34 Best & Fun Things To Do In Erie: Find Out

The fourth-largest city in Pennsylvania is Erie.

Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and family-friendly entertainment.

With its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and scenic vistas, the city provides an array of activities for visitors of all ages.

From exploring the stunning Presque Isle State Park to enjoying thrilling rides at Waldameer Park & Water World, and from discovering the region’s maritime heritage at the Erie Maritime Museum to savoring the flavors of Lake Erie Wine Country, Erie promises an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the waterfront or engaging in exciting activities, this vibrant city has something to delight every traveler

With that, this article is to help you with the ideal places to visit and things to do in Erie.

Things To Do In Erie

Below is a list of the top destinations for sightseeing and excitement.

1. Erie Zoo & Botanical Gardens

At the Erie Zoo & Botanical Garden, get ready for an animal adventure.

Over 400 creatures from all over the world, including warthogs, cheetahs, and others, can be seen up close by visitors.

After you’ve experienced all the excitement the zoo has to offer, visit the nearby Botanical Garden for free activities in Erie.

It is a breathtakingly gorgeous garden with over 400 species and many lovely blooms from different locations, yet it is not as fascinating for children as it is for adults.

Since the zoo and botanic garden first opened its doors in 1982, the neighborhood has enjoyed encounters with the animals.

2. Port Erie Bicentennial Tower

The view of Lake Erie from the Port Erie Bicentennial Tower offers a tranquil, charming panorama.

The tower, which is in the heart of the city, was constructed in 1996 to mark the occasion of the city’s bicentennial.

One of the biggest buildings in the state, the tower is 187 feet tall.

Two observation towers in the tower, which are open for visits every day, provide various vistas of the city.

On a clear day, you might be able to see 27 miles into Ontario, Canada, from where you are sitting.

3. Presque Isle State Park

Activities in Presque Isle State Park include boating, bird watching, and swimming along the beach.

One of Erie’s most well-liked tourist destinations in this state park, which offers excellent experiences to both adults and children as well as families.

The 3,200-acre park is home to some of the prettiest marinas, beaches, trails, and vistas one could ask for on a thrilling day or evening.

The Pennsylvania state park offers a variety of activities, including canoeing, water skiing, volleyball, hiking, biking, inline skating, boating, fishing, and swimming.

4. Erie Art Museum

The Erie Art Museum, founded in 1898 as the Erie Art Club, is one of the top places in the region for people who enjoy art and history.

Even though the museum has relocated and changed locations throughout the years, it still possesses one of the most spectacular art collections in Erie or Pennsylvania.

The downtown Discovery Square Corporation, which also houses numerous stores, museums, and galleries, includes the Erie Art Museum.

More than 8000 incredible works of art and artifacts, such as Indian bronzes, Tibetan paintings, modern baskets, American ceramics, and much more, may be found at the museum.

The museum hosts about 20 touring exhibits each year.

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5. Lake Erie Arboretum At Frontier Park

The Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park is on a quest to increase public awareness of the value of trees to the environment and our neighborhood.

As you explore the more than 250 distinct tree species on display at the Arboretum at Frontier, a visit here offers the chance to gain a ton of useful information.

Russian Olive, Ginkgo, Hawthorn, Dogwood, Scarlet Oak, Alder, Honey Locust Maple, and Douglas Fir are just a few of the trees on display at this 1998-founded arboretum.

Visitors have access to more than just educational materials and opportunities for tree viewing.

6. ExpERIEnce The Children’s Museum

The ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum is situated in the historic cultural district of downtown Erie and is devoted to exhibiting the artistic creations done by children of all ages in and around the Erie area as well as around the country.

On three levels, the museum provides a varied assortment of things to see and do.

The museum has a strong emphasis on education, so as they engage with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, children learn while having fun.

The subjects taught here vary from history and arithmetic to art and culture.

Over 50 interactive hands-on exhibits, an outdoor play area for when you need a break, and many other features can be found at the Children’s Museum.

