Explore Erie on your own time with one of the self-guided tours available on VisitErie’s free ‘Hello Erie’ trip planner app!
Please check with each business for tour specifics and availability.
VisitErie has partnered with the creators of A Shared Heritage Tour and Erie Arts & Culture to create the African American Heritage Trail, a tour that celebrates Erie County Black History, available through VisitErie’s ‘Hello Erie’ trip planner app. The Erie African American History Tour features historic points of interest, public art, and businesses that pay tribute to the City of Erie's African American heritage. including the church where internationally celebrated soloist and composer Harry T. Burleigh sang in the choir. New Jerusalem, one of Erie's oldest neighborhoods, is where African American families provided much-needed refuge for men and women fleeing enslavement through the Underground Railroad.
Explore Erie’s three lighthouses: the Presque Isle Lighthouse, the North Pier Light and the Erie Land Lighthouse. The Presque Isle and Erie Land Lighthouses offer visitors the chance to climb their towers and take in panoramic views of Lake Erie and Presque Isle State Park, all while learning the history and function of each light. The North Pier Light is on the tip of the north pier at Presque Isle State Park just past the entrance to the Coast Guard Station. Although it’s not an actual house, the North Pier Light is available to view year-round. Public tours of the Presque Isle Lighthouse and the Land Lighthouse run May through September.
Erie County is home to more than 50 historical markers, each one dedicated to either a person, place or event that has had a historical significance to Erie County, Pennsylvania, or the country. Travel throughout the City of Erie and surrounding towns of Union City, Corry, Edinboro, Girard, Waterford and others to discover such markers honoring the Erie Extension Canal, Fort LeBoeuf, Harry Kellar, Perry's Shipyards and Miracles on Maple Hill. Click here to access the tour information.
Historical marker information was compiled by Bethany DeMuth from the Erie Times-News.
More than 85 public murals are located throughout Erie County, providing visitors with the perfect Instagram-worthy self-guided tour. Mural enthusiasts should seek out the photogenic “Flotsam” mural located on the second level observation deck of the Bicentennial Tower or “Rudy”, a larger than life mural covering the side of Mid-City Towers in Downtown Erie. Explore by yourself or with family and friends and be inspired by the creativity of Erie’s local muralists and residents. Most of the murals are located outside, however, there are a few located inside area businesses. The majority of murals are not artificially lit, therefore viewing them during daylight hours is recommended. Download the Erie County Mural List Download the Mural Google Map
The Downtown Erie Sculpture Walk features 15 sculptures in Downtown Erie and the Bayfront District, representing the work of 13 different artists from throughout the United States. The inaugural set of sculptures are on display through August 2023. For a list and map of current sculptures, click here.
Purchase the Erie County Historical Society's Home Port self guided driving tour to visit historic Bayfront and waterfront sites. With the purchase of the driving tour ($10), guests will receive the book 'Home Port Erie' by Robert MacDonald & David Frew.
Adventure Cycling Association’s Underground Railroad Bicycle Route, which memorializes the network of clandestine routes by which African freedom seekers attempted to escape slavery before and during the Civil War, is a 1,997-mile bicycle route from Mobile, Alabama to Owen Sound, Ontario that passes through the City of Erie and along the shoreline of Erie County.
This self-guided driving tour through western Pennsylvania follows the route of young George Washington's first military and diplomatic venture from fall 1753 through winter 1754. Today, the route follows major roads, however in some areas there are alternate historic or scenic routes suggested which may more closely align with Washington's travel in the fall of 1753, and these are likely to be back roads.
While you are here, dive in, get your hands dirty and try something new! Test your skills at pottery making, horseback riding, whiskey tasting, fishing and more. Click any of the links below and watch our suggestions to experience a new adventure!
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.
Bring your family to Port Farms this summer, fall and winter! Port Farms is a fun-filled family destination located in Waterford, PA (30 minutes outside of Erie). The farm features many activities for all ages including a NEW Flower Festival, animal exhibits, slides, pedal carts, wagon rides, 8-acre corn maze, jumping pillows, pumpkin picking, Christmas tree picking, visiting with Santa, and much more. Options for wedding venues, corporate events, birthday parties, and school field trips are also available. To learn more, purchase tickets, or book an event visit www.portfarms.com.
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.
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
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!”
The Erie Regional Chamber is leading Erie’s economic evolution through awareness, advocacy, and access to the people, education, and information integral to elevating regional success and economic growth. Become a member today and join us in championing a vibrant and sustainable regional economy.
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 Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.
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.
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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