Winter Adventures in Erie, Pennsylvania: Top Things to Do When the Snow Falls
Winter in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a magical time of year. This charming city along the shores of Lake Erie transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of outdoor and indoor activities perfect for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures or prefer cozy indoor escapes, Erie has something for everyone to enjoy during the colder months. Here are some of the best things to do in Erie in winter.
1. Hit the Slopes at Mount Pleasant of Edinboro or Peek’n Peak Resort
If you’re a fan of downhill skiing or snowboarding, Mount Pleasant of Edinboro or Peek’n Peak Resort are the places to be. Just a short drive from Erie, these popular resorts offer a range of slopes for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer, you’ll find a perfect spot to enjoy the winter weather. Both resorts also feature tubing hills making for a fantastic winter destination for families.
2. enjoy ice skating at the flo fabrizio ice center
The Flo Fabrizio Ice Center transforms into a bustling hub of ice-skating fun during the winter season. Whether you’re looking to show off your skating skills or just glide around the rink for a leisurely time, the center offers a number of public open skating sessions and is also available for rent.
3. Explore Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park is beautiful year-round, but winter brings a special kind of magic to this 3,200-acre peninsula. The park offers a peaceful retreat with scenic views of the frozen lake with ice dunes forming along the beaches and snow-covered trails throughout. You can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or simply take a winter walk along the park’s many trails. If you’re a fan of birdwatching, December brings a unique opportunity to spot migratory waterfowl birds, especially around the park’s lagoons and beaches.
4. Laugh and be amazed at Kellar’s a Modern Magic and comedy club
Named after Erie’s own Harry Kellar, the “Dean of American Magicians” who mentored Harry Houdini, Kellar’s a Modern Magic and Comedy Club features shows by some of Americas most popular magicians and comedians. Before the show enjoy the close up sleight of hand performance bar while enjoying unique signature themed cocktails.
5. Catch exciting Events and Ice Hockey at Erie Insurance arena
The Erie Insurance Arena is conveniently located downtown and has a number of events on its winter schedule including Disney on Ice, Ice Racing and the Harlem Globetrotters. For ice hockey fans it is a great place to catch a game as the arena is also the home ice for the OHL Erie Otters Ice Hockey Team.
6. Visit the Hagen History Center
When the temperatures dip outside, step inside one of Erie’s most intriguing historical destinations—the Hagen History Center. This museum is housed in multiple historic buildings and offers exhibits that delve into the rich history of Erie, including its role in the Civil War, its shipbuilding past, and the local Erie Canal. They also have an exhibit on Frank Lloyd Wright that includes his San Francisco Office. It’s a great way to stay warm while learning more about the city’s fascinating heritage.
7. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing at Asbury woods
If you’re looking for an active winter day, head to nearby Asbury Woods for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Offering a number of trails on over 200 acres, It’s a great way to enjoy the snowy landscape while getting in some exercise. For those with no experience they offer ski & snowshoe clinics on Saturdays January 6th – February 24th.
8. Warm Up with Craft Beer and Local Dining
Erie is home to a growing craft beer scene, and winter is the perfect time to cozy up in one of the city’s many breweries or pubs. Local favorites like The Brewerie at Union Station, Lavery Brewing Co and Erie Ale Works offer seasonal brews, including rich stouts and spiced ales that pair perfectly with the colder weather. You can let someone else do the driving with our Stay and Tour Experience Package. Erie also boasts a number of delicious restaurants such as Bay House Oyster Bar and Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro , serving everything from hearty comfort foods to fresh seafood, making it a great destination for both craft beer and food lovers alike.
9. indoor climbing at ascend erie
Having opened just over 1 year ago, Ascend Erie has quickly become a great indoor activity option offering a unique, safe experience for beginners and challenging opportunities for experienced climbers. Ascend provides various climbing walls and bouldering terrain along with the appropriate rental equipment to use them as well as a yoga room, fitness equipment and locker rooms so there is something to do for everyone.
10. Catch a Show at the Erie Playhouse or the historic warner theatre
Erie is blessed to have two outstanding venues that provide another indoor winter activity option. The Erie Playhouse, one of the oldest community theaters in the country, offers a number of plays and musicals throughout the winter months. The historic Warner Theatre, built in 1931 by the Warner Brothers, is the home of the Erie Philharmonic, Erie Broadway Series and Lake Erie Ballet as well as providing a variety of performances including musicals, magicians, and music acts. It’s a great way to enjoy local arts and culture while staying warm indoors.
Whether you’re looking to embrace the winter chill with outdoor adventures or prefer to stay inside and enjoy local culture, Erie, Pennsylvania, has plenty to offer during the colder months. With its combination of natural beauty, winter sports, unique attractions, and local dining, Erie is a fantastic destination to make the most of winter. So bundle up, and start planning your winter getaway to and this charming lakeside city—you’re sure to find something special to enjoy in every snowflake!
