The Erie center point is around the area of Glass Growers Gallery and the area of Erie County Historical Society.
One of the best times to visit Erie is April and May. By the time April rolls around, most of the snow from winter has melted, and the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold. In April, highs hover in the upper 50s, and by May the highs reach the upper 60s. However, the weather can change quickly from one day to another during these months, so make sure you check the forecast before you leave home, and pack accordingly. Also, keep in mind that peak tourist season starts after Memorial Day, so at that point hotel prices start to go up and crowds of tourists become larger.
June through August is the most popular time to visit Erie, so it's also when hotels raise their rates. If you're trying to get a good hotel deal during these months, you need to book your reservation well in advance of your trip. Temperatures are comfortably warm, with highs typically around the upper 70s and low 80s. However, summer can bring rainstorms to the area, so make sure you pack an umbrella.
Fall is another spectacular time to visit Erie. September and November bring gorgeous orange and red leaves to the trees, and high temperatures are a crisp mid-60s and 70s. If you're interested in enjoying the many outdoor activities around Erie, this is an excellent time to go. However, weather in late September can quickly turn cool, turning rain to snow. If you're planning on visiting during this time, make sure you dress in layers.
If you don't mind snow and frigid winds coming off Lake Erie, you can get some really great hotel deals by visiting from December to March. While you can't enjoy many of the outdoor attractions around Erie during this time, you also won't have to deal with crowds. High temperatures in the daytime usually don't get out of the 30s, and lows at night can dip into the 20s. However, there are many festivals and indoor activities that will keep you busy and entertained during these months.
If you know where to look, you can find some great discounts and package deals in Erie. Hampton Inn Erie-South offers AAA members a 10 percent discount on their room rate. If you're not a AAA member, consider one of the hotel's exciting packages. For example, the Erie Shop-a-Thon Package comes with a bottle of local wine and a $50 Millcreek Mall gift card.
Wingate By Wyndham Erie also offers excellent discounts and savings. AAA or CAA members can receive up to 10 percent off the best available hotel rate, AARP members can get up to 20 percent off the best available rate, and seniors 60 and over can receive special savings.
Erie also has plenty of mid-range hotels that are close to many top attractions and offer convenient amenities. If you're interested in tax-free shopping at Millcreek Mall, book a stay at Fairfield Inn Erie Millcreek Mall. This property is less than a mile from the mall. It features an indoor pool, computer station, and dry cleaning and laundry services. Start your morning with a free hot and cold buffet breakfast. Then enjoy room amenities like a pillow top bed, free Wi-Fi, free bottled water, and flat screen television with satellite channels.
Candlewood Suites Erie offers a relaxing home away from home. All 68 rooms come with kitchens that have a dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator, and cooktop. Rooms also have a flat screen television with satellite channels and DVD players, and free Wi-Fi. If you want to get in a quick workout while you're at the hotel, swim a few laps in the indoor pool or take advantage of the fitness center. Then, stop by the deli for snacks and drinks.
If you fly into Erie, take advantage of the free roundtrip airport shuttle to Comfort Inn Presque Isle. Or, if you drive to the area, you'll enjoy free self-parking at the hotel. In the morning, stop by the free breakfast buffet before you head out to enjoy popular nearby attractions like Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier, Presque Isle State Park, and Waldameer Water World.
Presque Isle State Park is the most visited state park in Pennsylvania, welcoming over 4 million visitors every year. Popular activities at the park include hiking, biking, boating, swimming, picnicking, and bird-watching. The park is also home to Tom Ridge Environmental Center, which offers exhibits that help you learn about the ecology of the park. If you're interested in enjoying everything the park has to offer, consider staying in a nearby hotel such as Clarion Hotel Lake Erie.
Presque Isle Downs & Casino features horse racing, poker, table games, over 1,700 slot machines, award-winning dining, and live entertainment. If you want to enjoy everything at Presque Isle Downs and Casino, look into a stay at Baymont Inn & Suites, which is located directly next door.
Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel right on the water, or you'd like a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of downtown Erie, the city has plenty of options available. By picking the best hotel for your stay, you can enjoy everything Erie has to offer.
