Vacation in Vivid Color this Fall in Erie, PA

Fall arrives in Erie with a spectacular flourish, through a rich tapestry of golden hues, fiery reds, and burnt oranges. Whether it’s sipping your way through Lake Erie Wine Country, taking in the area’s gorgeous fall foliage, or enjoying a relaxing, much-needed getaway, Erie is a rejuvenating destination for a fall escape.  

Get Outside

Outdoor recreation is at its peak during the fall months. Between the brilliant fall foliage and spectacular views Erie offers, the region is a playground for those who like to hike, bike, fish and spend time in the great outdoors. Erie County is home to two state parks: both great for fall hiking, and both completely free to enter and park. The flat, paved trails of Presque Isle State Park offer the perfect path for biking, hiking, or even just a brisk walk made better by the lake views. Further west, check out Erie Bluffs State Park for more than five miles of wooded paths that lead to vistas with scenic views of Lake Erie from a 90-foot bluff wall. Fishing is also at a premium in the fall, as Erie's famous steelhead run traditionally begins in October. 

Experience the Harvest from Vine to Wine

The fall season is a time to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of summer, and one of the best places for that is in Lake Erie Wine Country, along the scenic Great Lakes SeaWay Trail. Lake Erie Wine Country is the largest grape-growing region in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains, featuring 30,000 acres of vineyards and 23 distinct estate and commercial wineries. Each of the wineries offer tastings year-round, allowing you to sample the flavors unique to this region, whether you're into a bold red or something a little more sweet. Lake Erie Wine Country also hosts two events to celebrate the annual harvest: North East WineFest and Lake Erie Wine Country Harvest Weekends.

Fall Family Activities

Put the family in its best fall flannel, and head to Erie County for farm-fresh fun and foliage to take a break from the start of the school year! Just south of Erie is Port Farms, a working, family-owned farm that's at its peak during the fall harvest. From September 14 through October 31, enjoy more than 20 activities and attractions on site, like their huge corn maze, wagon rides, and Goat Mountain. Attractions will appeal to families with kids of all ages, and offers many opportunities for perfect fall photos. Erie is also known for a myriad of family-friendly fall events, as well as affordable activities for the kids year-round. 

Tax-Free Shopping

When shopping in Erie, your dollar goes further! Pennsylvania offers no tax on clothing or shoes, and Erie's central location makes it a perfect stop for both unique, local finds, and checking off early holiday lists. A visit to the Millcreek Mall Complex, in the bustling Peach Street shopping district, is a convenient option for those looking to get a lot of things done without having to drive to multiple places. Boasting more than 160 stores, ample parking, satellite plazas, a food court, multiple restaurants, convenience carts and relaxation stations, it is a one-stop destination. For a more local experience, head to areas like Erie's newly-revitalized downtown core, including the trendy The Shops at 5^th and State, local plazas like the Shops at the Colony or Village West, or hit the road toward PA Route 6 for historic and charming main street shopping in the towns of Edinboro or Corry.