The best things to do in Erie County

26 places we’ve checked and would send a neighbor to. Open any one to read what we wrote about it.

26 places · newest first

Your business could be here.

Be at the top of Erie County's page when you're in Erie County's newsletter.

Put my business here

Local businesses pay to be shown here. A person checks every one.

North Hills Golf Course (opens in a new tab)

1450 N Center St · Corry

Corry’s own North Hills Golf Course keeps things fun and legit with a challenging layout, wallet-friendly rates, and the kind of leagues…

Corry’s own North Hills Golf Course keeps things fun and legit with a challenging layout, wallet-friendly rates, and the kind of leagues and events that make weekday afternoons disappear. Grab lessons, book a tee time, then celebrate at the bar and grill like you meant that birdie.

From the Corry newsletter, October 21, 2026

Leisure Time Powersports of Corry (opens in a new tab)

729 E Columbus Ave · Corry

Leisure Time Powersports of Corry keeps local riders rolling with Polaris, Can-Am, Honda, Suzuki and Ski-Doo, plus ATVs, side-by-sides,…

Leisure Time Powersports of Corry keeps local riders rolling with Polaris, Can-Am, Honda, Suzuki and Ski-Doo, plus ATVs, side-by-sides, motorcycles, snowmobiles and even tractors. Factory-trained techs, quick trade-ins, and straightforward financing make it easy to upgrade before the weekend.

From the Corry newsletter, October 17, 2026

Corry Country Club (opens in a new tab)

554 Country Club Rd · Corry

Founded on July 4, 1922, Corry Country Club is the kind of low-key spot locals whisper about... family-friendly vibes, a classic course…

Founded on July 4, 1922, Corry Country Club is the kind of low-key spot locals whisper about... family-friendly vibes, a classic course that rewards a good swing, and community tournaments that make Saturdays feel like summer, even in April.

From the Corry newsletter, October 18, 2026

Mead Park DGC (opens in a new tab)

945 Mead Ave · Corry

Mead Park DGC packs a short, mostly flat 18 into Mead Park, perfect for sneaking in a half-hour loop before dinner, and it’s free to play.…

Mead Park DGC packs a short, mostly flat 18 into Mead Park, perfect for sneaking in a half-hour loop before dinner, and it’s free to play. Still a new build from 2024, so expect a few rough edges, but it’s a handy local fix when you need chains to hit.

From the Corry newsletter, October 12, 2026

Bicentennial Tower (opens in a new tab)

1 State St · Erie

When the week gets loud, head up Bicentennial Tower for panoramic views of Lake Erie and the city from its two observation decks. It tops…

Checked Jul 30

When the week gets loud, head up Bicentennial Tower for panoramic views of Lake Erie and the city from its two observation decks. It tops out at 187 feet, which basically means sunsets, cloud drama, and instant perspective… plus a solid excuse to send smug skyline photos.

From the Erie newsletter, August 3, 2026

Play Port Arcade & Family Fun Center (opens in a new tab)

2730 W 12th St · Erie

Relive the 80s and 90s on over 100 free-play classics, then switch to glow golf, pool, a laser maze and laser tag at Play Port Arcade &…

Checked Jul 30

Relive the 80s and 90s on over 100 free-play classics, then switch to glow golf, pool, a laser maze and laser tag at Play Port Arcade & Family Fun Center. Perfect for midweek cabin fever and showing the kids what real button-mashing looked like.

From the Erie newsletter, August 8, 2026

Harbor Ridge Golf Course (opens in a new tab)

3730 Harbor Ridge Trail · Erie

Harbor Ridge Golf Course is a family friendly 9-hole track with bent grass underfoot, a solid range and short-game spots to tune up, and…

Harbor Ridge Golf Course is a family friendly 9-hole track with bent grass underfoot, a solid range and short-game spots to tune up, and the Harbor View Grill waiting after with a full bar and an expansive deck for legit Lake Erie sunsets plus occasional live music. Tee it up this week.

From the Erie newsletter, October 20, 2026

Orchard Ponds Golf Club (opens in a new tab)

8007 Pagan Rd · Erie

Orchard Ponds Golf Club is your low-key 9-hole fix when you want a quick loop without the fuss. Warm up on the practice green, then stroll…

Orchard Ponds Golf Club is your low-key 9-hole fix when you want a quick loop without the fuss. Warm up on the practice green, then stroll a quiet track framed by mature trees and peaceful ponds that stays friendly for beginners but still fun for confident swings.

