Presque Isle State Park
If the thought of visiting the ocean beach scares you, than you will love Presque Isle State Park. Presque Isle State Park is home to Pennsylvanias only seashore and it spans over 3,200 acres into the beautiful Lake Erie.
While visiting the free Presque Isle State Park, families can embark one of many activities. Collect rocks on the beach, go swimming, ride a bike, or even go searching for the 3 famous Presque Isle Lighthouses.
During our time in Erie, we probably spent the most time at Presque Isle State Park because it was so relaxing. In the evenings we let the kids play in the sand while Michael and I enjoyed a peaceful sunset.
Whenever youre visiting Erie, a short trip to Presque Isle State Park, will be worth it!
Things To Do With Kids At Put
For many years, our family and friends have enjoyed many things to do with kids at Put-in-Bay. Our annual Put-in-Bay vacation is part of every summer season. Occasionally, a point of discussion is about how kid-friendly Put-in-Bay is. Some people have heard the island is a party place and thats all they have heard! Let me tell you first hand that if you have not visited Put-in-Bay with kids there is no place that compares!
Yes, there is the main strip with the famous Put-in-Bay bars, but thats just about anywhere. Move just a block off the main strip and the fun begins! We have compiled a list of the kids 15 favorite things to do with kids at Put-in-Bay and be forwarned, you wont want to try to do them all in a day!
Any good trip starts with planning, and one resource that was very helpful was the Put-in-Bay information website. We found a detailed list of attractions, restaurants, and Put-in-Bay Hotels along with contact information for each.
Port Erie Bicentennial Tower
Carries Camera / Shutterstock
Head to the Port Erie Bicentennial Tower to experience a relaxing, quaint panoramic view of Lake Erie.
Located in the downtown area, the tower was built in 1996 to commemorate the citys bicentennial year.
The tower stands 187-feet tall, making it one of the largest structures in the state.
The tower is open for tours each day, where two observation towers offer different perspectives of the city.
One deck stands at 17-feet and the other at 138-feet.
If you sit on a clear day, you may be able to see the 27-miles into Ontario, Canada.
This is one of the fun things to do in Erie, Pennsylvania that you dont want to miss.
Address: 1 State St, Erie, PA 16507, USA
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Buffalo And Erie County Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens is a national historic site, education center and tourist destination full of exotic horticulture treasures from around the world. It is a gathering place where visitors can find peace and harmony and enjoy the simple power of the natural world. The Botanical Gardens schedule is packed with amazing flower exhibits, special events, educational programming, workshops and so much more! The Botanical Gardens Society is a 501, not-for-profit organization with a mission to inspire curiosity and connect people to the natural world through its historic living museum.
All An Act Theatre Productions
Erie has lots of exciting theatre experiences to offer through its many theatres. Amongst many is the All an Act Theatre Productions, also called A3 by locals.
This community theatre was established in 2004. It is focused on exposing interested visitors to a wide range of art through live theatre performances.
This theatre production is the host of the Footlights Theatre Program, which has been in session every summer for 41 years.
The program offers children of all background, status, and experience a free opportunity to experience theatre through a full-length musical production.
The Footlights Theatre Program is one of the most successful and long-running programs for youths in Erie and Pennsylvania in general.
Visitors are welcome to watch shows set up through the program and several other live theatre events and musicals.
Address: 652 West 17th Street, Erie, PA
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Things To Do Near Me: Mercyhurst Institute For Arts & Culture
The Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture was established in 2011 to oversee the planning and execution of cultural and artistic events in several of the modern venues on campus. With an ambition of developing future patrons of arts among the Erie community, the institute showcases different plays and musicals from around the country.
Visitors are encouraged to interact with the performers and artists during the pre-show and after show discussions. Independent and classic films are screened catering to the diverse audience.
501 East 38th Street Erie, PA 16546, 814-824-3000
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Erie County Public Library
If you are a literary works lover, add a visit to Erie Library to your checklist of stuff to do in Erie.
This popular attraction is frequented by locals and tourists, most of whom wish to study, read, or conduct various research.
Erie Library is focused on improving curiosity, learning, and creativity in the city of Erie and the state of Pennsylvania in general by providing individuals with access to accurate and significant information.
Erie Library comprises five branches and a bookmobile, all of which features extensive book collections and e-books.
The library also hosts a variety of informative programs, classes, and services that create a wide range of learning opportunities for visitors.
Some of the programs hosted in this library include computer classes, book clubs, kids storytimes, the Blasco Library Concert Series, Lego construction, yoga for pre-school kids, and lots more.
