Explore Erie your way and on your own time! These tours offer the flexibility to explore Erie County's heritage, public art, and the history that has touched this region.
Did you know there's a whole other Erie to explore? Behind just about every attraction, activity, and appetizer is a chance to win prizes from VisitErie. Through December 31, use the Unlock Erie Challenge on the 'Hello Erie' App to guide your trip to Erie. Use the app to check in to locations around Erie County. As you check in to more locations and complete more tiers, you'll win bigger prizes.
Here's how it works:
1. Download the 'Hello Erie' App (it's free!)
2. Click on 'Unlock Erie' to see the three tiers and the attractions in each tier
3. When you're at a location, use the app and follow the prompts to check in. Once you've completed that tier's objective, a completion badge will be displayed.
4. Bring your completion badge to VisitErie's office to show your badge and claim your prize! If you can't pick up your prizes in person, give us a call and we'll mail them. As you move on to the next tier, the prizes get bigger and better!
Prizes and objectives are as follows:
Must be 18 years or older to participate. No purchase necessary. Contest entry subject to complete terms and conditions. See full contest rules here. Void where prohibited.
By entering this contest, you understand that you are providing your information to VisitErie and not to Meta. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered, or associated with Meta. VisitErie will never ask for personal information including credit cards, social security numbers or bank information.
Curated by VisitErie and local Erie-based partners, these tours offer visitors an opportunity to explore Erie County using the free 'Hello Erie' App. Use the app to guide you through the stops on these tours, and catch a glimpse of what makes this region unique. Download the 'Hello Erie' App here.
African American Heritage Trail
Featuring more than 40 stops, the Erie African American History Tour showcases 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, as well as New Jerusalem, one of Erie's oldest neighborhoods, where African American families provided much-needed refuge for men and women fleeing enslavement through the Underground Railroad.
The tour was created in partnership between VisitErie, Erie Arts & Culture, and the creators of A Shared Heritage Tour, and includes audio descriptions that detail the historical significance at each stop.
Murals of Erie County
In recent years, Erie’s urban landscape has transformed into a captivating canvas of creativity through a remarkable collection of mural art. Nearly 100 public murals are located throughout Erie County, creating an ideal self-guided tour option for visitors seeking Instagram-worthy moments. These murals draw inspiration from Erie’s community and the neighborhoods in which they reside. Through their works, the artists hope that residents and visitors alike will see themselves reflected in such bold, colorful ways, reminding them of the possibilities that creativity makes possible.
Download the Murals of Erie County booklet here. The list of murals was created in partnership between VisitErie and Erie Arts & Culture.
Pictured: "Joy" by Peruvian Artist Ana Balcazar, located at 562 E 12th Street
Traveling through the region? These tours mark historically significant places that include Erie County.
Pennsylvania Historical Markers of Erie County
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. Stops include markers honoring the Erie Extension Canal, Fort LeBoeuf, Ida Tarbell, Perry's Shipyards and Miracles on Maple Hill. Click here for a list of markers.
PA Route 6 Public Art and Mural Trail
This trail consists of more than 50 stops throughout the 11-county PA Route 6 corridor, including Erie County. Each stop can be viewed through an interactive map that pinpoints the exact location of each art piece and mural.
Underground Railroad Biking Route
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.
Washington's Trail
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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!”
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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