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Erie, Pennsylvania, Secures New Year-Round Air Service to Chicago

February 17, 2026

Erie, Pa: Beginning in spring 2026, American Airlines and United Airlines will each launch year-round direct air service between Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Erie International Airport (ERI), significantly improving access to Pennsylvania’s fifth-largest city and only port on the Great Lakes. Chicago O’Hare is the third-largest U.S. air travel market and a key connecting point for coast-to-coast flights.

American Airlines will launch service on May 21, 2026, with a daily 65-seat regional jet departing ERI at 6:40 a.m. and returning from ORD at 11:15 p.m.
United Airlines will begin service on June 1, 2026, with three daily nonstop flights, marking its return to Erie and restoring a key Midwest connection.

The new flights make Erie a more accessible and competitive destination for leisure travelers, meeting planners, and tournament organizers. Erie is a destination where all are welcome to experience their version of the good life, featuring a walkable bayfront convention district with easy access to a vibrant waterfront, thriving sports tourism, diverse cuisine, and year-round outdoor recreation along its namesake Great Lake.

“Improved air service is a major win for both communities,” said John Oliver, VisitErie president and CEO. “These new flights enhance accessibility, support tourism, and create new opportunities for convention, sports, and leisure travelers alike.”

Tickets for American Airlines and United Airlines Chicago to Erie flights are now available.

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8 Things to Do in Winter at Presque Isle

February 17, 2026

Though known for its beaches and water activities in the summer, Presque Isle State Park is magic all year round. Visit Presque Isle in the winter to experience all the splendor of the season and get a dose of fresh air at Pennsylvania’s most visited state park.

Take a Winter Walk

Though the paved multipurpose trail is the natural place to walk year-round, there are many more places to explore Presque Isle. If the ice is thick enough, venture out onto Presque Isle Bay to catch a unique view of the park and the city of Erie that you can only get once a year. On the lake side of the peninsula, taking a walk on the beach is a new experience in the winter, with ice dunes visible from the shore.

Please view the ice dunes from afar. It is never safe to step onto the dunes.

Go Birding

Presque Isle State Park is known to be one of the top birding spots in the country, and that continues in winter. A wide variety of waterfowl can be seen from shore, as well as gull species on the shoreline, and owls high in the trees. The waterfowl migration over the peninsula happens during late November through December, and large concentrations of diving ducks can be seen off shore until ice closes over. Stop at any of the bay side vista lots to get a good view, or head to Leo’s Landing and Thompson Bay for the best diversity. Snowy Owls are a stunner to see in person, and the best place to see them is at Gull Point from the designated observation platform and trail.

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 great for cross-country skiing include the Sidewalk Trail and Dead Pond Trail.

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.

Go Ice Fishing

With its many ponds and sheltered bays, as well as wide array of fish species, Presque Isle State Park is well regarded as a top ice fishing destination in Pennsylvania. Some of the most popular locations are Presque Isle Bay, Misery Bay, Horseshoe Pond, and Presque Isle Marina. Common catches are yellow perch, panfish, northern pike, walleye, and the occasional steelhead. When ice fishing, exercise caution and think safety first: test ice thickness with an auger, always carry safety equipment, and know how to use it. Ice should be at least four inches thick for a single person, and seven inches thick for a small group.

Watch a Winter Sunset

Presque Isle is known for its world-class sunsets, and when the sun sets on the horizon between the snow-dusted sand and the frozen lake, it’s simply breathtaking. The best spot to watch is at Sunset Point, also known as Kite Beach, but any location on the lake side of Presque Isle will give viewers a great vantage point. Bring blankets and some hot cocoa and really make it an experience.

Attend an Event

Events don’t end in the winter, especially when there’s so much to explore. The Presque Isle Partnership hosts an annual Winter Discovery Day at Presque Isle, that’s all about getting outside. The event features ice fishing, sled dog demonstrations, crafts, and more. The 2026 event is planned for Saturday, February 7. Park officials host events like guided hikes and wildlife seminars year-round.

Go Sightseeing

Though many favorite summer attractions aren’t open in the same way in winter, it’s fun to see them in a new light. Check out staple attractions like the Perry Monument, the Presque Isle Lighthouse, and the North Pier Light on a snowy backdrop. They make for great photo ops all year round.

