Great Lakes | Your Ultimate Guide to Lake Erie
Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Lake Erie beckons travelers with its natural beauty, rich history, and a wealth of recreational opportunities. As the fourth-largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie is a freshwater gem that spans four states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario.
Lake Erie screams Cedar Point to me. As a kid growing up in metro Detroit, we drove down to Sandusky every summer. For still other Detroiters, Put-in-Bay is the ultimate Lake Erie summer escape.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill rides at Cedar Point or serene shoreline escapes, this comprehensive travel guide will lead you on a captivating journey along the shores of Lake Erie, revealing its diverse landscapes, cultural treasures, and countless adventures waiting to be had.
Best Places to Visit on Lake Erie
Lake Erie, the southernmost of the Great Lakes, is surrounded by various towns and cities across multiple states and Ontario, Canada. Here are some key towns to visit on Lake Erie, spanning Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ontario:
Michigan:
- Monroe: Known as the “Walleye Capital of the World,” Monroe is a popular destination for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts. The town also offers historical sites and parks.
- Erie: Erie is home to Presque Isle State Park, featuring sandy beaches, hiking and biking trails, and the iconic Presque Isle Lighthouse.
Ohio:
- Toledo: A vibrant city with a waterfront district, Toledo offers cultural attractions, museums, and parks along the western shores of Lake Erie.
- Sandusky: This town is famous for Cedar Point, one of the country’s premier amusement parks. Visitors can enjoy roller coasters and the beautiful Sandusky Bay.
- Cleveland: Cleveland is a major city on the southern shore of Lake Erie, known for its rich cultural scene, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Visitors can explore the Cleveland Metroparks, enjoy the waterfront, and experience the city’s diverse culinary offerings and entertainment options.
Pennsylvania:
- Erie: Erie, Pennsylvania, also offers a Lake Erie coastline with beaches, fishing, and cultural attractions like the Erie Maritime Museum.
New York:
- Buffalo: Located at the eastern end of Lake Erie, Buffalo is a vibrant city with a rich history, waterfront parks, and attractions like the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park.
- Hamburg: A quaint town on Lake Erie’s shores, Hamburg offers beautiful beaches, marinas, and opportunities for water activities.
Ontario, Canada:
- Port Dover: A charming beach town on Lake Erie’s north shore, Port Dover is known for its sandy beaches, fishing, and Friday the 13th motorcycle rallies.
- Long Point: The Long Point area is famous for its Long Point Provincial Park and the Long Point Biosphere Reserve, offering beautiful natural scenery and bird-watching opportunities.
These towns and cities along Lake Erie offer a mix of recreational opportunities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, making the region a diverse and appealing destination for a variety of travelers.
Best Beaches on Lake Erie
Lake Erie boasts a variety of beaches along its shoreline, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the lake’s scenic beauty. Here’s a list of some of the notable beaches in each of the states and Ontario along Lake Erie:
Michigan:
- Sterling State Park (Monroe, MI): Located in Monroe, this state park has a sandy beach along Lake Erie, picnic areas, and walking trails.
- Luna Pier Beach (Luna Pier, MI): This small, family-friendly beach in Luna Pier is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
Ohio:
- Edgewater Beach (Cleveland, OH): Edgewater Beach in Cleveland is a popular urban beach with a sandy shoreline, picnic areas, and views of the city skyline.
- Presque Isle State Park (Erie, PA): While primarily in Pennsylvania, this park extends into Ohio and offers multiple sandy beaches along the Presque Isle peninsula, including Beach 1 and Beach 10.
- Maumee Bay State Park (Oregon, OH): Located near Toledo, this state park features a sandy beach along Lake Erie, hiking trails, and opportunities for water sports.
Pennsylvania:
- Presque Isle State Park (Erie, PA): Presque Isle offers numerous beaches along its picturesque peninsula, with sandy shores, boating opportunities, and nature trails.
- Presque Isle Beach 6 (Erie, PA): Beach 6 is known for its calm waters and is a great spot for families. It’s less crowded compared to some of the other Presque Isle beaches.
New York:
- Woodlawn Beach State Park (Blasdell, NY): This state park, located near Buffalo, offers a sandy beach, picnic areas, and scenic views of Lake Erie.
- Bennett Beach (Angola, NY): A quiet and family-friendly beach, Bennett Beach offers a tranquil setting with sandy shores and shallow waters.
