Bicentennial Tower
We were looking for things to do in Erie and a highly recommended attraction that popped up on every Google search was the Bicentennial Tower Observation tower / deck down on the waterfront. After debating with the kids about if we should or shouldn't go (It was in fact about 25 degrees on ground level so the summit would be much worse), Munch sided with me and I reminded the others that as the driver (& the reason they were alive), my vote was the only one that mattered. And we were off!
Located down at the Port, you'll find one of the tallest structures in the city with I would easily guess to be one of the best views around! Opening 4 years before the turn of the millennium, in honor of the city's Bicentennial, the tower makes a bold statement amongst the waterfront skyline.
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At the base of the tower is a small gift shop selling t-shirts' postcards and other commemorative items, a few tables surrounded by windows, a snack bar (Chips loved the pretzels & cheese) and an elevator you can ride to the crescendo.
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The tower has two levels of observation, one just about a story off the ground if heights aren't your thing, and the main deck aka the only one that matters, close to 200 feet way up there!
We've never had the experience of visiting the tower during the warmer months but I will say you definitely shouldn't let the cold deter you from visiting in the winter as we happened to arrive a week after the "Polar Vortex" took place and the view was mind blowing in person! I'm not sure if there is a camera around that could truly capture how breathtaking (cliche I know but seriously this is the best way to describe it) the view really is!
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On a clear day we were told you can see all the way to Canada! This day however was no less impressive as the majority of the Bay appeared to be nothing but solid blocks of ice and viewing it from almost 200 feet up with the only sound being the wind whipping around the tower, the feeling was really indescribable. Peaceful, Serene, Beautiful.
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Mj and Chips couldn't handle the cold however Munchie and I braved it. If you happen to visit in the winter, don't let the elements stop you from a view of mother natures creation.