Below are reviews of the city of Erie, PA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Casino
This is a stop to a final destination. Appreciate the local restaurants. We dined at Presque Isle casino.
My hometown so lots of relatives in the area.
We were able to go to Presque Isle Downs Casino. We enjoy their sports bar food and a little time playing machines.
Beautiful city, especially by the lakefront. Good restaurants.
We went to Presque Isle as I have for many years. Love it and stopped at Waldemar to walk through.
I grew up in Erie and returned to participate in the annual Corgi Fest.
The peninsula is beautiful and we had some great experiences in Erie. We took the Victorian Princess dinner cruise and the cruise was superb scenery.
We visited the zoo for the afternoon, What a great place, Hats off to The city of Erie we spent over 2 great hours here.
I love the Erie beach opportunities and night life.
Presque Isle State Park; Roscoe's Restaurant/Sports Bar
Didn't get to explore. Was there for a girls travel softball tournament
I like the city, that's why I come back every year
Since I'm here visiting family in the hospital I didn't see much of the city.
The people were so friendly. I loved the convenience of different stores within walking distance of the hotel. I loved the fun entertainment in the mall and the different restaurants.
It was not crowded or congested anywhere we went. It was a beautiful island of beaches.
Lively, thriving downtown with plenty to do
We visited Edinboro university for a soccer tournament. Except that we were not the champions, it was a wonderful experience.
I like the location of the hotel. I was able to walk to get food. And I was 15 minutes away from my family I went to visit. Everyone was super kind!!
I love the lake which brings me back multiple times yearly.
Presque Isle beaches are beautiful! Lighthouse was a fun stop. The Tom Ridge Environmental Center was cool. Lady Kate boat tour was great! Sara's, Perry's Pizza and BigBar were great for eating out. The pier by Sloppy Dock and park there made for great sunset walks.
Millcreek mall, Presque Isle lighthouse & the casino.
We found my son's neighborhood to be clean and were impressed to see bike lanes. And, of course, we love the easy access to the lake.
Had an event to go to very busy didn't have time to explore the area.
We traveled almost the entire area the lakes and landmarks. It was all amazing
Had nice weather and the city was so clean.
The lake seeing the water during a storm
Erie is a great town, plenty to do and see
We visit family while in Erie, and especially appreciate the variety and quality of food establishments. The Cass Cafe and Herb and Honey bakery are favorites.
Everything was perfect
We love Krispy Kreme, and other restaurants and the mall in Erie.
Like Erie. Friendly people, good food, driving easy-to-use.
Max was so kind and helpful. The room was clean and comfortable.
I loved exploring Presque Isle. So beautiful!!! Romolo chocolates is a must visit as well as the gift and coffee shop!!
The prices were cheaper very affordable.
It's my hometown and the hotel was close to my home (convenient)
Very scenic country sides, lots of shopping and restaurants.
Many attractions and activities to see and do.
Lots of fun things to do in Erie and good restaurants
I do business in Erie & occasionally stay the night... also visit Erie often for recreational reasons.
Easy to get to Winefest from this location
The front desk staff was very professional and nice 😊
I love the lake and enjoyed the fact that the hotel was in a good location.
Loved the area, plenty of restaurants and shopping. Great area.
Beautiful Presque Isle Bay and the restaurants!
Presque Isle and the Erie area has lots of things to do.
I like the area and the casino right across the street.
There is a lot to do on/near the water.
We enjoyed the concert at the Warner Theatre. Also, visited Presque State park…the beach and lighthouse. The state park is awesome…many things to do. Also, visited Erie Zoo.
The theater is spectacular!
Very friendly and accommodating
Restaurants
The view!
Nice YMCA for a workout!
Lake Erie is beautiful. Erie is a city with such great potential and promise.
Beautiful Bay and Peninsula view.
Great location with plenty of things to see and explore
Beach is nice
Waterfront
I lived there, we both have family in Erie...love the city.
Nice place with a lot of things to do.
Great fishing!
Splash lagoon is great!
Presque Isle, Maritime Museum.