Are you looking for fun things to do in Erie, PA, with your kids this summer?
We’ve had the chance to spend three days and three nights in Erie and Lake Erie in collaboration with VisitErie, and we had a wonderful time.
Erie, Pennsylvania, is located on the southern shore of the majestic Lake Erie. It’s a haven for family fun and adventure. The area is known for its historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and many activities for the perfect family vacation.
The city is known as the “Gem City” for its sparkling, sandy beaches.
Before diving into the main subject and all the fun Erie, PA attractions, let’s hear more about the Great Lake Erie.
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Fun Things to Do in Erie, PA, with Kids
1. Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park is one of Erie’s most beautiful natural spots. It offers a playground for families. It has over 13 miles of beaches, hiking trails, and bike paths. That means there’s plenty of space for kids to explore this summer.
👉 I recommend staying at least a full day at Presque Isle State Park to explore the area fully. We spent an entire afternoon enjoying one of the beaches and playgrounds and then returned for another half day to see the rest of the Presque Isle.
You can enjoy a picnic, go swimming, or even participate in some of the park’s educational programs about local wildlife. Don’t miss the picturesque lighthouses and the chance to kayak or paddleboard on Lake Erie.
Here’s an extensive list of things to do at Presque Isle:
Beach Activities
With 13 distinct beaches, Presque Isle provides plenty of spots to relax on the sand and swim in Lake Erie’s waters. We visited Beach No 7 and the Presque Isle Lighthouse beach area.
- The Beach No 7 was perfect for young kids. It’s a section of the lake that has a lifeguard. Plus, a kids’ playground is just on the other side of the road. We had a picnic by the playground and then moved to the beach.
- The Presque Isle Lighthouse beach area has no lifeguard, but it’s a fun place to go after visiting the lighthouse.
💡 💡 Fun Fact: Presque Isle comes from the French language (presque île). It means “almost an island.”
Hiking
Many easy hiking trails exist for families in the Presque Isle State Park. All of the hiking trails are less than 2 miles. We sadly didn’t do any hikes during our visit. It was way too hot, so we enjoyed the water instead.
But the Sidewalk Trail was recommended to us. It’s a 1.25 miles out-and-back historic trail. It goes from the Presque Isle Lighthouse to the U.S. Lighthouse Service boathouse in Misery Bay.
Here is the map of the hiking trails on Presque Isle.
If you don’t like hiking, you can rent bikes from Yellow Bike Rental and explore the peninsula another way.
Want to start hiking with your toddlers? Here are 17+ tips to help you get started.
Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Another fun way to experience Presque Isle is on the water. You can launch your kayak/paddleboard or rent one from Presque Isle Boat Rental. They are located near the Perry Monument.
Or you can also take a relaxing pontoon boat tour.
2. Lighthouse Tours
Lake Erie has more than 50 lighthouses, each with a captivating story. Three of those lighthouses are in Erie, PA:
- Presque Isle Lighthouse
- North Pier Light
- Erie Land Lighthouse
If you only have time to see one of Erie’s lighthouses, I recommend the Presque Isle Lighthouse.
The Presque Isle Lighthouse is an iconic structure within Presque Isle State Park. It’s a significant historical and cultural landmark and offers a glimpse into the region’s maritime history.
The Presque Isle Lighthouse was first lit on July 12, 1873, and was constructed to guide sailors safely through the waters of Lake Erie.
Over the years, the lighthouse underwent several renovations to preserve its historical integrity. Today, the structure has been restored to its original appearance, including its distinctive red brick exterior and white trim.
Now, you can tour the lighthouse grounds and climb the tower’s spiral staircase on guided tours. The guided tours offer insights into the life of a lighthouse keeper and share fascinating details about the lighthouse’s history and operation.
And the view from the top is beautiful.
When you visit the lighthouse area, don’t forget to stop on the beach, where you can have a new perspective of the lighthouse. Plus, the kids will have a lot of fun in the water.
3. Scallywags Pirate Adventures
Ahoy, mateys! Get ready for a unique boat adventure with Scallywags Pirate Adventures.
Scallywags Pirate Adventures offers an engaging experience for families on its 2-hour boat tour. Kids will love dressing up as pirates, painting their faces, and embarking on a treasure hunt on a real pirate ship.
The boat is a custom-designed pirate ship with all the pirate-themed decorations and features. It’s a fully immersive experience that transports guests into a world of pirates and maritime lore.
The adventure is geared toward young children where they will take part in various interactive activities such:
- Treasure Hunt
- Pirate Games
- (Water) Cannon Battle
The ship is manned by a professional crew dressed in full pirate attire, enhancing the authenticity of the experience. They act as guides and entertainers.
It’s important to note that it’s targeted at children. It’s not a typical scenic boat tour. You won’t explore much of Lake Erie but will stay close to the shore and Erie’s waterfront. It’s more about the pirate theme and games.
It’s a memorable outing for families that will captivate children and adults alike.
My boys LOVED the experience and loved the water canon battle with the pirates.
