Explore Erie your way and on your own time! These tours offer the flexibility to explore Erie County's heritage, public art, and the history that has touched this region.
Curated by VisitErie and local Erie-based partners, these tours offer visitors an opportunity to explore Erie County using the free 'Hello Erie' App. Use the app to guide you through the stops on these tours, and catch a glimpse of what makes this region unique. Download the 'Hello Erie' App here.
African American Heritage Trail
Featuring more than 40 stops, the Erie African American History Tour showcases historic points of interest, public art, and businesses that pay tribute to the City of Erie's African American heritage, including the church where internationally celebrated soloist and composer Harry T. Burleigh sang in the choir, as well as New Jerusalem, one of Erie's oldest neighborhoods, where African American families provided much-needed refuge for men and women fleeing enslavement through the Underground Railroad.
The tour was created in partnership between VisitErie, Erie Arts & Culture, and the creators of A Shared Heritage Tour, and includes audio descriptions that detail the historical significance at each stop.
Murals of Erie County
In recent years, Erie’s urban landscape has transformed into a captivating canvas of creativity through a remarkable collection of mural art. Nearly 100 public murals are located throughout Erie County, creating an ideal self-guided tour option for visitors seeking Instagram-worthy moments. These murals draw inspiration from Erie’s community and the neighborhoods in which they reside. Through their works, the artists hope that residents and visitors alike will see themselves reflected in such bold, colorful ways, reminding them of the possibilities that creativity makes possible.
Download the Murals of Erie County booklet here. The list of murals was created in partnership between VisitErie and Erie Arts & Culture.
Pictured: "Joy" by Peruvian Artist Ana Balcazar, located at 562 E 12th Street
Traveling through the region? These tours mark historically significant places that include Erie County.
Pennsylvania Historical Markers of Erie County
Erie County is home to more than 50 historical markers, each one dedicated to either a person, place or event that has had a historical significance to Erie County, Pennsylvania, or the country. Stops include markers honoring the Erie Extension Canal, Fort LeBoeuf, Ida Tarbell, Perry's Shipyards and Miracles on Maple Hill. Click here for a list of markers.
PA Route 6 Public Art and Mural Trail
This trail consists of more than 50 stops throughout the 11-county PA Route 6 corridor, including Erie County. Each stop can be viewed through an interactive map that pinpoints the exact location of each art piece and mural.
Underground Railroad Biking Route
Adventure Cycling Association’s Underground Railroad Bicycle Route, which memorializes the network of clandestine routes by which African freedom seekers attempted to escape slavery before and during the Civil War, is a 1,997-mile bicycle route from Mobile, Alabama to Owen Sound, Ontario that passes through the City of Erie and along the shoreline of Erie County.
Washington's Trail
This self-guided driving tour through western Pennsylvania follows the route of young George Washington's first military and diplomatic venture from fall 1753 through winter 1754. Today, the route follows major roads, however in some areas there are alternate historic or scenic routes suggested which may more closely align with Washington's travel in the fall of 1753, and these are likely to be back roads.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!”
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.
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.
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!
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.
Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
VisitErie – 208 East Bayfront Parkway – Erie PA 16507 – (814) 454-1000 – info@visiterie.com
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