Address: 160 E Front St., Erie, PA 16507
Valdosta has lots of fun attractions and activities waiting to be explored, here is our list of the best things to do in Valdosta for a fun time in Georgia.
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What To Do In Erie Pa
While Erie has access to nearby skiing and winter sports, we love visiting Erie in the summer when you can really experience all the city and Lake Erie has to offer. There are so many fun things to do with kids in Erie, PA that it can be hard to know where to start.
Below are a few of our favorites from our weekend trip to Erie with a toddler.
Top Ten Lake Erie Shores & Islands Attractions For Kids
It’s getting close to Spring Break time for schools and families across the Midwest, which has us thinking about family travel to Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores & Islands and the best attractions for kids of all ages. Parents and grandparents appreciate the variety of attractions to entertain the little ones. While not all of these activities are available this early in the year, they’re definitely worth a return visit this summer. When the youngsters wear out, you can relax in comfort at one of many hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, or campgrounds. In no particular order :
1. African Safari Wildlife Park* This drive-through safari allows you to get up-close-and-personal with a number of exotic animals from the comfort of your vehicle. After the drive-through, experience educational and entertaining animal shows as well as pig races. KID PERK: Kids under 100 lbs enjoy free camel rides.
2. Aquatic Visitors Center Part of The Ohio State Universitys Stone Lab campus summer program, the Aquatic Visitors Center offers the opportunity to experience Lake Erie science up close through hands-on ecosystem displays and live native fish as well as information on current research helping to protect our Great Lake. KID PERK: All kids under age 16 can fish for free from the fishing pier with poles and bait supplied.
If you vacation in Lake Erie Shores & Islands with kids, what are some of your favorite activities?
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See The Animals At The Erie Zoo
It is not uncommon for my family to visit a zoo when were traveling often with a current zoo membership, we get free or discounted admission to zoos across the country. The Erie Zoo has a similar feel to other zoos that we have visited in the region, the Buffalo Zoo and the Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester however, this practical mama was most impressed by the quantity of shade at the Erie Zoo and the beautiful flowers hanging along the pathways. There are several large animals at the Erie Zoo, a couple of rhinos, a giraffe, a tiger, some orangutans, and several other large cats, but the highlight is walking amongst the kangaroos and wallabies. According to the zoo staff, the kangaroos will often hop over to the path and let children pet them we werent so lucky, but it was still unique to see these marsupials up close.
Frontier Park In Erie
Frontier Park is one of the biggest parks in Erie and serves as a community hub for the Greater Erie area. We always try to find a great playground when were traveling with our toddler son, and Frontier Playground didnt disappoint. The playground at Frontier Park is huge, with different play areas for toddlers and older kids. The park itself is also beautiful, with several trails for walking, running or biking.
The Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park also offers several activities for families. This includes the Little Leaves program for kids 5 and under, which is full of art, movement and stories. While the programs werent available at the time of our visit to Frontier Park, wed love to spend more time at LEAF on a future visit to Erie!
- Address: 1501 West 6th St., Erie, PA
- Website:
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Fun Things To Do In Erie Pa Everyone Will Love
Welcome to Erie, Pennsylvania! This beautiful city is located on the shores of Lake Erie and is a great place to live, work, and play. The city is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of things to do and see here.
With museums, parks, family-friendly activities, outdoor attractions, and so much more, there is something for everyone in Erie.
Here are 16 of the best things to do in Erie PA that you and your family will love.
Play Matters A Campaign To Support The Power Of Play In Our Community
Support the Childrens Museum March 1- May 1 by making an additional $30 donation to the Museum through our Play Matters Membership Campaign.
As a way to say thank you for your additional donation, our friends at Scott Enterprises have added some fun! We want all families to PLAY TOGETHER!
Heres what you get!
- Play Matters Members will receive one $10 Splash Lagoon admission/member every Monday and Friday for six months! Valid March 3, 2017 through August 28, 2017
- 10% off one 10 person Splash Lagoon Birthday Party per membership family must be booked by 6/30/17
- One free hour of bowling at Hooch & Blottos per membership family expires 6/30/17
Up to $1,666 in savings!
How it works:
Play Matters Memberships must be purchased from the ExpERIEnce Childrens Museum website or at the museum. You must add the $30 PLAY MATTERS donation to any membership to receive the discounts.
Come out and play! support the childrens museum and have fun playing together.
#erieplaymatters.
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Fun Things To Do With Kids In Erie Pa
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Dont miss this list of Fun Things to do with Kids in Erie, PA. There are so many fun kids activities to do in the state of Pennsylvania and Erie has so many great options, too! If youre ready to visit Erie Pennsylvania with children, youre going to love this list. Check out our State Unit Studies as well for many fun ideas.
