Things To Do
Frontier Park
This is a beautiful park not too far from the bayfront that includes a walking trail, tennis courts, playground, huge slides, and lots of green space to enjoy. We went on lots of runs together through Frontier while we were living in Erie, and loved to walk Lilly here whenever we would visit from Pittsburgh. There is also a tree dedicated to Tori's mom, Ann, along one of the pathways, so it is a very special place to us.
Romolo Chocolates
The pink building you will find across the street from Frontier Park is the home of Romolo's, a specialty chocolate & ice cream shop. Select from a huge variety of handmade treats, and be sure to try a sample of their sponge candy, an Erie favorite. (Tori also loves their chocolate covered grapes.) Enjoy your treats in their attached cafe, or on the beautiful outdoor patio. A sweet coincidence: We bumped into each other here while buying candy for one another to celebrate our first Valentine's Day.
Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle is a free state park with Lake Erie beaches on one side and Presque Isle Bay on the other. Relax on the beach or go for a run/walk on the 13 miles of paved trails. There are also bike and kayak rentals. We took our first picture together here after running a charity 5k.
Sara's Restaurant
At the entrance of the park, you will find Sara's Restaurant: a 50's style diner serving burgers, fries, Smith's hot dogs (an Erie staple) and soft serve treats. The famous Orange/Vanilla twist is a favorite, but Tori also loves the Peanut Butter Milkshakes.
El Amigo Mexican Grill
This restaurant offers traditional Mexican fare in a spacious setting perfect for large groups. We had our first date here on April 27, 2018. We met one another in the lobby of the Courthouse, where we both worked, and walked over during our lunch break. We were both so nervous! Jay loves the Mar y Tierra dish and Corona Premier with a lemon or lime. While Tori enjoys the Burrito Mojado and, of course, the margaritas. We've returned many times since, often with family and friends.
U Pick 6 Tap House
This is a cozy craft beer pub located in the heart of downtown. It offers a casual dining experience with a full menu that includes wood-fired brick oven pizzas, handcrafted sandwiches, and fresh salads. The pub features 18 taps with a rotating selection of craft beers. Enjoy the outdoor patios. Fun Fact: Tori worked here the summer after she graduated from Penn State, and it was one of Jay's favorite spots around that time, but neither of us remember ever seeing each other there. It would take a few more years until we were both working down the street in the same building before we met.
Like My Thai
Known for its casual & quick nature, flavorful dishes, generous portions, and accommodating options for gluten-free and vegan diets. It is also BYOB! Tori suggested this spot for one of our first dates. It was Jay's first time trying Thai food, but since then it has become one of our favorites. Our go to order is Pad Thai with Shrimp (Spicy level 5 for Jay, 3 for Tori). The Indonesian Cold Cucumber Salad is also so good!