Situated along the shores of Lake Erie in the northeastern corner of Erie County, the aptly named town of North East, PA is a charming mix of historic buildings, specialty retailers, and restaurants, surrounded by bountiful farmland and more than 30,000 acres of vineyards, the largest grape-growing region east of the Rocky Mountains. If you've never explored this part of Erie County, here are a few suggestions on how to spend a perfect day in North East, PA.

Morning: Breakfast at Toast!

The region's newest breakfast spot is Toast! Lounge and Eatery, a breakfast and lunch spot offering flavor-forward dishes that lean into local ingredients. The restaurant specializes in “toasties”, grilled breakfast sandwiches stuffed with unique ingredient combinations. Try the Bacon Jam Toastie: bacon jam, tomatoes, spinach, and Gruyere cheese stuffed inside two pieces of thick, grilled sourdough bread and topped with an egg.

Afternoon: Wine Tasting

North East is the gateway to Lake Erie Wine Country, the largest grape growing region in the Great Lakes. Nestled amongst more than 50 miles of vineyards visitors will find 21 unique estate and commercial wineries producing award winning wines along the shores of Lake Erie. Each winery offers a distinct atmosphere and specialties, from South Shore Winery in a stone cavern cellar, to Johnson Estate Winery, a fourth-generation farm (and New York's oldest estate winery), to Yori Wine Cellars, right in the heart of downtown North East. 

Dinner: The Skunk and Goat

The heart of North East is The Skunk and Goat Tavern, a funky space that offers a unique take on the American tavern experience with a focus on craft brews,  prohibition-era inspired cocktails and eclectic dishes. Food and drink menus change with the season to take advantage of fresh ingredients and ideas. 

Insider's Tip: 

Erie is known for its sunsets, but visitors don't have to travel to the beaches of Presque Isle to take them in. End your day in North East with a short drive to Shades Beach in Harborcreek. It's the largest sandy beach in Erie County outside of Presque Isle and offers stunning views of the sunset.