PA Museums

Exploring the Erie Maritime Museum

Collage of four photos taken at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The top left photo shows a historical marker for the Brig Niagara, the restored flagship of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie, with the ship docked behind it. The top right photo depicts a detailed exhibit featuring cannons and lifelike figures recreating the ship's crew in action. The bottom left photo showcases a large painting depicting the Battle of Lake Erie, displayed prominently within the museum. The bottom right photo captures the museum’s front entrance, with its brick exterior, "Museum Open" flag, and signage, inviting visitors to explore Erie's rich maritime history.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the Erie Maritime Museum, you’re in the right place!

Exhibit at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, detailing the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. The display highlights the American command structure, featuring portraits and descriptions of key figures, including Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry. Panels provide historical context on "The Fighting Forces" involved in the battle, with descriptions of the American and British naval strategies. The exhibit extends along the wall with various artifacts, informational displays, and items related to naval warfare, all illuminated by display lights. The museum's brick interior walls and walkway are visible in the background.

The Erie Maritime Museum, located on the picturesque shores of Presque Isle Bay in Erie, highlights the region’s rich naval history and its significant role during the War of 1812.

View of the Brig Niagara docked outside the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The fully-rigged ship, a replica of the 1813 USS Niagara, served as Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s relief flagship during the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812. The ship is moored near the museum's waterside plaza, where crew members and museum staff are seen using a forklift for maintenance tasks. The overcast sky and surrounding buildings, including waterfront facilities, add context to this historic site, connecting Erie's maritime legacy with the scenic lakefront setting.

Visitors to the museum can expect an immersive experience that brings to life historical events, iconic ships, and the people who played critical roles in Erie’s past.

Exhibit area at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, showcasing the preserved prow of the USS *Wolverine*, the first iron-hulled ship in the U.S. Navy. The large, white bow section is adorned with ornate gold leaf decorations, highlighting the craftsmanship of this historic vessel. Adjacent to the *Wolverine* exhibit, visitors can view displays of maritime artifacts, historical panels, and a model ship encased in glass. An eagle emblem mounted on a nearby wall reinforces the patriotic theme. Benches provide seating for visitors to observe the exhibits, which celebrate Erie’s maritime heritage and the significance of the Great Lakes region in American naval history.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The Erie Maritime Museum is located at 150 East Front Street, Erie, PA 16507.

From April-September the museum is open Wednesday-Saturday 9:30 am – 4 pm and Sunday noon – 4 pm.

Front entrance of the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, showcasing the red brick exterior with a sign displaying the museum’s name and a blue flag indicating "Museum Open." A historical marker stands near the entrance, along with a large anchor displayed as part of the maritime-themed decor. The building features a tall window with a pattern of white bird silhouettes, adding visual interest to the facade. Steps and accessible ramps lead up to the entrance, welcoming visitors to explore exhibits focused on the War of 1812, the Battle of Lake Erie, and the Brig Niagara’s role in American maritime history.

From October-March the museum is open Thursday-Saturday 9:30 am – 4 pm and Sunday noon – 4 pm.

Exhibit at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, showcasing a large replica of the "Don't Give Up the Ship" flag, a famous rallying banner from the War of 1812 carried by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie. Below the flag, an exhibit wall titled "The Aftermath of the Battle" presents information about the battle's consequences, Perry's transfer to the Brig Niagara, and the flag's origins and significance. The display includes historical artifacts, images, and text panels detailing the courage and legacy of Perry and his crew. The museum’s high brick walls and industrial interior design contribute to the historic atmosphere.

Admission fees are as follows: General Admission $10 | Seniors (65+) $7 | Ages 3-11 $5 | 2 & Under Free.

What You’ll See at the Erie Maritime Museum

The War of 1812 exhibits set the stage for understanding America’s struggle to maintain sovereignty against British forces.

Display panel at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, titled "The War of 1812." The exhibit explains the causes of the conflict between the United States and Great Britain, highlighting tensions over American sovereignty on both land and sea. The text describes Britain's disputes over American land claims, support of Native American resistance, restrictive trade policies that hurt the American economy, and the seizure of American seamen and ships. These actions fueled resentment among Americans, many of whom called for war to defend their nation’s honor. This exhibit sets the historical context for the museum's focus on the War of 1812 and the pivotal Battle of Lake Erie.

This war was crucial for America, as it tested the young nation’s resilience and its control over key waterways.

