A road trip from East Aurora, New York, to Erie, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of culture, nature, and history. This journey spans about 90 miles, providing plenty of sights along the way.
Did you know that this route passes near Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, which is known for its stunning views and recreational activities? The road trip will also take you through Dunkirk, NY, a small city situated along the shore of Lake Erie, adding a scenic break to your adventure.
This trip covers approximately 90 miles and typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car. The journey is straightforward, as you mainly follow Route 20, which offers charming landscapes and several spots to stop and explore. The drive is enjoyable as you transition from the rolling hills of East Aurora to the lakeside views of Erie.
1. Evergreen Health Services
Start your trip with a visit to Evergreen Health Services in Buffalo, NY. This center focuses on health and wellness in the community. While not a traditional museum, it engages visitors with its commitment to health education. Explore the programs and events that often occur here to learn more about health-related topics.
Point of Interest: After visiting Evergreen Health Services, take a stroll through the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy. This spacious park offers a refreshing escape with beautiful walking paths.
2. Darwin D. Martin House Complex
Next, head to the Darwin D. Martin House Complex, also located in Buffalo. This architectural masterpiece was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and showcases the Prairie Style of design. Tour the house to view its stunning structure and appreciate how it integrates with the surrounding landscape. Learning about the history and design principles of this home can inspire anyone interested in architecture.
Point of Interest: Don't miss the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens nearby. These gardens present peaceful scenery and a variety of plants to explore.
3. Dunkirk Lighthouse and Veterans Park Museum
As you travel towards Erie, stop at the Dunkirk Lighthouse and Veterans Park Museum. This historical site features a lighthouse built in 1827 and offers a blend of maritime history and local veteran tributes. Climb the lighthouse for amazing views of Lake Erie and learn about the area’s coastal heritage. This stop adds a unique historical element to your journey.
Point of Interest: Check out the Dunkirk Historical Museum next door. It highlights the area's rich history and culture through different exhibits.
4. Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve
Just a short drive outside Erie, make your way to the Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve in Hamburg, NY. This park is a fossil dig site where visitors can hunt for fossils over 380 million years old. It offers a hands-on learning experience that is perfect for families and anyone intrigued by geology and paleontology. Bring a bag to collect your findings!
Point of Interest: After fossils, explore the nearby Chestnut Ridge Park for hiking and stunning views, especially at the small waterfall on site.
5. Erie Maritime Museum
When you finally reach Erie, PA, don’t miss the Erie Maritime Museum. This museum tells the story of the Great Lakes and Erie's role in maritime history. Exhibits feature shipbuilding, navigation, and the region’s shipwrecks. The highlight is the U.S. Brig Niagara, a reconstructed warship that played a vital role in the War of 1812, which you can tour as part of your visit.
Point of Interest: Be sure to visit Presque Isle State Park while you are in Erie. This park has sandy beaches and trails, perfect for enjoying nature and the lake.
Your road trip from East Aurora to Erie will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The drive offers a wonderful combination of parks, museums, and historical landmarks. Each stop provides an opportunity to learn and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Enjoy this blend of culture and nature as you explore from East Aurora to Erie.