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MATPRA is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.

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Five Must-Try Erie Comfort Foods

credit R. Frank Media

When Erie residents need a break from the fast-paced world, they turn to certain comfort foods that evoke tradition, warmth, and community where each plate tells a story and every bite is a flavorful journey. These five must-try dishes are some of the local favorites, craved for their authentic flavors and nostalgic vibes.

  1. Take Me to the Greek
    Erie Greek sauce, a regional favorite, can be found at several local restaurants, each giving it its own twist. According to the owner of iconic eatery Panos Restaurant Evan Legace, Erie Greek sauce originated from Greek immigrants, including Legace’s great-grandfather. “My great-grandfather started selling street meat in New York City, developed a Greek sauce, and moved to Erie to open a restaurant. He invited friends from the street food scene to join him, which sparked friendly Greek sauce competitions.” So what exactly is Erie Greek sauce? It’s a distinct blend of meat and spices similar to chili but with a finer texture and no beans. Legace noted, “We use 100% beef with no fillers, natural fat, and spices that are slow-cooked for six hours.” At Panos, Greek sauce covers hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, and even omelets; a messy but napkin-worthy indulgence. A Greet dog with Greek fries is a frequent choice for lifelong Erie resident Paula Bruno-Umlah, a regular customer for decades. “Panos flavors their Greek sauce perfectly; plenty of spice but not too spicy, with just the right consistency,” she said.

 

  1. A Slice of Heaven
    Dawn Van Scoter isn’t just the owner of The Lawrence Park Dinor, the only diner in Pennsylvania listed on the National Register of Historic Places, she’s also the mastermind baker behind its scratch-made pies and cheesecakes. Every slice is a taste of tradition with her own personal twist to beloved family recipes. “I use many of my mother’s recipes from her collection that goes as far back as the 1960s, with some modification,” Van Scoter says. Pie flavors vary by season, but apple, coconut cream, and the customer-favorite peanut butter pie are available most days. Some of her more imaginative creations include margarita cheesecake, chocolate caramel coconut cookie cheesecake, and trash can pie; a salty-sweet indulgence of pretzels, peanuts, caramel bits, chocolate chips, and coconut. Whole pies, cheesecakes, and custom orders are available with advance request.

 

  1. Cue the Q
    Erie is best known for its stunning lakeside views and beaches, but it’s also home to the national, award-winning barbecue at Federal Hill Smokehouse. In just eight years, this no-frills eatery near East 26th and Peach Streets has become an Erie institution for mouth-watering ribs, brisket, smoked sausage, and turkey. Food & Wine magazine even named it Pennsylvania’s “Best Barbecue in Every State” for the last four years. Owner and pitmaster Ryan Atzert smokes more than two thousand pounds of meat each week, serving it up with classic barbecue sides: coleslaw, pinto beans, potato salad, and mac and cheese. “For me, it started as a fun hobby 16 years ago, making barbecue for friends,” said Atzert. “I decided to roll the dice, open my own place, and it took off in a big way.” His secret to success? “There’s no big secret really; just salt, pepper, and time, lots of time,” he explained. If you’re new to Federal Hill, arrive early—they sell out fast.

 

  1. It’s a Wing Thing
    Chicken wings are a finger-licking staple of Erie’s casual cuisine scene: fried or baked, bone-in or boneless, wet or dry, sweet or hot. At 6 Pack House of Beer, you’ll find it’s the perfect spot to satisfy your wing cravings and pair them with an ice-cold beer. Here you can choose from 12 drafts on tap and a 17-bay beer cooler, which features options from the Lake Erie Ale Trail. Co-owner Alice DeGeorge, a true wing enthusiast, shares, “We serve over 60 pounds of wings weekly, offering more than 24 flavors. Our house-made sauces include Hot Heads, Ghost Face, and our signature 6 Pack House Sauce, a sticky-sweet hot barbecue. That’s our best seller.” Each month 6 Pack House of Beer creates a bold inventive flavor. This November, the “Thanksgiv-wing” celebrates the start of the holiday season. The wings are tossed in dry stuffing mix and rosemary, fried, and finished with a house-made cranberry sauce that’s infused with Great Lakes Cran-Orange wheat beer. For the best deal, don’t miss Wing-It Wednesdays, with $2 off traditional or boneless wings by the pound (dine-in only).

