KidsOutAndAbout.com's Family Travel Guide to Erie, PA
A Lake Escape in Erie PA: Visiting Erie with Kids
by Ella S. Ross
You know that part of Pennsylvania that reaches far enough west so that the state touches water on both sides? Well now I really do, and I hope you do, too.
Presque Isle and Erie’s wine country make you feel like you’re in a far-flung part of the country. But going up Bicentennial Tower, which gives you a view of the city, reminds you that all a city can offer is right at your fingertips.
If you want to take a trek through the woods, or walk around some boutique shops—or do both, if you have more stamina than I do—Erie has you covered.
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Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that arches into Lake Erie. As Pennsylvania’s only “seashore,” Presque Isle offers its visitors a beautiful coastline and many recreational activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, bicycling, and in-line skating. It is a day-use park that provides year-round recreational opportunities. Overnight accommodations are available nearby.
The neck of the peninsula is attached to the mainland four miles west of downtown Erie. The park creates Presque Isle Bay, a wide and deep harbor for the city of Erie. The bay attracts many pleasure boats and worldwide freighters. A National Natural Landmark, Presque Isle is a favorite spot for migrating birds. Whether you come to enjoy the sandy beaches, study ecological diversity, or learn about the historical significance of the peninsula, there is something for everyone at Presque Isle State Park.
Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC)
The Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) is an educational center dedicated to teaching visitors about the unique 3,200 acres of Presque Isle and the many different forms of life that inhabit the peninsula. TREC also serves as a center for research -- contributing to conservation efforts and promoting environmental awareness, helping to preserve the unparalleled beauty of Presque Isle, the site of Pennsylvania’s only seashore.TREC offers research, education, and visitor services in one place, making it a unique destination for learning, wonder, and fun. TREC is open year-round and offers free admission to its interactive exhibits, glass-enclosed tower, and orientation movie.
Asbury Woods Nature Center
Asbury Woods consists of a 234-acre tract of wetlands, forests, fields, streams, and historic properties. The Andrew J. Conner Nature Center at Asbury Woods is one of the premier award-winning environmental education centers in northwestern Pennsylvania, providing environmental education programs including school and group programs, public programs, special events, festivals, and summer nature camps. Thousands of visitors participate in outdoor recreational opportunities including hiking, mountain biking, running, cross-country skiing, and more.
The fields, forests, and wetlands offer over 5 miles of breathtaking trails that are free and open to the public during daylight hours every day. One of the most popular Greenway Trail highlights is access to Walnut Creek at the scenic steel walking bridge that spans the Creek.
Port Farms
Port Farms has re-imagined what a farm can be. Over four generations, the Port family has continued to grow local produce for northwest Pennsylvania while transforming the land into a go-to destination for family fun, with our picturesque country vistas, delicious farm-fresh food, and inclusive amenities. Port Farms also hosts weddngs, as well as a Flower Festival, Pumpkin Farm and fall activities, and during the holiday season it offers Christmas Trees. You'll find endless activities for the whole family in a beautiful country atmosphere.
Lake Erie Wine Country
Lake Erie Wine Country is a must-visit destination for fall foliage enthusiasts due to its 30,000 sprawling acres of vineyards bursting with vibrant fall colors and clusters of ripe grapes infusing the air with their sweet aroma. With over 20 wineries to explore, you can snap stunning photos and savor a glass of local wine, making the vibrant fall foliage and lush vineyards a truly memorable experience.
Bicentennial Tower
Erie’s iconic Bicentennial Tower was built in 1996 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the founding of the city of Erie. While on the top observation deck, 138 feet above Presque Isle Bay, you can see in every direction and enjoy stunning views of Lake Erie, Presque Isle, the City of Erie, and outlying areas. In fact, on a clear day, it’s possible to see Long Point in Ontario, Canada, 27 miles away! $6/person, Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Labor Day.
Erie Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Erie Zoo is the perfect place to spend the day or just a few hours! A comfortable walk throughout the Erie Zoo and Botanical Garden takes about 2 hours. Enjoy visiting the nearly 400 animals in its collection as well as the 11 beautiful gardens located throughout the grounds.
But wait, there's more!
- Wintergreen Gorge
- Play Port Arcade and Family Fun Center
- The expERIEnce Children’s Museum
- ACTIONTOYMAN
- The Battles Estate
Family-friendly restaurants worth checking out:
Thank you for the wonderful hospitality to the team at VisitErie and everyone at the attractions who showed me around! To learn more, visit their website at VisitErie.com or request a free Erie Visitor Guide.
—Ella
Ella S. Ross is a travel videographer. Interested in having her visit your region? Click here for more information.