Ontario, Canada:
- Port Dover Beach (Port Dover, ON): Port Dover boasts a sandy beach along Lake Erie, making it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Long Point Provincial Park Beach (Port Rowan, ON): This beach is part of Long Point Provincial Park, known for its sandy shoreline and opportunities for bird-watching and wildlife viewing.
- Point Pelee National Park Beach (Leamington, ON): Located on Point Pelee, this beach is unique as it is the southernmost point in mainland Canada, offering sandy shores, hiking trails, and bird migrations.
Lake Erie Circle Tour
The Lake Erie Circle Tour is a scenic driving route that circumnavigates Lake Erie, the southernmost of the Great Lakes, offering travelers an opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes, attractions, and communities along its shores in both the United States and Canada. The tour is part of the larger Great Lakes Circle Tour system, allowing visitors to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of the Lake Erie region. Do one lake. Do them all.
What to See and Do:
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Lake Erie from numerous viewpoints along the route. The ever-changing waterscapes provide a serene backdrop for your journey.
- Beaches: Take advantage of the sandy beaches and opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports in various locations along the shoreline.
- Cultural Attractions: Explore historical sites, museums, and cultural attractions in cities and towns surrounding the lake, such as Toledo, Ohio, and Erie, Pennsylvania.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife viewing in parks like Point Pelee National Park in Ontario, Canada.
- Lighthouses: Visit iconic lighthouses like the Presque Isle Lighthouse in Erie, Pennsylvania, and enjoy guided tours and scenic views.
- Wineries: Discover wineries and vineyards in the Lake Erie region, particularly along the southern shore in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
- Fishing: Lake Erie is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, especially for walleye. Consider a fishing charter for a memorable experience.
Because Lake Erie has an average depth of 62 feet (210 max depth), it is a popular spot for SCUBA diving. There are many shipwrecks, particularly off the shores of New York and Pennsylvania. Please note that you’ll need a dry suit. This is the Great Lakes, not Thailand.
Where to Stop:
The Lake Erie Circle Tour passes through a variety of towns and cities in the United States and Canada, including Toledo, Sandusky, and Erie. Other notable stops include:
- Cleveland, Ohio: Explore cultural attractions like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Port Dover, Ontario, Canada: Enjoy the sandy beach and vibrant atmosphere of this charming lakeside town.
- Put-in-Bay, Ohio: Accessible by ferry, this island offers a lively nightlife, wineries, and Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.
Length:
The length of the Lake Erie Circle Tour can vary depending on your starting point and the specific route you choose. A complete circumnavigation of Lake Erie’s shoreline is approximately 990 miles (1,593 kilometers). However, you can customize the tour to fit your schedule and interests. Travelers often complete the tour in a week or more, allowing time for stops, exploration, and relaxation along the way.
Campgrounds on Lake Erie
There are many private campgrounds along the shores of Lake Erie, offering a variety of camping experiences and amenities.
Ohio:
- Cedarlane RV Park (Port Clinton, OH): This family-friendly campground offers full hook-up RV sites and cabin rentals, offering amenities like a pool, playground, and planned activities.
- East Harbor State Park Campground (Marblehead, OH): While it’s a state park campground, it’s operated by a private company. It offers RV and tent camping and is located within East Harbor State Park, offering access to Lake Erie and boating opportunities.
- Lighthouse Point Campground (Sandusky, OH): Located at Cedar Point amusement park, this campground offers RV and tent sites with easy access to the park’s attractions and Lake Erie’s shoreline.
Pennsylvania:
- Sara’s Campground (Erie, PA): This family-owned campground offers RV and tent sites, as well as cabin rentals. It’s near Presque Isle State Park and provides access to Lake Erie’s beaches and recreational activities. They let you pitch a tent and sleep right on the beach, which always sounds like fun to me.
New York:
- Westfield / Lake Erie KOA Holiday (Westfield, NY): This KOA campground provides RV and tent sites, cabins, and unique accommodations like Airstream rentals. It offers amenities such as a pool, mini-golf, and planned activities.
- Lake Erie State Park (Brocton, NY): While this is a state park campground, it’s worth noting that it’s a popular place for camping. The campground offers beautiful lakeside sites with access to Lake Erie’s beaches and hiking trails.
Ontario, Canada:
- Campark Resorts (Niagara Falls, ON): Located near Niagara Falls and on the Canadian side of Lake Erie, this campground offers RV and tent sites, as well as cabins. It features a pool, splash pad, and recreational activities.
