The energy of the Erie region’s arts and entertainment flows through downtown to the surrounding communities and it is electrifying. From immersive experiences, live concerts, and mesmerizing stage productions to profound artwork that stirs your thoughts and talent that is truly awe-inspiring, Erie offers top-tier cultural attractions for everyone in an affordable, convenient, and charismatic environment.
Erie’s museums present a rich tapestry of cultural exploration, each with its own distinctive appeal. From a remarkable collection of more than 8,000 artifacts at the Erie Art Museum to fascinating tales of Erie’s role in the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie at the Erie Maritime Museum, it's an immersive and interactive blend of discovery. Erie is home to two floating museums that are also active sailing vessels from May through October. The U.S. Brig Niagara and the Schooner Lettie G. Howard allow visitors to experience the art of seamanship while enjoying a leisurely sail on Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie.
Erie has a vibrant array of performance theaters that host a wealth of entertainment from moving theatrical productions to interactive performances, and comedic showstoppers that celebrate the region’s artistic expressions in engaging settings. From the stages of the Erie Playhouse to the historic Warner Theater, each features intimate floor plans giving you the best seats in the house. Inspired by Erie’s famous resident, Henrich “Harry” Kellar, Kellar’s Magic and Comedy Club celebrates the magical legacy of this magician who inspired L. Frank Baum’s iconic character in “The Wizard of Oz”. Kellar’s hosts live performances by renowned magicians and comedians from across the nation.
The Cultural Loop, a partnership between the Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) and the Erie Philharmonic, is a free trolley service providing Saturday evening service to popular events and activities throughout Downtown. For service times and stops, click here.
In recent years, Erie’s urban landscape has transformed into a captivating canvas of creativity through a remarkable collection of mural art. From the heart of downtown to neighborhood corners, it’s like strolling through an outdoor art gallery where the walls don't just talk – they sing, tell stories, and evoke emotions that resonate within Erie’s diverse community. These murals are a powerful way for the region to document its history, celebrate its present, and build a legacy for - and envision - the future. In total, there are more than 100 murals throughout Erie County, each telling its own unique story including a vibrant mural adorning the corner of East 10th and Holland Street in Downtown Erie. The untitled piece was created by Chinese-American artist Stevie Shao. Shao incorporated her love of nature, color, and community, with images influenced by her Chinese culture to create the beautiful mural.
Discover all the murals in Erie County with a self-guided tour. Download the Murals of Erie County booklet here. The list of murals was created in partnership between VisitErie and Erie Arts & Culture.
Whether it’s a family outing, date night, girls' night, or birthday bash, bringing a slice of your experience home with you is a memorable way to capture the essence of the moment. Located within Village West, Board & Brush is a haven for group revelry and crafting a variety of personalized wooden masterpieces in a fun and engaging atmosphere. At Allen Stoneware Gallery, groups of two to eight, under the guidance of local artist Vicke Allen Shea, learn to sculpt stoneware marvels from scratch. The gallery also sells an array of handcrafted pottery and artwork inspired by the natural beauty of Presque Isle State Park.
Shopping Erie’s local art scene is a window into the region’s cultural vitality and a celebration of creativity where each piece tells a story. Your support makes you part of the narrative, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and appreciation for Erie’s talented artists. Local shops such as Glass Growers Gallery, Moose Head Pottery, and Relish Studio & Gallery, stock their shelves with a selection of artisan handcrafts and one-of-a-kind items including beach glass jewelry, paintings, photographs, pottery, and glass. In the nearby city of Corry, the Painted Finch Gallery is part of the Pennsylvania Route 6 Artisan Trail, a vibrant trail of more than 400 artisans, creative businesses, cultural organizations, and art supporters.
Head to VisitErie's YouTube page to explore all Erie has to offer.
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814-392-3500
3330 West 26th Street
Village West Plaza
Erie, PA 16506
814-392-4785
Home field is Erie Sports Center
8159 Oliver Road
Erie, PA 16509
814-452-2744
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-864-2022
4940 Peach Street
Erie, PA 16501
814-453-3743
420 French Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-461-0911
1402 State Street
Erie, PA 16501
814-636-5100
8270 Peach Street
Suite 300
Erie, PA 16509
716-484-2222
203 W. Second Street
Jamestown, NY 14701
814-616-7222
1505 State Street
Erie, PA 16501
814-664-3053
32 North Center Street
Corry, PA 16407
866-ERIE-FUN (374-3386)
8199 Perry Highway/Exit 27, I-90
Erie, PA 16509
814-835-1384
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
814-836-1827
3835 West 12th Street
Erie, PA 16505
Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
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