Looking for a fun thing to do in Erie, PA for free with your family, friends, or a date? Why not explore Frontier Park with its amazing botanical tree gardens? The park is technically referred to as Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park (also shortened to LEAF). With all there is to do here, maybe it should also be called FUNtier Park?
Frontier Park is Beautiful to Explore in Any Season
Besides Presque Isle, I think Frontier Park is one of the nicest and loveliest parks in Erie. The different species of trees and flowers make it so beautiful. Additionally, the different flora blooms at separate times of the year, creating new views every time you visit.
In October, there were some cute carved pumpkins decorating a bench. Not pictured is a large playground with slides, swing sets, and more which is perfect if you have children!
Zip Down the 4 Massive Slides or Catch a Performance at the Outdoor Amphitheater
The addition of 4 fun slides in Frontier Park was completed in fall of 2021. Of course, kids love them but they’re also a thrill if you’re older! In the winter when the slides are closed, you could bring a sled or saucer to slide down snowy hills. There is also an outdoor amphitheater that is used for various performances. Make sure to come back to the amphitheater in the summer for free concerts on Thursday nights!
See Cool Sights and Traverse the Labyrinth
Throughout the park, there are a ton of great spots for photo ops such as gazebos and bridges. Another wonderful feature at Frontier Park is the Labyrinth. The intended purpose is to walk the path to self-reflect and meditate, although it could appear to be a maze or a race.
Attend the Erie’s Blues and Jazz Festival and Other Events
Every fall in Frontier Park, Erie puts on a Blues and Jazz Fest. Great music, performers, food, and vendors are abundant. The next festival will be happening in August 2022, so make sure to not miss it! In the past, there was an Open Market from June-October with farmers and vendors. Currently this event is not going on due to COVID. Check their website for events as things change: https://www.leaferie.org/events/
Volunteer at Frontier Park
LEAF is looking for volunteers. There are various things to assist with such as fundraising, planting trees, collecting data, and helping with research. Check out their website to see if it looks like something for you at https://www.leaferie.org/volunteer
Website: https://www.leaferie.org/
Address: Frontier Park
1501 W 6th St
Erie, PA 16505
Have a dog? Check out one of my other posts: Different Places to Take Your Dog in Erie – Erie Activities
