Skip to Main Content

Seasonal Activities

Seasonal Activities in Erie

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 some of Erie’s favorite activities every season.

Spring

Shake off those winter chills and embrace the arrival of spring in Erie! Race outside to welcome warmer temperatures and fresh spring air. Take yourself on an adventurous bike ride or hike across the many trails of the Greater Erie Regional Trail Network. Cast your line  in Lake Erie’s many tributaries, creeks and streams to try and hook a prized Erie Steelhead. Root, root, root for the home team at UPMC Park for the start of the Erie SeaWolves AA Baseball Team season. Say hello to your favorite animal friends when the Erie Zoo opens its gates for another Zoo-rrific year. Hit the links at one of Erie's pristine golf courses, and make a weekend of it with dinner, drinks and a hotel stay afterward. 

Lake View CC 002 May 23 2022 X2 small file v2
Seasonal Activities Summer

Summer

Plan a family-friendly getaway and get ready for summertime fun in the sun! Erie’s summer months are filled with ways for you to heat things up or cool off and chill. The beaches of Presque Isle are the area’s most popular summer spot for summer fun, with soft, sandy beaches and refreshing waters. Don’t forget to cool off at Sara’s on your way out with their famous orange twist cone! Splash around at Waldameer Park & Water World or take the family for a fun round of miniature golf. Kick back with an ice cold beer on a steamy summer evening along the Lake Erie Ale Trail. Soak up the summer sun and listen to live summer music concerts or embark on an educational boat tour of Presque Isle Bay. Catch Erie’s world class sunsets from the deck of the Victorian Princess. Sample incredible food and stroll the streets of Downtown Erie on an Erie Food Tour.

Fall

The fall colors in Erie are nothing short of spectacular. Beautiful golds, fiery reds and brilliant oranges fill the area from Presque Isle State Park to Lake Erie Wine Country. The best fall foliage views can be found from atop the Bicentennial Tower or the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. Breathe in the fragrant smells of Erie’s vineyards as they mingle with crisp Lake Erie breezes. Browse local art gallery exhibits or take in a riveting theatrical performance. Shop roadside stands and farmers markets for the best locally grown products such as concord grapes, apples, squash and cider. Spend the day driving scenic byways like the Great Lakes Seaway Trail or historic Pennsylvania Route 6. Challenge your friends to a round of golf among the region’s sprawling fairways and end your day with a great meal and a great view of live thoroughbred horse racing (through October) at Presque Isle Downs and Casino.

Presque Isle Lighthouse 2020 WEB
Splash Lagoon L2

Winter

When the snowflakes begin to fall, Erie transforms into a wintry wonderland packed with snowy adventures! Whether you enjoy the briskness of the outdoors or the cozy warmth of indoors, there’s so much to do here. Plan your winter retreat and book a week or weekend at one of Erie’s many hotels, cabins or bed and breakfasts. For downhill skiing, snowboarding or tubing, test your skills on the slopes at Peek ‘N Peak Ski Resort or Mount Pleasant of Edinboro. Bundle up the kids for a day of sledding at Frontier Park or escape the cold temperatures and splash around in the tropical 84 degree comfort of Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park. Grab a seat at Erie Insurance Arena for a fast-paced Erie Otters OHL Hockey game or do some holiday shopping at the Millcreek Mall. Spend time here during the holiday season attending our area’s special events, performances and celebrations.

Partner Spotlight

Tia Book Cellar Spotlight 400 x 300

Tia Book Cellar

Tia Book Cellar is an independent bookstore offering new and bargain books, unique gifts, puzzles, and games for all interests and ages. Located across from Gibson Park in North East, their brand embodies the local business model and the local grape heritage. Tia's believes that "there is always … local, an alternative, and a story." They look forward to helping you discover your next read or gift here.

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

miac postmodern jukebox partner spotlight

MIAC Live: Postmodern Jukebox

Famed “Pop Music in a Time Machine” concert act Postmodern Jukebox brings their 10th anniversary tour to Mercyhurst University’s Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Concertgoers can expect a dazzling trip through the PMJ Universe — where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, swing, Doo-wop, and Motown, and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists.

Learn More

splash lagoon partner spotlight

Treasure Island Arcade at Splash Lagoon

Looking for something fun to do? Spend a day in the Treasure Island Arcade, where no water park admission is required! The Treasure Island Arcade is home to over 100+ games! From sports games and racing games to retro games and all-new VR motion games, there is something fun for everyone to enjoy!

Learn More

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.

Learn More

the cove Partner listing 400 x 300

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Set sail for an inspiring dining experience! Enjoy a unique casual dining experience on Erie's Bayfront. The Cove's nautically inspired decor and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay will have you feeling the venturous spirit of those who live their lives on the sea.

Learn More

u pick 6 spotlight

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!”

Learn More

port farms spotlight ad photo 400 x 300

Fall Harvest at Port Farms

Happy Fall Y’all! Come enjoy the farm during Fall Harvest season September 14 – October 31. Grab your friends and family and enjoy a variety of fall themed activities for every age. With over 25 attractions, our guests create long-lasting memories worth repeating. General admission includes wagon rides, an 8-acre corn maze, slide mountain, ball zone, game garden, pedal carts, corn box, Kid’s Village, animal exhibits, mindbender mazes, trike track, tire fort and so much more! Plan a birthday party with a campfire spot! PLUS, enjoy themed events and character visits!

Learn More

Hamot Spotlight 400 x 300

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.

Learn More

ASCEND spotlight ad photo 400 x 300

COME SEE WHAT ASCEND ERIE IS ALL ABOUT!

ASCEND is a community hub in downtown Erie that features climbing, fitness, yoga, youth programming, and so much more. We opened up last year and would love to meet you! Visit on your own, with friends and family, or book a team-building event with your coworkers.

Learn More

Two45 Web 400 x 300 px

Two45 Waterfront Grille Now Open!

Savor an exquisite waterfront dining experience at Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, where culinary excellence meets panoramic views. This signature restaurant invites you to indulge in a delectable journey with a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients and global inspirations while overlooking the serene waters of Lake Erie.

Learn More

five iron golf spotlight 400 x 300

Now Open in Downtown Erie

Five Iron Golf is blurring the lines between indoor golf and entertainment. State-of-the-art simulators and world-class instruction meet premium events and amenities plus delectable food and cocktail menus.

Learn More

Zoo partner spotlight

Discover the wild wonders of the Erie Zoo!

Home to over 300 animals from around the world - the zoo offers an immersive experience with a variety of engaging exhibits, from playful otters to majestic big cats. Enjoy up-close animal encounters, special events, and interactive keeper talks that inspire conservation and a deeper connection to nature. Whether you're visiting with family or friends, the Erie Zoo is the perfect destination for fun, education, and unforgettable memories. Join us in supporting wildlife and conservation efforts!

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

Dobbins Landing Spring 2022 EB 2

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

One stop convenience.

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

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!

One stop convenience.

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

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!

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