Bayfront Convention Center events — Erie, Pennsylvania

Discover the Modern Bayfront Convention Center

The Bayfront Convention Center is more than a convention center — it's a modern destination that brings signature Bayfront Convention Center events to life on Erie’s waterfront. Set on the shores of Lake Erie's Presque Isle Bay, this glass-fronted venue delivers panoramic water views and a polished setting for trade shows, banquets, expos, and community gatherings.

Opened in 2007, the venue helped power the revitalization of Erie’s Bayfront District. It features flexible capacities depending on configuration: up to 5,200 in theater-style seating, 4,500 for banquet layouts, and 8,000 for reception-style events. The main exhibit hall spans 28,800 square feet, allowing large-scale booths, stages, and customizable floor plans.

Programming runs the gamut of conventions, trade shows, and large public expos. Annual staples include the Erie Auto Show and the Erie Home & Garden Expo, among other regional, national, and international conferences. From weddings and corporate galas to community events, the center’s versatility keeps the calendar active with Bayfront Convention Center upcoming events all year.

Event technology is a standout here—state-of-the-art audio/visual capabilities, high-speed wireless internet throughout the building, and flexible lighting systems support smooth productions. Waterfront terraces and a pre-function lobby with sweeping bay views make an impression for evening receptions, photo ops, and VIP experiences.

Whether you’re hosting or attending, the Bayfront Convention Center’s lakeside setting and adaptable spaces create a memorable experience. With trusted operations and a prime location near downtown, it’s a go-to hub for Erie’s most anticipated events.

Purchase Process

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• Browse Events — Explore upcoming games, concerts and more.
• Pick Your Seats — Use our interactive map to view real-time availability and compare prices.
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• Digital Delivery — Tickets will be sent via email or mobile entry prior to your event date.

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Whether you're buying for a sold-out concert, immersive show, or special event, Ticket Purchase gives you the confidence to buy worry-free.

Seating Recommendations and Charts

Bayfront Convention Center offers seating for approximately 5,200 guests in a theater-style configuration, with flexible layouts that also support banquets, receptions, classrooms, and open-floor expos. The main exhibit hall (28,800 sq ft) and Great Hall can be configured to match the production needs of Bayfront Convention Center events.

• Great Hall Front-Center: For stage-based programs, front-center seating in the Great Hall typically delivers the best views and audio experience.
• Exhibit Hall Theater Sections: When shows or keynotes are set in the exhibit hall, look for seats positioned near the stage or central aisles for balanced sightlines and easy access.
• VIP Lounges & Waterfront Terraces: For receptions or premium gatherings, VIP lounge access and terrace vantage points elevate the experience with bay views and a more private feel.
• Perimeter Seating by Glass Façade: For dinner programs and receptions, perimeter seating along the glass walls offers natural light and scenic waterfront backdrops.
• Meeting Rooms (Breakouts): For conferences with breakouts, smaller meeting rooms provide close-up sightlines and easier interaction with presenters.

Use Ticket Purchase' interactive seating chart to view live seat availability, compare prices, and choose the section that fits your experience.

Ready to secure your seats? Browse Bayfront Convention Center tickets now — events often sell out fast!

Location and Transportation

Venue Address

Bayfront Convention Center

1 Sassafras Pier

Erie, Pennsylvania 16507

Located on Erie’s Bayfront, the venue sits directly along Presque Isle Bay with easy access to downtown. It’s approximately two hours from both Cleveland, Ohio and Buffalo, New York.

• Parking: On-site parking is available, with shuttle service operating during major events. Parking is generally free, but may vary by event.
• Public Transit: Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) bus routes serve the Bayfront area.
• Rideshare & Dropoff: Designated pickup and dropoff zones are located near the main entrance.

Arrival Recommendations

Plan to arrive 60–90 minutes before your event time, especially for large conventions or public expos like the Erie Auto Show or Home & Garden Expo. Early arrival helps you secure parking, check in, and settle into your seating area before the program starts.

While the venue is primarily indoors, its waterfront location can feel windy and cold during winter months. If you plan to step outside to the terraces or wait curbside for rideshare, pack a light layer in cooler seasons. During pleasant evenings, the terraces are a highlight for sunset views over the bay.

Walkways are flat and accessible throughout, making navigation straightforward for all guests. If you’re parking in an outer lot or arriving during peak times, consider the shuttle service that runs for major events—it can save a few minutes and simplify arrival.

Venue Navigation

Inside, the Bayfront Convention Center features a flexible layout anchored by the exhibit hall and Great Hall, surrounded by meeting rooms and a pre-function lobby with bay views. You’ll find concessions open during larger public events, plus ATMs and a business center for convenience.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and merchandise is often sold during expos and trade shows. Concessions, restrooms, and lobby spaces are positioned to support heavy flow during peak sessions, while waterfront terraces provide fresh air and scenic breaks between programs.

Security and Policies

• Bag Policy: Varies by event; please check your event’s specific guidelines before you arrive.
• Prohibited Items: Typically includes weapons, outside food/beverage, and large bags, but policies vary by event.
• Re-entry Policy: No re-entry once you exit the venue.
• Service Animals: Permitted as required by ADA regulations.

