Welcome! If you’re wondering what to do in Erie, Pennsylvania — especially around the beautiful shores of the Great Lake — you’re in exactly the right place. I’ve traveled all over, and I’ll tell you: this lakeside city has hidden gems, big sights, and warm-hearted experiences that are perfect whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Let’s Dig In!
Disclaimer
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Tabel of Contents
- 1 Why Visit Erie? What You’ll Get from This Guide
- 2 1. Dive Into History at the Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara
- 3 2. Explore Nature’s Playground at Presque Isle State Park
- 4 3. Experience Local Wildlife at the Erie Zoo
- 5 4. Catch a Show at the Warner Theatre Downtown
- 6 5. Get Hands-On at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center
- 7 6. Wander the Forested Trails at Asbury Woods Nature Center
- 8 7. Bonus Hidden Gem: Bicentennial Tower Panoramic Views
- 9 Quick Travel Tips & Planning Notes
- 10 Roadmap to The Gem City
Why Visit Erie? What You’ll Get from This Guide
You’ll leave with a clear plan of some of the best things to do in the Gem City — from water-worn history and nature trails to charming theatres and local flavor. I’ll walk you through:
- Historic maritime moments and ship-stories
- Beach and outdoor fun on Lake Erie
- Culture, theatre, and zoo adventures
- Insider perks for planning (so you don’t wander aimlessly)
Keep reading for the inside scoop on each spot, plus photo ideas and caption suggestions so you or your blog readers can capture the moment.
1. Dive Into History at the Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara
On the downtown waterfront of Erie, the Erie Maritime Museum stands with its polished displays and the impressive historic ship, the U.S. Brig Niagara, moored right beside it. This is no static museum — you’ll literally be steps from the wood and sails of a ship tied to the pivotal 1813 Battle of Lake Erie.
Pro tip: Book a guided tour if you can — you’ll learn stories that bring the ship and its era to life (and your photos will thank you).
2. Explore Nature’s Playground at Presque Isle State Park
If you picture “beach day + nature walk + water-action” all rolled into one spot, this is it. The Presque Isle State Park is a sandy peninsula reaching out into the Pennsylvania’s Port City — beaches, bird-watching, windsurfing, ice fishing in winter, even.
Pro tip: Early morning walks here are magical — fewer people, soft light, the lake so quiet you can hear it breathe. Bring layers, because lake breezes will sneak up on you.
3. Experience Local Wildlife at the Erie Zoo
If you’re traveling with kids (or simply with your inner kid), the Erie Zoo offers a sweet mix of animals, gardens, and fun. More than 400 animals, plus botanical gardens, make for a relaxed day in Glenwood Park.
Pro tip: Visit mid-morning for more active animals and fewer crowds. Grab a cool drink and meander slowly — time spent here feels restorative.
4. Catch a Show at the Warner Theatre Downtown
When the sun sets and you’re ready for indoor charm, the historic Warner Theatre in downtown Great Lakes City steps into the spotlight. Whether it’s a concert, comedy, or theatre piece, this beautifully restored venue adds cultural richness to your trip.
Pro tip: Check the show schedule ahead of time and pair the theatre night with dinner downtown — walkable and memorable.
5. Get Hands-On at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center
Situated at the gateway to Presque Isle, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center is a cool spot to deepen your understanding of Gem City’s natural story, tidal patterns, ecology, and bird migrations.
Pro tip: If the weather’s iffy, pop in here for an enriching indoor experience that still connects you to the outdoors. Bonus: lots of photo-ops without the crowds.
6. Wander the Forested Trails at Asbury Woods Nature Center
For a quieter, nature-immersed alternative to the lakeside hustle, head to the Asbury Woods Nature Center. Tucked among forest trails and seasonal foliage, it’s one of the Bayfront City’s charming “slow down” spots.
Pro tip: Bring good walking shoes and maybe a picnic. This is the kind of place where time slows, and you’ll appreciate the pause.
7. Bonus Hidden Gem: Bicentennial Tower Panoramic Views
Want an iconic viewpoint? The Bicentennial Tower rises above the bay front and gives you sweeping vistas of the Great Lake, Presque Isle, and downtown area. Built in 1996, it’s a visual treat.
Pro tip: Capture it at golden hour (right before sunset) for magical light. Bring a camera or your phone — the view is “pin this as your memory” worthy.
Quick Travel Tips & Planning Notes
- Stay near the waterfront or bayfront: you’ll be close to many of the main attractions, and you’ll enjoy lakeside ambiance.
- Weather matters: Lake Erie can be breezy. Bring layers, and if you’re outdoors early or late, a light jacket will help. In the wintertime, bundle up because the lake affect brings LOTS of snow.
- Timing: Summer is busiest; for fewer crowds, target spring or fall. Mid-morning is often the sweet spot. Winter is not the best time unless you love snow and can drive in it.
- Photo-ready: Bring a water-resistant layer for beach trails, a picnic blanket for lakeside relaxing, and a power bank for your phone (you’ll likely take lots of snaps!).
- Food & drink: The Gem City has local eateries and bite-friendly spots, especially downtown and by the bay front — don’t skip a sunset dinner by the water. Read my blog for the best places here
- Stay curious: If you spot local festivals, outdoor concerts, or a wine/beer trail along the lake, go for it. Some of the best moments are spontaneous.
Roadmap to The Gem City
There you have it, your roadmap to things to do in Erie, PA that go beyond the ordinary tourist stops. Whether you’re standing on a windswept beach at Presque Isle, listening to the creak of the U.S. Brig Niagara’s ropes at the Erie Maritime Museum, or gazing out across the Great Lake from Bicentennial Tower. Pennsylvania’s Port City invites fresh eyes and an open heart.
If you’re planning a visit, drop a comment below about when you’ll go and what you’re most excited to see. I’d love to hear.
If you are up for a bit of a drive, Niagara Falls is about a 2 hour drive away. Read the blog Niagara Falls: Your Next Big (Wet) Adventure Awaits for things to do in the area.
Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!