- Shady Pines Campgrounds (Orford, ON): This family-friendly campground in southwestern Ontario offers a mix of RV sites and tent camping areas. It’s close to Lake Erie beaches and activities.
These private campgrounds cater to a range of camping preferences, from those seeking a rustic experience to those looking for family-friendly amenities and proximity to Lake Erie’s attractions. Be sure to check with each campground for specific details, rates, and reservation information.
State, National, and Provincial Parks Near Lake Erie
Here’s a list of state parks, national parks, and provincial parks in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ontario, located on or near the shores of Lake Erie:
Michigan:
- Sterling State Park (Monroe, MI): This state park offers sandy beaches, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing along the western shore of Lake Erie.
Ohio:
- Maumee Bay State Park (Oregon, OH): Located near Toledo, this state park features hiking trails, a sandy beach, and a golf course, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.
- East Harbor State Park (Lakeside Marblehead, OH): This park provides access to Lake Erie and features boating, fishing, hiking, and camping facilities.
- Kelleys Island State Park (Kelleys Island, OH): Situated on Kelleys Island, this state park offers camping, beaches, and opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Pennsylvania:
- Presque Isle State Park (Erie, PA): Presque Isle is a unique natural peninsula with sandy beaches, boating, biking, and bird-watching opportunities. It’s one of Pennsylvania’s top tourist attractions.
New York:
- Evans Town Park (Angola, NY): Located in the town of Evans, this park offers a sandy beach on the shores of Lake Erie.
- Woodlawn Beach State Park (Blasdell, NY): This state park features a sandy beach, swimming, picnicking, and beautiful Lake Erie views.
Ontario, Canada:
- Long Point Provincial Park (Port Rowan, ON): Situated on the Long Point Peninsula, this park offers hiking trails, bird-watching, and camping.
- Rondeau Provincial Park (Moraviantown, ON): Located on the shores of Rondeau Bay, this park is known for its bird migrations, hiking trails, and sandy beaches.
- Point Pelee National Park (Leamington, ON): Point Pelee is Canada’s southernmost point and offers beaches, hiking, bird-watching, and access to Lake Erie.
Things to See and Do Near Lake Erie
Lake Erie and its surrounding regions offer a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are the top 10 things to see and do on Lake Erie:
- Visit Presque Isle State Park (Erie, Pennsylvania): Explore the sandy beaches, hiking and biking trails, and wildlife-rich habitats of this beautiful peninsula park.
- Tour the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland, Ohio): Discover the history of rock and roll through fascinating exhibits and memorabilia.
- Relax on Lake Erie’s Beaches: Swim, sunbathe, or build sandcastles on the numerous sandy beaches along the lake’s shoreline.
- Bird-Watching at Point Pelee National Park (Leamington, Ontario, Canada): Experience one of North America’s prime bird-watching destinations, especially during migratory seasons.
- Enjoy Cedar Point Amusement Park (Sandusky, Ohio): Experience thrill rides and family fun at one of the world’s top amusement parks.
- Explore Kelleys Island (Ohio): Visit the glacial grooves, kayak along the coastline, and relax in this charming island setting.
- Hike and Bike the Lake Erie Islands: Discover scenic trails on South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay) and other islands that offer picturesque views of the lake.
- Wine Tasting in Ohio’s Wine Country: Explore the wineries of the Lake Erie Wine Country, offering tastings of award-winning wines.
- Fishing on Lake Erie: Known for its walleye fishing, Lake Erie offers opportunities for angling and charter fishing excursions.
- Attend Festivals and Events: Participate in local festivals, such as the Tall Ships Festival, Walleye Festival, and various cultural and food festivals held throughout the region.
Lake Erie’s attractions cater to a wide range of interests, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs and food and wine connoisseurs. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adventure at an amusement park, or cultural experiences, Lake Erie has something to offer every traveler.
Best Lake Erie Hikes
Lake Erie and its surrounding areas offer a variety of hiking trails that cater to hikers of all levels. Here are some of the best hiking trails near Lake Erie, along with brief descriptions:
Michigan:
- Sterling State Park Trails (Monroe, MI): Sterling State Park is one of the few ways to access Lake Erie in Michigan. In the popular park, you’ll find several short, easy trails perfect for leisurely walks and bird-watching along the shore of Lake Erie.
