Bayfront Convention Center Erie: Plan Your Waterfront Visit
Heading to a convention, craft show, expo, wedding or business conference on Erie’s waterfront? Find the correct address, free parking options, garage charges, current events, ticket rules, connecting hotels, meeting rooms and arrival instructions.
Start here: Bayfront Convention Center is at 1 Sassafras Pier, Erie, PA 16507. Its outdoor convention-center parking is free, while the convention-center and Sheraton parking garages list a $16 daily rate. The venue connects to the Sheraton Erie Bayfront and Courtyard Erie Bayfront hotels.
Where Is Erie Bayfront Convention Center?
The Bayfront Convention Center is located on Erie’s waterfront at Sassafras Pier, overlooking Presque Isle Bay. It is part of Bayfront Landing, a hospitality and event campus with two connected hotels and nearby dining.
Correct GPS Address
Bayfront Convention Center
1 Sassafras Pier
Erie, Pennsylvania 16507
Phone: 814-455-1260
General inquiries: info@bayfrontlanding.com
What Is Bayfront Landing?
Bayfront Landing combines the convention center, Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel and waterfront dining options.
It should not be confused with Erie Insurance Arena or Warner Theatre, which are separate downtown Erie Events venues.
Easy arrival tip: If attending an event, navigate directly to 1 Sassafras Pier instead of a hotel garage unless you are staying at that hotel or have specific parking instructions.
Erie Bayfront Convention Center Parking: Free Lot vs. $16 Garages
The most useful distinction is that the venue offers free on-site outdoor parking, but nearby garages charge separately. This helps day visitors avoid paying unnecessarily for garage parking.
Compare Parking Options
| Parking Option | Official Published Cost | Important Information |
|---|---|---|
| Convention Center Outdoor Lot | Free | Located beside the venue; designated accessible parking available. |
| Bayfront Convention Center Parking Garage | $16 daily | Paid garage; accessible parking available. |
| Sheraton Erie Bayfront Garage | $16 daily | Accessible parking and an EV charging station listed. |
| Courtyard Erie Bayfront Parking | Hotel-specific | Confirm charges and overnight arrangements with the hotel. |
Rates are from Erie Events’ published Bayfront parking information reviewed October 26, 2026. Hotel guest fees and special arrangements should be verified independently.
How to Park for a Bayfront Convention Center Event
- Enter the correct address. Use 1 Sassafras Pier, Erie, Pennsylvania.
- Follow Bayfront Parkway signs. Look for the convention center and event parking directions.
- Choose the outdoor venue lot first. Free spaces are available, subject to capacity and any event arrangements.
- Use designated accessible spaces if eligible. Display the required placard or plate.
- Use a paid garage if preferred or necessary. Check the posted $16 daily rate and any entry restrictions.
- Save your parking location. Large events can make it harder to remember where your vehicle is parked.
For a wider comparison of parking policies, garages, access restrictions and event charges across venues, see our convention center parking garage guide.
Bayfront Convention Center Erie Events & Tickets
Bayfront Convention Center hosts consumer shows, sporting competitions, conventions, holiday exhibitions, banquets, concerts and private events. Public admission times and ticket prices depend on the specific organizer.
Upcoming Events Confirmed for 2026
| Dates | Event | Visitor Planning Detail |
|---|---|---|
| November 7–8, 2026 | Holiday Craft & Gift Festival | Confirm daily opening times and ticket conditions. |
| November 25, 2026 | Bayfront Brawl 19 | Check assigned admission, start time and security rules. |
| November 27–29, 2026 | 2026 Festival of Trees | Check admission rules and session availability. |
| December 12, 2026 | 2026 Barber Christmas Ball | Confirm event-specific participation or ticket requirements. |
These events were listed on Erie Events’ official Bayfront Convention Center calendar on October 26, 2026. Dates and admission arrangements are subject to organizer changes.
How to Buy Tickets or Register
- Open the official Erie Events venue calendar. Select the Bayfront Convention Center listing.
- Choose your event. Match the exact date and event title.
- Read event details. Check doors, start time, admission eligibility and age requirements.
- Use the authorized ticket provider. Erie Events identifies AXS Mobile ID as an official ticketing method for supported shows.
- Complete ticket purchase or registration. Select the required ticket or attendee category.
- Save admission credentials. Keep your QR code, mobile ticket or email confirmation ready.
Can You Buy Tickets in Person?
Erie Events lists its in-person ticket box office at Erie Insurance Arena, 809 French Street, Erie, PA 16501, rather than at the Bayfront Convention Center.
Published box office hours: Monday–Friday, 10 AM–5 PM; Saturday, 10 AM–2 PM. Event-specific adjustments can occur.
Check whether your particular event permits box office sales before making a separate trip downtown.
Directions to Bayfront Convention Center: I-79, I-90 & Erie Airport
The venue is accessed from Bayfront Parkway, which connects downtown Erie’s waterfront with major routes serving the region.
| Starting Area | General Route | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Erie / I-79 | Travel north toward Bayfront Parkway. | Follow convention center signage near the waterfront. |
| Western Pennsylvania / Ohio | I-90 to I-79 North toward Bayfront Parkway. | Follow current signs and navigation. |
| Eastern Erie County | I-90 or connecting local roads toward the Bayfront Parkway. | Current construction may change the best approach. |
| Downtown Erie | Use the downtown street network toward Sassafras Pier. | Navigate directly to the convention center. |
From Erie International Airport (ERI)
Erie Events describes the airport as approximately a 10-minute drive from the convention center. Actual travel time depends on traffic and road conditions.
