Northwest Pennsylvania

Travel Guide

Erie showing a sunset, sailing and a lake or waterhole
Northwest Pennsylvania which includes a sunset, boating and a lake or waterhole
Northwest Pennsylvania showing forest scenes and general coastal views
Photo provided by Photo courtesy VisitErie  www.VisitErie.com
Photo provided by Photo courtesy VisitErie  www.VisitErie.com
Appreciate the abounding natural beauty and delve deep into the history of this region famous as the birthplace of the U.S. oil industry.

Northwest Pennsylvania comes as a surprise to many visitors to the state. Interesting attractions are scattered across the landscape, where you’ll find state parks, small towns, thick forests and winding rivers. Discover a rich cultural and industrial heritage, plenty of opportunities to be active outdoors and numerous impressive landmarks.

The city of Erie is Pennsylvania’s jumping-off point to vast Lake Erie. Set off to explore the stunning natural beauty of Presque Isle State Park, a peninsula of sandy spits, lagoons and a lighthouse. There are miles of hiking and biking trails, boating opportunities and even scuba diving. Hike to the top of Erie Bluffs State Park for incredible panoramas. In the city, be sure to visit the Erie Maritime Museum and the U.S. Brig Niagara, an early 19th-century ship. The Erie Art Museum has an impressive collection of 20th-century works and also offers classes.

Head outdoors and explore the region’s abounding natural beauty. The Allegheny National Forest¸ nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a wide array of recreational activities, while less prominent towns such as Titusville also have extensive parks and green spaces.

For something a bit different, learn about Northwest Pennsylvania’s oil heritage. The region is the birthplace of the oil industry. Oil Creek State Park is the site of the first commercial oil well in the world. See historic equipment and buildings remaining from this era. Visit the Drake Well Museum and Park in Titusville or wander the streets of the atmospheric ghost town of Pithole City, which was once a flourishing settlement supporting the local petroleum industry.

The main gateways into Northwest Pennsylvania are through the international airports of Pittsburgh to the south and Cleveland in neighboring Ohio. Route 80 crosses the state east to west and route 79 zips up from Pittsburgh. Travel along this route in June and stop in Meadville for the annual Thurston Classic Hot Air Balloon Event.

Where to stay in Northwest Pennsylvania

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Espyville

While visiting Espyville, you might make a stop by sights like Pymatuning Marina and Pymatuning Reservoir.

Espyville
Baymont by Wyndham Erie
Baymont by Wyndham Erie
2.5 out of 5
8170 Perry Hwy, Erie, PA
The price is P4,292 per night from 23 Apr to 24 Apr
P4,292
P4,850 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 23 - Apr 24
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Erie. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,950 reviews)
"The nice gentleman at the desk named David was a joy. He was so friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on Apr 18, 2025

Baymont by Wyndham Erie
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in North East (Erie) by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in North East (Erie) by IHG
2.5 out of 5
6310 Old Station Road, North East, PA
The price is P5,901 per night from 18 May to 19 May
P5,901
P6,668 total
includes taxes & fees
May 18 - May 19
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in North East. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
Quick spring break getaway
"This has been our 4-5th year in a row coming here. Perfect for the younger kids , I'd say 11-12 or younger. Breakfast is actually a Breakfast with many options. Highly recommend!"

Reviewed on Apr 15, 2025

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in North East (Erie) by IHG
Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront
Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront
3 out of 5
2 Sassafras Pier, Erie, PA
The price is P8,031 per night from 21 Apr to 22 Apr
P8,031
P9,075 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 21 - Apr 22
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Erie. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
"Nice room, great view of the water, friendly staff"

Reviewed on Apr 17, 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Edinboro Lake Resort Cabins
Edinboro Lake Resort Cabins
3 out of 5
12670 Edinboro Rd, Edinboro, PA
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Edinboro. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Popular attractions Sunset Plaza and Mike Onda Beach are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (316 reviews)
"Cabin was clean and in close proximity to numerous restaurants and grocery outlets."

Reviewed on Apr 15, 2025

Edinboro Lake Resort Cabins
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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