Rum Runners
Erie's tropical-inspired bayfront bar & grill with stunning views, live music, and a famous cocktail. Perfect for casual waterfront dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Rum Runners
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Erie's tropical-inspired bayfront bar & grill with stunning views, live music, and a famous cocktail. Perfect for casual waterfront dining.
Visit during Peak Season
Experience the vibrant atmosphere with live music and beautiful sunset views.
Outdoor Seating is Key
Sit outside to enjoy the waterfront views. Arrive early as it fills up fast.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Bar & Grill
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tropical Patio with Bay Views
Dine al fresco with front-row seats to Presque Isle Bay, watching boats glide by.
Erie's #1 Cocktail: Rum Runner
Savor the signature Rum Runner cocktail, a blend of secret ingredients and a crowd-pleaser.
Live Weekend Music
Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with live music performances every weekend.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during Peak Season
Experience the vibrant atmosphere with live music and beautiful sunset views.
Outdoor Seating is Key
Sit outside to enjoy the waterfront views. Arrive early as it fills up fast.
Try the Signature Drink
The Rum Runner cocktail is a must-try, voted Erie's #1.
Patience is a Virtue
Service can be slow, especially during peak times. Enjoy the view while you wait.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during Peak Season
Experience the vibrant atmosphere with live music and beautiful sunset views.
Outdoor Seating is Key
Sit outside to enjoy the waterfront views. Arrive early as it fills up fast.
Try the Signature Drink
The Rum Runner cocktail is a must-try, voted Erie's #1.
Patience is a Virtue
Service can be slow, especially during peak times. Enjoy the view while you wait.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rum Runners offers a fantastic waterfront dining experience with great views and a lively atmosphere, especially with live music. While the signature Rum Runner cocktail and some seafood dishes receive praise, concerns about slow service, high drink prices, and occasional food quality issues are noted. It's a popular spot for tourists, offering a casual vibe and a chance to watch boats in the bay.
"We were visiting Erie, PA and decided on Rum Runners for a late lunch because it has seating right on the waterfront looking out to Presque Isle. We both ordered perch and French fries, which were very good. The restaurant is all part of the Bicentennial Tower complex in Erie, which is a must see if you are in the area. Our server was very pleasant and attentive to our table and we had a good experience while enjoying the view. Check out the "pirate ship" that swung by while we were eating."
Richard Stoyanoff
"Scenic Setting, Hardworking Staff – Worth the Wait
We visited Rum Runners on July 14, 2025, and while the experience came with a wait, it was still a memorable evening. When we arrived, all tables were full and only two servers on duty—our server immediately apologized and let us know some staff hadn’t shown up. Despite that, she absolutely hustled all night long with a great attitude. Major props for her effort!
Yes, it took two hours, but we didn’t mind. The beautiful patio setting right on the water made for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere while we waited. The food was just okay—mostly fried and a limited menu—but we went in expecting that. Nothing fresh. For us, it was more about the vibe and view, and on that front, it delivered. Several boats arrived at the patio dock and docked while we were there. Fun to watch them come and go.
Prices were reasonable, and the staff did their best under pressure. If you go, go for the setting—and bring a little patience just in case. Parking was easy and convenient. Sunset was amazing afterwards too!"
Kendrick Mullet
"Service was extremely slow, and we were sitting at the bar. My perch dinner was fantastic and their homemade tartar sauce is by far the best I've ever had! It has onion in it and really gave a nice flavor pop! The Rum Runner cocktail was very good, tasted like a cherry slurpie!"
Melissa Hanline
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Rum Runners is famous for its tropical-inspired outdoor patio with bay views, live weekend music, and its signature Rum Runner cocktail, voted Erie's #1.
Yes, Rum Runners features a large tropical-inspired outdoor patio with waterfront views. It's highly recommended to sit outside.
Yes, live music performances are a regular feature every weekend, contributing to a lively atmosphere.
They offer a menu of casual dining options including burgers, salads, sandwiches, and finger foods.
While reservations are not explicitly mentioned, it's advised to arrive early, especially for outside seating, as it can fill up quickly.
Some reviews mention that the drinks, particularly cocktails, can be on the pricier side.
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Dining Guide: The Best Waterfront Restaurants on Lake Erie — Pennsylvania
Named after its signature second-to-none summertime refreshment — a delicious blend of top secret ingredients that’s consistently voted Erie’s No.1 cocktail — Rum Runners is an outdoor bay-side favorite hangout specializing in burgers, salads, sandwiches and finger food in a fun, entertaining, casual atmosphere.
Planning a trip to Erie, PA (Freeport: rentals, amusement park, casino) - Pennsylvania
To the OP -- I'd recommend a day at the beach, and dinner on the bay at sunset at Rum Runners or Smuggler's Inn. Another day at Waldameer, and dinner at Sara's at the entrance to Presque Isle.
What restaurants in Erie have outdoor dining?
Rum Runners, 2 State St. When the patio is rocking with live music and the sky is on fire with sunset, this is the place to be. rumrunnerserie.com, 814-455-4292
Attractions of North East, PA & Erie, PA
The Cove at Dobbins Landing, Erie, PA also has bay views but at ground level. It’s a very nice setting. Go early and have a drink in Oliver’s beer garden.
Where to Eat During Erie's Total Solar Eclipse
Rum Runners: Will be open for the season during eclipse weekend featuring specialty eclipse drinks and shots along with its regular food menu.
Top Summer Outdoor Activities in Erie PA: 2025 Visitor Guide
Rum Runners: With an outdoor patio located right next to the water, this is a fun little place for sandwiches, burgers and finger foods.
Best bars in Erie
Discover Rum Runners in Erie, PA – a lively grill offering beachy vibes, delicious food, and refreshing drinks by the scenic waterfront.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit