“Best Outdoor Summer Activities in Erie, PA | Local’s Guide 2025”

Erie, Pennsylvania transforms into an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise during the summer months. With its prime location along Lake Erie’s shoreline, beautiful parks, and diverse recreational opportunities, visitors and locals alike can enjoy countless ways to soak up the sunshine. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best outdoor activities Erie PA has to offer this summer.

Presque Isle State Park: Erie’s Crown Jewel for Summer Fun

No summer visit to Erie PA is complete without exploring Pennsylvania’s only “seashore” ,Presque Isle State Park, a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula curving into Lake Erie. This National Natural Landmark is free for admission and offers endless outdoor activities for visitors of all ages:

Beautiful Beaches for Swimming and Sunbathing

• Pristine Shoreline: Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles or just sitting in your beach chair with a good book.
• Beach 6, 8 and Beach 11: The most popular spots for families and sunbathers alike with beach 8 and 11 offering accessibility for wheelchairs.
• Lifeguarded Swimming Areas: Safe and monitored swimming areas from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Water Recreation Activities

• Kayak, Canoe and Paddleboard Rentals: Rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard from Presque Isle Boat Rentals and explore the calm waters of Presque Isle Bay and the park’s interior lagoons. Guided and self-guided tours are available
• Pontoon Boat Tours: On this free 50 minute tour you will discover hidden corners of the peninsula with guided water tours of the interior ponds and lagoons provided by Presque Isle State Park Staff and volunteers. This is on a first come first serve basis
• Lady Kate Boat Tour: Enjoy this 90 minute guided tour on the Lady Kate where you will learn about the history of Presque Isle State Park and Erie while motoring around Presque Isle Bay and into Lake Erie with water side views of the historic lighthouses of Presque Isle.

Outdoor Trails and Nature Experiences

• Karl Boyes Multi-purpose Trail: The 13.5-mile paved loop around the peninsula offers stunning views for bikers, runners, and walkers. If you don’t have your own bike, rentals are available at Yellow Bike on the peninsula.
• Hiking Trails: In addition to the multi-purpose paved trail there are 15 unpaved trails throughout the park. The nature trails vary in length from ¼ mile to 2 miles and many interconnect for longer hikes. Note: bikes are not permitted on hiking trails.
• Bird Watching Opportunities: With it’s location on the Atlantic Flyway, Presque Isle is one of the top birding spots in the Country with over 330 species identified. The Gull Point Natural Area is especially renowned for birdwatching in Erie PA.
• Fishing Spots: Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie are well known for great fresh water fishing opportunities. Cast a line from the shoreline and numerous fishing piers or launch your boat from Presque Isle Marina for deeper water fishing in the bay and Lake Erie. Note: Except for the Pa. fish for free days on May 24, 2025 and July 4, 2025,  Pa residents must have a valid Pa fishing license with Lake Erie Permit and non-pa residents must have a 1 day tourist license. Licenses can be purchase online here or at a number of authorized licensing agents in the area.

Water Adventures on Lake Erie for Summer Thrill-Seekers

The expansive waters of Lake Erie provide endless summer entertainment for adventure seekers visiting Erie Pennsylvania:

Sailing and Boating Experiences

• Sunset Sail: Experience breathtaking sunset cruises on Lake Erie, providing a perfect romantic evening or peaceful end to a day of exploration. The Lettie G Howard is an 1893 fishing schooner that can accommodate up to 34 passengers. For a more intimate experience, Your Sailing Adventure is the ticket with a maximum of 6 passengers. Be sure to check out our Stay and Sail experience package with them.
• Personal Watercraft: Nothing beats cruising on the bay and lake with the wind in your hair for an exhilarating summer ride. For those with their own equipment there are a number of public boat launch ramps around the Erie area. For those that need to rent jet skis or boats check out Port Erie Sports.

Fishing and Diving Adventures

• Erie PA Fishing Charters: A very popular summer activity for our guests is to book a guided fishing trip to catch walleye, perch, bass and other fish that call Lake Erie home. There are a number of charter services based in Erie but we recommend booking well in advance as they tend to fill up fast. Note: Except for the Pa. fish for free days on May 24, 2025 and July 4, 2025,  Pa residents must have a valid Pa fishing license with Lake Erie Permit and non-pa residents must have a 1 day tourist license. Licenses can be purchase online here or at a number of authorized licensing agents in the area.
• Scuba Diving Expeditions: Explore fascinating shipwrecks in Lake Erie’s waters with Divers World.
• Shore Fishing Opportunities: For those not fishing from a boat, you can find plenty of accessible spots both on the City side of the bay and along the bay side of Presque Isle State Park.

Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Erie Pennsylvania

Beyond Presque Isle, Erie boasts numerous green spaces perfect for summer outdoor activities:

Erie Bluffs State Park: Hidden Natural Gem

Located about 20 minutes southwest of Erie, the 587-acre Erie Bluffs State Park features over one mile of pristine Lake Erie shoreline with stunning 90-foot bluffs overlooking the water. Enjoy hiking trails through meadows, old growth forest, wetlands, and rare plant species in this natural sanctuary.

More Popular Erie PA Parks

• Frontier Park: Features a number of beautiful walking paths among over 1,000 trees and is home to the Lake Erie Arboretum.
• Asbury Woods Nature Center: Asbury Woods features over 234 acres of forests, fields and wetlands with 5 miles of trails, a boardwalk trail, and a nature center perfect for family exploration and easy hikes. The boardwalk trail portion is handicap accessible.
• Wintergreen Gorge: Located near the Penn State Behrend Campus on the East side of Erie, Wintergreen Gorge is a hidden gem featuring 2.4 miles of hiking trails along beautiful Four Mile Creek.

Outdoor Recreation and Sports Activities in Erie PA

Active visitors will find plenty of things to do in Erie PA to keep them moving during summer months:

Golfing in Erie Pennsylvania

• The Erie area is home to over a dozen golf courses with something for every skill level from first timer to tournament level golfers. We also have a number of indoor simulators for golfing fun in any type of weather. The newest, 5 iron Golf is conveniently located in downtown Erie

Recreational Sports in Erie

• Tennis Courts: Public courts are available at Frontier Park.
• Sand Volleyball: Join pickup games at Presque Isle’s Beach 6 volleyball courts.
• Cycling Routes: Presque Isle State Parks multi-purpose trail is very popular for bike riders due to its scenery and flat topography. Other trails include the Bayfront Connector Trail which spans 9 miles from Erie’s Bayfront to the Penn State Behrend Campus and a number of rail trails in various parts of the County. The Great Lakes Seaway Trail also runs through Erie for those looking for longer distance rides.

Waterfront Dining with a View in Erie PA

After a day of outdoor activities in Erie PA, enjoy the local culinary scene at these restaurants offering both indoor and spectacular outdoor seating:

Erie PA Waterfront Restaurants: Best Outdoor Dining Options

• Bayhouse Oyster Bar: One of Erie’s top restaurants, Savor fresh seafood, steaks prepared on their Argentine wood fired grill and craft cocktails on their waterfront patio with panoramic views of Presque Isle Bay.
• Pier Six: This rooftop restaurant is directly above the Bayhouse Oyster Bar and offers breathtaking waterfront views along with a diverse menu featuring local ingredients and creative dishes.
• Oliver’s Rooftop: Located atop the Hampton Inn, this rooftop restaurant combines spectacular bay views with contemporary American cuisine. For outdoor dining enjoy Olivers Beer Garden located right beside the Hampton Inn.

Other Popular Outdoor Dining Options

• The Brewerie at Union Station: Housed in Erie’s historic train station, their outdoor beer garden along the tracks is perfect for sampling local craft brews and pub favorites.
• Sara’s Restaurant: For that nostalgic feel visit this drive-in style restaurant located just before the entrance to Presque Isle State Park and across the street from the entrance to Beach 1.
• Rum Runners: With an outdoor patio located right next to the water, this is a fun little place for sandwiches, burgers and finger foods.

Summer Events and Festivals in Erie Pennsylvania

Erie’s outdoor summer calendar is packed with events for visitors looking for things to do in Erie PA:

Tall Ships Erie 2025 – August 21-24

Don’t miss this spectacular maritime festival and Eries largest event that only occurs once every three years! Magnificent tall ships from around the world will dock in Erie’s harbor, offering tours, sailing experiences, and an unforgettable celebration of maritime history.

Weekly Summer Events

• 8 Great Tuesdays: Free concert series at the Amphitheater at Liberty Park on Tuesdays in July and August. Food and Beverages are available for sale for this event.
• Sunset Music Series: Free Weekly concerts at Beach 11 on Presque Isle on Wednesdays during June and July.
• Erie Seawolves Baseball: Going for a 3-peat as Eastern League champions the Seawolves play at UPMC Park in downtown Erie. Check here for their schedule and catch a game if you can.

Annual Summer Festivals

• Erie Wild Rib Cook-off and Music Fest: The Summer event season kicks off with 4 days of the winning combination of great BBQ and Music. Held on the streets surrounding Perry Square this cook-off features local and national BBQ masters and regional musicians performing on the Perry Square stage. May 28 – 31, 2025.
• Cultural Festivals: Erie has a number of cultural festivals throughout the Summer to include, Russian Fest, Greek Fest, Polish Fest, German Fest and Irish Festival.
• Discover Presque Isle: A celebration of Erie’s greatest natural asset with activities, craft vendors, and entertainment July 21-27, 2025.
• Lake Erie Cycle Fest: Bicycle riders get to enjoy the beauty of the Erie area while getting some great exercise. With 6 planned rides of varying distances there is something for everyone. July 24-27, 2025
• Erie Blues and Jazz Fest: For over 30 years this free Outdoor Blues and Jazz Fest has featured many great jazz and blues musicians in a beautiful park setting. This years event will be held August 2 -3, 2025 in Frontier Park.
• Celebrate Erie: 3 days of fun for all held in downtown Erie featuring a marketplace of local artist and vendors, family friendly activities and entertainment, food, a chalk walk and multiple stages featuring local and national musicians, dancers and performing artists. August 15-17, 2025.

Exploring Erie’s Wine Country: Summer Wine Tours

Just a short drive from the city, discover some of the best things to do near Erie PA:

Lake Erie Wine Trail Adventures

• Wine Country Tours: Home of the largest grape growing region east of the  Rockies, Lake Erie Wine Country consists of over 30,000 acres of vineyards and more than 20 wineries featuring a number of award winning wines for your enjoyment. Tour the picturesque vineyards scattered throughout Erie County and sample local wines grown in Pennsylvania’s largest grape-growing region.
• Outdoor Wine Tastings: Many wineries offer outdoor seating areas and summer events featuring food and music.
• Picnic in the Vineyards: For a unique experience enjoy our Picnic in the Vineyards experience package.

Local Tips for Your Erie PA Outdoor Adventure

Make the most of your summer visit with these insider tips from locals:

• When possible plan ahead and make advance reservations for lodging and dining especially if coming to Erie on a summer weekend.
• Sunset views along the western side of Presque Isle are spectacular and a must see so definitely worth planning for.
• Insect repellent is recommended, especially for wooded areas or evening activities.
• Presque Isle speed limits are enforced

Plan Your Perfect Summer Getaway to Erie Pennsylvania

Erie’s unique position along Lake Erie creates a microclimate that makes summers pleasant and perfect for outdoor exploration. With this guide to outdoor activities in Erie PA in hand, you’re ready to make the most of your summer adventures in this charming lakeside city!

Ready to experience the best of summer in Erie? Book your stay today and discover why Erie, Pennsylvania is one of the Great Lakes region’s most beloved summer destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Activities in Erie PA

What is the best time to visit Presque Isle State Park?

For the best experience, visit Presque Isle on weekdays or early mornings or evenings on weekends to avoid crowds or visit one of the non-lifeguarded beaches which are less crowded but swimming restrictions apply. Sunset is particularly beautiful and can be enjoyed at any of the beaches except for beach 11 which faces east.

 

Are there any free outdoor activities in Erie PA?

Yes! Visiting Presque Isle State Park, attending 8 Great Tuesdays concerts, exploring Erie Bluffs State Park, walking many of Erie’s trails and a number of Eries festivals are all free outdoor activities. Of course there is a charge for food, beverages and other items.

 

Where can I rent water sports equipment in Erie?

There are two options to rent water sports Equipment. On Presque Isle State Park you can rent water sports equipment at Presque Isle Boat Rental. On the city side of the bay you can rent equipment from Port Erie Sports. A 3^rd rental option for pontoon boats only, Hidden Harbor Water Rentals, is closed for the 2025 season due to planned seawall construction.

What’s the water temperature like for swimming in Lake Erie during summer?

Lake Erie typically warms to comfortable swimming temperatures (70°F+) by late June through early September, making it perfect for summer swimming.

Are dogs allowed at Erie’s beaches and parks?

Dogs are allowed on non-lifeguarded beaches, Hiking trails and the Mult-Purpose trail of Presque Isle State Park but must be leashed and cleaned up after. Erie Bluffs State Park and Asbury Woods also allow leashed dogs on trails. Frontier Park allows leashed dogs except for during the Jazz and Blues festival.

Can I take food on the beaches ?

You are welcome to take food and non-alcoholic beverages on the beaches of Presque Isle State Park. There are also pavilion areas and picnic benches throughout the park where you can also grill however, pavilions must be reserved in advance. Because it is a state park, alcoholic beverages are prohibited anywhere in the park.

Can I rent beach umbrellas and/or beach chairs at the Presque Isle Beaches ?

There are no beach supply rentals available on Presque Isle so be sure to bring your beach supplies with you.