Ohio:
- Maumee Bay State Park Trails (Oregon, OH): Maumee Bay State Park offers several hiking trails, including the Boardwalk Trail, which provides excellent bird-watching opportunities along the marshes.
- Magee Marsh Wildlife Area (Oak Harbor, OH): Known for bird-watching, this area features nature trails through wetlands and woodlands, with an opportunity to see various bird species.
- Cedar Point Nature Trails (Sandusky, OH): Cedar Point amusement park has nature trails that offer a break from all the thrills, providing scenic views of the lake and nearby marshes.
Pennsylvania:
- Presque Isle State Park Trails (Erie, PA): Explore the park’s numerous hiking and multi-use trails, including the South Pier Trail and Fry’s Landing Trail, which offer scenic lake views.
New York:
- Evans Town Park Trails (Angola, NY): This park provides hiking trails along the shores of Lake Erie, perfect for a leisurely walk.
- Woodlawn Beach State Park Trails (Blasdell, NY): Enjoy hikes in this state park, including the paved Shoreline Trail and access to the sandy beach.
Ontario, Canada:
- Point Pelee National Park Trails (Leamington, ON): Point Pelee offers several trails, including the Marsh Boardwalk, DeLaurier Trail, and the popular Tilden Woods Trail, known for its bird-watching opportunities. Bring some binoculars.
- Long Point Provincial Park Trails (Port Rowan, ON): Long Point Provincial Park has a network of trails that wind through forests and along sandy shores, providing opportunities for hiking and bird-watching.
- Rondeau Provincial Park Trails (Moraviantown, ON): Rondeau Provincial Park offers a range of hiking trails through a diverse ecosystem, including the Marsh Trail and Spicebush Trail.
These trails provide an array of hiking experiences, from easy walks along the shoreline to more challenging routes through woodlands and marshes. Be sure to check local trail maps and conditions first.
Best Bike Trails Near Lake Erie
Lake Erie and its surrounding areas offer a variety of bike trails catering to cyclists of all levels. Here are some of the best biking trails near Lake Erie, along with brief descriptions:
Michigan:
- Huron Sunrise Trail (Rogers City, MI): This scenic rail-to-trail runs along Lake Huron’s shore, offering picturesque views, and is suitable for both biking and walking.
Ohio:
- North Coast Inland Trail (Sandusky, OH): This 22-mile trail stretches from Bellevue to Huron and provides a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.
- Maumee Bay State Park Bike Path (Oregon, OH): Explore the park’s natural beauty and lake views on this paved bike path within Maumee Bay State Park.
Pennsylvania:
- Presque Isle State Park Bike Path (Erie, PA): A network of multi-use trails within Presque Isle State Park offers opportunities for cyclists to enjoy the park’s scenic beauty.
New York:
- Shorewood Country Club Trail (Dunkirk, NY): This trail is suitable for mountain biking and offers a mix of woods and lake views.
- Evans-Angola Bike Path (Angola, NY): This 8-mile bike path takes you through scenic areas along Lake Erie’s shore.
Ontario, Canada:
- Fort Erie Friendship Trail (Fort Erie, ON): This 16-mile trail runs through Fort Erie and provides scenic views of Lake Erie and the Niagara River.
- Waterfront Trail (St. Catharines to Grimsby, ON): This section of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail takes cyclists through vineyards and offers lake views.
- Parks Canada Trail (Point Pelee, ON): Explore the diverse ecosystems of Point Pelee National Park on this scenic trail, perfect for bird-watching and cycling.
These bike trails offer a mix of experiences, from easy rides along the shoreline to more challenging routes through forests and natural areas. Whether you prefer road biking, mountain biking, or leisurely rides, you’ll find a variety of options near Lake Erie. Always check trail conditions and any local regulations before heading out on your cycling adventure.
Bonus Trail: While not technically ‘on’ Lake Erie, the Ohio to Erie Trail is 326 miles of paved biking in Ohio that culminates at Lake Erie and is an adventure in its own right.
Best Time of Year to Visit Lake Erie
The best time to visit Lake Erie depends on your interests and what you want to experience. Here are some considerations for different seasons:
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the most popular time to visit Lake Erie. The weather is warm, making it ideal for beach activities, swimming, and outdoor adventures. This is when you’ll find the most events and festivals along the lake’s shores.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is a beautiful time to visit Lake Erie, particularly for leaf peepers. The foliage around the lake and in nearby regions is stunning, and it’s a quieter time for outdoor activities. Wineries and orchards in the area are also popular in the fall. Plus, Cedar Point is still open on weekends for ‘Hall-o-weekends.’