Multimedia display at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, dedicated to the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813. The exhibit features two screens showing a short film reenacting the battle, with captions such as "Enemy fire exacts a frightening toll" capturing the intensity of naval warfare. The display includes the Union Jack on the left and the American flag on the right, symbolizing the British and American forces that clashed in this pivotal battle during the War of 1812. The dark frame surrounding the screens bears the title "The Battle of Lake Erie," emphasizing the historical significance of this event.

The museum provides context to the conflict, examining how tensions over trade, territory, and impressment of American sailors escalated into war.

Exhibit panel at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, titled "National Honor." The panel explains the causes of the War of 1812, focusing on the tensions between the United States and Britain following the Revolutionary War. It describes Britain's challenges to American sovereignty on land and sea, including delayed territorial transfers, support for Native American resistance, impressment of American seamen, seizure of American ships, and restrictive trade policies. These actions harmed the American economy and fueled the sentiment that national honor was at stake, ultimately leading to the War of 1812. Above the text, an illustration of an eagle holding a "Victory" banner reinforces the theme of patriotic pride.

A centerpiece of the museum is its detailed displays on the Battle of Lake Erie, a pivotal naval clash during the War of 1812.

Framed painting display at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, depicting the Battle of Lake Erie, a pivotal naval confrontation during the War of 1812. The artwork shows American and British ships engaged in fierce combat on Lake Erie, with detailed depictions of billowing sails, smoke, and cannon fire capturing the intensity of the battle. The display is titled "The Battle of Lake Erie" and is set within a dedicated exhibit area with informational panels. The scene highlights the bravery of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry and his crew, central to the museum's focus on Erie's maritime heritage and the War of 1812.

This battle was led by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, who famously declared, “We have met the enemy, and they are ours.”

Historical marker at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, detailing the creation of the iconic "Don't Give Up the Ship" flag. The sign explains that seven women from Erie stitched this flag in the summer of 1813 for Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry to carry into the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Despite the looming threat of British attack, Margaret Forster Steuart, her sister Dorcas, and five nieces completed the banner, which later became a rallying cry and a motto for the U.S. Navy. The flag is preserved at the U.S. Naval Academy Museum in Annapolis, Maryland. The replica of the Brig Niagara, Perry’s relief flagship, is visible behind the marker, set against a cloudy sky.

The museum’s exhibits delve into the strategies, heroism, and ultimate victory that gave the United States control over Lake Erie.

Exhibit at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, featuring a replica deck scene from the Brig Lawrence, Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's original flagship during the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812. The display includes life-sized mannequins of sailors operating cannons, with detailed ropes and tools showing the process of loading and firing. The cannons are mounted on red wooden bases, and the sailors are positioned in active stances, capturing the intensity and teamwork required in naval battles. The museum’s brick walls and additional exhibits are visible in the background, emphasizing the historical atmosphere of the display.

No visit to the Erie Maritime Museum would be complete without exploring the story of the Brig Niagara, Perry’s relief flagship during the Battle of Lake Erie.

The US Brig Niagara docked outside the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, a modern recreation of the 1813 flagship commanded by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812. The tall ship, painted in yellow and black with two masts, stands out against a cloudy sky, with buildings visible in the background. The ship’s intricate rigging and wooden deck reflect the maritime heritage preserved at the museum. The calm water around the ship captures its reflection, adding to the historic ambiance of this significant naval artifact.

The museum is the home port for a modern recreation of the Niagara, meticulously crafted to match the original 1813 warship.

Close-up view of the stern of the Brig Niagara docked at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The ship’s name, “NIAGARA,” is prominently displayed in gold lettering on the black hull, with yellow detailing along the sides. The stern features traditional rigging, netting, and an entryway leading to the deck. This modern recreation of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's 1813 relief flagship serves as a significant artifact from the War of 1812 and symbolizes Perry’s victory in the Battle of Lake Erie. The ship is moored in calm waters with a partly cloudy sky in the background.

Visitors can tour this historic vessel and gain insight into life aboard a 19th-century brig.

The Brig Niagara docked beside the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, with its bow prominently facing the viewer against a dramatic cloudy sky. The historic ship, a modern recreation of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s relief flagship from the Battle of Lake Erie, showcases tall masts and intricate rigging, connecting visitors to the naval heritage celebrated by the museum. The museum building is visible in the background, highlighting its close connection to Lake Erie’s rich maritime history.