From the Erie newsletter, September 26, 2026

The Ridge Golf Club (opens in a new tab)

10085 Peach St · Waterford

The Ridge Golf Club is PGA-owned and operated, with a par 71 layout over 127 scenic acres, five sets of tees, and a new practice facility.…

The Ridge Golf Club is PGA-owned and operated, with a par 71 layout over 127 scenic acres, five sets of tees, and a new practice facility. After the round, hit the renovated clubhouse patio for The Ridge Grill vibes and a view of 18.

Waldameer & Water World (opens in a new tab)

220 Peninsula Dr · Erie

Waldameer & Water World packs 100+ attractions for every mood, from Ravine Flyer II’s huge wood-coaster drops that even cross a 4-lane…

Waldameer & Water World packs 100+ attractions for every mood, from Ravine Flyer II’s huge wood-coaster drops that even cross a 4-lane highway to Rocket Blast’s award-winning splashy launch and the new five-person raft slides. Let the kids own the kiddie rides while you chase wave-pool serenity.

From the Erie newsletter, October 10, 2026

Beach Zero (opens in a new tab)

83 Peninsula Dr · Erie

Heading to Presque Isle this week, start at Beach Zero, the family-owned since 2007 shop at the entrance to the park. Toys, floaties,…

Heading to Presque Isle this week, start at Beach Zero, the family-owned since 2007 shop at the entrance to the park. Toys, floaties, umbrellas, boogie boards, tees, beach glass jewelry, plus snacks and hot or cold drinks keep your crew beach-ready without the last-minute scramble.

From the Erie newsletter, October 18, 2026

Erie Zoo (opens in a new tab)

423 W 38th St · Erie

Erie Zoo is your easy, low-stress reset. Wander leafy garden paths, meet the animals, let the kids burn energy on rides, then grab a treat…

Erie Zoo is your easy, low-stress reset. Wander leafy garden paths, meet the animals, let the kids burn energy on rides, then grab a treat or swing by the Ice Center. Simple, close-to-home fun that makes any weekday feel lighter.

From the Erie newsletter, October 16, 2026

Erie Movie House - Rent your own movie theater (opens in a new tab)

3424 W Lake Rd · Erie

Whether it's a birthday, watch party, or just an excuse to hang out, Erie Movie House lets you rent the whole theater, cue up your own…

Whether it's a birthday, watch party, or just an excuse to hang out, Erie Movie House lets you rent the whole theater, cue up your own movie, and go wild on free play arcade games with free popcorn included. BYO snacks and drinks, keep it chill, make it yours.

From the Erie newsletter, October 3, 2026

Lake Shore Country Club (opens in a new tab)

5950 Lake Shore Dr · Erie

Lake Shore Country Club serves up breezy Lake Erie views, golf, tennis, a pool, dining, and even Sunday brunch, so your week can actually…

Lake Shore Country Club serves up breezy Lake Erie views, golf, tennis, a pool, dining, and even Sunday brunch, so your week can actually feel like a week. Planning a wedding or party? The Renaissance Grand Ballroom and North Lawn keep celebrations classy without the stress.

From the Erie newsletter, October 9, 2026

Cinemark Tinseltown Erie (opens in a new tab)

1910 Rotunda Dr · Erie

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.

Hazards Mini Golf Social Pub (opens in a new tab)

419 State St 2nd Floor · Erie

Whether you’re chasing a friendly rematch or just need a low-stakes laugh, Hazards Mini Golf Social Pub nails it with 18 holes of indoor,…

Whether you’re chasing a friendly rematch or just need a low-stakes laugh, Hazards Mini Golf Social Pub nails it with 18 holes of indoor, wildly themed mini golf, a full bar, TVs, snacks, and a brand-new golf simulator. No tee time required, plus leagues and private events keep things lively downtown.

From the Erie newsletter, October 8, 2026

Adventures Erie- Erie, PA Mini Golf- Laser Tag -Axe Throwing (opens in a new tab)

9188 Lake Pleasant Rd · Erie

Adventures Erie- Erie, PA Mini Golf- Laser Tag -Axe Throwing nails the local fun trifecta with a cryptid-themed 18-hole course, outdoor…

Adventures Erie- Erie, PA Mini Golf- Laser Tag -Axe Throwing nails the local fun trifecta with a cryptid-themed 18-hole course, outdoor laser tag, and easy-to-learn axe throwing. Grab a buddy for mini golf leagues, then circle back when their seasonal haunted house pops up to keep the adrenaline going.