 

  1. Layers of Flavor
    Since opening in May 2024, Roma’s Italian Kitchen has earned high praise for its authentic Italian dishes, particularly its lasagna, dubbed “Erie’s Best Lasagna.” It’s a bold claim, but after tasting this classic comfort food, many agree. “The idea behind ‘Erie’s Best Lasagna’ came during an early tasting meeting,” said Executive Chef Scott Croyle. “One manager took a bite and exclaimed, ‘This has to be the best-tasting lasagna in Erie!’” Nick Scott Jr., vice president of Scott Enterprises, the local family-owned company behind Roma’s, added, “The name lived up to the promise. From the start, customers kept saying the same thing. We knew we had a winner.” Made fresh daily, Roma’s lasagna is a generous portion layered with sweet sausage, creamy ricotta, imported cheeses, and Roma’s signature house-made red sauce. This sauce has a hint of sweetness, naturally enhanced with sofrito; a blend of carrots, onions, and whole garlic sautéed in extra-virgin olive oil, crafted with premium plum tomatoes, fresh Italian parsley, and basil. The result? You be the judge. Erie’s Best Lasagna is available for lunch and dinner daily.

10 Things to Do in Winter at Presque Isle State Park

Bundle up with your boots, scarves, and gloves because it’s time to explore Presque Isle State Park in the wintertime! Although Presque Isle is mainly known for its sandy beaches, there are many ways to enjoy and explore the park’s natural beauty any time of year. Here are 10 things to do at Presque Isle that will lift your winter spirits and banish those seasonal blues. For a map of Presque Isle State Park and its trails, click here.

  1.  Snowshoe on Long Pond Trail

This one-mile trail follows the shoreline of Long Pond, one of the ponds within the park’s lagoon, near the entrance to the east pier. The trail is ideal for snowshoe exploration and has great opportunities to see some of the park’s wildlife population, including some very active beavers that typically cut a noticeable path through the trail near the eastern trailhead. Other snowshoe trails at the park include Pine Tree Trail and Ridge Trail.

  1. Educate and Explore at TREC

Although not physically attached to Presque Isle, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (affectionately referred to as “TREC”) is considered the gateway to Presque Isle and an introduction to how the peninsula formed more than a thousand years ago from glaciers and ice melt. This fascinating (and free) attraction features hands-on, educational exhibits, a glass-enclosed observation tower, and Presque Isle Gallery and Gifts.

  1. Spot a Snowy Owl at Gull Point

The snowy owl is the largest of the North American owls and is mainly white with black and brown markings. Some snowy owls are known to migrate from their summer nests near the Arctic Circle to parts of southern Canada and the northern rim of the United States, including Presque Isle. The best place to catch a glimpse of a snowy owl is Gull Point, where they perch on land and short posts waiting for prey. To protect the ecologically fragile area, visitors must use the designated observation platform and trail.

  1. Cross-Country Ski on Fox Trail

The half-mile Fox Trail is across from the Presque Isle Lighthouse, winding through wooded swamps and oak-maple trees, providing a picturesque, forested byway between the Sidewalk Trail and a portion of the Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail. Other trails that are maintained for cross-country skiing include the Sidewalk Trail and Dead Pond Trail.

  1. Catch a Winter Sunset

Presque Isle is known for its world-class sunsets, but in winter it’s a special sight to behold. When the sun sets on the horizon between the snow-dusted sand and the frozen lake, it’s simply breathtaking. Whether you bundle yourselves up on the beach or enjoy the coziness of your car, it is a gorgeous sight to behold. The best spot to catch this amazing show is at Sunset Point, also known as Kite Beach.

  1. Take a Brisk Hike

The Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail sets the perfect stage to enjoy a tranquil stroll along Presque Isle Bay, breathing in the fresh, crisp air among scenic surroundings. In winter, the trail is regularly cleared of snow from the park’s main entrance to the public safety building, so visitors can negotiate the path with ease.

  1. Drive Through Beauty with a Scenic Drive

Experience the winter wonders of Presque Isle from the cozy comfort of your vehicle as you meander through the park’s 13-mile paved loop. To maintain the park’s natural condition and protect its natural inhabitants, the main road is cleared of snow but it is not treated with salt or chemicals.

