Erie, Pennsylvania is a great place to visit for a variety of reasons. From outdoor activities to cultural attractions, there is something for everyone. Here is a list of some of the best things to do in Erie, PA. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an adventure-filled weekend, you’ll find something to keep you entertained.
Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that arches into Lake Erie, offering visitors a beautiful coastline and many recreational activities to enjoy. As Pennsylvania’s only “seashore”, the park is a popular destination for swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, bicycling, and in-line skating. Presque Isle is a day-use park that provides year-round recreational opportunities, but overnight accommodations are available nearby.
The park’s location, four miles west of downtown Erie, creates the beautiful Presque Isle Bay, a wide and deep harbor that attracts many pleasure boats and worldwide freighters, making Erie an important Great Lakes shipping port. The park is also a National Natural Landmark and a favorite spot for migrating birds, as well as a great place to study ecological diversity and learn about the historical significance of the peninsula. With something for everyone, Presque Isle State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Phone Number: (814) 833-7424
Address: 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505
Splash Lagoon is the ultimate vacation destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day of adventure and relaxation. Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, Splash Lagoon is home to the newest and most exciting indoor water park resort in the country. With activities suitable for all ages, Splash Lagoon offers something for everyone.
From the thrilling nine water slides, to the brand-new Tree House attraction that features water sprayers, mini dumping buckets, and access to newly designed slides, Typhoon Twister and Riptide Racers, you are sure to find a way to get your heart pumping. Kids will love the Monkey Shines Island Children’s Area, while adults can indulge in the two hot tubs (one designated for adults) and the Froggy Whirlpool that has been transformed into a family Splash Pad.
At Splash Lagoon, the fun never stops! With the arcade, wave pool, and plenty of colorful figures and figures, Splash Lagoon has quickly become the 6th best water park in the United States according to a USA Today poll for 2022. So what are you waiting for? Come and experience Splash Lagoon’s paradise today!
Phone Number: (866) 377-5274
Address: 8091 Peach St, Erie, PA 16509
The Erie Maritime Museum is a must-see destination for history buffs and maritime enthusiasts alike. Located in the heart of Erie’s Historic Bayfront District, the museum can be found in a shared facility with the Raymond M. Blasco Memorial Library, just off the Bayfront Parkway. The museum is easily accessible by private vehicle, pedestrian, and public transportation, making it convenient for visitors to plan their trip.
Upon entering the building, the museum can be found on the left-hand side, where you’ll also find the Museum Store. Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collections, which highlight the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes region. From exhibits on shipwrecks and lighthouses to interactive displays and artifacts, the museum offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist visiting the area, the Erie Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the region’s past and gain a deeper appreciation for the Great Lakes.
Phone Number: (814) 452-2744
Address: 100 Blasco St, Erie, PA 16507
Tucked away in the city of Erie, Pennsylvania, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) is a one-of-a-kind destination for learning, wonder, and fun. The center is dedicated to teaching visitors about the unique 3,200 acres of Presque Isle and the many different forms of life that inhabit the peninsula. Here, visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, a glass-enclosed tower, and an orientation movie with free admission year-round.
TREC is a center for research, contributing to conservation efforts and promoting environmental awareness. Through its commitment to preserving the unparalleled beauty of Presque Isle, the site of Pennsylvania’s only seashore, visitors can learn about the history of the peninsula and how they can contribute to keeping it pristine and beautiful.
Experience an educational and entertaining day trip at TREC and discover the wonders of Presque Isle. Explore the unique environment of the peninsula and learn about the many forms of life that inhabit it. With its combination of research, education, and visitor services, TREC is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Pennsylvania’s only seashore.
Phone Number: (814) 833-7424
Address: 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505
Asbury Woods is a 216-acre preserve located in Northwestern Pennsylvania that provides educational, environmental and outdoor recreational programming for people of all ages. The Andrew J. Conner Nature Center at Asbury Woods serves as the cornerstone of educational programming, providing animal exhibits and free public access. There are plenty of recreational opportunities on the property, from hiking and running to biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and wading in Walnut Creek.
The preserve is an independent, non-profit organization, and their mission is made possible by program and service fees, grants, special events and generous donations from members and patrons. Annually, Asbury Woods positively impacts more than 100,000 people who use the trails, attend festivals or participate in education and community outreach programs. A visit to Asbury Woods is a great way to connect with nature and learn more about the environment while having fun outdoors.
