Looking for things to do in Erie with kids? Whether you just moved to Erie, are visiting for the weekend, had your first baby, or just discovered Macaroni KID Erie, this is your shortcut to family activities in Erie, PA all year long.
Parenting in Erie — or visiting Erie with kids — doesn’t have to mean endless Googling or scrolling local Facebook groups. This page brings together the most helpful resources for Erie families and visitors in one place, so you can get answers fast.
Kara’s Take: Erie is one of those cities where parenting works better when you know where to look. The difference between “there’s nothing to do” and “we’re busy every weekend” is usually just a matter of having the right list. That’s why this site exists — to give Erie parents and visitors one trusted place for events, seasonal ideas, and easy plans.
Visiting Erie With Kids?
If you're coming to Erie for a weekend, tournament, family visit, beach day, or summer getaway, welcome! Macaroni KID Erie can help you find what’s happening while you're here.
Start with our events calendar for family-friendly events happening during your visit, then check our seasonal guides for Erie favorites like Presque Isle State Park, Waldameer & Water World, the expERIEnce Children’s Museum, the Erie Zoo, Tom Ridge Environmental Center, local festivals, free events, and more.
Start With What’s Happening This Week
If you want to know what’s going on right now, start with our Erie events calendar. It’s updated constantly with family-friendly events across Erie County.
👉 Browse the Erie Events Calendar
You’ll find:
- Free events
- Library programs
- Festivals & seasonal activities
- Teen events
- Family activities in Erie, PA
Bookmark the Big Erie Seasonal Guide
Every season in Erie looks different — from beach days at Presque Isle to sledding and winter festivals. Our seasonal guide helps you plan ahead.
👉 Your Ultimate 2026 Summer Fun Guide
This is your go-to page for:
- Free Erie summer fun ideas
- Erie summer fairs and festivals
- Erie free outdoor music opportunities
- Best Erie beaches, pools, splash pads
- and more!
Rainy or Frigid Day? Use This.
Lake effect snow is real. So are sideways rain days. When the weather turns, use this guide to find indoor things to do in Erie with kids.
👉 Indoor Things to Do With Kids in Erie, PA
This guide includes:
- Indoor play spots
- Trampoline parks
- Museums
- Sensory-friendly options
- Teen-friendly hangouts
Even If You Don’t Have Teens Yet ...
You may not need this now. But as a mom who has them myself ... I can tell you that day is coming sooner than you think.
Here’s your guide to things to do with teens and tweens in Erie, PA.
This covers:
- Hangout spots
- Teen programs
- Adventure activities
- Free opportunities
- Events just for older kids
Want Weekly Updates?
Don't risk missing something! Join 10,000 Erie families who subscribe for free to our newsletter and have weekly highlights sent right to your inbox.
👉 Subscribe to the Macaroni KID Erie Newsletter
Each week, we send:
- Top weekend events
- What’s new
- What’s selling out
- Seasonal must-dos
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Erie With Kids
What are free things to do in Erie with kids?
Some of the best free family activities in Erie include visiting Erie County Public Libraries, Presque Isle State Park, Asbury Woods, and the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. You can also browse our free events calendar for updated listings.
What should I do if I’m visiting Erie with kids?
If you're visiting Erie with kids, start with Presque Isle State Park, Waldameer & Water World, the expERIEnce Children’s Museum, the Erie Zoo, and the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. You can also check our Erie events calendar to see what family-friendly events are happening during your visit.
Where can I find indoor things to do in Erie with kids?
Our Indoor Things to Do guide includes museums, trampoline parks, indoor play centers, and sensory-friendly spaces — perfect for cold or rainy days.
What are fun things to do in Erie for teens?
Teens in Erie can enjoy escape rooms, Splash Lagoon, Waldameer, sports games, teen library programs, and local arts opportunities. See our full Teen & Tween Guide for updated ideas.
How do I stay updated on family events in Erie, PA?
The easiest way is to subscribe to the Macaroni KID Erie newsletter or bookmark our events calendar, which is updated regularly with family-friendly events across Erie County.