From the Erie newsletter, October 2, 2026

Erie Insurance Arena (opens in a new tab)

809 French St · Erie

Erie Insurance Arena is where this town does big nights, from packed concerts to the roar of hometown sports and one-off spectacles that…

Erie Insurance Arena is where this town does big nights, from packed concerts to the roar of hometown sports and one-off spectacles that live rent-free in your group chat. Peek the Erie Events calendar, pick a vibe, then go make some noise.

From the Erie newsletter, September 27, 2026

Oliver's Bayfront Mini Golf (opens in a new tab)

130 E Front St · Erie

Oliver's Bayfront Mini Golf dishes out 18 holes, par 57, with quirky terrain and legit bayfront views. Wrap the win and wander to Oliver’s…

Oliver's Bayfront Mini Golf dishes out 18 holes, par 57, with quirky terrain and legit bayfront views. Wrap the win and wander to Oliver’s Beer Garden for snack bar fuel or food truck bites, an easy Erie hang that turns a random weeknight into a mini victory lap.

From the Erie newsletter, October 13, 2026

Whispering Woods Golf Club (opens in a new tab)

7214 Grubb Rd · Erie

Whispering Woods Golf Club is the local go-to when you want tree-lined fairways, quiet vibes, and a practice range to tune up the swing.…

Whispering Woods Golf Club is the local go-to when you want tree-lined fairways, quiet vibes, and a practice range to tune up the swing. com, it’s a perfect place to sneak in a round or plan your next scramble.

From the Erie newsletter, October 11, 2026

Lawrence Park Golf Club (opens in a new tab)

3700 E Lake Rd · Erie

Lawrence Park Golf Club is a private 18-hole spot locals join for meticulously kept greens, Lake Erie backdrops, and a patio that turns…

Lawrence Park Golf Club is a private 18-hole spot locals join for meticulously kept greens, Lake Erie backdrops, and a patio that turns sunsets into a post-round habit. The Grill Room keeps it casual with rotating Chef’s Features, and the community vibe makes membership feel like a weekly standing date.

From the Erie newsletter, October 6, 2026

Downing Golf Course (opens in a new tab)

1351 Troupe Rd · Harborcreek

Downing Golf Course is a classic par-72 with a legit test, from a driving range warmup to sand traps and a water hazard that seem…

Downing Golf Course is a classic par-72 with a legit test, from a driving range warmup to sand traps and a water hazard that seem magnetized. It's hosted local championships and even the National Public Links, so bring your A-game and maybe a fresh sleeve, with GHIN handicaps available.

From the Erie newsletter, September 2, 2026

Escape Game Erie (opens in a new tab)

23 W 10th St · Erie

Whether your crew is full of first timers or puzzle pros, Escape Game Erie runs themed rooms like The Sorcerer's Secret, Escape The…

Whether your crew is full of first timers or puzzle pros, Escape Game Erie runs themed rooms like The Sorcerer's Secret, Escape The Niagara, and Axe After Dark that keep everyone grinning. Great for birthdays, family nights, or team bonding that somehow turns very competitive, at two Erie locations.

From the Erie newsletter, September 29, 2026

Vertical Jump Park - Erie (opens in a new tab)

2088 Interchange Rd Ste 250 · Erie

Vertical Jump Park - Erie is basically our Trampoline Kingdom when cabin fever hits this week. Smash some bounce reps, chase the flip you…

Vertical Jump Park - Erie is basically our Trampoline Kingdom when cabin fever hits this week. Smash some bounce reps, chase the flip you bragged about, then swap to the in-house arcade for friendly button-mashing. Quick reset for restless kids and overcaffeinated grownups alike.

From the Erie newsletter, October 17, 2026

Scenic Heights Golf Course (opens in a new tab)

7830 Knoyle Rd · Wattsburg

Scenic Heights Golf Course pairs forgiving but challenging 18-hole, par-72 play with panoramic views, well maintained fairways and greens,…

Scenic Heights Golf Course pairs forgiving but challenging 18-hole, par-72 play with panoramic views, well maintained fairways and greens, four tee sets, and a course that drains fast so you can swing even after a downpour.

Splash Lagoon (opens in a new tab)

8091 Peach St · Erie

Splash Lagoon is an award winning indoor water park featuring the FlowRider, towering slides and pools, the Tree Tops Ropes Course,…

Splash Lagoon is an award winning indoor water park featuring the FlowRider, towering slides and pools, the Tree Tops Ropes Course, Treasure Island Arcade, and an XD Dark Ride, ideal for burning off kid energy or grabbing a low effort mini-vacation close to home.

From the Erie newsletter, October 15, 2026