7. Waldameer Park & Water World

A distinctive water park with over 100 rides, attractions, slides, and other features is Waldameer Park & Water World.

In the summer, both children and adults may enjoy the thrilling rides at Water World, including the Drop Tower, a Merry-go-Round, and the XScream Drop Tower!

This will be on the list of must-see attractions for youngsters.

The park offers a ton of entertaining activities, including food trucks, kiosks, music, and several carnival-style games.

Families visit Water World in the summer, and you should too.

There are several events and entertainment options here, so every family and interest can find something to enjoy.

8. Presque Isle Downs & Casino

One of the most well-known gaming establishments in the Erie region is Presque Isle Downs and Casino.

In addition to being a casino, it is also a racetrack where thoroughbred horse races are frequently held.

More than 1,700 games are available at the casino, including well-known ones like Wheel of Fortune and Bally Quick Hits.

Slot machines and other casino games regularly bring in large winnings.

9. Millcreek Mall

Whether you need to pick up a few items for the kids or are just exploring for future purchases, Millcreek Mall has the stores you want to visit.

Since 1975, the mall has been a fixture in the Erie neighborhood.

Teenagers typically watch movies at the mall’s theater on the weekends, making it a popular hangout for them.

Customers can find a wide range of goods and services at kiosks.

Everything a person may desire or need is available at Millcreek Mall, including clothing, electronics, beauty items, and toy retailers.

10. Erie Insurance Arena

Sporting events, musical performances, theatrical productions, and many more events have taken place at the Erie Insurance Arena since 1983.

The whole thing began at a Beach Boys performance.

The venue has played host to several outstanding performances throughout the years from some of the biggest artists and Hollywood stars.

During a recent $47 million makeover, the arena’s size was increased, and for those looking for a special experience during their event, luxury suites and a club level were added.

11. Play Port Arcade & Family Fun Center

Everyone will be entertained by arcades and games.

The nights of special events are always fun, so check the calendar and go when you want.

It doesn’t cost a penny (or a quarter) to play any of the arcades’ more than 100 games because they are all set on free mode.

Customers enjoy the virtual arcade, Glow Golf & Pool, and Laser Tag, which are also available.

12. Harbor Ridge Golf Club & Grill

One of Pennsylvania’s most difficult courses is found at Harbor Ridge, a public golf course and club.

By any measure of the imagination, this 9-hole course is not the easiest.

but undoubtedly offers benefits and difficulties to those who aren’t frightened to try.

Golfers can play for fun on tees, fairways, and greens made of bentgrass.

However, it offers a great day for Erie’s top golfers and those who are willing to challenge themselves.

There are plenty of delectable foods and refreshing beverages on the barbecue.

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13. Liberty Park & Highmark Amphitheater

Playgrounds with modern, well-maintained equipment keep kids entertained for hours.

It’s a popular attraction close to Erie that will keep you occupied all day.

Here, you’ll find slides and monkey bars, as well as other common playground accessories.

There are also picnic places, so don’t be afraid to pack a picnic basket to take with you.

On Friday and Saturday nights, concerts are held. Additionally, there may be a special performance or two at other periods of the year.

The concerts are free to attend, and if you are hungry, food trucks are nearby to fill your stomach.

14. Hagen History Center

The Hagen History Center is housed in the former Watson-Curtze mansion, a magnificent stone building with vaulted ceilings, stained glass, mosaics, and a variety of other decorative items. 

These features allow you to fully appreciate the building’s architect and designer.

It ranks among the top tourist destinations in Erie.

The history center provides a wealth of information on the Lake Erie region and the most well-known locals once you get past the excellent design.

15. Schaefer’s Auto Art

Since each sculpture is made from a vehicle or a vehicle element, this style of art is unusual.

Each is distinct and has a personalized name.

There are various pieces on exhibit for you to check out while you’re there, and one man converts his love of autos into a creative idea.

Even though it’s a little off the usual road, the quick drive to see this cool art is worth it.

