Spring break is coming in hot for many Erie families, and if you’re not hopping a plane to Florida or packing the minivan for a big road trip — don’t worry. Erie’s got PLENTY of ways to turn your staycation into a full-blown family adventure.
Whether you're looking to get out of the house, burn off some energy, clean out the closets, or just do something different for a change, we've got you covered. Here are 12 fun ideas to make this spring break awesome — right here in Erie.
Some of the businesses and events below are proud sponsors of Macaroni KID Erie — and we're proud to feature them!
1. Visit the expERIEnce Children’s Museum
If your kids need something hands-on and screen-free, the Children’s Museum is a gem. Climb, build, paint, explore — it’s the kind of place where the kids are having so much fun they don’t even realize they’re learning.
And if you haven't been lately? You really need to go — the newly renovated space is entertaining even for tweens and teens ... and their parents. (I can't get enough of the water table!)
2. Catch the Harlem Globetrotters live on Monday
They’re back! The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the Erie Insurance Arena on April 14, and if you’ve never taken your kids, this is the year. Basketball tricks, slam dunks, laughs — it’s a total crowd-pleaser.
We went last year and it was a BLAST! Get tickets now.
Highlights from our Harlem Globetrotters experience in 2024:
3. Go play outside at Presque Isle
We all know spring has had a hard time showing up this year... and this coming week's forecast certainly doesn’t look like shorts weather, unfortunately. But that’s no reason not to get outside.
Go visit Presque Isle. Walk the beach. Ride bikes. Go fishing. Hunt for early signs of spring. And don’t forget to check out the Tom Ridge Environmental Center — their Earth Day event is happening Thursday!
4. Clean out your closets and cash in with Sunflower Sprouts
Get the kids spring cleaning over break! Might as well make some money while you're at it — clean out their closets, toys, and gear, then consign with Sunflower Sprouts Consignment. Less clutter, more cash — we love to see it.
Hurry: This pop-up consignment sale is coming up quick! It’s May 3 and 4 at Sinai Sports in Erie, and the last day to register as a consignor is April 26.
👉🏽 Get more info about the Sunflower Sprouts Consignment Sale here!
 A bird's eye view of a past sale at Sunflower Sprouts Consignment Sale. |
5. Try something NEW as a family
Spring is the season of new beginnings — so why not mix it up?
- Try climbing at ASCEND Erie(so fun — even for beginners!)
- Hit up one of Erie’s new indoor golf spots downtown
- Discover a new-to-you playground or hiking trail (see our Playground Guide!)
- Let the kids plan a “yes day” or a make-your-own-adventure day
Sometimes shaking up the routine is all you need to make a week feel magical.
6. Get your splash on at Splash Lagoon
When Erie still thinks it’s winter in April, the tropical vibes at Splash Lagoon are just what you need. Think water slides, wave pool, lazy river… and your kids passing out on the couch after hours of swimming.
7. Take a family day trip
Want to shake things up? There are so many easy day trips from Erie — from waterfalls to quirky roadside stops to cute downtowns to explore.
👉 See our big list of 50 one-tank day trip ideas!
 Checking out a covered bridge in Ashtabula County. |
8. Hit the Erie County Library for free fun
Don’t sleep on the library! With fun spring break programming, hands-on activities, and cozy spots to chill with a good book, it’s a low-key lifesaver. Plus, it’s free — which we love.
👉 Check out all of the events happening at the library this week on our events calendar.
9. Sign up for summer camps
Yes, now! Spring break is the perfect time to browse local summer camps and snag your kid a spot. We’ve got a Summer Camp Guide ready to go to make it super easy on you!
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10. Catch a SeaWolves game
Baseball’s back, baby! Grab your peanuts and Cracker Jack (or soft pretzel and hot dog — let’s be real), and cheer on the home team.
Check the schedule for this week’s special family nights and giveaways.
11. Glow Wild at the Erie Zoo (opens Thursday!)
The Glow Wild lantern festival opens at the Erie Zoo Thursday — and from what I hear it's like stepping into a glowing, magical world after dark. Bring the kids and enjoy a totally different kind of zoo experience.
This continues through June, so if you don't make it this weekend, you still have plenty of time!
12. Just enjoy your hometown
You don’t have to leave town to make spring break feel special.
With a little creativity — and maybe a winter jacket (this is Erie, after all) — you can make some serious family memories this week. Whether you're splashing, hiking, playing, or finally organizing that coat closet, we’re cheering you on.