  1. Wildlife Watching

Presque Isle’s location on the Atlantic Flyway makes it a favorite spot for birds to stop to feed and rest on their migration across Lake Erie. More than 330 species of birds have been identified on the peninsula during the winter including geese, swans, and a wide variety of owls. There is a variety of winter wildlife found throughout the park including white-tailed deer, foxes, beavers, rabbits, and raccoons.

  1. Admire Frozen Ice Dunes

Ice dunes form as a result of cold Lake Erie waters, icy temperatures, and strong winds coming together. Found on the lakeside of Presque Isle, ice dunes help to preserve the beaches and protect them from sand erosion. Ice dunes are lovely to look at, but admire them from a distance, as their extreme instability makes close encounters hazardous. Capture their splendor through a photograph so the memories last long after the dunes melt away.

  1. Ice Fishing

The sheltered, frozen waters of Presque Isle Bay, Misery Bay, Horseshoe Pond, and Presque Isle Marina are great locations for ice fishing. Common catches are yellow perch, panfish, northern pike, walleye, and the occasional steelhead. Whether you’re a newcomer to the sport or seeking to upgrade your gear, Fish USA is a one-stop shop with experienced staff and an extensive selection of merchandise.

Know Before You Go:

Presque Isle State Park Winter Hours of Operation
Open daily from 5 a.m. to sunset. Day-use areas such as trails, beaches, restrooms, and the marina close at dusk. After dusk, driving is allowed up to 9 p.m.

Dog-Friendly! Presque Isle is a great place to bring your leashed furry friend along with you for a hike. Remember to do your part to help keep the park clean and pick up after them.

Presque Isle State Park Main Office, inside the Tom Ridge Environmental Center

November 1 – March 31: Open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday.

814-833-7424

Tom Ridge Environmental Center Hours of Operation
November 1 – March 31: Open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday.

Presque Isle State Park Restrooms

Most restrooms are closed during the off-season. Restrooms at Rotary Pavilion, Public Safety Building/Ranger Station, Perry Monument, North Pier, Niagara Boat Launch, and the Lighthouse Beach restrooms are open year-round.

Presque Isle State Park Ranger Station/Public Safety Building

Offering first aid, telephones, restrooms, and maps of the park.

Hours vary depending on staffing.

814-833-7424
Presque Isle State Park Ice Fishing Regulations

Best Brunch in Erie: A Foodie’s Guide

In Erie, the best brunch experiences are more than just meals—they’re a vibe, where every plate sets the mood and every bite tells a story. Wherever your brunch persona leads you, bold, classic, international, or others, the Erie region has the best brunch suggestions to satisfy every craving.

The Classic Comfort Seeker: If familiar tastes evoke fond memories and make your mouth water, have a seat inside Two45 Waterfront Grille at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel and order a sweet, savory Southern comfort food classic, Fried Chicken and Waffles. Your brunch at this waterfront restaurant pairs beautifully with stunning floor-to-ceiling waterfront views of Presque Isle Bay and a contemporary, nautical theme honoring Erie’s maritime history. Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Brunch Bite: Executive Chef Rachel Goddard recommends ordering Two45’s spicy Bloody Mary to pair with the dish, as its bold, tangy heat cuts through the richness of the crispy chicken and balances the sweetness of the waffles.

The Bold Foodie: Fearless in the face of flavor, it’s bold, innovative brunch dishes that push culinary boundaries for you. At The Cork 1794 in the West Erie Plaza, brunch is served amidst a sophisticated atmosphere with plush seating and a view of the lively open kitchen. The Breakfast Egg Strata is a savory baked egg dish filled with wild mushrooms, slab bacon, fresh spinach, crumbled feta, and golden baguette pieces, creating a flavor complexity that’s anything but ordinary. Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Brunch Bite: General Manager Greg Jones suggests pairing your strata with The Cork’s Apple Cider Mimosa, a bright and refreshing contrast to the strata’s rich, savory flavors.