4. Waldameer Amusement Park & Water World
Waldameer Amusement Park & Water World is a must-visit for families looking for thrills and fun. It has over 100 attractions, including roller coasters, kiddie rides, and a giant wave pool. There’s something for every age.
Younger children will enjoy the gentle rides and splash zones, while older kids can take on the exhilarating thrill rides.
You can get tickets for the amusement park, the waterpark, and a combo pass. We had the combo pass but spent most of our time in the amusement park.
There are two types of tickets:
- 48 inches and up
- 48 inches or less
Kids with the 48 inches and up tickets can do most rides. But even my youngest boy could ride on the roller coaster with me. It was our family’s favorite ride.
I’ll be honest here, I forgot for a minute that I couldn’t do spinning rides, and with the excitation of the boys, I went on one of those rides I shouldn’t have, and it took me a LONG time to recover. I think it was the Paratrooper ride.
I could finally go on a roller coaster (the Comet), but it took me a few hours…
Waldameer Amusement Park & Water World has been thoughtfully designed to provide entertainment for children of all ages and adults. From pulse-pounding roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides, splash-filled water park fun, to carnival games, the park offers a full day (or more!) of family enjoyment. It’s a must-visit attraction in Erie, PA, with children.
Note that the parks are closed on Wednesdays.
5. Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC)
The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is not just a learning center; it’s an exciting experience for children to connect with nature. Interactive exhibits allow kids to learn about Presque Isle’s ecosystems, geology, and wildlife.
The Big Green Screen Theatre offers environmental films, and the observation tower provides breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Participate in guided tours and hands-on programs for an engaging family day out.
They also have a fun nature playground outside the center. All the modules of this playground were created using natural materials from Presque Isle.
6. Erie’s Bayfront District
Located along the beautiful shores of Lake Erie, the Bayfront District is known for its stunning waterfront views, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions. It’s a hub for family-friendly entertainment and outdoor enjoyment.
We enjoyed our strolls along the marina, enjoying the sight of boats. Seeing the fishing boat return from their marina fishing trip was great. We stayed for a few minutes looking at them, preparing the fish they got caught.
Apart from the marina, the Bicentennial Tower in Erie, PA, is one of the city’s and bayfront’s most recognizable landmarks. The tower offers stunning views of Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park, and Erie’s downtown area.
The Bicentennial Tower was erected in 1996 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the city of Erie. It symbolizes Erie’s rich history and heritage, reflecting its maritime tradition and contemporary urban identity.
You can enjoy breathtaking views from two observation decks:
- Lower Level: Accessible via stairs or elevator, this enclosed level offers windows for viewing and protects visitors from the elements.
- Upper Level: The open-air upper deck offers panoramic vistas for those who prefer an unobstructed view. It’s accessible by stairs from the lower level.
The Erie Maritime Museum is also located in Erie’s Bayfront District. If you’re interested in maritime history, the Erie Maritime Museum offers hands-on exhibits and fascinating insights into the region’s nautical heritage, suitable for all ages.
When enjoying the area, you won’t want to miss Oliver’s Beer Garden and mini-golf. It’s a fun activity to do with the kids. I would recommend going in the evening. You may get to enjoy a live band and admire the sunset.
7. Flagship City Food Hall
Head to the Flagship City Food Hall when it’s time for a meal. It’s the perfect place to eat out with active kids.
You’ll find a variety of food vendors offering something to satisfy every palate. From gourmet burgers to fresh salads, there’s something for kids and adults to enjoy. The communal seating and lively atmosphere make it a fun place to refuel during your Erie adventure.
We had pizza from Perry’s Tavern, and it was delicious.
The Flagship City Food Hall is located in downtown Erie. It’s an easy walk from the waterfront (if you’re staying at one of the Waterfront hotels).
8. Oliver’s Beer Garden, Outdoor Bar & Food Truck
Oliver’s Beer Garden is a family-friendly venue that offers more than just craft beer for adults. The outdoor bar and food truck create a relaxed and casual atmosphere where families can enjoy live music, yard games, and tasty bites.
We loved playing a few games of bean bag toss.
We planned on returning on our last night to enjoy the live band, but there was a big storm, so we stayed inside the hotel.
9. Oliver’s Mini-Golf
Right next to Oliver’s Beer Garden, Oliver’s Mini-Golf is a fantastic place for family fun. The 18-hole mini-golf course is beautifully landscaped and is right by the water.
It’s a pretty unique setting for a mini-golf.
Every time we play a game of mini-golf, there’s a feeling of vacation. It’s probably because I spent most of my childhood’s summer visiting Maine and we always stopped at least once for a mini-golf game.
The Olivier mini-golf is a great place to bring the kids to have a fun family evening in Erie, PA.
10. Find the frogs around town
In Erie, you’ll find more than 100 frog statues around town. It’s called the LeapFrog! project. You can find the map of all the frogs around town here.
We saw a few ones, but the one from the image above was at the Erie Maritime Museum.
Other Things to Do in Erie, PA
There are so many other things to do in Erie, PA. The official tourism website VisitErie.com is a valuable resource to help you plan your visit to Erie.
