Located in the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania, Erie is a vibrant, lakeside town with a wide variety of popular attractions for both tourists and locals. Some of the top destinations include an up-and-coming downtown area, several local museums, and an abundance of forested hiking trails. Keep reading for more ideas about fun things to do in Erie.
Because of Erie’s diverse city and natural landscape, there is plenty to do. Whether you are interested in art, nature, or the outdoors, here are some of the best things to do in Erie:
Presque Isle, a state park with access, to hiking, fishing, and boat rentals
Waldameer Park & Water World, an outdoor water park with rides for the whole family
Tom Ridge Environmental Center, a natural history museum that focuses on Lake Erie
Ashbury Woods, a nature preserve with old-growth forest and lush hiking trails
Erie Maritime Museum, an educational center with exhibits on the War of 1812 and the history of Lake Erie
With great food, live music, and a rich history, Erie has plenty of attractions for both visitors and locals alike. Some of the most popular activities include the city’s historic landmarks and fun, summer festivals. Make the most of your time in Erie with the following attractions:
Erie Land Lighthouse, the first lighthouse on the Great Lakes
Watson-Curtze Mansion, a historic home built in the late 1800s
Thurston Classic, a June festival with hot air balloons, live music, and fair food
State Road Covered Bridge, a historic landmark and photo opportunity
Mid Summer Wine Festival, an event held in mid-July that features classic cars, food vendors, and wine tasting
On any given day, Eric offers many fun things to do. From its delicious food scene, abundance of hiking trails, and local shopping, it’s easy to spend a day soaking in all this city has to offer.
Exciting activities near Erie include:
The Breakfast Place, a place to grab American home cooking
Erie Bluffs State Park, a place to hike the Great Lakes shoreline
The Shops at the Colony, which includes 35 locally owned and operated stores
Tinseltown USA, Erie Cinemark movie theater
Ember + Forge, a local favorite with coffee and pastries
The fun in Erie doesn’t end when the sun goes down. This city offers many things to do for adults whether you are interested in local breweries, fun dining, or dance clubs.
Nighttime activities near Erie include:
Mi Scuzi, A trattoria featuring authentic italian dishes and fine wine
The Industrial Revolution Brewing Company, which has some of the best beer in town
Resolution Nightclub, a favorite dance spot for locals
Jr’s Last Laugh Comedy Club, a comedy club with great food
Erie is a family friendly city bursting with things for kids to do. Go on a pirate adventure, visit the children’s museum, or check out the local amusement parks.
Things to do with kids in Erie include:
Conneaut Lake Park, a place with roller coasters, rides, and other attractions
Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort, which is perfect for a rainy day
Experience Children’s Museum, a center for entertainment and education for all ages
USS Niagara, where you can sail this historic ship and explore the museum
Scallywags Pirate Adventures, a place to hear tales about Lake Erie and buried treasure
If you are looking to have a low-key day inside, Erie offers many indoor activities that will fit the bill. Sample local tea, relax at the resort, take a stroll through the art museum, and more.
Eric things to do indoors include:
Enjoying a sampling at Tea Time Tuesdays at Chicory Hill Herbs
Trying Alexander’s Spa in the Woods, an indoor spa located at the Woodlands Resort
Erie Art Museum, 15 exhibits of historical and contemporary art
Erie Planetarium at Penn State Behrend, offering public shows year round
Millcreek Mall, a shopping mall complex with retail, dining, and more
Erie is a city brimming with things to do outdoors due to natural beauty and sightseeing opportunities. From lush forests to gorgeous lakeshore, there are always plenty of things to do outdoors.
Things to do outdoors in Erie include:
Take a walk amongst 250 varieties of trees at Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier
Explore local shops and historical landmarks in Downtown Erie
Spending an afternoon surrounded by nearly 400 animals and 11 natural gardens at Erie Zoo
Enjoying an all levels class on the shore of Lake Erie at Plasha Beyond Beginners Yoga
Exploring Lake Erie Beach Park, the perfect place to get outside during the summer