- Spring (March to May): Spring offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience compared to summer. It’s an excellent time for bird-watching, especially at locations like Point Pelee National Park. Spring is also a great time for hiking and nature walks.
- Winter (December to February): Lake Erie’s northern regions can get quite cold and snowy in winter, making it a unique time to visit if you enjoy winter sports like ice fishing and ice skating. Areas near the lake’s southern shore, like Sandusky and Erie, may have milder winters and can be a cozy, less crowded getaway during the off-season.
The best time to visit Lake Erie ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you love warm weather and water activities, summer is ideal.
Swimming in Lake Erie
Lake Erie is generally safe for swimming, and it offers numerous public beaches and access points for visitors to enjoy the water. However, as with any body of water, there are factors to consider and precautions to take to ensure a safe swimming experience:
- Rip Currents: Again, like all the Great Lakes, Lake Erie is an inland sea with rip currents, especially on windy days. Be cautious and stay close to shore. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore to escape its pull.
- Depth and Underwater Hazards: Pay attention to the depth of the water, and be aware of underwater hazards like rocks, debris, and sudden drop-offs.
- Boating Traffic: Some popular swimming areas may also have boat traffic. Be mindful of boat lanes and stay within designated swimming areas.
- Water Temperature: Lake Erie’s water temperature can vary significantly throughout the year. Be prepared for colder water temperatures in the early and late summer.
- Swimming Abilities: Assess your swimming abilities and the abilities of those in your group. Avoid venturing too far from shore if you are not a strong swimmer. Many Lake Erie beaches do not have lifeguards.
- Beach Flags and Signs: Pay attention to beach flags and signs that provide information about water conditions and safety guidelines.
By being mindful of these factors and following safety guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable swimming experience in Lake Erie.
FAQs Lake Erie Travel
1. Is Lake Erie the smallest of the Great Lakes?
- No, Lake Ontario is the smallest of the Great Lakes in terms of surface area. Lake Erie is the shallowest and smallest by volume, however. Hint: shallow = warm!
2. Is Lake Erie safe for swimming?
- Generally, Lake Erie is safe for swimming. However, water quality and conditions can vary, so it’s essential to check for advisories and be aware of factors like rip currents.
3. What are some popular recreational activities on Lake Erie?
- Popular activities include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, bird-watching, and visiting parks and beaches.
4. Are there any lighthouses on Lake Erie worth visiting?
- Yes, there are several historic lighthouses along Lake Erie, such as the Marblehead Lighthouse and the Presque Isle Lighthouse.
5. What is the best time to visit Lake Erie?
- The best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer is popular for beach activities, while fall is ideal for leaf peeping. Spring is great for bird-watching, and winter offers unique winter sports opportunities.
6. Are there wineries near Lake Erie?
- Yes, there are wineries and vineyards in regions like Ohio’s Wine Country near Lake Erie, known for producing quality wines.
7. Can you visit Lake Erie’s islands?
- Yes, several islands are accessible, such as Kelleys Island, Put-in-Bay (South Bass Island), and Pelee Island, each offering unique experiences.
8. Where can I find information on local events and festivals around Lake Erie?
- Check with local tourism offices, park authorities, and event websites for up-to-date information on events and festivals in the region.
9. Can I go bird-watching along Lake Erie’s shores?
- Yes, Lake Erie is a prime location for bird-watching, especially during migration seasons. Point Pelee National Park in Ontario is famous for bird-watching.
10. Are there guided fishing tours on Lake Erie?
- Yes, you can find guided fishing charters on Lake Erie, which is known for its excellent walleye fishing.
11. What is Lake Erie’s largest city?
- Cleveland, Ohio, is the largest city located on the southern shore of Lake Erie.
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Lisa Pratto
Lisa Pratto is a freelance writer and blogger. She and her family have crisscrossed the country, living in metro Detroit, northern Michigan, Arizona, western New York, the Twin Cities, and northern Minnesota. She shares her extensive knowledge of those areas and her love of travel and trip planning on WannaBeRV and several other blogs. She is also a diehard fan of Star Wars, Monty Python, 80s music, and all things chocolate.