Know Before You Go

Presque Isle State Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to sunset. After dusk, driving is allowed until 9 p.m. Keep the following in mind while you plan your trip:

The park is dog-friendly in all areas! Please keep your dog on a leash and always pick up after them.
The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is located at the entrance to Presque Isle State Park and not only houses its own collection of interesting information and exhibits about Presque Isle, but it’s also home to the Erie Visitor Center.
Both are open Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the winter months.
Though many park restrooms are closed during the winter, those at the Rotary Pavilion, Public Safety Building, Perry Monument, the Niagara Boat Launch, Lighthouse Beach, and North Pier Light are open year-round.
Roads at Presque Isle are plowed, but never treated with salt or other chemicals, in order to protect wildlife.

Five Places to Explore the Outdoors in Erie this Winter

February 17, 2026

Erie gets a lot of snow – and does it better than anyone. Visit Erie for a true snow day and embrace the snowy season. Grab your gear, bundle up, and make plans to play in the snow at one of these snowy spots this winter.

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle isn’t just a summer destination – it’s a peaceful, and still destination in the winter months. The trails at Presque Isle are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, in addition to hiking and birdwatching. The paved Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail is plowed from the main park entrance to the Public Safety Building, allowing visitors to navigate the path with ease. The trail is left snow covered from the Public Safety Building to Perry Monument. Beyond the park, winter is a great time to get out on the ice of Presque Isle Bay when it’s thick enough to safely do so (the general rule is 4″ for a single angler, 6″ for ice boating, and 7″ for a small group). Presque Isle Bay and Misery Bay are popular for skating, pond hockey, and ice fishing. On the lake side, walk the beaches to admire the ice dunes, but don’t climb on them. Their instability makes walking on them extremely dangerous.

Asbury Woods

Throughout winter, as long as there are at least six inches of snow on the ground, Asbury Woods allows visitors to snowshoe or cross-country ski across five trails that wind through its scenic 216-acre property of native species, old-growth forests, and sprawling terrain. Visitors can bring their own gear or rent equipment inside the Nature Center. For those new to either sport or looking to refine their technique, Asbury Woods offers basic skills clinics on weekends during the winter months, weather permitting. When there isn’t enough snow, visitors can still enjoy outdoor fun with various nature hikes.

Peek’n Peak

The region’s biggest ski resort is at Peek’n Peak, just over the New York line in Clymer, NY. Featuring 26 trails and slopes of varying difficulty levels, as well as three terrain parks for those looking to get creative, the Peek offers a complete winter getaway experience, so you never have to leave the resort. Rentals and lessons are available on site. Skiing isn’t a prerequisite for visiting: the seven-lane tubing hill includes a “Magic Carpet” lift to take tubers to the top, and is colorfully lit up at night for “Lunar Lights.” Between runs, warm up at the lodge, where a full restaurant and bar are available, as well as a pool, spa, and lodging.

Mount Pleasant of Edinboro

Nestled among the rolling hills of Edinboro, just south of Erie, Mount Pleasant of Edinboro is a small ski resort with a big family atmosphere. Mount Pleasant features 15 distinct trails with difficulties ranging from beginner to advanced, including six trails that are supported with snowmaking and lights for night skiing. Additionally, the eight-lane, 600-foot tubing hill features a tube tow to take visitors back to the top. The resort also offers a covered conveyor lift, tubing tow, clubhouse, equipment rentals, and a tuning shop.

Wilderness Lodge

In the heart of the snowbelt on the Pennsylvania State Line, you’ll find Wilderness Lodge: a woodsy haven for snow lovers, with more than 18 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Wilderness Lodge sits on the southwest edge of the Chautauqua Ridge, benefiting from the area’s frequent lake effect snow. Ski and snowshoe rentals are available for both classic and skate skiing.

