The best things to do in 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 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

“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.”

“Chautauqua Golf Club lets you pick your mood, the hilly shot-maker’s Hill Course or the scenic Lake Course, both touched by architects like Donald Ross and Seymour Dunn. Smart lines and tricky reads reward local knowledge, so bring that neighbor who swears they’re “a bogey golfer” and find out.”

From the Chautauqua County newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Executive course running through a wooded area with ponds, creeks, and marshes.”

“Golf course featuring a restaurant, bar, and indoor and outdoor facilities, plus live music.”

“Short course featuring 9 holes spread across relatively flat terrain.”

“Club offering an 18-hole golf course amid scenic landscapes, plus teaching facilities.”

“Amusement park has 75+ roller coasters, water slides, kiddie rides, carousel & more family classics.”

“Casual movie theater with 3D films, a concession stand, and an arcade.”

“Store stocking clothes, souvenirs, and beach toys, plus refrigerated drinks.”

“Indoor venue with private suites for self-service digital golf, VR games, and arcade experiences.”

“Zoo has kangaroos, giraffes, gorillas, a children's playground, a greenhouse & an ice-skating rink.”

“Laid-back rental space for arcade games and private parties, plus a movie theater and popcorn.”

“Erie's choice for weddings, this country club features an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.”

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

“Entertainment complex featuring an 18-hole miniature golf course, laser tag, and an axe-throwing range, plus a seasonal haunted house.”

“Venue for hockey games, concerts, and other events also known as a convention center.”

“Family-friendly destination with a miniature golf course and a driving range, plus ice cream.”

“Golf course featuring a peaceful layout in the woods, plus a driving range.”

“Golf course and eatery with a patio known for its views of Lake Erie.”

“Golf course featuring a driving range, sand traps, and a water hazard.”

“Kid-friendly escape room center where groups work to solve puzzles and clues, and crack codes to get out.”

“Family-friendly venue with trampolines, climbing walls, arcade games and dodgeball.”

“Indoor water park has slides, a lazy river, a ropes course, tropical pool areas, arcade & laser tag.”