12 Best Day Trips From Erie, Pennsylvania - Updated 2024

day trips from erie pa
Jes
Jes 
Updated
| 5 min read

Erie, Pennsylvania, is a city that sits midway between Ohio and New York states. It was named after Lake Erie, one of the five Great Lakes. It was incorporated in 1851, though the area has been settled for thousands of years before that. Presque Isle State Park is the biggest attraction in Erie; it is a forested island that shelters many campsites in Erie and also serves as a natural barrier against waves coming from the lake. Metro buses are the main mode of public transport around town but having your own car is recommended, especially if you’re staying in one of the quaint cabin rentals near Erie. Aside from Lake City, you can also embark on many great adventures outside Erie. Check out our list of the best day trips from Erie, Pennsylvania.

1. Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh
Source: Photo by Flickr user Darrell R used under CC BY 2.0

Known as the largest steel manufacturing hub in the states, it is no surprise how Pittsburgh quickly earned the nickname the Steel City. It is located 129 mi (208 km) south of Erie. Some of the most-visited cultural spots include Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh Zoo, and National Aviary. Most people here are into sports—and if you’re a fan of either football or baseball, you can watch games at Heinz Field, PNC Park, and PPG Paints Arena.

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2. Lake Erie Beach, NY

Lake Erie @ Hamburg NY - Mar 2018
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Andre Carrotflower used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Lake Erie Beach is a small town located just outside the city of Buffalo. It is frequented by a good number of tourists who want to relax on its fine beaches during the summer months. The Beach Club is a popular hangout spot here where you can grab some drinks during your stay.

Since it’s not a highly urbanized town, it gives off a more intimate and private beach experience. For that reason, it is an ideal spot for day trips near Pennsylvania for couples and those who want to really relax out of town.

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3. Toronto, ON

Toronto, ON
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Taxiarchos228 used under FAL

Home to over two million people, Toronto is the largest city in Canada. It is a 4-hour drive northeast of Erie or a 200 mi (320 km) trip. Once you get here, visit and go up the iconic CN Tower where you can admire the city from above. You can also take a stroll in the parks on the coast such as Harbor Square, Roundhouse, and St James Cathedral. Hockey is a national pastime, so pass by Hockey Hall of Fame or watch a game at Scotiabank Arena. You can even ride the ferries to Toronto and Central Islands. Just remember that Toronto is located across the US border, so you will need to bring your passport.

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4. Cleveland, OH

Terminal Tower, Cleveland OH
Source: Photo by Flickr user Lisa Chamberlain used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Cleveland is the largest city in the neighboring state of Ohio, located 100 mi (160 km) southwest of Erie. Founded in 1796, this city is also home to Cuyahoga River, the site where the infamous fire of 1969 took place. This unfortunate event prompted the government to prioritize waterways and environmental protection. While here, don’t forget to visit one of the most popular theaters in the country, Playhouse Square. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, along with Cleveland Museum of Art, is also a must-visit destination here. West Side Market has plenty of fresh food options for you to enjoy.

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5. Buffalo, NY

Downtown Buffalo, NY
Source: Photo by Flickr user Zen Skillicorn used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Buffalo is a city perched at the edge of Lake Erie. This day trip destination is easily reachable via boat ride from Albany. Although you can get around here by bus and city tram, many areas are only accessible by car.

It is called the City of Light as it was one of the first cities to adopt electric lighting. Buffalo River is lined with parks where you can go for a walk and do some exercise. Hockey and football are two major sports here, so you can catch games at KeyBank Center or New Era Field. Also, the downtown area is filled with shops and diners that you can try out on your trip here.

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6. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls
Source: Photo by Flickr user Sue Thompson used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. It’s a group of three waterfalls that consists of Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls. Goat Island separates Bridal Veil and Horsehoe falls, while Luna Island separates Bridal Veil and American Falls. If you are in Ontario, you get the best view of Horseshoe Falls. Same with visiting Toronto, Ontario is also across the border so you need to bring your passport with you.