The Sweet Tooth Searcher: For the bruncher with a penchant for indulgence, satisfaction lies in the unapologetic decadence of Oliver’s Rooftop’s Bananas Foster Brioche French Toast, a sweet masterpiece of buttery rum sauce, caramelized bananas, candied pecans, whipped cream, and a touch of powdered sugar. Perched atop the eight-story Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront, Oliver’s elevated experience boasts sweeping views of Presque Isle State Park and Lake Erie. Brunch is served on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Brunch Bite: General Manager Todd Young prefers to pair this dish with Oliver’s Bayfront Flip cocktail. Crafted with Buffalo Trace bourbon cream, Kahlua, walnut bitters, nutmeg, and a whole egg, it’s the perfect complement. (Photo credit: Hannah Ziccardi)

The Social Sipper: For you, brunch is all about good company and clinking glasses. At Luminary Distilling, Eatery, Fuhrman’s Cider, their Bloody Mary flight featuring house-made spirits is an ideal way to raise a delicious glass. The flight includes the Bloody Snapper with Summit Dry Gin, Bloody Derby with Rye Whiskey, Bloody Maria with 814 Agave, and the classic Bloody Mary with Gem City Vodka. Luminary presents small-batch spirits, fresh-pressed cider, baked goods, and gastropub dining in a rustic, modern-chic space. Brunch is served on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Brunch Bite: Owners Joel and Maria suggest the Prime Rib Omelet as an ideal match for a Bloody Mary flight, as its savory ingredients perfectly complement the bold, tangy kick of the cocktails.

The Global Bruncher: For those who crave international flavors, Julius serves up Erie’s finest brunch with a Mexican twist, all within the walls of one of the city’s most historic buildings. Built in 1890 as the Erie Maennerchor Club, the space combines old-world elegance with modern functionality, highlighted by ornate brickwork, wooden beams, and decorative cornices. Sunday brunch is an explosion of traditional Mexican dishes such as Huevos al Albañil (poached eggs with tomatillo sauce and cactus) and Pastel Azteca (tortilla and chicken casserole). Brunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is a prix fixe (fixed price) menu.

Brunch Bite: Owner Julio Reyes recommends pairing brunch with a Bloody Maria Sangrona, a classic Bloody Mary blended with Mexican flavors, served with tequila reposado (aged tequila).

The Health-Conscious Guru: Enjoying a nutrient-packed, fresh brunch while staying mindful of wellness is easy at Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant. Their Avocado Toast, layered with egg, bruschetta, and goat cheese, offers a delicious alternative to heavier dishes. Plus, you’ll savor it in a modern, chic setting with expansive waterfront vistas. Add gluten-friendly bread, fresh fruit, or smoked salmon for an even healthier choice. Brunch is served on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Brunch Bite: Owner John Melody says the second-floor mezzanine offers the best seats in the house, elevating the already stunning views of Presque Isle Bay to a whole new level.

Holiday Events in Erie, Pennsylvania – 2024

The holidays bring people together to celebrate the true spirit of the season and be surrounded by those who mean the most to us. During this special time of the year, the Erie region hosts many festive events, from dazzling light displays to heart-warming performances. This is a sprinkling of holiday events taking place in the Erie region. Visit our full events calendar for complete listings.

Broadway in Erie presents: Elf The Musical
Dates: Tuesday-Wednesday, November 12 – 13
Location: Warner Theatre
Times: 7:30 – 10:30 p.m.
Admission: Starting at $44
The hilarious modern Christmas classic about Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

The 40th Annual Festival of Trees
Dates: Friday through Sunday, November 29 – December 1
Location: Bayfront Convention Center
Times: Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: $10 per person, children 12 and under $7
This year’s festival features a gallery of uniquely decorated trees and local entertainment. New this year is a petting zoo on Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and live reindeer on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy holiday displays and rooms from Santa’s castle.

Port Farms Country Christmas at the Farm
Dates: Wednesday through Sunday, November 29-December 22
Location: Port Farms
Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: General admission is free. Some activities such as horse-drawn rides are a la carte.
Enjoy horse-drawn sleigh, wagon, or carriage rides throughout Port Farms’ scenic tree plantation, or shop for holiday décor, handmade wreaths, and Christmas trees (pre-cut or self-cut). The events barn (Santa’s Workshop) is open Saturday and Sunday from Noon to 3 p.m. and features live music (1-4 p.m.), holiday food and drink specials, crafts, and cookie decorating.

The Magical Polar Experience
Date: Friday, November 29
Location: Warner Theatre
Time: 7 p.m.
Admission: Starting at $32 per person
An interactive holiday movie experience unlike any other! Upon arrival, guests are greeted by musicians, a conductor, and stowaways. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in pajamas. The event includes a full presentation of The Polar Express, live musical performances, dancers and ballerinas, the Northern Lights, a visit from Santa, and photo opportunities. Magical goodie bags are also available for $25 each.

