Named for its location on the southern shore of the beautiful Lake Erie, the city of Erie is the best place in Pennsylvania to go if you want access to one of the Great Lakes. The pedestrian-friendly downtown boasts beautiful parks, excellent restaurants, and all sorts of family-friendly attractions, including the Erie Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Waldameer Park & Water World, and the ExpERIEnce Children's Museum.
If you want to get out of the city, you'll also be right next to Presque Isle State Park, a sandy peninsula that offers plenty of opportunities to swim, fish, boat, and hike.