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LGBTQ+ Travel

Pridefest Parade 15 of 34 credit David Tamulonis

Travel with Pride in Erie

The Erie region celebrates and supports the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and Intersexed and Ally/Asexual (LGBTQ+) community.

Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or are an ally, ALL are welcome!  

Erie strives to be a welcoming, equitable, inclusive community where we celebrate our rich diversity of cultures. Everyone has their own individual set of talents, skills, and perspectives. We believe that the color of your skin, the language you speak, the part of the world you come from, the faith you practice, your customs, your sexual orientation, and your gender preference, all make you the unique person you are and that each and every person brings value to our community.

Plan a trip to Erie Pennsylvania and experience a relaxing, stress-free getaway filled with love and acceptance.  

Photo credit: David Tamulonis

Inclusivity and Protections for the LGBTQ+ Community in Erie, Pennsylvania

Perfect Score on MEI - City of Erie

The City of Erie has scored a perfect 100 out of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index (MEI) two years in a row. The MEI examines how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ people who live, work, and visit there. The MEI considers several important factors including non-discrimination laws, LGBTQ+ employee resource groups, inclusivity of city services, law enforcement practices, and municipal leadership’s stance on equality.

Erie is one of only five cities in Pennsylvania to receive a perfect score. To learn more about the work and advocacy being done in the City of Erie on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community, click here.

Legal Protections - Erie County

Erie County offers protections through its Human Relations Commission protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination at businesses countywide. The Erie County Human Relations Commission Ordinance affords individuals reasonable access to any public property, recognizing civil rights based on race, color, familial status, religious creed, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and disability of the person. 

To learn more and read the ordinance, click here

Sanctuary City - City of Erie

In 2023, Erie, PA declared itself a sanctuary city of members of the LGBTQ+ community. Read more here.

Annual and Regular Pride Events 

Celebrate pride in Erie County at these events! For a more comprehensive calendar of LGBTQ+ events and gatherings, click here

Erie Pride Parade and Pridefest - Celebrate Pride at northwestern Pennsylvania's largest pride parade each June! NWPA Pride Alliance hosts this and several other annual events, including Drive Your Pride at Presque Isle State Park, Erie Pride Picnic at Presque Isle State Park, and Erie Pride Day at Waldameer Park & Water World. 

Queer Open Mic - Every third Thursday of the month from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Compton's Table, a sustainable organization where queer youth and young adults find community, are seen, valued, and affirmed. Hosted by Gwen Elaine. All queer performers are welcome!

Bears Do Dinner - Each month this group picks a new location around the area to enjoy a social dinner. The places and dates/times are based on a group majority and establishment hours of operation. Interested in learning more? Request to join the Facebook group and post a message for information and answers to questions.

LGBTQ+ Board Game Night: 1st and 3rd Friday of each month from 5-7:30 p.m. at Journey to a Trauma-Informed Life. Gather with others to engage in some fun board games. Snacks are provided. This is a FREE event. Donations are welcome

Erie's Queer Happy Hour: Every Wednesday of the month, Oasis Pub. 6 - 9 p.m.

 

Pridefest Parade 23 of 34 credit David Tamulonis
Celebrate Diversity and Equality: Pride Month in Erie, PA
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Pridefest Parade 27 of 34 credit David Tamulonis
Erie's Drag Scene - Art in Heels
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Get Involved!

Supporting your LGBTQ+ family and friends is so much more than rainbow flags. It is about recognizing and remembering the struggles that the LGBTQ+ community has faced to achieve equal justice and opportunities. There are a number of local and regional organizations that advocate for and provide services to members of this community.

Partner Spotlight

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Farmhouse Retreat

Your “Home Away from Home” short term rental sleeps 8 and is in a great location close to Erie Sports Center, Splash Lagoon, shopping and restaurants, as well as Steelhead Fishing. This restored 1881 Farmhouse is located on 10 private acres. Reminisce about bygone days when life was slower and simpler. With a long driveway and large yard, kick back by the firepit, watch wildlife or enjoy a beautiful Erie sunset from the back patio.

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Two45 Waterfront Grille Now Open!

Savor an exquisite waterfront dining experience at Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, where culinary excellence meets panoramic views. This signature restaurant invites you to indulge in a delectable journey with a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients and global inspirations while overlooking the serene waters of Lake Erie.

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the cove from the cove site

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern is sure to give you an unforgettable and care-free dining experience. Enjoy a nautical atmosphere with a beautiful view of Presque Isle Bay.

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u pick 6 spotlight

U Pick 6 Craft Beer Pubs & Restaurants

Erie’s own local craft beer pubs are a must-visit! With 4 great locations, just pick one that’s convenient for you! A casual, family friendly dining experience with something for everyone! To view our menu, check out what’s on tap, or get to directions to our pubs, learn more now!”

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Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales

Stop by Port Farms to check out the newest addition, Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales. We offer hand-crafted beers and delicious sharable food year-round. The brewery is family and dog friendly with both indoor and outdoor spaces. We offer games, music and entertainment for all ages!

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erie events spotlight

Erie Events

Erie Events manages a four facility entertainment complex that includes the Warner Theatre, Erie Insurance Arena, Bayfront Convention Center and UPMC Park. These four venues host a variety of events that include world-class entertainment, family friendly shows and sporting events.

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814 Photo

Showcasing the incredible year round beauty of the City of Erie and its surrounding areas, commonly referred to as its area code "the 814". Explore some of Erie County's most breathtaking landscape photography.

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ASCEND Erie - Climbing | Fitness | Yoga

NOW OPEN! ASCEND fosters a community-centered climbing, fitness, and yoga experience by serving individuals and groups of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Located in Downtown Erie, ASCEND welcomes Erie visitors to stop in and give climbing a try!

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The Cork 1794

Open for Lunch and Dinner. Get ready for an experience like no other. An atmosphere where uncommon style, comfort and service seamlessly meld. Where food and beverages are expertly crafted to be beautiful, satisfying and truly special. A place that makes every day feel like a reason to celebrate.

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Mall Image Spotlight v2

Millcreek Mall

The Millcreek Mall features more than 160 stores, restaurants, and fun for the whole family on Upper Peach Street, Erie’s most popular shopping district! Shopping in Erie means no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Choose from a variety of hotels located on the Mall property and just minutes away at the intersection of Peach Street and Interstate 90.

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Dobbins Landing Spring 2022 EB 2

Dobbins Landing

Located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie, the Port of Erie has been promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on the waters of Lake Erie since 1959.

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 458-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services. The hospital serves as a regional referral hub and is the only accredited trauma center in the region.

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mazza spotlight

Mazza Vineyards and the South Shore Wine Company

The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.

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Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.