Top Rated Attractions in Erie

Lake Erie Arboretum is a not-for-profit concept educating visitors and creating awareness of the importance of trees. Nestled in the Frontier Park, it comprises of over 300 tree species and organizes an array of interesting workshops and programs.

Situated on the eastern border of the Presque Isle State Park, Tom Ridge Environmental Center is a 65,000 square foot (6038 square meters) nature museum in Elie, named in remembrance of the former governor of Pensylvania Tom Ridge. Exhibits include an array of plant and animals specimen, some of them being extinct, adding value to your visits here. The building also includes a theater where nature programs are screened on a regular basis.

Presque Isle State Park is such a long and narrow peninsula that it almost looks like an island. In fact, the phrase “Presque Isle” means “almost an island” in French. Joined by a very narrow strip to the mainland, it protrudes into Lake Erie, which lies between United States and Canada. From an aerial perspective, the entire peninsula almost appears like someone's hand: green swirling landforms amid the ultramarine blue ocean. Two lighthouses tower over the rest of the park and gleam in the light of the setting sun during evenings. There are scenic trails for hiking and cycling, tranquil birdwatching spots, a beautiful marina and 13 picturesque beaches. Swimming, scuba diving, boating, fishing and water skiing are some of the popular activities. Hunting of waterfowl and deer is permitted but under strict guidelines. Iceboating, ice fishing and cross-country skiing are some of the winter sports here. This park is a rich ecological zone for preserving diverse plants, birds, fish, crustaceans, amphibians and reptiles. The famous Tom Ridge Environmental Center is located at the park entrance and houses a Discovery Center, aquariums, classrooms, laboratories and exhibition halls.

Open to the devotees since 1893, St. Peter Cathedral in Erie is one of the major cathedrals in the city. Consecrated in the year 1911, St. Peter Cathedral is a major religious destination in the city. The many beautiful stained glasses and tabernacle at St. Peter Cathedral adds to the divine allure of this historic church.

Built in 1892, the Watson-Curtze Mansion is an architectural marvel blending Romanesque and Richardsonian styles of design to form something truly unique. This 3.5 story building features a total of 24 rooms, 12 of which have fireplaces and sunrooms. Initially owned by a renowned businessman named Harrison F. Watson, the house was sold to Frederic Felix Curtze, the president of the Erie Trust Company in 1923. Currently, the house functions as a museum, offering tours around the property.

Experience Childrens Museum situated in the heart of Erie has been providing a fun and learning experience to little ones. The educational exhibits at this museum is mainly meant for kids below the age of eight. Experience Childrens Museum has been divided into four sections namely Creativity Floor, Explore Floor, Imagination Floor and Discovery Corner.