If youre looking for things to keep your family entertained, check out the great options on this list!
When it comes to exploring fun towns, I love to find secret gems in them that are great for kids! Be certain to check out our Kid Friendly Travel Resources as well.
Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial
One of the challenges of a family vacation with kids is how to incorporate a little learning into the fun. The Perrys Monument made that task easy with a narrated tour at the top of the massive Doric column towering over Lake Erie. An elevator whisks you up over 300 feet into the air for a breathtaking view! The kids were captivated by the reenactments of musket firing, and storytelling by the park actors. We could actually see the skyline of Detroit we were so high up! One of the things to do with kids at Put-in-Bay that they will talk about for days!
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Millcreek Mall Erie Pennsylvania
Since 1975, Millcreek Mall has been giving visitors an array of shops, kiosks, and restaurants to spend the day at. There are over 175 stores and restaurants within the mall as well as in the surrounding vicinity visitors can shop at department stores such as Macys, Sears, and JCPenney or at stores such as Old Navy, Michaels, and the DSW Shoe Warehouse.
Visitors can take advantage of tax-free clothing, one of the main reasons many people from surrounding states visit PA malls. Those who are looking to re-energize during their shopping trip with a good meal can visit one of the many restaurants there such as Smokey Bones Barbeque and Grill, the Outback Steakhouse, Red Lobster, Arbys, or the Aoyama Japanese Steakhouse.
5800 Peach St, Erie, PA 16565, 814-868-9000
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Waldameer Amusement And Water Park
When I think of summer vacation, I always think of amusement parks. Waldameer Amusement and Water Parkis the perfect family-friendly destination to add a little excitement to your Erie vacation.
Featuring over 100-attractions, Waldameer is one of the nations oldest amusement parks. While we visited Waldameer, we were especially impressed with the parks free admission and parking policies. At Waldameer, all guest can enter for free and only pay for the rides they choose to ride. If youre more of a thrill-seeker who likes to ride every ride, the park also offers an affordable all-day pass.
At Waldameer, the coasters arent huge, but you will have family-fun and the park offers plenty of kiddie rides for younger children.
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Things To Do In Erie Pennsylvania: Erie Philharmonic
Over 100 years old, Erie Philharmonic began in 1913 with a 50 piece ensemble of Sacred Music. Today, world-renowned vocalists like Jasmine Muhammed and Michael Redding present classics like Rhapsody in Blue and An American in Paris.
Some of the other presentations of Erie Philharmonic are Spielberg Scores, Musicolympics, and Come Home for the Holidays. For a truly cultural experience, witness acclaimed pianists entertain the public with music from Mozart, Ravel, Chopin, and Stravinsky. The annual Youth Concerts specifically targets elementary students.
23 West 10th Street, Erie, PA 16501
Jrs Last Laugh Comedy Club
Jr.s Last Laugh Comedy Club & Restaurant
Life is too short to do anything but laugh as often as you can.
Spend the night enjoying a show at Jrs Last Laugh Comedy Club, and youll understand why they say laughter is the best medicine.
This comedy club is a crowd-favorite, with some comparing it to venues in New York and Chicago.
Its spacious and fun and the attentive staffs certainly help make the evening pleasurable from start to finish.
You never know who the next act will be to appear on the lineup, but you can be sure theyll make you laugh hysterically.
Drinks are available and there is a light menu available as well.
Ticket prices vary depending on the show/date, though reasonably priced tickets are oftentimes a perk of attending a show at Jrs.
Address: 1402 State St, Erie, PA 16501, USA
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Buffalo Museum Of Science
The Buffalo Museum of Science is a non-profit educational institution dedicated to the study and interpretation of the natural and physical sciences and the quest to FIND WHY. In addition to its engaging hands-on science studios, the Museum offers special traveling exhibits, camps, and year-round programs and events for curious guests of all ages and interests.
Waldameer Park & Water World
Waldameer & Water World
What started as Hoffmans Grove, a popular picnic spot for locals, has now become Waldameer Park & Water World, a unique water park boasting over 100 rides, attractions, slides, and so much more.
Kids and adults alike can enjoy the Water World exciting during the summer and enjoy rides like the Drop Tower, a Merry-go-Round, or the XScream Drop Tower!
The kids will put this on their top places to visit when its hot outside -we guarantee it.
As you might expect, theres plenty of carnival-style games to play, food trucks and stalls, music, and tons of other fun stuff to do while at the park.
When its hot outside, families go to Water World and so should you.
Theres a lot of activities and entertainment here so there is something for every family and every interest.
This is one of the best things to do in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Address: 220 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, USA
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