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7. Columbus, Ohio (from USD 12.0)

Columbus is located about 200 miles (321.87 kilometers) southeast of Erie, and is the capital of Ohio. Offering some of the best things to do near Erie, the city boasts the 88-acre (35.61-hectare) Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens which features a range of indoor and outdoor gardens. Another popular attraction is the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, which is one of the top-rated zoos in the country.

For history buffs, the Ohio Statehouse is a must-see. This historic building houses the offices of the governor and other state officials, and guided tours are available. The Ohio History Center is another great option, where you can learn about the role Ohio played in the Civil War.

For sports fans, the Ohio Stadium is a must-visit. Home to the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, the stadium can hold over 100,000 fans and offers tours of the facility.

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Columbus Scavenger Hunt Sightseeing Activity

Duration: 2 hours

8 reviews

8. Akron, Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Niagara66 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Akron is another great day trip destination from Erie, located about 80 miles (128.75 kilometers) southeast of the city. You can start your tour with a visit to the historic Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens mansion which was built in the early 1900s by F.A. Seiberling, the co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The 65-room mansion features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

Another great attraction in Akron is the Akron Art Museum, which features a collection of modern and contemporary art. For those interested in history, the National Museum of Education is a unique attraction that showcases the history of education in the United States. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit. Located just north of Akron, the park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning waterfalls and scenic vistas.

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9. Kirtland, OH

NK Whitney Store
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user JonRidinger used under CC BY 3.0

Kirtland is known for Kirtland Temple, one of the first Mormon temples used by the Latter Day Saint movement. The temple was built in 1836, and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The other major site in Kirtland is Holden Arboretum, a 3600-ac (1456 ha) botanical garden that is one of the largest in the United States. While here, you get to be surrounded by thousands of plants and see wild animals roaming free in the garden. Kirtland is just an hour’s drive away from Erie so do pay a visit here.

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10. Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH

Geneva On The Lake Downtown - panoramio (1)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michael A. Orlando used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Geneva-on-the-Lake is a small resort town perfect for quick vacations near Erie, Pennsylvania. Located just 64 mi (100 km) away, it is a popular vacation and stopover spot for travelers going to some areas around Lake Erie. The town’s most popular place is the Strip where you can find an array of restaurants, shops, and rentals. Eddie’s Grill is the most-visited food joint here, so be sure to try some of their hotdog sandwiches.

Geneva State Park sits on the west side of town and has hiking, camping, and boating areas. You can also stay the night at one of the lodges the town has to offer.

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11. Cooksburg, PA

Cooksburg, Pennsylvania - panoramio - Idawriter
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Idawriter used under CC BY-SA 3.0

For your urban escape, Cooksburg is a small community located right in the heart of Cook Forest State Park, an 8500-ac (3439 ha) national park that is rich in vegetation and old-growth forest. It sits along Clarion River, a pristine river that cuts through Allegheny National Forest. Cooksburg has varied mountain trails and a campground just north of the river crossing. This secluded area is just 80 mi (128 km) south of Erie, a perfect place for those who want to reconnect with nature.

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12. Chautauqua, NY

Miller Bell Tower Chautauqua Institution in Chautauqua, NY
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user LJ's-photos used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Named after the lake of the same name, Chautauqua is a peaceful town just over an hour’s drive east of Erie. Chautauqua Institution is a heritage site that holds educational programs for all people in many different fields such as dance, music, writing, and more. You can stay the night at Athenaeum Hotel, a traditional lodge facing the lake. While here, check out Miller Bell Tower or go fishing in Chautauqua Lake.

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A great city in the heart of Lake Erie

The city named after the great lake has plenty to offer on its own, from parks and historical sites to shops and cultural spots. It also is a great starting point for day trips to many other cities that surround Lake Erie. Plan your next US escapade and embark on a great adventure with your loved ones.

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Frequently asked questions about the best day trips from Erie, Pennsylvania


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Jes is a passionate traveler with a love for great food. When not on the road, Jes divides time between being a part-time toy collector, a student, and a part-time worker. Always on the lookout for...Read more

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