Things to Do in Erie, PA: Your Ultimate Lake Erie Adventure Guide

Things to Do in Erie, PA: Your Ultimate Lake Erie Adventure Guide

Beth Glosner  | 

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

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

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

The War of 1812 history is alive on Lake Erie.

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

Peace and possibility in one frame.


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

 When wildlife meets your lens.

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

Marquee glow at the Warner Theatre — your evening’s gateway in downtown Erie.

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

Inside the Tom Ridge Environmental Center — sink into the story of Lake Erie’s living systems.

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

Sunlight through the trees on an autumn walk at Asbury Woods — find your forest calm in Erie.

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

Skyline meets lake at dusk from Bicentennial Tower — Erie from above

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!

-Beth

Travel for Introverts: How to See the World Without Burning Out

Travel for Introverts: How to See the World Without Burning Out

Beth Glosner  | 

I’ve had some of my best conversations in the most unexpected places—like a random chat in a coffee shop or striking up a conversation with a couple at a restaurant who were off to see the play “Jinty,” which was a part of Pittsburgh culture. I would visit Pittsburgh as a child and never heard of it. I talk to strangers because I’m curious (and yes, adventurous since I travel solo). But most people would never guess that deep down, I’m a hardcore introvert.

Me? Outgoing? Ha! 

The truth is, behind the curated travel photos and polished blog posts, there’s a woman who recharges by being alone, who finds energy in quiet moments between adventures. I’ve learned that being an introvert doesn’t mean you can’t love travel, it just means you do it differently.

Let’s Dig In!

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Finding Your Inner Traveler: Embracing the Introvert Adventure

When I left Pennsylvania for the first time, I didn’t set out to “find myself.” I just wanted to see more than what stretched beyond my small hometown. Books like Where the Wild Things Are, The Little Princess, and The Giving Tree filled me with curiosity long before I had a car or a passport. Those stories taught me that adventure isn’t just about where you go, it’s about how you see the world.

Years later, I packed my bags, left the East Coast, and headed to the West. Moving cross-country in December was brutal. The logistics, the loneliness, the literal freezing temperatures, they all tested me. But I did it. And the most challenging part wasn’t the move; it was talking to people.

Still, solo travel taught me one of life’s most freeing lessons: you can be an introvert and still be brave.

Every journey starts with a small step—and a big gulp of courage.

1. People Might Think You’re Weird—And That’s Okay

Let’s face it: introverts make up nearly half the population, yet we’re told that being “quiet” isn’t ideal. From school group projects (ugh) to workplace meetings, society celebrates the loudest voice in the room.

But traveling as an introvert flips that script. You start to realize that solitude is a superpower. You see things others miss, the subtle shift of light on an old stone wall, the rhythm of daily life in an unknown café, the quiet joy of watching a sunrise alone.

So, when people say, “You’re traveling alone? Isn’t that lonely?” smile and say, “Actually, it’s peaceful.”

Being alone isn’t lonely, it’s a luxury.

2. You Plan Your Trips Around Your Mood (And That’s Smart Travel)

One of the best parts about solo travel for introverts is flexibility. You don’t have to negotiate breakfast times or sightseeing schedules. You can simply be.

Sometimes that means exploring from dawn to dusk, and sometimes it means spending a whole day reading at the place you are staying. I’ve learned that balancing social time with solitude keeps me from burning out.

When I need connection, I’ll book a small-group class or join a day tour. When I need quiet, I’ll find a cozy café, put on my noise-canceling headphones, and people-watch for hours.

Pro Tip: Book private rooms in hostels or B&Bs—you’ll meet people when you want to, and retreat when you don’t.

The best itinerary? The one that matches your mood.

3. Quiet Destinations Are an Introvert’s Dream

I’ve learned that certain places just fit introverts. Think small towns, beach stays, or road trips, places where silence feels sacred and crowds are few.

Quiet destinations allow you to think, breathe, and reconnect. You’ll find that creativity flows more easily when surrounded by natural stillness rather than city chaos.

That said, I do enjoy a bit of urban mayhem now and then—like the sensory overload of New Orleans or the electric pulse of Nashville. I love it for about three days. Then I’m done.

Solitude isn’t isolation, it’s serenity.

4. Dining Alone Is an Art (Not a Tragedy)

Here’s the thing: eating solo doesn’t mean you’re lonely. It means you’re confident enough to enjoy your own company.

