This blog post is sponsored by Visit PA and VisitErie. All opinions remain our own.

If you’re searching for a destination that blends natural beauty, hands-on learning, old-fashioned amusement, and delicious food, Erie, Pennsylvania checks all the boxes. Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, this small but vibrant city offers a surprising variety of family-friendly attractions that are both accessible and engaging for travelers with young kids. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, dive into local culture, or simply slow down and reconnect as a family, Erie delivers a well-rounded and memorable experience.

We began our trip at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, a must-visit for families who enjoy nature and science. The center, located at the entrance to Presque Isle State Park, features interactive exhibits focused on the region’s unique ecosystem. Kids can crawl through model habitats, watch short educational films, and even catch a glimpse of real local wildlife. It’s a fantastic introduction to what makes this corner of Pennsylvania so special—and it set the tone perfectly for our next stop: Presque Isle State Park.

Presque Isle is the kind of place where you could easily spend an entire weekend. With seven miles of sandy beaches, hiking and biking trails, kayaking opportunities, and a historic lighthouse, it’s a dream for outdoor-loving families. We spent the afternoon walking along the shoreline, collecting smooth lake stones, and watching the sunset over the water. Even on cooler days, the park is peaceful and scenic, offering a chance to slow down and soak up the natural surroundings.

One of the biggest highlights of our trip was the Erie Zoo. Compact and walkable, the zoo is perfect for younger kids who might tire out quickly at larger attractions. We saw everything from lions and red pandas to exotic birds and playful otters. What made our visit extra special was attending one of their seasonal Glow Wild nights. These events transform the zoo into a glowing wonderland of illuminated animal lanterns, cultural performances, and light installations. It was a magical experience.

Looking for some high-seas adventure? Scallywags Pirate Adventures is a hit for little ones who dream of becoming pirates. The boat departs from Dobbins Landing and offers an interactive, hour-long cruise packed with storytelling, treasure hunts, and pirate-themed games. The crew is fantastic with kids—engaging them the whole time while letting parents sit back and enjoy the views.

Another crowd-pleaser was Waldameer Park & Water World, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country. We spent our time in the dry-ride section, which has everything from gentle kiddie rides to roller coasters for braver family members. Although the water park looked like a blast, it was a bit too chilly for us to enjoy it during our visit. Still, the park had plenty to keep us entertained, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a beloved summer staple for families throughout the region.

For some relaxed downtime, we headed to Oliver’s Beer Garden, a casual waterfront spot with outdoor seating, live music, and a family-friendly mini-golf course. It’s a great way to spend an evening—kids can play while adults unwind with a drink and some snacks. We also visited the expERIEnce Children’s Museum, which is a wonderful indoor attraction perfect for kids under 10. With rotating exhibits focused on science, construction, art, and movement, it’s both educational and fun, and it gives the kids a much-needed break from more structured sightseeing. We have visited over twenty different children’s museums throughout the country, and so far, this has been our favorite.

One of our favorite surprises in Erie was discovering the city’s local chocolate scene. We stopped by Romolo Chocolates, a family-owned chocolatier known for their truffles, sponge candy, and chocolate-covered everything. The shop is warm and welcoming, and you can even watch the candy being made through the viewing window. It’s a sweet stop for families and a perfect place to pick up some souvenirs to take home (if you can resist eating them all first!).

When it comes to dining, Erie offers something for everyone. For a more upscale experience, Oliver’s Rooftop serves elevated American cuisine with sweeping views of the waterfront—perfect for a date night or special dinner with the kids in tow. On the other end of the spectrum, Sara’s is a local institution located near the entrance to Presque Isle. With its retro diner vibes, colorful picnic tables, and classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to more than once. We appreciated the variety in Erie’s dining scene—whether we were in the mood for something polished or playful, we found plenty of great options.

For accommodations, we stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront, and it was ideal for our needs. The location made it easy to get to almost everything on our itinerary, the rooms were clean and spacious, and the staff was friendly and helpful. With a view of the bay and a complimentary breakfast, it made a great home base for our stay. Erie also offers a wide range of family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, especially near the waterfront and downtown areas.

All in all, Erie, Pennsylvania, proved to be a fantastic destination for our family trip. It’s easy to navigate, full of variety, and packed with memorable moments. Whether you’re hiking through a state park, cheering on your little pirate, riding a carousel, or enjoying gourmet chocolates, the city offers a balanced mix of fun and relaxation that’s perfect for families. If you’re looking for a kid-approved getaway that adults will enjoy just as much, Erie deserves a spot on your travel list. Looking for more travel inspiration? VisitPA.com offers a full getaway guide, and VisitErie.com is your go-to for all things Erie!