Celebrate Spring in the PA Endless Mountains

February 17, 2026

Goodbye, winter blues, and hello to sunshine, flowers, and fun! Springtime is when the mountains come back to life—all the better to head outside and explore. Whether you hit the trails or stroll through the local shops, you’ll discover a refreshing spring getaway in the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

One of the most amazing spectacles of spring is the tulip field at Brown Hill Farms in Tunkhannock, PA. This family-run farm raises five acres of tulips and daffodils each year—that’s over 500,000 blooms! Perched on top of a hill, the views are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Visitors can wander through the fields, pick their own bouquets, and snap pictures at stunning photo ops. You can easily spend all afternoon meeting the adorable animals, shopping in the farm store, and watching the kids enjoy the many play areas. Brown Hill Farms is typically open for tulip season in late April through early May. However, it all depends on Mother Nature, so make sure to confirm farm hours in advance.

Ricketts Glen State Park. Photo by Randy Stauffer.

When the snow and ice finally melt away, the popular Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park reopens for the season. This challenging trail showcases 21 waterfalls in one epic day hike. The tallest, Ganoga Falls, is a breathtaking 94 feet tall! The full 7.2-mile trek will lead you to all of the falls. A shorter 3.2-mile loop with the Highland Trail will allow you to see most of the falls and the surrounding old-growth forest. Please note, this trail is steep and slippery, so come prepared with proper shoes and gear.

Worlds End State Park in Forksville, PA. Photo by Elizabeth Long.

Spring also marks the return of Pennsylvania’s trout season, which will begin on April 4, 2026. The Endless Mountains are home to excellent stocked trout waters, such as the Loyalsock Creek and the South Branch Tunkhannock Creek. Our local parks and state lands are also peaceful spots to cast a line.

When it’s time to kick back and relax, head to one of our local wineries and breweries. With ten different tastings rooms in and around the Endless Mountains, you can easily turn a long weekend into a wine tour. In addition to fine wine and craft brews, you’ll also find unique options like hard ciders and locally made meads.

After a long day, spend the night in one of our local accommodations, from modern hotels to historic bed and breakfasts to cute cabin rentals. You can view a full list of lodging option here.

Voices That Shaped the Nation: Experiencing Black History Across the Mid-Atlantic

January 8, 2026

As America approaches its 250th commemoration, the Mid-Atlantic invites travelers to explore Black history through meaningful, place-based experiences that connect the past to the present. Here are just a few of Mid-Atlantic destinations where African American leadership, resilience, and innovation helped shape America’s ideals.

Richmond Region, Virginia

Historic Jackson Ward stands as a symbol of Black entrepreneurship and progress. Visitors can explore the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, honoring the first Black woman to charter and lead a U.S. bank, and the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, which chronicles generations of Black Virginians who drove change. In April 2026, the Skipwith-Roper Cottage will reopen, preserving the legacy of Abraham Peyton Skipwith, Jackson Ward’s first known Black homeowner, and housing the exhibition House to Highway.

Talbot County, Maryland

On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Talbot County offers a powerful look into Black history as the birthplace of Frederick Douglass. Visitors can explore sites connected to his early life, as well as The Hill Community, one of the oldest free African American neighborhoods in the United States, through walking and driving tours and museums.

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

The African American Heritage Walking Tour of Lancaster City brings history to life through skilled storytellers highlighting abolitionists, Underground Railroad agents, religious leaders, and entrepreneurs. The tour connects Lancaster City to surrounding communities, offering a rich cultural experience rooted in personal stories and preserved places.

Explore at Your Own Pace

Self-guided experiences across the region offer flexible ways to engage with Black history. In Hampton, Virginia, the 400 Years Forward Black History Driving Tour highlights landmark sites tied to pivotal moments in American history. In Culpeper, Virginia, the African American Heritage Downtown Walking Tour and public art like the Trailblazers Mural uncover stories often left out of the traditional narrative.

As the nation reflects on 250 years of history, Black history experiences across the Mid-Atlantic offer opportunities to learn, reflect, and better understand the voices that continue to shape America today.

The Ultimate Long Winter Weekend in Erie, PA

December 19, 2025

A two or three-day winter weekend escape to Erie promises unforgettable memories for the whole family. While it’s impossible to experience everything the region offers, a few must-visit spots will ensure a memorable trip. From plunging down water slides at Splash Lagoon to exploring the history of Presque Isle State Park, your two or three-day getaway awaits. Here are some fun suggestions to help you plan.