Phone Number: (814) 835-5356
Address: 4105 Asbury Rd, Erie, PA 16506
If you’re in the mood for a little culture, then look no further than the Erie Playhouse. Located in the heart of downtown Erie, the award-winning theatre has been delighting audiences with quality live performances for over 100 years. Founded with a mission of providing entertainment to the community, the Playhouse has since added community outreach and arts education as its top priorities.
The Erie Playhouse is located in what was formerly the Strand Theatre. The 12,000+ square foot space is perfectly suited to its busy schedule, with seating for 424 and handicapped accessible facilities. From classic plays to modern musicals, the theatre offers a wide array of live performances. Come experience the magic of live theatre and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Phone Number: (814) 454-2852
Address: 13 W 10th St, Erie, PA 16501
One of the most spectacular places to explore in Erie, Pennsylvania, is the Bicentennial Tower. Located on the waterfront, the Bicentennial Tower is a great spot to take in the views of the Presque Isle Bay, and the surrounding area. The tower stands at a height of 100 feet and is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the city.
The Bicentennial Tower is part of the Port of Erie, which is located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie in a natural bay formed and sheltered by Presque Isle. The port of Erie offers a variety of activities and attractions, including charter fishing, sail and dinner cruises, marinas, and much more. There is also a 253-slip marina with numerous amenities for boaters. Plus, the Bayfront Promenade located atop the bluffs provides spectacular panoramic views of the bay, and is dotted with historic markers.
You can also take part in the ERIEBANK 8 Great Tuesdays concert series, which takes place every Tuesday during July and August. Over 50,000 people attend these events each year, featuring a variety of live music from local, regional, and national acts. With its breathtaking views, recreational opportunities, and lively entertainment, the Bicentennial Tower is a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
Phone Number: (814) 455-6055
Address: 1 State St, Erie, PA 16507
When it comes to learning and exploring the history of Erie County, the Hagen History Center is the place to be. Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, the Hagen History Center is a part of the Erie County Historical Society and is home to an extensive collection of artefacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of the county.
From the natural beauty of Presque Isle State Park to the factories, steel mills, and ships of the Erie region, the Hagen History Center offers visitors a comprehensive look at the history of Erie County. Through a variety of public programs, exhibitions, and publications, the Center strives to provide an interactive and engaging experience for visitors. The Center’s permanent exhibition, “Erie County: A Place to Call Home,” features artifacts and photographs from Erie County’s past. In addition, the Center hosts a variety of lectures, workshops, and special events throughout the year, providing unique opportunities to learn more about the history of Erie County.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident of Erie County or a visitor from out of town, the Hagen History Center is the place to explore the history of Erie County. With its comprehensive collection of artefacts and photographs, public programs and exhibitions, and special events, the Hagen History Center is a must for anyone interested in learning about the rich history of Erie County.
Phone Number: (814) 454-1813
Address: 356 W 6th St, Erie, PA 16507
The expERIEnce Children’s Museum is an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and educational day out. The museum offers over 20 themed exhibits that range from a creative play space to a science laboratory. Visitors can explore exhibits related to the environment, health, engineering and technology, and the arts. Kids can even explore a replica of a 1902 Erie fire station, complete with a fire truck and firefighting equipment.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages. From hands-on learning activities to family-oriented events, the museum provides something for everyone. The museum also features a gift shop filled with unique toys and gifts that are sure to be a hit with the kids.
With its rich history and educational exhibits, the expERIEnce Children’s Museum is a great place for families to explore and learn together. Located in the heart of downtown Erie, this museum offers an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.
Phone Number: (814) 453-3743
Address: 420 French St, Erie, PA 16507
The Warner Theater is a must-see for anyone visiting the city of Erie, Pennsylvania. This stunningly ornate theater was commissioned by the world-famous Warner Bros. in 1929, and is a perfect example of art deco architecture. The theater boasts over 2,250 upholstered, theater-styled seats, 1,528 of which are orchestra seats and 722 of which are located in the balcony. With 110/220 VAC, three phase 600 AMPS and 200A per LEG electrical capabilities.
Warner Theater offers multiple lighting and sound options to accommodate a wide range of events, from lectures and presentations to weddings and receptions. The Grand Lobby can be used for small receptions of up to 250 people in a sit-down fashion or as many as 500 for a stand-up buffet. With a proscenium-type stage measuring 65 ft. x 28 ft., the theater has hosted an aggressive schedule of over 150 events per year since its opening in 1931. Home to the Erie Philharmonic, Lake Erie Ballet and the Erie BROADWAY Series, the Warner Theater offers something for everyone. So come and experience the timeless elegance and historic charm of Warner Theater.
Phone Number: (814) 452-4857
Address: 811 State St, Erie, PA 16501
