Nestled along the southern shores of Lake Erie and in the heart of grape country, the quaint town of historic North East is home to a population of just over 11,000 residents. The community is situated just 15 miles East of downtown Erie. The name North East seems to be a misnomer as the community is located in the extreme northwestern part of Pennsylvania, but it is so named for its northeastern-most location within Erie County.
Our community is classified as agricultural as most of the land is planted with grape vineyards or cherry orchards. Many of the harvested grapes are used by Welch Foods to produce nationally recognized grape products. Additionally, the town has a very strong industrial base with several food service and manufacturing companies providing jobs and revenue for the area. Despite our agricultural designation, the community supports several industrial based manufacturers that provide jobs and revenue for the area.
North East is served by the top-rated North East K-12 School District and St. Gregory’s private elementary school. With approximately 1,650 students in grades kindergarten through twelve in three buildings, the district continues to represent the long-standing traditions of academic, athletic, and liberal art success.
The local council of churches serves multiple churches in the area and consists of representation from over 10 churches that cover a variety of denominations including Methodist, Catholic, Baptist, Lutheran, Assembly of God, Episcopal, Presbyterian, and Christian Missionary Alliance. They also collaborate to run the local Food Pantry and various mission-based activities in the community.
Visit one of our many wineries, do a little antique shopping, bike along country lanes, fish in sparkling streams, go boating on Lake Erie, hike along scenic nature trails, or just sit back and relax on the beach. For more entertainment, attend the volunteer fire companies annual Cherry Festival in July. An annual Wine Country Harvest Festival is the highlight of fall in September, and many other community events throughout the year make North East a memorable place.
Butch’s Diner
traditional diner breakfast and lunch.
Michael’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
pizza delivery, eat-in restaurant and winery
The Skunk & Goat Tavern
full dinner menu and bar offering
The Straw Hat Sundae Shop
2 locations offering Penn State Creamery Ice Cream
Dragonfly Sweets
traditional and unique cookie and cupcake offerings
Little Shop of Donuts
vanilla and chocolate fry cakes with pick your own toppings
Lake Shore Railway Museum
Holiday Inn Express Pool & Water Zone
Freeport Public Beach and Halli Reid Park & Playground
North East Marina
16 & 20 Mile Creek Fishing & Trails
Shopping in North East Business District
Lakeside Golf Course
Lakeview Country Club
Hot Dog Hut & Putt Mini Golf
Green Meadows Golf Course
Lake Erie Speedway