Presque Isle State Park, Erie

My niece and I took a ride on free pontoon boat at Presque Isle today. You have to actually go down to the East Boat Livery (way at the end of the peninsula) to sign up on the day you want to ride. That part was a little bothersome, because you can't call ahead to see if there are any spaces left. We took a chance at headed down around 1:15, hoping to catch the 2PM ride. We were in luck. There were still 5-6 spots open when we arrived. About 1:45, six more people arrived and signed up for the 2PM ride, so apparently, this is not an uncommon practice. We started out looking at some turtles sunbathing on a log (picture coming soon!). We went on to look at the bayfront buildings, a bridge, and some other historical landmarks. Our tour guide shared a lot of history which was great for the adults, but a little too much for the kids. You could tell they really wanted the boat to MOVE and every time we got a history lesson, the boat came to a stop. The older kids (6+) did great, but the younger kids were a little squirmy, especially towards the end of trip. It might just depend on the kids disposition, but I wouldn't recommend really young children because once you get started, there's no going back, and you wouldn't want to be stuck with a miserable, squirmy toddler for an hour. Overall, a pretty good outing. Free, so you can't be that. Certainly fun for a change in pace, but might not be for high energy kids. Be sure to bring sunscreen or a hat, because there's no cover. It runs on Thursdays and Friday at 11:00AM, 1:00PM, and 2:00PM. Sign ups start at 10:00AM on the day you want to ride. You have to drive WAY out, so don't think you've missed it. There will be a sign! :)

I absolutely loved the beauty of the beach area, I went there just today, and it was absolutely amazing. Im sure its even better in the summer. The sound of the water was relaxing, and the feel of the sand on our feet was simply awesome. I also liked that there was an amusement park close by , I am looking forward to going to it when it reopens next season. My other half and i had a super time. Its a great place to relax, and share a special time wit the one you love. Clean, beautiful, and relaxing. I am sure to return..

We enjoy making the 1 1/2 hour trip north many times during each summer. The beaches are very nice with each beach a little different than another. Some are geared more for young adults and others for families. They have great hiking trails and navigation throughout is quite easy. Nation Geographic rated Presque Isle the second best place to watch a sunset in the entire United States. If you go there, you'll see why.

I live an hour and a half away from presque Isle I've been coming up off and on for the last 15 yrs. I can't get enough of presque isle I can sit and watch the lake all day I feel so relaxed after being around the lake the sunsets are awesome. The kids love the beaches. I don't like the fact about the bacteria but what beach doesn't have some kind of pollution or something going on with it. I love the city of erie also wish I could live closer.

I am currently living in Erie and I was born and raised here. Presque Isle is oone of the main fetures of living here. they offer so many activities that even some locals are unaware of such as boat rental and fishing off of the Water Works dock. I have enjoyed Presque Isle my entire life and cant imagine life without a beach less than 10 minutes away. Presque Isle is one of the only completely free activities in Erie, but there are fees for boat, bike, and surry rentals. If you are a visitor to Erie your stay will not be complete without atleast a days visit to Presque Isle.

I thought the running/walking trails were very nice on the bay side. It's very scenic and the running surface, which are concrete sidewalks are great. Highly recommend it for nature lovers. I'm from the Philadelphia area, and what a nice simple change of pace.

My family just went yesterday! We had a great time. Daughters 6 and 3 loved the beach!! We biked 10 miles had lunch and hit the beach. The bike trails were great for a novice bike rider-my 6 yo only had 1 wipe-out! We're considering going back again this weekend!!! Cheap family fun!!

Presque is awsome. Me and my Family go there to just get out of the house. It has every thing you can amagen. Hope everyone decideto go.

I live here and I still can't get enough of it... It's beautiful, fun & FREE!! Doesn't get any better than that folks... You can swim, rent boats and bikes, walk the trails & visit the nature center. Lots of family fun :)

My family and I truly love to visit Erie. My husband and son enjoy going into the water while I enjoy relaxing on the beach with a good book. Looking out over the water you would think you were at the ocean. Very relaxing and beautiful. Sitting out watching the sun go down is especially wonderful.