Ways to Spend a Weekend in Erie, Pennsylvania

Dive into the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Erie, Pennsylvania, with a weekend itinerary designed to capture the essence of this lakeside gem.

“Erie is a welcoming, relaxed environment filled with friendly faces and a community that has a deep appreciation and awareness of the diverse qualities that make Erie such a great region,” says Christine Temple, director of communications for VisitErie. “And it’s all without the crowds and high prices associated with larger cities.”

Friday Evening

First things first — where are you staying? Erie is filled with options, from Marriott’s modern Courtyard Erie Bayfront hotel and elegant Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel to the comfortable Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront. For a more secluded retreat, consider the cozy Seasons Inn B&B in Edinboro or a charming cottage at Kelso Beach Rentals near the lake.

After you’ve settled in, set sail with a sunset cruise. Climb aboard the Sotto Voce, a 33- foot luxurious sailboat, to pair regional wines with breathtaking views, while the Lettie G. Howard, a historic tall ship, transports passengers back in time. For a narrated journey, the Lady Kate scenic boat tour unveils Erie’s maritime heritage.

When it’s time to eat, savor seafood with a twinkling waterfront backdrop at Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant. Or embrace nostalgia at Sara’s Restaurant, a 1950s-style diner offering burgers, hot dogs and milkshakes. Looking to stay out late? Sway to live tunes and mix and mingle with other night owls at Sloppy Duck Saloon, a laid-back lakefront ale house, or Bigbar, a cavernous space with oversized entrees and massive drinks.

Saturday

Breakfast at Give a Crepe/LaCrepErie or Lawrence Park Dinor set the stage for a day of discovery. For a quiet morning complete with a cup of joe and a good book, start your day at Pressed or Werner Books.

With caffeine in hand, explore the fascinating exhibits of the Hagen History Center and Erie Maritime Museum, both of which offer diverse dives into the city’s rich past. For an afternoon of family fun, head to the newly renovated expERIEnce Children’s Museum, where kids can explore interactive exhibits. Next, journey to the Erie Zoo, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, and home to more than 400 animals. If you’re visiting on a hot summer day, there’s no better place to cool off than Waldameer Amusement Park & Water World, boasting a new Time Twister ride and expanded facilities.

As evening approaches, dine with panoramic views at Pier 6 or explore the diverse culinary options of JR’s on the Bay or Panos’ Restaurant. Or enjoy a playful pre-dinner activity with miniature golf at Oliver’s Bayfront Mini Golf before settling in at Oliver’s Beer Garden. For upscale fare, try The Cork 1794, or Cloud 9 Wine Bar & Restaurant for a blend of comfort and elegance. Save room for dessert with a trip to Denny’s Ice Cream Stand, open until 10.

Sunday

No Erie weekend is complete without experiencing its vibrant brunch scene. Oliver’s Rooftop offers stunning scenery, while Julius provides a cozy, refined ambiance and The Skunk & Goat Tavern welcomes guests with a rustic, gastropub vibe. For a lively, nautical-themed experience, you’ll love Calamari’s Squid Row, or opt for Oasis Pub & Tiki Bar for a tropical-inspired meal. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill brings smoky, robust flavors to the table, and Luminary Distilling serves up innovative food and drink pairings. If you’ve never had an authentic Italian brunch, Mi Scuzi Ristorante Italiano is a must. Or, for a truly unforgettable meal, book a peaceful brunch cruise aboard the Victorian Princess.

Next, Bicentennial Tower beckons with magnificent sights atop its 138-foot observation platform. Nearby at Bayview Park, snap a photo at the iconic ERIE Sign for a must-have souvenir.

More natural beauty unfolds during a scenic drive along Lake Erie Wine Country, which includes more than 20 charming destinations, from Mazza Vineyards and Penn Shore Winery to 21 Brix Winery. On the hunt for locally made Erie-centric souvenirs? Check out Presque Isle Gallery and Gifts, Glass Growers Gallery, Erie Apparel, Beach Zero or Relish Studio & Gallery. For local treats to take home, stop by Great Lakes Popcorn Co., Lake Erie Candy Co. or Romolo Chocolates.

When lunchtime hits, visit Flagship City Food Hall, offering everything from mac and cheese, pizza and bagels to healthy Asian noodle bowls, authentic Dominican fare and a fruit and veggie bar featuring smoothies and wraps.

Once you’ve recharged, spend the afternoon at Presque Isle State Park. Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the trails, relax on the sandy beaches, rent a kayak or paddleboard from Presque Isle Boat Rental or explore the Top Ridge Environmental Center.

“I always enjoy a trip to Presque Isle State Park, whether it’s to take a stroll on the beach, watch the sunset from Sunset Point (Kite Beach) or visit the North Pier and watch the boats sail through the channel that connects Lake Erie to Presque Isle Bay,” Temple says.

Before you set your sights on home, stop for a sweet treat at The Ice Cream Shoppe or Kelley’s Korner Market & Kreamery, or grab a pick-me-up and cuddle adoptable cats at Purrista Cat Cafe.

Save the Date

Take advantage of the best Erie has to offer by planning your trip around one of these three exciting events.

Discover Presque Isle (July 21-27) highlights the beauty of Presque Isle State Park through various family-friendly events, entertainment and activities.

Erie Blues & Jazz Fest (Aug. 2-3) fills Frontier Park with the eclectic sounds of local, regional, and national blues and jazz performances.

Celebrate Erie (Aug. 15-17) is a multi-block celebration along State Street and Perry Square, showcasing the art, food, culture, music and people of Erie.

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