Day Trips from Erie
← All Erie day tripsDay Trips from Erie: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Erie, PA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Erie
Big Bend Overlook
PA 16365, USA
Just 1 hr 58 min from Erie, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Switchback Hill Scenic Overlook
PA 16354, USA
Just 1 hr 19 min from Erie, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Rimrock Overlook
Bradford, PA 16701
Just 1 hr 50 min from Erie, rated 4.9 stars by 971 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
218 Grandview Overlook
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Erie, rated 4.9 stars by 488 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Niagara River Scenic Outlook Point
Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Erie, rated 4.8 stars by 150 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Kennerdell Overlook
Kennerdell, PA 16374
Just 1 hr 34 min from Erie, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Brady’s Bend Overlook
Rimersburg, PA 16248
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Erie, rated 4.8 stars by 181 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Old Scow Lookout Point
Niagara Falls, ON L2G 0E5
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Erie, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Kennerdell Scenic Look Out
Kennerdell, PA 16374
Just 1 hr 34 min from Erie, rated 4.7 stars by 223 visitors, rich in history and well worth exploring.
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Tidioute Overlook
Tidioute, PA 16351
Just 1 hr 30 min from Erie, rated 4.7 stars by 170 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Ridge Road Lookout
Stoney Creek, ON L8J 2W2
Just 2 hrs 37 min from Erie, rated 4.7 stars by 185 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mill Road Scenic Overlook
East Aurora, NY 14052
Just 1 hr 45 min from Erie, rated 4.7 stars by 147 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Erie
What are the best scenic drives near Erie, PA?
The best scenic drives near Erie include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Erie?
Most scenic drives near Erie range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Erie?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Erie, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Erie?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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