Post-Purchase Tips — Be Ready for Event Day

• Download your tickets before arriving — cell service can be limited.
• Bring a valid ID and cashless payment option.
• Charge your phone fully.
• Review venue policies in advance.
• Make time to catch sunset views from the waterfront terraces—one of the venue’s signature highlights.
• In winter, pack a warmer layer if you plan to step outside along the bay or wait for rideshare.

Pre-Event Planning

If you’re attending one of the Bayfront Convention Center upcoming events, consider building in time to explore the Bayfront District before doors open. Nearby waterfront restaurants make it easy to coordinate with friends or colleagues ahead of a conference session or expo hall opening.

Schedule photos or a quick break on the terraces around golden hour—sunset over Presque Isle Bay is a standout experience, especially before evening receptions. For full-day conferences, identify your breakout rooms early and map your route through the exhibit hall to make the most of your time.

Groups will appreciate the building’s accessible, flat layout for easy meetups. Share your seating section or meeting room name in advance and choose a clear pre-function lobby landmark so everyone can reconnect between sessions or after the keynote.

Accessibility

Bayfront Convention Center is ADA-accessible, with ADA parking near the main entrance, accessible seating available in all event spaces, and elevators and ramps throughout the building. During major events, shuttle service operates and accessible shuttles are available to support convenient arrivals.

If you need assistance with accessible seating or entry routes, Ticket Purchase can help. For assistance choosing accessible seating, contact Ticket Purchase for personalized support before purchasing.

Dining Options

Inside the venue, you’ll find full-service catering for private events and concessions during large public shows and expos. Catered menus may feature local Erie specialties, and the on-site service makes it easy to stay focused on your schedule without leaving the building.

Food and Restaurants Near Bayfront Convention Center

If you're arriving early or staying nearby, there are excellent dining options in Erie’s Bayfront and downtown districts, just minutes from the venue:

• Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant (Bayfront District) — Upscale seafood and steakhouse with waterfront views.
• Shoreline Bar & Grille (Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel) — American cuisine highlighting local ingredients and lake views.
• Smuggler’s Wharf (Bayfront) — Nautical-themed spot with seafood and classic American fare.
• U Pick 6 Tap House (Downtown Erie) — Casual gastropub with craft beers and pub favorites.
• Molly Brannigans (Downtown Erie) — Traditional Irish pub serving Irish and American dishes.
• Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro (West Bayfront) — Southern-inspired cuisine with Caribbean influences.
• Voodoo Brewery Erie Pub (Downtown Erie) — Local craft brewery with rotating beers and casual eats.
• Cloud 9 Wine Bar (Downtown Erie) — Contemporary wine bar featuring small plates and an extensive wine list.

These nearby spots make it easy to grab a delicious meal or drink before heading into the show.

Other Venues in Erie

Erie and its surrounding areas offer a thriving live entertainment scene — and Ticket Purchase connects you to them all:

• Erie Insurance Arena — Multi-purpose arena hosting the Erie Otters (OHL hockey), concerts, and large events.
• UPMC Park — Minor league baseball stadium, home to the Erie SeaWolves (Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers).
• Warner Theatre — Historic performing arts venue hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and the Erie Philharmonic.
• Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center — Theater at Mercyhurst University for concerts, dance, and film screenings.
• Presque Isle Downs & Casino — Racetrack and casino with live entertainment and dining.
• Erie Playhouse — Community theater presenting musicals, plays, and youth productions.
• Blasco Library Hirt Auditorium — Venue for lectures, film screenings, and community events.
• Jr’s Last Laugh Comedy Club — Stand-up comedy club featuring national and regional acts.

Ready to catch your next show in Erie? Browse Erie events now and secure verified tickets through Ticket Purchase today.

Other Things to Do in Erie

Beyond the conventions and expos, the Erie area offers incredible attractions for visitors heading to Bayfront Convention Center:

• Presque Isle State Park — Beloved peninsula park with beaches, trails, and standout birdwatching along Lake Erie.
• Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara — Museum and historic ship exploring Erie’s maritime heritage.
• Waldameer Park & Water World — Family-friendly amusement and water park with classic rides and slides.
• Tom Ridge Environmental Center — Interactive exhibits and an observation tower focused on local ecology.
• Erie Art Museum — Contemporary and folk art exhibits in a modern downtown space.
• Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park — Large indoor water park resort with slides and wave pools.
• Bicentennial Tower — Observation tower offering panoramic views of Lake Erie and the city skyline.
• Asbury Woods — Nature center and preserve with trails, boardwalks, and educational programs.
• Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park — Urban green space with tree collections, gardens, and walking paths.
• Millcreek Mall Complex — Major shopping destination with retail, dining, and entertainment.

Secure Your Seats for Bayfront Convention Center Today

Don't wait — Bayfront Convention Center events often sell out quickly. With panoramic bay views, flexible spaces, and strong production capabilities, Ticket Purchase is your go-to source for verified, hassle-free ticketing. Whether you're planning a special night out or coordinating a day at a marquee expo, we’ll help you find the right seats fast.

Browse tickets now and experience the magic of live entertainment at one of the world's most iconic venues.

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