PA 16507

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Port Farms

814-796-4500
2055 Stone Quarry Road
Waterford, PA 16441

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Presque Isle Boat Rental

814-838-3938
Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle Canoe & Boat Livery
Erie, PA 16505

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Presque Isle Boat Tours - The Lady Kate

814-836-0201
Perry Monument at Presque Isle
Erie, PA 16501

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Presque Isle Lighthouse

814-833-3604
Presque Isle State Park, east of Beach 6
Erie, PA 16505

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Presque Isle Passage RV Park & Cabins

814-833-3272
6300 Sterrettania Road
Fairview, PA 16415

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Presque Isle State Park

814-833-7424
Foot of Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505

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Presque Isle Yellow Bike Rental

814-835-8900
Waterworks Beach area
Presque Isle State Park
Erie, PA 16505

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Riverside Golf

814-398-4692
24527 U.S. Highway 6 & 19
Cambridge Springs, PA 16403
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Scallywags Pirate Adventures

814-453-2627
2 State Street
Erie, PA 16507

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Sunview Golf at Nick's Place

814-734-5098
12246 Route 99
Edinboro, PA 16412

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Tight Lines Sport Fishing LLC

724-880-1283
Captain John E. Lampe Marina, Foot of Port Access Road
Erie, PA 16507

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Victorian Princess Cruises

814-459-9696
Foot of State Street/Dobbins Landing
Erie, PA 16507

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Virginia's Beach Lakefront Cottages & Camping

814-922-3261
352 Holliday Road
North Springfield, PA 16430

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Waldameer Park & Water World

877-817-1009
220 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505

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YourSailingAdventure

Your Sailing Adventure

Wolverine Park Marina
34 State Street
Erie, PA 16507

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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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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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Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales

Stop by Port Farms to check out the newest addition, Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales. We offer hand-crafted beers 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!

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

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.

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erie events spotlight

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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814 Photo

Showcasing the incredible year round beauty of the City of Erie and its surrounding areas, commonly referred to as its area code "the 814". Explore some of Erie County's most breathtaking landscape photography.

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Farmhouse Retreat

Your “Home Away from Home” short term rental sleeps 8 and is in a great location close to Erie Sports Center, Splash Lagoon, shopping and restaurants, as well as Steelhead Fishing. This restored 1881 Farmhouse is located on 10 private acres. Reminisce about bygone days when life was slower and simpler. With a long driveway and large yard, kick back by the firepit, watch wildlife or enjoy a beautiful Erie sunset from the back patio.

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The Cork 1794

Open for Lunch and Dinner. Get ready for an experience like no other. An atmosphere where uncommon style, comfort and service seamlessly meld. Where food and beverages are expertly crafted to be beautiful, satisfying and truly special. A place that makes every day feel like a reason to celebrate.

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

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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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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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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ASCEND Erie - Climbing | Fitness | Yoga

NOW OPEN! ASCEND fosters a community-centered climbing, fitness, and yoga experience by serving individuals and groups of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Located in Downtown Erie, ASCEND welcomes Erie visitors to stop in and give climbing a try!

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Soak in the fun!

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

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

Ante-up, Erie.

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

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Just for fun!

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

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Just for fun!

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

Ante-up, Erie.

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

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

Soak in the fun!

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