A Magical Motown Christmas
Date: Saturday, November 30
Location: Warner Theatre
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Admission: Starting at $21.75
A journey through Motown’s best including The Temptations, The Jackson Five, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Four Tops, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson, with a special set dedicated to Christmas favorites!

Asbury Woods Winter Wonderland
Dates: December 1-30 (except December 24, 25 and 31)
Location: Asbury Woods Nature Center
Time: Daily from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Admission: Free. A suggested donation of $5 per person is appreciated.
Bundle up for a peaceful evening stroll along the boardwalk trail where holiday lights will twinkle in the woods and wetlands for approximately 1/3 of a mile. The Nature Center, a holiday-themed model train display, and an expanded gift shop will be open for guests featuring specially crafted holiday gifts made by local artisans.

A Nostalgic Night with Macauley Culkin and screening of Home Alone
Date: Sunday, December 1
Location: Warner Theatre
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Admission: Starting at $39

Watch the timeless classic, Home Alone, followed by an exclusive moderated interview and Q&A audience with the film’s star, Macaulay Culkin (Kevin McCallister). Relive the iconic scenes and heartwarming moments and then dive deep into the behind-the-scenes stories and insights with Macaulay Culkin to hear about his experiences on set, his favorite memories from filming, and his take on why this movie has become such a beloved holiday classic.

Downtown D’Lights
Date: Friday, December 6
Location: Perry Square, Downtown Erie
Time: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Admission: Free.
Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Erie Mayor Joe Schember as they light up Perry Square in an incredible display of lights and decorations, including an enormous holiday tree! This family-friendly event features holiday music, holiday vendor village shops, a live cut tree and wreath sale, hot chocolate, and sweet treats.

Victorian Holidays
Dates: Friday through Sunday, December 6 – 8
Location: Watson-Curtze Mansion
Times: Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday Noon to 5 p.m.
Admission: $6 per person, children 6 and under are free
Guests can enjoy self-guided tours of the historic Watson-Curtze Mansion, beautifully decorated inside and out for the holiday season. Choruses and live music will perform throughout the weekend, with a special visit from Santa on Sunday. Regular admission rates resume Tuesday, December 10, and decorations will remain up until January 6.

Presque Isle Lights
Dates: Friday through Sunday, December 6-29
Location: Presque Isle State Park
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (weather dependent)
Admission: Free. A suggested $5 donation per vehicle is appreciated.
Presque Isle State Park’s natural beauty combined with a multitude of colorful lights and displays makes for a truly unique holiday drive-thru experience. Several areas will be decorated including the Presque Isle Lighthouse, Stull Interpretive Center, Ranger Station, and Waterworks Beach/Rotary Pavilion.

The Erie Philharmonic presents “Come Home for the Holidays”
Date: Saturday, December 7
Location: Warner Theater
Times: Saturday at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Admission: Ticket prices vary.
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and music—and the annual Philharmonic holiday concert delivers all three. With special guests, the Erie Philharmonic Chorus, and ballet dancers, the Warner Theatre will be filled with the festive sounds of the season.

The 34th  Annual “Christmas Memories”
Dates: December 4 – 22
Location: Erie Station Dinner Theatre
Times: Wednesday Noon (Dec. 4 and 11), Saturday 5:30 p.m., and Sunday 2:30 p.m.
Admission: Adults $48, Seniors (65 and up) and Students $42, Children ages 6-11 $28
Ring in the holidays with this heartwarming musical where the true meaning of Christmas is always celebrated. Join the Holiday Harmony Singers, sing along to traditional holiday favorites, and share a bountiful meal served family style.

Jim Brickman “Comfort & Joy” Holiday Concert
Date: Tuesday, December 10
Location: Warner Theatre
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Admission: Starting at $48.50
With special guests Anne Cochran & Young Original. This year’s tour promises to be a spectacular celebration of all things Christmas. Audiences can expect a captivating blend of Brickman’s original holiday classics, along with beloved seasonal favorites. From enchanting instrumentals to heartwarming vocal performances, each show will be a unique and unforgettable experience.

