20 Free Things to Do in Erie, PA

Are you looking for something fun and exciting to do in Erie, PA? Look no further! From outdoor activities to art galleries and museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here is a comprehensive list of 20 free things to do in Erie, PA.

Visit Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park is a beautiful outdoor space located on a peninsula in Erie, PA. It is the perfect place to go for a peaceful hike, a picnic, or to just sit and take in the stunning views of Lake Erie. There are also plenty of activities to do such as biking, swimming, and kayaking.

The park also offers a variety of educational programs such as bird-watching tours, nature classes, and ranger-led activities. These programs are offered free of charge.

Presque Isle State Park is an ideal place to spend the day and take in the beauty of nature.

Visit Erie’s Museums and Art Galleries

If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, Erie has a great selection of museums and art galleries to explore. The Erie Art Museum, for example, is a great place to visit to learn about the history and culture of the area. It features a variety of exhibits and artworks from local, regional, and international artists.

The Erie Maritime Museum is another great option. It is home to the U.S. Brig Niagara, a replica of the flagship of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the War of 1812. The museum also offers educational programs and interactive exhibits.

Erie also has a number of smaller galleries and museums worth checking out. These include the Erie County Historical Society, the Erie County Courthouse, and the Erie Art Gallery.

Visit the Erie Zoo

The Erie Zoo is home to more than 400 animals from around the world. It is a great place to visit for a day of fun and learning. The zoo offers a variety of educational programs and interactive exhibits. It also features a variety of rides and attractions such as the Erie Express Train, a carousel, and a petting zoo.

The zoo also hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year. These include educational programs, animal shows, and interactive exhibits.

The Erie Zoo is a great place to take the whole family for a day of fun and learning.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Erie is home to a variety of outdoor activities and attractions that are perfect for any nature lover. From hiking and biking trails to beaches, lakes, and parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Erie Lakefront Promenade is a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride. It offers stunning views of Lake Erie and the surrounding area. The park also offers a variety of activities and attractions such as a carousel, mini-golf, and a playground.

The Erie Bluffs State Park is another great outdoor area to explore. It offers a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching.

Go Shopping

Erie is home to a variety of unique shops and boutiques. From clothing stores to antique shops and specialty stores, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Millcreek Mall is a great place to go for a day of shopping. It features a variety of stores and restaurants. It is also home to a movie theater and an indoor amusement park.

The Erie Downtown District is another great option. It features a variety of unique shops and boutiques. It is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars.

Visit the Local Breweries

Erie is home to a number of craft breweries. These breweries offer a variety of unique beers that are perfect for any beer lover. Many of the breweries offer tours and tastings. These are typically free or offered at a discounted rate.

The Voodoo Brewery is one of the most popular breweries in the area. It offers a variety of unique beers such as IPAs, stouts, and sours. The brewery also offers tours and tastings.

The Erie Brewing Company is another great option. It offers a variety of craft beers as well as tours and tastings.

Visit the Local Farmers Markets

Erie is home to a number of farmers markets. These markets offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, and other locally-sourced items. They are a great place to find fresh, local ingredients for all of your cooking and baking needs.

The Erie Downtown Farmers Market is one of the most popular markets in the area. It is open every Saturday from June through October. The market features a variety of local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and more.

The Erie County Farmers Market is another great option. It is open every Saturday from May through October. The market features a variety of local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and more.

Visit the State Park Beaches

Erie is home to a number of state park beaches. These beaches offer stunning views of Lake Erie and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.

Presque Isle State Park is home to a number of beaches. The beaches are open to the public and offer a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and more. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and interactive exhibits.

The Beach at Waldameer Park is another great option. The beach is open to the public and offers a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and more. The park also features a variety of rides and attractions such as a roller coaster, a carousel, and a ferris wheel.

Visit the Local Parks

Erie is home to a variety of parks perfect for a day of fun and relaxation. The parks offer a variety of activities such as picnics, playgrounds, and trails.

The Frontier Park is a great place to go for a picnic or a walk. The park features a variety of activities such as a playground, a walking trail, and a pond. The park also offers a variety of special events and activities throughout the year.

The Rotary Park is another great option. The park features a variety of activities such as playgrounds, trails, and a pond. The park also offers a variety of special events and activities throughout the year.

Take a Tour of the City

Erie offers a variety of tours of the city and its attractions. These tours are a great way to learn about the history and culture of the area.

The Erie Heritage Tour is a great option. The tour takes you through the city and its attractions. The tour includes stops at the Erie Maritime Museum, Presque Isle State Park, the Erie Art Museum, and more.

The Erie History Tour is another great option. The tour takes you through the city and its attractions. The tour includes stops at the Erie County Courthouse, the Erie Art Gallery, the Erie Maritime Museum, and more.

Attend a Local Event

Erie is home to a variety of events and activities throughout the year. From concerts and festivals to art shows and street fairs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Erie County Fair is one of the most popular events in the area. The fair features a variety of activities such as rides, shows, and food vendors. The fair also features a variety of competitions and events.

The Erie Music Festival is another great option. The festival features a variety of music from local, regional, and national acts. The festival also features a variety of food vendors and activities.

Visit the Local Libraries

Erie is home to a number of libraries offering a variety of services and activities. The libraries are a great place to go for a day of reading and learning.

The Blasco Library is one of the most popular libraries in the area. The library offers a variety of services such as books, magazines, videos, and more. The library also offers a variety of educational programs and activities.

The Erie Public Library is another great option. The library offers a variety of services such as books, magazines, videos, and more. The library also offers a variety of educational programs and activities.

Check Out the Local Parks and Recreation Centers

Erie is home to a number of parks and recreation centers offering a variety of activities for all ages. From swimming pools to basketball courts, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Erie Park & Recreation Center is a great place to go for a day of fun and relaxation. The center features a variety of activities such as swimming pools, basketball courts, and playgrounds. The center also offers a variety of classes and programs.

The Millcreek Community Center is another great option. The center features a variety of activities such as swimming pools, basketball courts, and playgrounds. The center also offers a variety of classes and programs.

Erie, PA is home to a variety of activities and attractions for all ages. From outdoor activities to art galleries and museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here is a comprehensive list of 20 free things to do in Erie, PA. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike, a picnic, or to just sit and take in the stunning views of Lake Erie, there is something for everyone to enjoy.