I bring a book or jot notes in my journal while savoring a local meal. It’s become one of my favorite rituals, observing, reflecting, and tasting the world one bite at a time.

Pro Tip: Choose restaurants with bar seating or outdoor patios—perfect spots for solo diners who love people-watching without the small talk.

A table for one, please.

5. Noise-Canceling Headphones: The Introvert’s Survival Tool

Planes, buses, and trains’ noise follows you everywhere when you travel. Noise-canceling headphones are my best friend. They’re not just for music; they’re a polite “Do Not Disturb” sign.

Pro Tip: Download ambient playlists or local podcasts before your trip; they’re great for tuning out chaos while still soaking up the culture.

Silence on demand: every introvert’s travel essential.

6. Slow Travel Is the Secret to Sanity

When I first started traveling, I tried to see everything. Every landmark, every museum, every “must-do.” I burned out fast.

Now, I embrace slow travel. I stay longer, explore deeper, and let the days unfold naturally. Slow travel gives you time to find your rhythm, get to know locals, and fall into a routine that feels less like a trip and more like life.

It’s also when I do my best writing. Solitude sparks creativity; rushing kills it.


Slow down—you’ll see more when you stop hurrying.

7. Embracing the Awkward Moments

As an introvert, even simple things like asking for directions or sitting alone in a restaurant for the first time can feel monumental. I’ve literally written out scripts before calling customer service abroad.

But here’s the secret: every awkward encounter makes you stronger. You learn to laugh at yourself, to stumble through challenges, and to find joy in imperfection.

Lost? Probably. But I’m learning.

8. The Beauty of Being Invisible

Introverts have a gift: we blend in. While extroverts attract attention, introverts observe.

That’s what makes solo travel magical: we see the small, unnoticed details that others rush past. The quiet exchange between shopkeepers. The way sunlight filters through old windows. The unspoken rhythm of a city waking up. It’s great to get lost in a crowd where no one knows you.

Pro Tip: Spend one day just observing, no camera, no phone. Let your senses lead. You’ll experience travel in a completely new way.

You don’t have to be seen to see truly.

9. When Plans Change, Celebrate It

When someone cancels plans while I’m traveling, I secretly smile. It means I get my alone time back.

Don’t fight it, embrace it. Use those moments to recharge, write, or wander without direction. Some of my best adventures have happened when plans fell through.

Sometimes the best company is your own.

10. Self-Acceptance: The Ultimate Souvenir

If there’s one lesson solo travel for introverts has taught me, it’s this: stop apologizing for who you are. You don’t need to explain why you’d rather read than socialize, or why you need a quiet morning and coffee before sightseeing.

You travel for you, not for validation, not for Instagram likes, but to explore the world around you.

So the next time you feel guilty for choosing solitude over socializing, remember: your peace is priceless.

Travel teaches you how to love your own company.

Final Thoughts

Solo travel for introverts isn’t about escaping people; it’s about discovering yourself in the spaces between. It’s about finding comfort in silence, beauty in solitude, and courage in curiosity.

So pack your bags, grab your journal, and explore at your own pace, in your own way.

If you loved this post, check out my guide, 10 Ways to Be an Eco-Conscious Traveler, for simple ways to explore the world while caring for it too.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

– Beth
50 Best Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Adventures

50 Best Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Adventures

Beth Glosner  | 

There’s something magical about hitting the open road — windows down, music up, and snacks within arm’s reach. 🚗💨 Road trips remind us that adventure isn’t always about where we’re going; sometimes it’s about the stories we collect along the way. Whether you’re crossing state lines, chasing sunsets, or just taking the scenic route home, these 50 road trip quotes capture the spirit of freedom, discovery, and pure wanderlust that make every journey unforgettable.

So pack your bag, grab your playlist, and let these words fuel your next adventure. Let’s Dig In!