16. Jr’s Last Laugh Comedy Club

If you spend the evening taking in a show at Jr. Last Laugh Comedy Club, you’ll realize why people say that the best therapy is laughter.

Some have compared this comedy club to establishments in New York and Chicago since it is a crowd favorite.

It’s roomy and entertaining, and the accommodating staff undoubtedly contributes to making the evening enjoyable from beginning to end.

You rarely know who the next act on the lineup will be, but you can bet they’ll have you in fits of laughter.

17. Firefighters Historical Museum

The Firefighters Historical Museum is housed in the former Erie Engine Station #4, which opened in 1903, and features a variety of apparatuses, uniforms, tools, and other objects from the history of firefighting.

This educational encounter and the chance to see several items up close will fascinate anyone with a passion for Erie’s history and/or firefighting.

One of the museum’s main draws is a steam-powered fire engine, but there is also a ton of other enjoyable activities for guests to enjoy.

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18. Mi Scuzi

This restaurant offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with robust Italian entrees and varieties of pasta along with salads, bread, and desserts.

19. Warner Theater

Visitors can choose from one of the outstanding performances by the Erie Philharmonic, Erie Ballet, or Erie Broadway Series or go to one of the other 150 incredible events held at Warner Theater each year.

The Warner Theater, which Warner Bros. founded in 1929, hosts some of the top performances and events in the city, but it’s also worth seeing just for the architecture.

20. Lake Shore Railway Museum

Any train enthusiast will be delighted to visit the Lakeshore Railway Museum, which is supported by donations.

The Railway Museum, housed in the former New York Railroad Passenger Depot, is now home to some fairly fascinating relics and a steam engine.

Since its founding in 1956, the museum has become a landmark in the community.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of interesting artifacts and information on trains and railroads in addition to the engine that is on show.

21. Race At The Tracks

A racer can select from one of five different courses at Lake Erie Speedway to compete against friends or other racers.

This is the ideal location to hone your abilities and put them to the test if you own a stock car.

Plyler Overhead Door Modifieds, Street Stocks, Compacts, Legends, and Bandoleros are the five divisions.

The raceway has a 38-mile track available. It has been operating since 2002 and holds several noteworthy occasions every year.

22. Great Lakes Seaway Trail

Wine lovers have the ideal opportunity to tour the area’s wine country thanks to the Great Lakes Seaway Trail.

Visitors are taken through some very amazing scenery along the walk, including colorful trees and undulating hills.

As you travel east on Route 5, the trail opens up. The landscape is guaranteed to take your breath away as you start on the trek.

Choose from 25 amazing vineyards and wineries along this route to visit, sample, and enjoy.

23. Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park

The 200,000-gallon wave pool at Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park boasts waves that may reach heights of six feet.

On any sweltering summer day, it’s the ideal location for families and children.

A wide variety of entertaining slides are available, and a watchful crew ensures that everyone’s enjoyment is kept safe.

When you’re satisfied getting wet, the water park also offers other forms of amusement than water slides.

24. Erie Playhouse

The Erie Playhouse is the place to be this weekend for excitement for locals and guests of Erie who appreciate theater and plays.

The majority of individuals find it advantageous as it is close to downtown Erie.

The Playhouse hosts a wide range of plays and musicals; ticket prices are determined by the day and production.

The Erie Playhouse is a draw in and of itself because it has served the community for many years.

It is one of the oldest playhouses in Pennsylvania and the oldest in the Erie region.

Additionally, it is regarded as one of the top 10 playhouses in the country.

25. Tom Ridge Environmental Center

Visitors of all ages can enjoy a wide range of interesting activities at Tom Ridge Environmental Center.

Visitors to the 6,500-square-foot facility can learn more about plants, trees, and other topics in the instructional center.

Over 75 hand-carved whirligigs are among the several other imaginative artifacts on show at the Environmental Center for Erie tourists.