The USS Michigan, later renamed the USS Wolverine, holds a special place in Erie’s maritime history as the first iron-hulled ship in the U.S. Navy.

Display at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, featuring an image of the USS *Wolverine* (originally the USS *Michigan*) alongside the Perry Monument on Peninsula Drive in Erie. The text explains that the *Michigan*, commissioned in 1844, was the first iron warship in the U.S. Navy and the first iron-hulled vessel on the Great Lakes. It was a steam-driven side-wheeler, measuring 167 feet in length and displacing 450 tons. In 1905, its name was changed to *Wolverine* after a new battleship was named *Michigan*. This exhibit highlights the historical significance of the ship and its connection to Erie’s maritime history.

Commissioned in 1844, this steam-driven side-wheeler patrolled the Great Lakes, enforcing federal laws and aiding in rescue operations.

Exhibit at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, featuring the preserved prow of the USS *Wolverine*, a historic naval ship that was originally known as the *Michigan*. This white, steel-clad bow section is displayed upright, with intricate detailing and decorative elements, offering visitors a close view of the vessel’s craftsmanship. The *Wolverine* was the first iron-hulled ship in the U.S. Navy and served on the Great Lakes. An informational panel titled “A Peaceful Border?” is positioned beside the exhibit, highlighting the significance of the Great Lakes region in maritime history and the peaceful relationship between the U.S. and Canada along this shared waterway. The museum’s brick walls and additional interpretive banners add to the display's historical context.

The museum honors this pioneering vessel with exhibits detailing its service until it was scrapped in 1949.

Exhibit at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, showcasing a detailed scale model of the USS *Wolverine*, originally known as the *Michigan*, the first iron-hulled ship in the U.S. Navy. This model depicts the vessel after major alterations in 1897, including an extended poop deck, a large searchlight, and a simplified auxiliary sailing rig. Nearby artifacts include binoculars and a cannon, highlighting the maritime equipment used during the ship’s service. The display illustrates the technological advancements and modifications of the *Wolverine* throughout its operational life, emphasizing its historical significance on the Great Lakes.

The museum also houses engaging NOAA exhibits, which cover topics like weather forecasting, lake ecosystem health, and environmental conservation.

NOAA tsunami sensor buoy on display at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The buoy, painted in bright red and white, is labeled "NOAA - TSUNAMI" and includes metal framework and components used for detecting and transmitting oceanic data related to tsunami monitoring. This exhibit highlights NOAA’s role in oceanic and atmospheric science, emphasizing its work in disaster preparedness and environmental monitoring. The sensor is part of a broader NOAA display within the museum, adding a contemporary aspect to the museum’s historical focus on maritime heritage.

These exhibits underscore the ongoing relationship between Lake Erie and those who study and protect it, connecting visitors with the lake’s modern scientific importance.

In addition to its historical content, the museum also incorporates remnants from its previous life as a Penelec power plant.

Informational sign at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, stating, "Did you know… that this museum is housed in an old Penelec generating plant?" The sign highlights the unique history of the building itself, which previously served as an electric generating facility before being repurposed to showcase Erie's maritime heritage and the history of the War of 1812, including the Battle of Lake Erie.

Exhibits featuring steam-powered generators from the plant highlight Erie’s industrial past and the transformation of the building into a space celebrating history.

Large steam-powered generator on display at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, one of five original generators from the building’s former role as a Penelec electric generating plant. The generator, painted in a light blue-green color, features exposed machinery, pipes, and safety railings, offering a glimpse into the industrial past of the museum’s location. The exhibit connects the building's heritage with the museum’s maritime focus, blending historical industry with the preservation of Erie’s maritime legacy. In the background, a “Don’t Give Up the Ship” flag hangs, tying in the War of 1812 theme.

Outside the museum, the massive anchor from the USS Michigan greets visitors, serving as a tangible reminder of the ship’s presence on the Great Lakes.

Large anchor displayed outside the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, situated near the museum's entrance against a backdrop of red brick walls with the museum's name prominently displayed. This anchor, a relic from a historic vessel, symbolizes the museum's focus on maritime heritage and Erie's connection to naval history. The entrance sign and surrounding landscaping add to the welcoming appearance of the museum, which preserves stories from the War of 1812, the Battle of Lake Erie, and features the reconstructed Brig Niagara.