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Quotes to Fuel Your Wanderlust

1. “Because the greatest part of a road trip isn’t arriving at your destination. It’s all the wild stuff that happens along the way.”
— Emma Chase, Tamed

2. “That’s why I love road trips, dude. It’s like doing something without actually doing anything.”
— John Green, An Abundance of Katherines

3. “Roads are a record of those who have gone before.”
— Rebecca Solnit, Wanderlust: A History of Walking

4. “See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.”
— Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451

5. “Sometimes the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn’t mean to take.”
— Angela N. Blount, Once Upon an Ever After

6. “Life is beautiful if you are on the road to somewhere.”
— Orhan Pamuk, The New Life

7. “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.”
— Robert Louis Stevenson, Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes

8. “Life is a long, bumpy road, but that makes for an exciting ride. It’s OK to map out your future… but do it in pencil.”
— Jon Bon Jovi

9. “It is not down in any map; true places never are.”
— Herman Melville, Moby-Dick

10. “Still, round the corner, there may wait, A new road or a secret gate.”
— J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings

11. ““I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I intended to be.”
— Douglas Adams

12. “All he needed was a wheel in his hand and four on the road.”
— Unknown (Often misattributed to J.R.R. Tolkien)

13. “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there.”
— Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland

14. “One’s destination is never a place but rather a new way of looking at things.”
— Henry Miller, Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymus Bosch

15. “If you come to a fork in the road, take it.”
— Yogi Berra

16. “When you’re traveling, you are what you are right there and then. People don’t have your past to hold against you. No yesterdays on the road.”
— William Least Heat-Moon, Blue Highways

17. “I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring.”
— David Bowie

18. “If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine — it’s lethal.”
— Paulo Coelho

19. “Road trips: Because they’re cheaper than therapy.”
— Unknown

20. “Have you noticed that anyone going slower than you is an idiot and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?”
— George Carlin

21. “When traveling with someone, take large doses of patience and tolerance with your morning coffee.”
— Helen Hayes

22. “I think I deserve something beautiful.”
— Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat, Pray, Love

23. “The freedom of the open road is seductive, serendipitous, and absolutely liberating.”
— Aaron Lauritsen, 100 Days Drive

24. “If you’re on a road trip, you need driving music.”
— Edgar Wright

25. “It  doesn’t matter how old you get — buying snacks for a road trip should always look like an unsupervised 9-year-old was given $100.”
— Unknown

26. “I don’t drive fast, I drive YOUNG.”
— Musawir Masood

27. “Roads were made for journeys, not destinations.”
— Confucius

28. “A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike.”
— John Steinbeck

29. “Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.”
— Zig Ziglar

30. “Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else.”
— Tom Stoppard

31. “There’s a whole world out there, right outside your window. You’d be a fool to miss it.”
— Charlotte Eriksson

32. “Now, on this road trip, my mind seemed to uncrinkle, to breathe, to present to itself a cure for a disease it had not, until now, known it had.”
— Elizabeth Berg, The Year of Pleasures

33. “We travel, some of us forever, to seek other states, other lives, other souls.”
— Anaïs Nin

34. “A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent upon arriving.”
— Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

35. “And just like that, we’re on our way to everywhere.”
— Emery Lord, Open Road Summer

36. “You know more of a road by having travelled it than by all the conjectures and descriptions in the world.”  — William Hazlitt

37. “I can speak to my soul only when the two of us are off exploring deserts or cities or mountains or roads.”
— Paulo Coelho, Aleph

38. “When all’s said and done, all roads lead to the same end. So it’s not so much which road you take, as how you take it.”
— Charles de Lint, Greenmantle

39. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”
— Lao Tzu

40. “Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road.”
— Jack Kerouac

41. “There is something about the momentum of travel that makes you want to just keep moving, to never stop.”
— Bill Bryson

42. Love is the food of life, travel is the dessert.”
— Unknown

Short & Sweet Road Trip Captions

Perfect for your Instagram posts or travel journal!

43. Been driving all day. I need a brake!

44. Wanderlust & highway dust.

45. Nowhere, but everywhere all at the same time

46. Making memories, one mile at a timeere all at the same time

47. Windows down, music up, snacks out.

48. Road trips are the best therapy.

49. The trip becomes the story.

50. Detours are life’s way of keeping you on track.

✨ Final Thoughts

Whether you’re venturing across the country or just down a back road near home, road trips remind us that every journey, big or small, has a story to tell. These quotes are a reminder to embrace the unexpected, find joy in the detours, and keep your heart open to the road ahead.

If you loved these road trip quotes, keep the inspiration going with Quotes for Bite-Sized Adventures: Inspiring Travel & Food to Brighten Your Day — a collection of quotes that celebrate curiosity, flavor, and the spirit of adventure.

So go ahead, fill up your tank, cue up your favorite playlist, and hit the open road. Adventure is waiting around the next bend.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


– Beth