Day 1

Morning: Fuel up with a hearty homestyle breakfast at Avanti’s, a local favorite since 1975. Breakfast is available all day, including a wide selection of omelets, a classic choice.
Mid-Morning: The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is a free attraction that details the formation and inhabitants of Presque Isle State Park, Erie’s top attraction, through two floors of interactive exhibits. There’s also a 75-foot observation tower with panoramic views of Lake Erie.
Lunch: Everyone is part of the family and welcomed with open arms at Roma’s Italian Kitchen. Known for its fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and more than generous portions, this family-forward restaurant offers traditional Italian fare, family-style options, and delicious house specialties such as the lasagna, one of Erie’s best.
Afternoon: Spark your family’s creativity with a hands-on pottery class at Allen Stoneware Gallery. This interactive experience is perfect for groups up to 16 and appropriate for ages 8 and up, offering step-by-step guidance to help everyone craft two functional take-home pieces.
Dinner: Enjoy outdoor winter waterfront dining from the comfort of a fully heated igloo at Two45 Waterfront Grille! The igloos accommodate up to eight guests and offer stunning views of Erie’s Bayfront in all its winter splendor.

Day 2

Morning: Give a Crepe/La Creperie adds a delicious twist to breakfast with homemade savory and sweet crepes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. A fan favorite is the Fosters Banana Caramel, featuring your choice of an orange or vanilla crepe filled with sliced bananas and house-made cinnamon caramel sauce. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.
Mid-Morning: Indulge in Erie’s iconic sponge candy at Romolo Chocolates—a crispy honeycomb toffee coated in milk or dark chocolate. Pair it with handcrafted cocoa from the Cocoa Café, served warm and creamy or icy and refreshing.
Lunch: Quaker Steak & Lube is a hit with families thanks to its fun atmosphere, flavorful wings, and kid-friendly menu. The added bonus of duckpin bowling makes it an ideal dining and entertainment spot.
Afternoon/Evening: Consistently ranked as one of the “Top 10 Water Park Resorts” in the country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice, Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park has excitement for every age with tropical island vibes, towering slides, gentle splash zones, endless amenities, and the largest indoor wave pool in the Eastern U.S. In addition, Splash Lagoon has an arcade, tree tops ropes course, on-site dining, and is conveniently connected to three hotels.

Day 3 Add-On

Morning: The day begins with breakfast at The Bakery on 5^th, where American and Turkish flavors come together in a tempting array of sweet treats, coffees, hot chocolates, and teas. From muffins and shortcakes to Midye Baklava, a nutty, buttery Turkish delight, there’s something for everyone.
Mid-Morning: Create, explore, imagine, and play at the expERIEnce Children’s Museum. Fresh off a multi-million dollar renovation and expansion, the museum now features three floors of immersive exhibits, including Lake Life, an Erie-themed interactive water play delight.
Lunch: Even the pickiest of eaters will find something they love at The Flagship City Food Hall. This family-friendly community dining hub showcases all local vendors, such as ippa Pizza, Cheeserie, Noodlelove, and Taco Cantina.
Afternoon: Five Iron Golf seamlessly blends indoor golf and entertainment for a fun family experience. State-of-the-art simulators allow you to play on renowned golf courses from around the world or enjoy interactive video games that are suitable for all ages.
Dinner: You can’t help but smile at the cheerful robots delivering meals at Noods Station 3 & Tsaocaa Bubble Tea. These friendly robots (with human helpers) bring flavorful dishes of Asian fusion cuisine, including steaming bowls of ramen and pho, perfect for a chilly winter day. Don’t miss the Tsaocaa bubble tea, a fruity fun drink with chewy tapioca pearls.

Lodging

Elevate your Erie getaway by staying in a luxurious treehouse. Nestled in the woods just outside the city, Lake Erie Treehouses feature modern amenities set amidst a peaceful winter landscape.
Three hotels directly connect to Splash Lagoon, a convenient benefit, especially during colder weather.
Click here for a complete list of Erie County lodging options.

Know Before You Go

Call ahead to reserve igloo space at Two45 Waterfront Grille: 814-240-7263.
Splash Lagoon offers a variety of family-friendly overnight packages.
Parking in Downtown Erie is easy to find with ample street and ramp options.
Make sure to order your free copy of the 2025 Erie Visitor Guide for more trip inspiration!