Skip to Main Content

Things To Do

Things To Do

In Erie, Pennsylvania, you’ll find so much to do, and time to do it all! Relax along the calm waters of Lake Erie, and enjoy the natural beauty, local food, attractions and festivals that make Erie County an exceptional place to get away. 

Beaches

Each summer, Erie’s warm temperatures and seven miles of sandy beaches give visitors the perfect reason to get away. 

Waterfront

With a location on Lake Erie, it’s only natural that one of Erie’s best features is its waterfront. Whether you spend time on the water or alongside it, you’ll find an abundance of things to do set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay.

Family Fun

Affordable family fun is one of the things that Erie does best. Pack up the car and get wrapped up in activities that you and your kids will all love. 

Waldameer Rally Racer 1

Breweries & Distilleries

Home to the Lake Erie Ale Trail, something new is always brewing  at the Erie's microbreweries and distilleries. 

Arts & Entertainment

Erie’s arts and entertainment scene is a unique blend of metropolitan spirit and small town charm, offering a myriad of  theatrical performances, thought-provoking art galleries, and national touring acts.

Festivals and Events

The Erie region's event calendar is always brimming with reasons to celebrate seasons, cultures, resources, teams and much more. 

Celebrate Erie Hero Images 011 WEB

Outdoor Recreation

Natural beauty abounds in Erie County, and along with it are wide-reaching ways to enjoy it. When you visit Erie, plan to partake in some of the most peaceful paddles, best fishing, and scenic trails as you'll find anywhere in the country. 

Golf

Sharpen your game and test your skills across the sprawling fairways and beautifully landscaped greens at Erie's golf courses. 

Fishing

Lake Erie is consistently named one of the top bass fisheries in the nation, and the seasonal steelhead runs are the stuff of legend. Cast a line in Erie's waters and leave with a tale for the ages. 

Kayakrs

Dining

Find the best restaurants in the Erie area and a variety of dining experiences. From fine dining to casual, family friendly, ethnic, fusion and grab and go, there is a cuisine to please every palate. You can dine on a rooftop, on the water or the waterfront, bayside, curbside, inside or outside. The possibilities are endless.

Wineries

Erie County is home to one of the largest grape-growing regions in the country, featuring lush lakefront vineyards and charming small towns like North East, where a walkable downtown features local shopping, restaurants and parks, and is the Erie County start to Lake Erie Wine Country.

Spas & Wellness

Pamper yourself by relaxing your mind, body and spirit at one of Erie’s wellness centers and spas. Rejuvenate and soothe your inner being. Erie's wellness centers, massage therapy and spas offer traditional services and new-age healing techniques.

olivers erie Instagram 3556 ig 17890343900690426

History & Heritage

Erie’s rich, historical past is filled with innovative thinkers, inventions and discoveries. Explore our region’s museums, monuments and memorials to learn the role that so many people, places and events played to shape our community into what it is today.

Sports

When it comes to sports, Erie has so much to cheer for! Erie County is home to three minor-pro sports teams, four universities with teams represented in the NCAA Divisions I, II and III and a thriving sports tourism scene.

Seasonal Activities

Erie is a great destination for a waterfront escape in any season. Whether it’s sunbathing on the beach or snow shoeing the trails, visitors never run out of things to do. Explore our seasons and discover how Erie can be your complete year-round destination getaway.

SeaWolves High Five by Mike Godlewski Photography provided by SeaWolves 2025 resize for web
Filter By

9-11 Memorial

160 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507

Allen Stoneware Gallery

814-572-7466
2602 West 8th Street
Erie, PA 16505

Battles Yellow House and White House

814-454-1813
436 Walnut Street
Girard, PA 16417

Brig. Gen. Strong Vincent Statue

In front of Blasco Library/160 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507

Civil War Memorial

45 Main Street
Girard , PA 16417

Erie Art Museum

814-459-5477
20 East 5th Street
Erie, PA 16507

Erie Commodores National Premier Soccer League

814-392-4785
Home field is Mercyhurst University's Saxon Stadium
501 E 38th Street
Erie, PA 16546

