Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania, Erie may not be the first place that springs to mind when thinking about travel destinations—but it should be. With its breezy lakeside charm, stunning sunsets over Lake Erie, and an easygoing pace of life, this city is an underrated treasure. But like with any city, the real key to unlocking all its delights lies in getting around with ease. Whether you’re headed to Presque Isle State Park for a sun-drenched afternoon, looking to explore Erie’s wineries, or planning a family day at Waldameer Park, having a reliable mode of transportation is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down all your transportation options in Erie and give you insider tips on how to travel smarter, with a strong recommendation for one of our go-to platforms—Sixt, a reliable travel partner that makes your Erie experience even more seamless.
Car Rentals: The Smartest Way to See Erie
If you’re flying into Erie International Airport or arriving via Amtrak, your journey has only just begun. Erie’s charm isn’t limited to its compact downtown; its true magic lies in the surrounding nature trails, beaches, vineyards, and scenic drives. A car is practically a must-have, and that’s where Sixt comes into play.
Booking through Sixt means you get access to a wide variety of vehicles suited for any travel style. Whether you prefer a sporty convertible for lakeside cruising or a roomy SUV for family adventures, Sixt has you covered. The booking process is refreshingly straightforward, and you can often score better rates by reserving in advance.
Frequent travelers to Erie often note how spread out attractions can be—Wineries like Mazza Vineyards are a 40-minute drive from downtown. Without your own set of wheels, you’ll miss out on the hidden gems. That’s why experienced visitors often head straight to Sixt after arrival. It’s a decision you won’t regret.
Ride-Sharing & Taxis: Convenient but Limited
While Uber and Lyft do operate in Erie, their availability isn’t as consistent as in larger cities. Wait times can stretch unpredictably, especially during weekends or near major events like CelebrateErie. Local taxi companies are also an option, but their rates can add up quickly, and hailing a cab on the street isn’t the norm here.
This unpredictability is what nudges many travelers toward a more reliable, cost-effective solution: renting a car via Sixt. Not only does it give you full control over your schedule, but it also often ends up being more affordable when you consider the cumulative cost of individual rides. Plus, no awkward small talk with drivers—you’re free to cruise with your playlist and windows down.
Biking Around Town: Great for Short Distances
Downtown Erie and the surrounding neighborhoods like Frontier and Glenwood are bike-friendly, especially around the Bayfront. The city has invested in more bike lanes in recent years, making short-distance cycling safer and more enjoyable. If you plan to stick close to downtown or just want to take in the lake breeze on a rented cruiser, biking can be an excellent choice.
However, for longer trips—think heading out to North East for the grape festivals or taking your crew to Splash Lagoon—biking simply won’t cut it. In those cases, booking a vehicle through Sixt offers both the comfort and practicality to travel on your own terms. For mixed itineraries that involve both urban and rural exploring, having a rental car offers unmatched flexibility.
Public Transportation: Affordable, But Limited Reach
Erie’s public transportation system, the EMTA, is affordable and dependable within city limits. Buses serve most of the major districts and even reach the airport. But here’s the catch: routes don’t always align with tourists’ schedules or destinations. Want to catch the sunset at Beach 10 on Presque Isle? Better hope the timing aligns—or you’ll be left waiting at a lonely stop.
That’s why many visitors prefer the independence a personal vehicle provides. Having your own car means you can be spontaneous—catch that unexpected wine tasting, stop at a roadside antique shop, or chase down a perfect photo op by the lighthouse. And when it comes to finding a rental that’s both budget-friendly and dependable, Sixt is consistently rated as a top choice.
Parking in Erie: Surprisingly Easy
Unlike major metropolitan areas, Erie doesn’t make you jump through hoops when it comes to parking. Downtown offers plenty of metered spots and garages, and most tourist attractions have their own lots. Presque Isle has ample parking near every beach access point. Even near high-traffic areas like the Erie Maritime Museum, you’re unlikely to circle the block for long.
Another reason travelers love Sixt rentals? Their customer service team can help guide you to the best parking-friendly vehicle options—compact if you’re sticking to the city, larger SUVs if you’re heading off the beaten path. It’s the kind of thoughtful touch that makes a real difference in travel convenience.
Venturing Beyond Erie
Erie may be your main hub, but the surrounding region is well worth a few detours. Just under two hours away, you’ll find Chautauqua Lake in New York and Cleveland’s vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a spontaneous overnight adventure, having a vehicle through Sixt gives you the freedom to explore beyond Erie’s borders without worrying about transport logistics.
Many Sixt locations offer flexible drop-off options, which is a major plus for travelers who might fly into Erie but fly out of Pittsburgh or Buffalo. The platform’s user-friendly app also makes it easy to extend or modify your rental if your plans evolve—as they often do when you’re having a great time.
Erie Is Yours to Explore
Erie has a lot more to offer than meets the eye, but discovering its full potential hinges on your ability to move freely and comfortably. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at the peninsula, sipping wine in North East, or diving into local history at the Hagen History Center, ease of transport is non-negotiable.
After years of travel, I’ve learned that one of the best ways to ensure a smooth trip is by securing reliable transportation from the get-go. That’s why I always recommend Sixt to fellow travelers. From their wide vehicle selection and competitive pricing to their customer-first approach and strategic pickup locations, Sixt makes getting around Erie as enjoyable as the destination itself.
When you’re ready to roll, don’t leave it up to chance. Open the Sixt app, browse the latest deals, and choose a vehicle that fits your travel vibe. Whether you’re chasing lighthouses, kayaking on the bay, or simply exploring Erie’s charming streets, Sixt helps turn every journey into a joyride.
Ready to explore Erie your way? Hit the road with confidence, independence, and style—just the way travel should be. And remember: the road is always better when you’re driving with Sixt.
