
Bicentennial Tower
187-ft. tower with observation decks offering panoramic vistas of Lake Erie & the city. A symbol of Erie's maritime heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility to Canada

Bicentennial Tower
Best Time
Best visibility to Canada

Highlights
Must-see attractions
187-ft. tower with observation decks offering panoramic vistas of Lake Erie & the city. A symbol of Erie's maritime heritage.
"From the top, you get a beautiful view of the lake and the city. It’s definitely one of the must-see spots in Erie, PA."

🎯 Check the Weather First
Clear days offer views of Canada! Don't miss out on the best visibility.
🎟️ Small Fee, Big Views
A modest fee grants access to the observation deck. Worth every penny for the scenery!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Lake Erie Views
Observation Deck
Gaze out at Presque Isle Bay, Lake Erie, and even Canada on a clear day. Unforgettable vistas!

City Skyline at Dusk
Observation Deck
Witness Erie's transformation as the sun sets and city lights begin to twinkle. Magical!

Maritime Heritage Connection
Dobbins Landing
Located at Dobbins Landing, it's a symbol of Erie's connection to its maritime past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check the Weather First
Clear days offer views of Canada! Don't miss out on the best visibility.
🎟️ Small Fee, Big Views
A modest fee grants access to the observation deck. Worth every penny for the scenery!
🚶♀️ Elevator is Your Friend
Skip the stairs and take the elevator for easy access to the top.
📸 Capture the Skyline
Visit at sunset for a breathtaking view of the city lights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check the Weather First
Clear days offer views of Canada! Don't miss out on the best visibility.
🎟️ Small Fee, Big Views
A modest fee grants access to the observation deck. Worth every penny for the scenery!
🚶♀️ Elevator is Your Friend
Skip the stairs and take the elevator for easy access to the top.
📸 Capture the Skyline
Visit at sunset for a breathtaking view of the city lights.
📍 Explore Nearby
The tower is near the Maritime Museum and boat tours. Make a day of it!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bicentennial Tower for its stunning, expansive views of Lake Erie, the bay, and the city skyline, often noting the ability to see Canada on clear days. The small admission fee and elevator access are highlighted as significant positives, making it an accessible and worthwhile attraction for all ages. Some minor points of dislike include seasonal operating hours and potential crowds during peak times.
"Beautiful views!!! Definitely worth the small fee. We noticed it when we were at the maritime museum but had run out of time so we went the next day. Good for all ages. Loved the elevator after the stairs at the land lighthouse!"
Sabrina Deeter
"The Bicentennial Tower in Erie is a great place to visit. From the top, you get a beautiful view of the lake and the city. It’s definitely one of the must-see spots in Erie, PA"
Ari Kendal
"A beautiful tower on the end of a pier with a small restaurant and gift shop at the bottom. It is in a nice location with many things to do nearby and multiple boat tours are available on the pier as well. The views are the main reason to go up to the tower and they were great, could see over as far as you could see on lake Erie and the entire bayfront. They do have an elevator so you don't have to walk up all those stairs lol. I would recommend stopping by here if you are in the Erie area."
Captain “Dad” Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bicentennial Tower is located at Dobbins Landing on the waterfront in Erie, PA. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors arrive as part of exploring the bayfront area.
Yes, there are parking lots available near Dobbins Landing and the surrounding bayfront area. Parking fees may apply depending on the lot and time of year.
If you are staying or visiting attractions along the bayfront, walking to the Bicentennial Tower is a pleasant option. It's a central point on the waterfront.
Erie's public transportation system may have routes that service the downtown and bayfront areas. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information.
The tower has an elevator, making it accessible for most visitors, including those with mobility challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small fee to access the observation deck, often around $6 per person. This fee allows you to take the elevator to the top.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site. It's recommended to check the official operating hours and any potential booking requirements, especially during peak season or special events.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by weather. It's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Many sources indicate it's open 7 days a week during its operating season.
The tower is generally considered good for all ages. Children can enjoy the views, and the elevator makes it accessible for families.
While there are stairs, the elevator is the primary and recommended way to reach the observation deck for most visitors.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
From the 138-foot observation deck, you get stunning panoramic views of Presque Isle Bay, Lake Erie, the Erie skyline, and on clear days, you can see as far as Canada.
Absolutely! The elevated perspective offers fantastic opportunities for landscape and cityscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Yes, articulating binoculars are often available at the top, allowing you to get a closer look at distant sights, including Port Dover, Ontario.
Sunset provides a dramatic backdrop with city lights, while clear mornings offer the best chance for distant views of Canada.
On exceptionally clear days, visitors have reported being able to see Port Dover, Ontario, across Lake Erie.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is typically a small restaurant and gift shop located at the base of the tower on Dobbins Landing.
The bayfront area around Dobbins Landing offers various dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants.
While there might not be specific restrictions, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated areas or before/after your visit to the observation deck.
Some restaurants along the bayfront may offer views of the water, though the primary viewing experience is from the tower itself.
Popular spots often include seafood restaurants along the bayfront and various local eateries throughout the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a clear day so the children can experience the thrill of potentially seeing another country. Pack some snacks and drinks, as while there are facilities at the base, the observation deck is purely for viewing. It's a memorable experience that offers both fun and a touch of educational value about geography and local landmarks.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your telephoto lens to take advantage of the articulating binoculars and capture distant details. The tower itself also makes for interesting foreground elements in your shots. Remember to check the operating hours, as early morning or late evening visits might be limited by closing times.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with free activities like exploring Presque Isle State Park or walking along the bayfront. Pack a picnic to enjoy before or after your tower visit to save on dining costs. The tower is a perfect addition to a budget-friendly itinerary in Erie.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Views
Many visitors recommend visiting during different times of the day to appreciate the changing scenery. Sunrise can offer a serene start, while sunset paints the sky with vibrant colors, transforming the city into a twinkling spectacle. The tower's accessibility via an elevator makes this incredible vantage point available to almost everyone, ensuring that the stunning vistas are not missed.
Beyond the immediate views, the tower serves as a landmark and a symbol of Erie's maritime heritage. Its presence at Dobbins Landing places it amidst other waterfront attractions, making it a convenient and rewarding stop for any visitor exploring the Port of Erie.
Planning Your Visit
While there's a small admission fee, it's widely considered a worthwhile investment for the experience. The tower is equipped with an elevator, making the ascent to the observation deck easy and comfortable for all ages and mobility levels. This convenience is frequently highlighted by visitors who appreciate not having to climb numerous stairs.
Combine your visit to the tower with other nearby attractions. Dobbins Landing itself offers a pleasant atmosphere, and the Maritime Museum is just a short walk away. Boat tours also frequently depart from the pier, providing another way to experience the beauty of Presque Isle Bay.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit