Erie is Pennsylvania’s only port on the Great Lakes: it’s only natural that one of Erie’s best features is its waterfront. Whether you spend time on the water or alongside it, you’ll find an abundance of things to do set against the beautiful backdrop of Presque Isle Bay.
A popular spot in the warmer months, Erie’s Bayfront District is set between Downtown Erie and Presque Isle Bay and offers great ways to spend a family outing or a night out with friends. Explore the Erie Maritime Museum where Erie’s very own Tall Ship, U.S. Brig Niagara is berthed. Get a bird’s –eye-view from atop the 138 foot Bicentennial Tower on Dobbins Landing, or take a leisurely stroll along the Bayfront Promenade. Catch live local bands at Rum Runners or Oliver’s Beer Garden. Sightseeing tours of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie are available aboard numerous vessels: from a narrated tour on The Lady Kate, a dinner cruise aboard the Victorian Princess, or a swashbuckling pirate experience on Scallywags Pirate Adventures.
Located at the foot of State Street, the Bicentennial Tower is an iconic landmark for the City of Erie. The tower was built in 1996 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the founding of Erie and is a “must see” while visiting the area. While on the top observation deck, 138 feet above Presque Isle Bay, enjoy stunning views of Lake Erie, Presque Isle, the City of Erie and outlying areas. In fact, on a clear day it’s possible to see all the way to Long Point in Ontario, Canada, 27 miles away! There is a small fee to go to the top, however admission is free the second Sunday of each month from April to October (excluding holidays and weather permitting).
You just can’t top dinner with a view in Erie! Our waterfront restaurants offer dining by rooftop or right along the water’s edge. Set the scene for a romantic date night with dinner at Oliver’s Rooftop Restaurant or enjoy a meal under the lush flowering canopy at Smugglers Wharf. Hidden Harbor offers some of the area’s best waterfront dining at its locations: The Cove and Flip Flops Tiki Tavern, Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill (Erie’s only floating summertime hotspot!) or Rum Runners, known for its chill vibes and live music.
Erie’s most popular natural playground, Presque Isle State Park, is so much more than its sandy beaches! Presque Isle is a year-round outdoor recreation destination for kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking, in-line skating, birding and fishing. Rentals are available at the Park for bicycles, surreys (a four-wheeled carriage style bike), paddle boards, motor boats, row boats, pontoon boats, canoes and kayaks. Rental facilities are located at Waterworks Beach/Rotary Pavillion and at Graveyard Pond across from Misery Bay.
Erie offers a wide variety of opportunities to get out on the water. Small and large watercraft including, jet skis, pontoon boats, motor boats, canoes, kayaks and more are available for rent at Port Erie Sports or Hidden Harbor Boat Rentals. Private day or evening sails are available with Your Sailing Adventure from May through October, weather permitting.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The Cork 1794 is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion! Indoor and outside seating available with amazing food.
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
Privacy Policy
© 2022 Copyright VisitErie
Chances are, you are planning your trip to Erie. Why not download your free guide that's been put together right here, by those who know the region the best!
