10 Fun Things To Do Near Erie, Pennsylvania (That Locals Actually Love)
If you’re looking for a laid-back Great Lakes getaway,
Erie, Pennsylvania is a hidden gem. Tucked along the shores of
Lake Erie in
Erie County, this friendly city is big enough to keep you busy for a long weekend, but small enough that you can actually relax.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couples’ weekend, or a solo escape, there’s a lot to see and do within a short drive. From sandy beaches and lighthouses to wineries and a surprisingly good food scene, Erie might just surprise you.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Erie, PA that showcase the best of the area.
1. Spend a Day at Presque Isle State Park
If you do only one thing in Erie, make it
Presque Isle State Park. This curved peninsula stretches out into Lake Erie and feels almost like a mini ocean escape.
- Beaches: There are several sandy beaches with lifeguards in season. The water can be chilly, but on a hot July afternoon, it feels perfect.
- Trails: Enjoy easy walking and biking paths. The main trail is flat and about 13 miles long, great for a casual ride.
- Sunsets: Lake Erie sunsets are some of the best in the state. Bring a camp chair, a light jacket, and just sit back.
On my last visit, I watched kids build sandcastles while adults grilled nearby. It felt more like a neighborhood beach than a formal state park, and that’s part of the charm.
2. Visit the Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara
Curious about Great Lakes history? Head to the
Erie Maritime Museum, right along the waterfront.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Exhibits on the Battle of Lake Erie from the War of 1812
- Stories of shipwrecks and storms on the Great Lakes
- Interactive displays that are great for kids and adults
The star attraction is the
U.S. Brig Niagara, a full-size reconstruction of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s flagship. When she’s in port, you can often tour the deck and get a feel for life at sea in the early 1800s.
It’s the kind of place where you walk out saying, “Wow, I had no idea Erie played such a big role in history.”
3. Explore Downtown Erie & the Bayfront
Downtown Erie is compact, walkable, and getting more interesting every year. Start near the
Bayfront and work your way up.
Some ideas:
- Stroll along the Bayfront Promenade for views of marinas and the lake.
- Check out local restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries along State Street.
- Stop into small boutiques and art galleries for locally made goods.
If you like city views, look for spots where you can see both
Presque Isle Bay and downtown at the same time. Erie feels especially pretty at dusk when the lights come on and the water turns deep blue.
4. Take in the View from the Bicentennial Tower
Right on Dobbins Landing, the
Bicentennial Tower rises 187 feet above the water. It’s simple, but the views are worth the ride up.
From the top, on a clear day you can:
- See the curve of Presque Isle across the bay
- Look out over downtown Erie and Erie County
- Watch boats coming and going from the marinas
If you’re not great with heights, the observation deck feels solid and safe. I’m not a huge fan of tall places, but I still felt comfortable up there. Try going around sunset if you want photos that look like postcards.
5. Get Hands-On at the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum
Traveling with kids? Put the
ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum on your list. It’s right in downtown Erie and keeps little ones busy in the best way.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Hands-on science and art exhibits
- Play areas for younger kids
- Rotating activities that change throughout the year
This is the kind of place where kids can touch almost everything and learn without feeling like they’re in school. Parents appreciate the air conditioning on hot summer days (or cold winter days), too.
6. Explore the Erie Art Museum & Local Street Art
If you enjoy art but don’t want anything too “stuffy,” the
Erie Art Museum is a good fit. It’s small enough to see in an hour or two, but still has a mix of interesting pieces.
Expect:
- Works from local and regional artists
- Rotating exhibits that keep things fresh
- A calm, quiet space when you need a break from the crowds
Afterward, walk around the surrounding streets and look for
murals and street art. Erie has been quietly building a creative scene, and it shows in the colorful walls and public art scattered throughout the city.
7. Sample Local Flavors at Wineries on the Lake Erie Wine Trail
Did you know Erie County is wine country? Just a short drive east or west of the city, you’ll find the
Lake Erie Wine Country stretching along the shoreline.
Many wineries offer:
- Tastings of local reds, whites, and sweet wines
- Small bites and cheese boards
- Scenic views of vineyards and the lake
It’s an easy half-day trip:
- Pick two or three wineries rather than trying to do them all.
- Bring a designated driver, or take it slow and enjoy the scenery.
Even if you’re not a big wine drinker, the drives through rural Erie County are peaceful, especially in late summer and early fall when the vines are full and the leaves start turning.
8. Enjoy the Water: Boat Tours, Kayaking & Fishing
Lake Erie is the star of the show here, so it makes sense to get out on the water if you can.
Options include:
- Boat tours: Sightseeing cruises around Presque Isle Bay are relaxing and give you a different angle on the city.
- Kayaking or paddleboarding: Calm areas of the bay are great for beginners.
- Fishing: Erie is known for walleye, perch, and steelhead. You can fish from the shore or book a charter.
If you’re new to boating or paddling, don’t worry. Many outfitters in the area are used to helping beginners and will walk you through the basics.
9. Catch a Game or Event at the Erie Insurance Arena
For sports and live entertainment, check the schedule at the
Erie Insurance Arena downtown.
Depending on the season, you might find:
- Minor league hockey games (the local fans get into it)
- Basketball games and other sporting events
- Concerts, comedy shows, and touring performances
It’s an easy night out:
- Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant.
- Walk to the arena for the game or show.
- Finish with dessert or a drink along State Street.
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, the atmosphere at a local game can be a fun way to feel like part of the Erie community for an evening.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Through Erie County
When you’ve checked off the main Erie attractions, consider a drive through the rest of
Erie County. The area around the city is full of small towns, farmland, and rolling hills.
Ideas for a relaxed drive:
- Head east toward North East, PA for vineyards and lake views.
- Drive south into rural Erie County for classic barns and backroads.
- Stop at local farm stands in season for fresh fruit, sweet corn, and baked goods.
It’s a simple way to see a different side of the region. Crack the windows, put on some music, and let the trip be as much a part of the experience as the destinations themselves.
Planning Your Erie, PA Trip: Quick Tips
To make the most of your time near Erie:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall is ideal for beaches and outdoor fun. Winter can be snowy, but pretty if you like a quiet, cozy vibe.
- How long to stay: A long weekend (3–4 days) is perfect for a first visit.
- Getting around: Erie is drivable and parking is usually easy. A car makes it simpler to explore Presque Isle and the surrounding county.
What Would You Add to This Erie, PA Bucket List?
These are some of my favorite
things to do near Erie, Pennsylvania, but there’s always more to discover—especially in a lake town that changes with the seasons.
- Have you been to Erie or Erie County?
- Do you have a favorite beach, restaurant, or hidden spot I should check out next time?
Share your tips in the comments—your local knowledge or travel story might help someone else plan their perfect Erie getaway.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend or on social media. It’s an easy way to spread the word about this underrated Great Lakes destination.
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