Erie County Historical Society & Museums

814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie , PA 16507

Erie County Veterans Memorial Park

2650 PA-505
Erie , PA 16508

Erie County Vietnam Veterans Memorial

2614 Glenwood Park Ave
Erie, PA 16508

Erie Insurance Arena

814-453-7117
809 French Street
Erie, PA 16501

Erie Maritime Museum/U.S. Brig Niagara

814-452-2744
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507

Erie Otters OHL Hockey

814-455-7779
Erie Insurance Arena
809 French St
Erie, PA 16501

Erie Philharmonic

814-455-1375
23 West 10th Street
Erie, PA 16501

Erie Playhouse

814-454-2852
12 West 10th Street
Erie, PA 16501

Erie SeaWolves AA Baseball

814-456-1300
Home games - UPMC Park/110 East 10 Street
Business Office - 831 French Street
Erie, PA 16501

Erie Sports Park

814-823-6706
8159 Oliver Road
Erie, PA 16509

Erie Station Dinner Theatre

814-864-2022
4940 Peach Street
Erie, PA 16501

Erie Yesterday

356 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16507

Firefighters Historical Museum

814-456-5969
428 Chestnut Street
Erie, PA 16507

Flagship City Press Stationery & Gifts

26 W 8th Street
Erie, PA 16501

Fort LeBoeuf Historical Society

814-796-4014
108 High Street
Waterford, PA 16441

George Washington Monument

32 High Street
Waterford, PA 16441

Glass Growers Gallery & Gifts

814-453-3758
10 East 5th Street
Erie, PA 16507

Goodell Gardens & Homestead

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

Grape Discovery Center

716-326-2003
8305 West Main Road
Westfield, NY 14787

Hagen History Center Museum

814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16501

Kellar's Magic & Comedy Club

814-461-0911
1402 State Street
Erie, PA 16501

Lake Erie Jackals

PennWest Edinboro McComb Fieldhouse
455 Scotland Rd
Edinboro, PA 16412

Lake Erie Speedway

814-725-3303
10700 Delmas Drive
North East, PA 16428

Land Lighthouse

1200 Lighthouse Street
Erie, PA 16507

Lettie G. Howard - Flagship Niagara League

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

Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture

814-824-3000
501 East 38th Street
Erie, PA 16546

Moose Head Pottery

814-636-5100
8270 Peach Street
Suite 300
Erie, PA 16509

National Comedy Center

716-484-2222
203 W. Second Street
Jamestown, NY 14701

Oliver Hazard Perry Statue/Monument

600 French Street
Erie, PA 16501

Operation Desert Storm Memorial

1 High Street
Waterford, PA 16441

PACA - The Performing Arts Collective Alliance

814-616-7222
1505 State Street
Erie, PA 16501

Painted Finch Gallery, Inc.

814-664-3053
32 North Center Street
Corry, PA 16407

Perry Monument

On the bay side of Presque Isle that overlooks Misery Bay
Erie, PA 16507

Presque Isle Lighthouse

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

Relish Studio & Gallery

814-836-1827
3835 West 12th Street
Erie, PA 16505

Sealed by Nature

814-384-8184
318 West Plum Street
Suite B
Edinboro, PA 16412

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

601 PA-5 Alt
Erie, PA 16501

The North Pier Light

814-833-7424
E Fisher Drive
Erie, PA 16507

The Sturgeon House

814-474-5855
4302 Avonia Road
Fairview, PA 16415

Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC)

814-833-7424
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505

Tour Erie Walking Tours

814-450-4864
Dobbin's Landing, 3 State Street (meet at the flagpole)
Erie, PA 16507

Union City World War I Memorial

At the intersection of 1st Ave & W High Street
Union City, PA 16438

UPMC Park

814-456-1300
110 East 10th Street
Erie, PA 16501

Warner Theatre

814-453-7117
811 State Street
Erie, PA 16501

Partner Spotlight

Olivers spotlight

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

Dicks partner spotlight

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

MCM Guest Rewards 400x300

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

port authority spotlight

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

John Russell partner spotlight

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

UPMC Hamot spotlight

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

Erie Events partner spotlight

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

Book Club on Main partner spotlight

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

Five Iron spotlight 1

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

MIAC partner spotlight

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

Zoo spotlight

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

Sealed by Nature Partner spotlight

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

Mazza spotlight 2

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

The Cove spotlight 1 resize

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

Port Farms partner spotlight

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

Two45 partner spotlight

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

eced partner listing 400 x 300

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

Soak in the fun!

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

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.

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

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

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.

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.

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 ten years in a row.

Ante-up, Erie.

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

Just for fun!

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