26. Downtown Erie, Pennsylvania

The downtown Erie area has everything you would require.

You will be able to browse more than 500 different shops that sell everything from clothing to furniture to beauty goods to coffee and juices, as well as enjoy breathtaking views of the setting sun over Lake Erie.

Although it is possible to drive through the downtown area, most people find that walking is the most effective method to explore it.

27. Asbury Woods

Asbury Woods offers a wide range of free activities, including hiking, fishing, biking, cross-country skiing, running, craft workshops, a garden of native plants, a picnic pavilion, animal exhibits, and the Little Woods Nature Play area for children.

The nearby Otto Behrend Celebration Garden is a favorite with adults.

Kids have the chance to socialize with peers their age, have fun, and gain knowledge about a variety of topics, including plants, animals, and outdoor safety, at annual events.

On the premises, there is an amphitheater where countless performances, programs, and other activities take place.

28. Erie Maritime Museum

Experience the most significant individuals and events in the region at the Erie Maritime Museum.

The history covers the period from 1812 until the present.

The Battle of Lake Erie, which took place on September 10, 1813, is one of the museum’s most notable exhibits, while there are numerous relics in the collection spanning other individuals and occasions.

Visitors can journey back in time and experience the full dynamics of the era by seeing videos, relics, and interactive exhibitions.

29. All An Act Theatre Productions

the A3 theater company, commonly known as the All an Act Theatre Productions.

In 2004, this neighborhood theater was founded. It aims to introduce interested guests to a variety of art through live theatrical presentations.

The Footlights Theatre Program is presented by this theatrical production and has been running for 41 summers.

A full-length musical play is provided as a free chance for kids of various backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, and life experiences to experience theater.

30. Erie Bluffs State Park

The Erie Bluffs State Park is a wonderful addition to your list of places to do while in Erie, Pennsylvania, among the many breathtaking sights situated along Lake Erie.

This lovely park, located in the west wing of the city, is a great place to go for some outdoor fun with family or loved ones.

Few trails wind across the park’s underdeveloped terrain and connect it to the shores of Lake Erie.

Due to the majority of its area being undeveloped, Erie Bluffs State Park is one of the best destinations to visit for some peace away from the noise of the city.

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31. Erie County’s Covered Bridges

It’s worth adding a drive to see Erie County’s two renowned covered bridges to your list of things to do while you’re there.

The Waterford Covered Bridge and the Harrington Covered Bridge are two extraordinary bridges with contrasting designs that are situated at opposite ends of the county.

One of the oldest bridges and a historic landmark, the Waterford Covered Bridge is situated at the easternmost point of the county.

And from the other side, the Harrington Covered Bridge, one of Pennsylvania’s best-covered bridges, is situated in the western portion of Erie County.

32. Lady Kate Boat Your

This trip starts at Presque Isle State Park and takes visitors on a delightful boat ride while educating them about the history of the area.

The tour guides educate visitors about Presque Isle’s geology as well as other topics as the boat departs the dock and travels down the lake and past the park’s beaches.

33. Erie County Public Library

Both residents and visitors use this famous destination, the majority of whom want to read, study, or perform various research.

By giving people access to relevant and reliable information, the Erie Library seeks to enhance curiosity, learning, and creativity in the community of Erie and throughout the state of Pennsylvania.

The Erie Library system consists of five locations and a bookmobile, all of which have sizable book and e-book holdings.

In addition, the library offers a wide range of educational classes, activities, and services that give visitors a variety of learning possibilities.

34. Erie Land Lighthouse

The history of the city is the Erie Land Light, which is located on the mainland east of downtown Erie.

Built-in 1818, the antique land lighthouse. It underwent structural changes in 1867, and in 1899 it was completely decommissioned.

Visitors can walk the neighborhood and take in this historical structure, albeit it isn’t usually accessible to the general public.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion 

There are a variety of activities available at this location for both adults and children.

Make a list of everything you want to see and do during your next trip to Erie, using this article as a reference.