Nutcracker at the Warner
Dates: Saturday and Sunday, December 21-22
Location: Warner Theatre
Times: Saturday 7 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m.
Admission: Starting at $35
The Lake Erie Ballet Company has created a reimagined and enchanting performance of The Nutcracker, through a community collaboration of multiple dance companies. The Nutcracker is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends art, music, and dance, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.

Exploring Erie’s Bayfront District: A One-Day Guide

Erie’s Bayfront District is located along the southern shores of Presque Isle Bay. This vibrant area is home to an array of diverse attractions, waterfront restaurants, comfortable hotels, and stunning waterfront views.  It’s also compact and walkable, so you’ll only need to park once to explore with ease, just remember to wear comfortable shoes. There’s metered street parking along Lower State Street and two public parking garages; one at the Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel and one next to the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel. If you’ve never explored this part of Erie, here are a few ways to spend a well-rounded summer or fall day.

Morning: Start Your Day Right

Fuel up for the day at the Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel’s The Bistro. With a variety of menu items including avocado toast, eggs prepared to your liking, fresh fruit, Starbucks® coffee, and specialty beverages, The Bistro has healthy options to give you the perfect start to your day. Dining is available inside or outside on the hotel’s spacious outdoor patio with views of Presque Isle Bay.

Mid-Morning: Iconic Landmarks and History

At the foot of State Street stands one of Erie’s most recognizable landmarks, the Bicentennial Tower, built in 1995 to celebrate Erie’s 200th anniversary. Towering at 187 feet, it offers stunning photo ops with a picturesque waterfront backdrop. Visitors can take the elevator or climb 210 steps to the top observation deck for panoramic views of Presque Isle Bay, Lake Erie, and even the Canadian shoreline 27 miles away. From the top, you can also get a birds-eye view of the tower’s lower deck featuring “Flotsam,” a vibrant 12,000-square-foot mural. The Bicentennial Tower is open daily year-round. Accessing the upper deck costs a small admission fee, but it’s free on the first Tuesday of each month (excluding holidays and weather permitting).

The Erie Maritime Museum tells the fascinating story of Erie’s role during the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie through a diverse exhibit collection. Many of the museum’s exhibits refer to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, a naval commander who played a significant role in the War of 1812 and is known for his victory in the Battle of Lake Erie and coining the phrase “Don’t Give Up The Ship”. Additional museum exhibits speak to Erie’s commercial fishing history and the recreational importance of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie.

Lunch: Scenic Dining

Speaking of Erie’s famous Commodore, Oliver’s Rooftop, Beer Garden, and Mini Golf, an inviting trio of relaxation, entertainment, and fun named in honor of Perry—are located adjacent to the Maritime Museum. Oliver’s Rooftop Restaurant is found on the top floor of the Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront Hotel, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, giving diners breathtaking views of Presque Isle, Lake Erie, and the Bayfront District. Their signature dish, a delicately-crusted parmesan Lake Erie walleye, is a must-try for lunch or dinner.

Afternoon: Relaxation and Fun

After lunch, challenge your family and friends to a friendly game at Oliver’s Mini Golf. The 18-hole, 57-par course features unique obstacles and terrains, making each hole an adventure. Between rounds, relax with refreshing craft beverages and enjoy the lively atmosphere at the adjacent Oliver’s Beer Garden.

Dinner: Waterfront Dining

Steps away is Hidden Harbor, a waterfront collection of restaurants including Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill, Erie’s only floating restaurant! With open-air seating, beautiful waterfront views, and a Key West-themed atmosphere, Woody’s is a favorite summertime spot for perfectly cooked Angus smash burgers, loaded fries, and creative cocktails such as the citrusy Wobbly Worm or tropical Mermaid Marina. During summer weekends, Woody’s and nearby establishments are buzzing with the sounds of local music and the lively chatter of patrons.

Evening: Sunsets and Serenity

End your day with a unique experience of the city and one of Erie’s world-class sunsets aboard the Lettie G. Howard. Built in 1893, this National Historic Landmark departs from the foot of State Street for daytime and sunset sails from mid-May through October (weather permitting). Passengers can relax and listen to the ship’s history or help the crew set the sails, offering a memorable step back in time on one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia-style fishing schooners.

Fun Indoor Things to Do with Kids in Erie, PA

When traveling to Erie, you’ll find affordable fun for every member of your family regardless of what the weather does. Check out these suggestions for an afternoon escape or a full-day out in rain, sun, or snow.

Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park

Splash Lagoon is consistently ranked one of the Top 10 Water Park Resorts in the country by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice. It’s a tropical oasis with nine thrilling slides, a 200,000-gallon wave pool, FlowRider surf machine, the Tree Tops Ropes Course, arcade, food court, and a newly renovated Tiki Tree House complete with water sprayers, mini dumping buckets, and a giant tipping coconut! There’s also a new Froggy Family splash pad featuring a zero-depth pool, fun water sprayers, and colorful frog figures. Day passes and overnight packages are available year-round.

Play Port Arcade and Family Fun Center

Relive fond memories of going to the arcade and share them with a new generation at Play Port, where over 100 games are set to “free play”, no quarters needed! The bright neon colors and amazing collection of retro arcade games will transport your family back to the 80’s and 90’s with classic arcade games such as Pac-Man, Centipede, and Donkey Kong, among others.  Play Port also features laser tag, glow golf, virtual reality games, and glow pool. General admission includes all “free play” video games and one round of glow golf.

Erie Otters OHL Hockey

Erie’s minor-league Ontario Hockey League team has a major following, with home games at Erie Insurance Arena that entertain crowds both on the ice and in the stands with fun family promotions and giveaways. Fans of all ages are encouraged to cheer alongside fellow fans, pound on the plexiglass, and give high-fives and hugs to Otto, the Otters’ lovable mascot. The Otters are part of the Ontario Hockey League, a member league of the Canadian Hockey League, a premiere player development league for the National Hockey League. Otters alumni include NHL two-time scoring champion and 2017 NHL MVP Connor McDavid, and 2020 Stanley Cup Champions Anthony Cirelli and Erik Cernak. The Otters’ regular season starts in October and runs through March.

The expERIEnce Children’s Museum

There’s always something imaginative, inventive, and immersive happening at the newly updated expERIEnce Children’s Museum. The newly remodeled facility (which finished an $18 million expansion in 2024) gives its littlest guests more room to unleash creation, exploration, imagination, and play. Many exhibits pay homage to the Erie community. “Lake Life” boasts the second-largest interactive water table in the country, featuring miniature versions of the Bicentennial Tower and the Land Lighthouse, two of Erie’s iconic structures. “My Town” is a kid-sized town packed with hands-on experiences from taking orders at a restaurant to changing the oil on a car. “Erie Recycles” features a gallery of smaller exhibits focused on real-world steps such as sorting recyclables, shredding plastic, and watching it transform into new products.

The Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC)

Dedicated to teaching its visitors about the history of Presque Isle State Park, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (affectionately referred to as “TREC”) is a free facility with two floors of engaging and interactive exhibits, and a glass-enclosed observation tower offering panoramic views of Lake Erie.  Through these hands-on exhibits, visitors learn about the importance of preserving and appreciating the natural beauty that is Presque Isle. A visit to TREC is incomplete without taking a moment to set the three towering whirligig structures near the main entrance in motion, bringing to life a multitude of hand-carved figures.

5 Wits

It’s all about immersing yourselves into worlds of live-action adventures at 5 Wits, located on the southwest end of the Millcreek Mall. Participants choose from a variety of quests such as Espionage, Drago’s Castle, and Tomb and are placed in real-life sets that rely on hands-on tasks, puzzles, and challenges to finish. Each story has multiple endings, adaptable difficulty, repeatable challenges, changing solutions, and dynamic outcomes, complete with synchronized sound, lighting, and special effects. Unlike escape games where escaping is the objective, 5 Wits offers story-driven games where there are always different endings to each story. All ages are admitted, however, children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Arts and Culture

Taking the family to a theatrical performance at the Erie Playhouse or spending time surrounded by inspiring works of art at the Erie Art Museum can create opportunities for cultural growth, learning, and enjoyment. The Erie Playhouse has been entertaining audiences for more than 100 years and is one of the country’s oldest community theaters. Its intimate floor plan gives patrons the best seats in the house for musical extravaganzas, compelling dramas, light-hearted comedies, and inspired youth theater performances. Second Sundays at the Erie Art Museum is a recurring, pay-as-you-wish event that takes place on the second Sunday of each month. Families are invited to get creative and participate in activities such as painting, drawing, and sculpting. Second Sundays are held from 2-4 p.m.