But here are three (3) additional activities we had on our radar when we visited but didn’t have enough time to go.
10. Erie Zoo & Botanical Gardens
One of the city’s top attractions is the Erie Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Home to over 300 animals, the zoo offers a fascinating journey through diverse habitats. The kids will love the close-up encounters with animals like African lions, red pandas, and white rhinos. With their vibrant plant life, the botanical gardens provide a tranquil setting for a stroll.
11. Erie Maritime Museum
Don’t miss the Erie Maritime Museum and the U.S. Brig Niagara for a dose of history and science.
The Erie Maritime Museum is a significant cultural attraction in Erie, Pennsylvania’s Bayfront District. The museum offers an insightful exploration of the region’s rich maritime history, encompassing the naval battles of the War of 1812, commercial fishing, and shipping.
One of the main attractions at the museum is the U.S. Brig Niagara, a reconstructed flagship from the Battle of Lake Erie. Through interactive exhibits, hands-on displays, and engaging guided tours, visitors of all ages can learn about shipbuilding, navigation, and the lives of sailors.
The museum’s offerings extend beyond just naval history, providing a broader understanding of Erie’s connection to the Great Lakes and water’s vital role in shaping the area’s history, economy, and culture.
12. ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum
The ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum is a gem in Erie, Pennsylvania. It engages children’s curiosity and creativity through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
The children’s museum is located in the heart of downtown Erie. It offers three floors filled with more than 50 exciting exhibits that cater to children from infancy through age 8.
The exhibits are focused on various themes such as arts, science, technology, and mathematics, allowing children to explore, play, and learn in a safe and stimulating environment. Some popular areas include a water play station, a creativity lab for budding artists, and role-play sections where children can immerse themselves in careers like firefighters, doctors, or chefs.
Whether you’re a resident or visiting Erie, this museum offers a delightful and enriching experience that’s a must-visit for families with young children.
A few things to know when planning a family vacation to Erie, Pennsylvania
Here are a few things to know when planning a trip to Erie, PA
✈️ Book your flight to Erie
The nearest airport to Erie is Erie (ERI) Airport which is 5.9 miles away. Other nearby airports include Hamilton, Canada (YHM) (72.3 miles), Buffalo (BUF) (89.1 miles), Kitchener, Canada (YKF) (93.5 miles) and Cleveland (CLE) (103.5 miles). Find cheap flights to ERI or other nearby airport using Google Flights or Skyscanner. You can compare airline tickets, including some low-cost ones.
🚗 Rent your car
You can rent a car directly from Buffalo Niagara Airport. I recommend you compare pricing on DiscoverCars.
🛏️ Book your hotel in Erie, PA
Booking.com is a great search engine for hotels and guesthouses in Erie. I highly recommend staying by the waterfront for your family trip to Erie.
You can look at:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront (it’s where we stayed and I highly recommend it),
- Sheraton Erie Bayfront
📱 Download a few apps
The GoWhee app is perfect for finding fun kid-friendly activities in Erie, PA. AllTrails is our app to look at trails report and see if the trail is kid-friendly.
A Bit More Information on Lake Erie
Lake Erie is one of the five Great Lakes of North America. It’s at the border of Canada (Ontario) and the USA (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York).
It’s the fourth-largest Great Lakes in surface area and the shallowest, measuring about 9,910 square miles (25,700 square kilometers). It’s also the eleventh-largest lake in the world by surface area.
Lake Erie is home to various fish species, including walleye, perch, bass, and salmon, making it a popular location for fishing. Many bird species also migrate through the Lake Erie region, and it is an important breeding ground for several species.
F.A.Q Fun Things to Do in Erie, PA
Is Erie PA worth visiting?
Yes. Erie, PA is worth visiting with the family. There are plenty of beaches, nature trails and kids’ attractions in Erie, PA that you’ll want to visit for at least 2 to 3 days.
What is there to do in Presque Isle State Park for kids?
There is so much to do in Presque Isle State Park for kids. Kids will love playing in the water of Lake Erie. The Presque Isle lighthouse is also worth a visit.
Do you have to pay for Presque Isle?
There is no admission fee to Presque Isle.
How far is Erie PA from Canada border?
The driving distance between Erie to the closest Canadian border is 100 miles (160 km), near Buffalo.
What is the closest airport to Lake Erie PA?
The nearest airport to Erie is Erie (ERI) Airport which is 5.9 miles away. Other nearby airports include Hamilton, Canada (YHM) (72.3 miles), Buffalo (BUF) (89.1 miles), Kitchener, Canada (YKF) (93.5 miles) and Cleveland (CLE) (103.5 miles).
Is Erie, PA, near Niagara Falls?
The direct drive from Erie to Niagara Falls is 115 mi (185 km).
Final Thoughts: Fun Things to Do in Erie, PA
In Erie, Pennsylvania, there’s something to entertain every family member, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation. Who doesn’t like a lake getaway?
The attractions in Erie, PA, provide an exciting mix of outdoor activities, educational experiences, culinary delights, and entertainment options for families with children of all ages. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or a food lover, Erie has something special to offer.
It makes Erie an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.
Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.