Erie County was formed in the 1800’s 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.
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.
Take a video tour to learn more about the exhibits inside the Erie Maritime 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.
Erie’s three lighthouses are picture-perfect spots for exploring Erie’s maritime history at your own pace.
Presque Isle Lighthouse
April to September - Open Daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
October - Open Thursday through Monday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Closed November to mid-April
Erie Land Lighthouse
Open Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Grounds open dawn to dusk
Closed September to April
North Pier Light
Grounds accessible during park house
Tower is not open to the public
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.
Learn more about TREC from a park naturalist by watching the following video tour.
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
814-452-2744
150 East Front 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
716-484-222
203 W. Second Street
Jamestown, NY 14701
814-833-3604
Presque Isle State Park, east of Beach 6
Erie, PA 16505
814-833-7424
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
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.
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 and Chicago.
Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines and United Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte and Chicago with connections across the country and around the world. Book your flight today at www.aa.com or www.united.com
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.
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.
Enjoy Santa’s Workshop every weekend for visits with Santa, live music, crafts, cookie decorating, and holiday food & drinks! They also offer cut-your-own trees, pre-cut trees, freshly made wreaths, holiday décor, and other great gifts throughout the week. The Port Farms Christmas season is November 25th - December 23rd and there is no admission fee. Plan an enchanting Christmas experience at Port Farms today! Visit www.portfarms.com for more info!
Local wine is great for holiday entertaining, plus it makes a great gift! Stop by to try (and pick up) award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA.
The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.
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!”
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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