Top 5 Erie Sightseeing Tours: Fun & Memorable Options

Erie, Pennsylvania, very well located on the shores of Lake Erie, is that interesting spot packed full of history, pretty scenery, and surprising activities. Deciding what to do, though, especially when time is a bit tight, can be tricky; it’s almost like figuring out a big puzzle! That’s why guided tours are often really the best way to get the most out of what Erie has to offer, especially for first-timers. To give you that little helping hand, I put together a rundown of what I consider to be the top five Erie sightseeing tours. Get set to explore some great spots and make lasting memories!

1. Erie Maritime Museum & Flagship Niagara League Tours

To really learn about Erie’s history, you very much should head over to the Erie Maritime Museum. That is, it’s more than just a museum. You know, it’s also where the Flagship Niagara League is based. I found this particular part fascinating! The Niagara, too, is a pretty cool, historical reconstruction of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s warship. Arguably, this ship really did play a pivotal role in the War of 1812 on Lake Erie. You can actually take tours of the Niagara when it’s in port, that often gives you a chance to learn all about sailing life back then. So, too, inside the museum, there are exhibits detailing Erie’s maritime history. We found that, as a matter of fact, they are really well put together! I also thought the guides are very informative. They bring the history to life in that captivating kind of way that just makes you want to learn more. What makes this tour really stand out is that blend of museum learning with actually getting to see and explore the ship. So, that historical adventure might very well be ideal if you want to feel the past! Oh and do check the sailing schedule for the Niagara, maybe time your visit so that you can also experience a day sail if you have the opportunity, like your luck is in!

2. Presque Isle State Park Tours

Presque Isle State Park, naturally that is that beautiful, sandy peninsula that curves into Lake Erie, and is a must-see in Erie. The park, you know, provides an interesting range of tour options, ranging from those relaxed pontoon boat tours on Presque Isle Bay, to the land-based educational excursions. Basically, you can learn loads about the park’s environment. As a matter of fact, there’s a pretty cool ecosystem going on, with various bird species and tons of plant life. Arguably, pontoon tours, led by the knowledgeable guides, are super for everyone, because you get amazing views of the Erie skyline plus the opportunity to spot some of the local wildlife. Otherwise, on land, so too it’s almost like guided walks are there if you really like to learn about the geology and the background of the park, as well as maybe that role in preserving the area’s natural habitat. And I found that, in particular, bird watching tours might really be the highlight for nature lovers. Apparently they offer a chance to spot migratory birds. The tours really emphasize interacting with nature so that one gets a sense of just how vital this spot is! Consider booking these tours a little bit in advance; this really lets you enjoy the great outdoors with loads of fun and handy info.

3. Erie Ghost Tours

Erie Ghost Tours provide, you know, quite an interesting twist on sightseeing! Actually, it’s almost where local history is mixed with eerie tales. What is unique about these tours, too, is how the guides skillfully lead you around the most haunted spots in Erie. So, that’s really spooky! It’s also really interesting. These spots actually have that spooky reputation to them! It feels like stepping back in time when you hear a really good storyteller. You, also, often hear stories of paranormal activities. Basically, such things have been part of Erie’s local lore for what seems like forever. If one is brave enough, then the tours might very well run during the evening, so that gives that little bit of extra spine-tingling fun! It might actually just set the scene that much more. These tours might be just the thing for anyone interested in spooky history. Otherwise, that is your chance to find out the tales behind some of Erie’s older buildings. Arguably, that just might leave you feeling both spooked and enlightened! That said, if there are things that go bump in the night that you fancy, then this may be a super good choice; remember to bring a friend so that it will be a safer kind of experience, right? Book these tours, especially close to Halloween, because those fill up fairly fast. In fact it’s always pretty smart to just book tours.

4. Lake Erie Wine Country Tours

Now, Lake Erie Wine Country, of course that’s not exactly in the city of Erie, however I reckon it is that worthy trip if, you know, one enjoys pretty scenery mixed with some locally made wine. What one might find in those tour companies actually organize trips along the Lake Erie Wine Trail. I found that’s a big plus; there’s very often loads of different wineries dotted across the landscape. With such a guided tour one might enjoy transport to several wineries, tastings, and really super backgrounds of what the different varietals are all about. It almost gives one some education! What tends to make this tour extra special is being able to witness the beautiful views of Lake Erie whilst one samples the regional wines. One really gets to savor it then! Anyway that whole area benefits from that lake effect, which too it’s almost like that creates that special climate which makes the vineyards pretty unique. Consider a trip here especially in the early fall, or something, just when that scenery really begins to get all beautiful; maybe that is when there is that perfect balance of the natural beauty along with, well, just good taste. Apparently, tour options may vary. Make sure that you pick out tours, that have the places which you might love to try. What really stands out for this type of adventure might just very well be that blend of scenic views with actually, that opportunity, to taste some delightful local wines. Think about organizing a wine tour with friends or loved ones; after all, it is pretty ideal for group fun.

5. Erie Art Museum Tours

If it so happens that you appreciate art then definitely consider Erie Art Museum tours. Apparently that museum itself really is worth a stop. Arguably, they provide a rotating roster of exhibits and tours all the time. What makes this particular experience rather nice is how it provides insights into a seriously diverse array of artwork. These things tend to include contemporary to folk art. Basically, there might be just about anything! Now, the guided tours are generally given by super informed staff. Clearly, it shows that they know what they’re talking about. Usually, those individuals are happy to share not only the backgrounds about the works on display but basically details of the artists as well, perhaps that kind of thing may help folks appreciate it all that bit better, basically that extra bit that might make it worth seeing. What I enjoyed was just learning more regarding what goes into certain creative processes as well; this museum offers what, in that instance, is perhaps that very good cultural break! One can really admire a bit of art! So that might be really great for any travelers just wishing for that peaceful kind of morning perhaps combined with some mental stimulation. As a matter of fact I tend to love any opportunity to experience art when I can get around to it so I fully support considering the art museum tour. Check the museum’s calendar for themed tours or special exhibits that align with your personal tastes; apparently there is lots of rotating content!