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Erie County was formed after Pennsylvania purchased the Erie Triangle from the U.S. Government in 1792 for approximately $151,000. Taken from part of Allegheny County, the new county was then named for Lake Erie and the Eriez Native American Indian tribe. The city was laid out in 1795 and became a port in 1801. In 1813, in what is often referred to as Erie’s proudest historical moment, Commodore Oliver Perry defeated the British in the Battle of Lake Erie. At the Battle’s climax, Perry raised his battle flag emblazoned with the words “Don’t Give Up the Ship” and ordered “close action”, severing the British line and leading to the enemy’s surrender.
Erie’s three lighthouses are picture-perfect spots for exploring Erie’s maritime history at your own pace.
Completed in 1873, the lighthouse previously housed lighthouse keepers and their families as well as state park managers before it opened to the public in 2015. The lighthouse is still a working aid to navigation. Public and group tours are available.
Memorial Day to Labor Day: Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
April and October - Open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed November through March
The North Pier Light is sometimes referred to as a lighthouse but technically it is a "light structure”. The black and white, 35-foot-tall tower topped by a light was established at its present location in the 1940s and continues to serve as an active aid to navigation.
The North Pier Light is accessible to the public year-round during regular Presque Isle State Park hours of 5 a.m. to sunset. (Pictured, photo by 814 Photo)
The present lighthouse was built in 1867, and was the first commissioned lighthouse along the Great Lakes. The former keeper's house is separate, and serves as a private residence. The light at the top of the tower functions but is not an active aid to navigation. Public and group tours are available.
April - May: Open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
June - September: Open Fridays through Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed October through March
Grounds are open from dawn to dusk year-round.
Every first Tuesday of the month from April through October 2023 the lighthouse is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Erie Maritime Museum tells the story of the maritime history and heritage of the Greater Erie region, the War of 1812 narrative, civilian activity and innovation, military service, and Pennsylvania’s contributions to the maritime industry and stewardship of the Great Lakes. Its centerpiece exhibit is the U.S. Brig Niagara, a floating maritime museum and active sailing vessel docked behind the museum.
Formerly known as the Erie County Historical Society, the Hagen History Center Campus showcases the history of Erie County over the past 200 years in addition to special exhibits, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s original San Francisco Office. The museum features exhibit buildings, archival and curatorial collections, educational classrooms and the Battles Estates located in nearby Girard, PA.
TREC is an educational center dedicated to teaching visitors about the unique 3,200 acres of Presque Isle, the history of how the peninsula took shape and the many different forms of life that inhabit the peninsula. Called the “gateway to Presque Isle”, TREC is a free facility that features two floors of interactive exhibits, Presque Isle Gallery and Gifts, an orientation movie and a glass-enclosed observation tower with panoramic views of Lake Erie. TREC also serves as a center for research -- contributing to conservation efforts and promoting environmental awareness, helping to preserve the unparalleled beauty of Presque Isle. TREC is open year-round.
814-454-1813
436 Walnut Street
Girard, PA 16417
In front of Blasco Library/160 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie , PA 16507
2614 Glenwood Park Ave
Erie, PA 16508
814-452-2744
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
356 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-453-3743
420 French Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-456-5969
428 Chestnut Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-734-6699
221 Waterford Street
Edinboro, PA 16412
716-326-2003
8305 West Main Road
Westfield, NY 14787
814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16501
814-725-1911
31 Wall Street
North East, PA 16428
814-449-9012
150 East Front Street - Erie Maritime Museum
Erie, PA 16507
716-484-222
203 W. Second Street
Jamestown, NY 14701
On the bay side of Presque Isle that overlooks Misery Bay
Erie, PA 16507
814-833-3604
Presque Isle State Park, east of Beach 6
Erie, PA 16505
814-833-7424
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
At the intersection of 1st Ave & W High Street
Union City, PA 16438
UPMC Hamot is a 423-bed hospital in Erie, PA, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services, and serves as a regional referral hub and Level II Trauma Center.
Cart/Horse Distilling is a first-generation woman-owned distillery, pioneering the craft in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Handcrafted care never goes out of style. We put that artistic attention into every bottle of our small batch spirits. Cart/Horse proudly produces rum, whiskey, vodka, gin, and several award-winning specialty liquors. Our robust cocktail menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients for each custom-built drink.
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.
Direct daily flights to Charlotte. Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte with connections to many other destinations.
Join us today! 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.
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.
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!”
Treat your employees to a unique, country experience that is sure to inspire with all of the magic the farm has to offer! Located just outside of Erie, Port Farms offers a charming countryside venue for your next company retreat! Our unique space is located on 200 rural acres and includes everything you will need to host a successful work session, work event, or company picnic. Learn more about how we can help you plan the perfect event!
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.
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.
The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.
The Bayfront Grille Restaurant at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel is excited to announce that our Bayside Patio is open for Lunch and Dinner. Please check Open Table for reservations or contact the restaurant directly at 814-454-2005.
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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