This piece of naval history offers a chance to reflect on the ship’s legacy and the importance of Erie’s shipbuilding industry.

Plaque at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, describing the anchor from the USS *Michigan* (later renamed *Wolverine*), the first iron-hulled ship in the U.S. Navy. The plaque notes that the *Michigan* was built in Erie in 1843 and served on the Great Lakes until 1923, before being scrapped in 1949. This historical marker highlights the significance of the ship, which was stationed in Erie and played an important role in Great Lakes naval history. The anchor now serves as a tribute to the vessel’s legacy and its connection to Erie’s maritime heritage.

The Brigadier General Strong Vincent statue, located near the museum, honors this Erie County native who became a hero at the Battle of Gettysburg.

Statue of Brigadier General Strong Vincent outside the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The monument honors Vincent, a native of Erie County and a hero of the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. The bronze statue depicts him in military uniform, with one arm raised, symbolizing his leadership and bravery. The pedestal inscription reads that he was "mortally wounded defending his position on Little Round Top" on July 2, 1863. The statue is set against a backdrop of the museum’s exterior and nearby trees, with a partly cloudy sky above.

Known for his bravery in defending Little Round Top, Vincent’s story adds a local connection to the Civil War, providing a broader historical perspective.

Close-up of the inscription on the base of the Brigadier General Strong Vincent statue outside the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The engraving honors Vincent as the "Hero of Gettysburg" and details his birth and death dates (June 17, 1837 – July 7, 1863). The inscription notes that Vincent was "mortally wounded defending his position on Little Round Top" during the Battle of Gettysburg on July 2, 1863. The statue serves as a tribute to Vincent’s bravery and sacrifice in the Civil War, highlighting the historical significance of Erie’s native son. The museum building and a partly cloudy sky are visible in the background.

As you conclude your visit, the Erie Maritime Museum leaves you with a deep appreciation for the courage and ingenuity of those who shaped Erie’s maritime legacy.

Exhibit at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, featuring a detailed model of the Brig Niagara, the relief flagship commanded by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812. The model, with intricate rigging and sails, is displayed on a platform with interpretive panels in the background explaining human impact on the Great Lakes, covering topics like agriculture, shipping, fisheries, and wetlands. This display highlights the historical significance of the Brig Niagara in preserving Erie’s maritime heritage and the ecological context of the Great Lakes region.

Final Thoughts

From the War of 1812 to the pioneering vessels that sailed the Great Lakes, the Erie Maritime Museum offers a comprehensive journey through history.

Historical marker at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, dedicated to the Brig Niagara, the restored flagship of Captain Oliver Hazard Perry from the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813. The sign highlights the vessel's historical significance and notes its administration by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. Behind the marker, the masts and rigging of the Brig Niagara are visible, docked at the museum. The ship played a crucial role in Perry's victory over the British during the War of 1812, making it an essential piece of Erie's maritime heritage. The scene is set against a partly cloudy sky.

Whether you’re a history buff or a casual visitor, the museum’s exhibits are sure to make a lasting impression.

Exhibit at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, focused on "Sails and Rigging." The display includes detailed panels illustrating different types of ships and their sail rigs, such as ships, brigs, and schooners, as well as explanations of various sails and rigging methods. Another panel describes "Standing and Running Rigging," showcasing how different ropes and rigging configurations were used in traditional sailing vessels. The exhibit also features a hands-on section about maritime knots, with samples of knots and ropes mounted on the display for visitors to examine and touch. This educational exhibit helps visitors understand the complex techniques used in traditional sailing, connecting them to the heritage of vessels like the Brig Niagara.

Nearby Attractions

13 Must-See Attractions in Erie County showcases more remarkable sights and experiences near the Erie Maritime Museum.

A collage of four photos showcasing attractions in Erie County, Pennsylvania: a lighthouse surrounded by seagulls on a pier extending into Lake Erie under a partly cloudy sky, a lion resting amidst lush greenery at the Erie Zoo, a whimsical spider sculpture made from a Volkswagen Beetle on a grassy lawn, and a serene Lake Erie sunset with vibrant colors reflecting on the water and framed by trees on the shoreline.

Explore Pennsylvania like a pro with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map, showcasing over 1,000 memorable destinations I’ve personally visited across the Keystone State.

Did you enjoy this article?

If so, be sure to like and follow PA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest to learn more about the best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!

Click on any of the icons below to get connected to PA Bucket List on social media.