- Collect your luggage. Follow airport ground transportation signs.
- Choose transportation. Taxi, rideshare, rental car or arranged transfer.
- Set destination to 1 Sassafras Pier. Confirm the correct Erie address.
- For hotel guests, ask about shuttle arrangements. The connected Sheraton and Courtyard hotels may help arrange transportation, but do not assume complimentary service.
Arriving From Cleveland, Pittsburgh or Buffalo
Visitors also travel through the Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Buffalo airport regions. Erie Events notes these as possible alternatives for reaching the bayfront by road. Allow for traffic, weather and the final drive after your flight.
If your trip includes a Cleveland exhibition, our Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland visitor guide explains its downtown parking, hotel connections and building access.
Bayfront Convention Center Floor Plans, Halls & Capacities
The convention center offers flexible indoor exhibition space, meeting rooms, a large ballroom and outdoor waterfront event areas. Erie Events publishes the following primary space information.
| Event Space | Published Area | Capacity or Suitable Use |
|---|---|---|
| Great Hall | 28,800 sq ft | Up to 4,000 theater, 2,000 banquet or 160 ten-by-ten trade-show booths. |
| Grand Ballroom | 13,500 sq ft | Events of up to 1,000 guests, depending on configuration. |
| 15 Meeting Rooms | Over 14,000 sq ft combined | Published setup-dependent capacities ranging from approximately 25 to 385. |
| Sunset Terrace | 8,800 sq ft | Outdoor receptions and waterfront functions. |
The Great Hall includes a large column-free area suitable for conventions and sports competitions. Individual occupancy varies with seating, exhibits, temporary structures and fire-safety requirements.
How to Locate Your Assigned Event Space
- Check the event confirmation. Look for the hall, ballroom or meeting room name.
- Open the venue’s floor-plan directory. Select the relevant layout.
- Review nearby event areas. Large conventions can have registration, exhibition and breakout sessions in different spaces.
- Identify the nearest accessible route. Use the plan and signage for your mobility needs.
- Follow onsite registration signs. Your event organizer may designate a specific entrance.
Official Bayfront floor plans and venue information are available through the venue’s Floor Plans section.
Hotels Connected to Erie Bayfront Convention Center
Two hotels connect directly to the convention center, making them practical options for conference delegates, exhibitors and wedding guests.
Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel
Address: 55 West Bay Road, Erie, PA 16507
Phone: 814-424-2005
Provides waterfront lodging with an enclosed skybridge connection to the convention center.
The Sheraton garage has a published $16 daily parking rate and an EV charging station listed on the convention-center parking page.
Courtyard Erie Bayfront
Address: 2 Sassafras Pier, Erie, PA 16507
Phone: 814-636-1005
Located on the Bayfront Landing campus, with an enclosed hotel-to-convention connection and waterfront accommodations.
Ask the hotel about its overnight garage charge, room-block reservations and any event package.
Choosing the Right Hotel
| Consideration | Practical Advice |
|---|---|
| Multi-day convention | Connected hotels reduce trips to and from the convention center. |
| Early morning sessions | Ask whether the connecting walkway will be open at your required time. |
| Driving overnight | Compare hotel guest parking charges, not just the free daytime convention lot. |
| Group stay | Check organizer-negotiated room blocks before booking standard public rates. |
| Accessibility | Confirm accessible room availability and routes between hotel and event space. |
Where to Eat Nearby
Erie Events highlights multiple restaurants around Bayfront Landing, including Shoreline Bar & Grille, Two45 Waterfront Grille, Bay House Oyster Bar, Pier 6 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, and The Cove.
Some waterfront restaurants operate seasonally. For instance, Pier 6 and The Cove are described as seasonal April–September businesses; check current opening days before visiting outside that period.
Bag Policy, Cashless Payments & Venue Security
Erie Events operates the Bayfront Convention Center under published admission and security policies. Review these rules before bringing bags, food or equipment.
| Item or Service | Published Venue Rule |
|---|---|
| Ordinary bags | Smaller than 6 × 8 × 2 inches. |
| Clear bags | 12 × 12 × 6 inches or smaller. |
| Medical and diaper bags | Exceptions may be made after inspection. |
| Security screening | All visitors are subject to screening. |
| Payments | Cashless venue; payment cards or contactless payment only. |
| Outside food and drinks | Generally prohibited under the venue’s published rules. |
| Weapons or dangerous items | Prohibited, including firearms, knives, pepper spray and similar items. |
| Cameras and equipment | Detachable-lens cameras, tripods and certain recording equipment may be prohibited without authorization. |
| Animals | Ordinary animals generally prohibited; qualifying service animals permitted. |
What to Do Before Entering
- Keep your ticket or QR code ready.
- Bring a payment card rather than relying on cash.
- Choose a compliant bag.
- Confirm organizer-specific photography or recording rules.
- Contact the venue in advance about necessary medical or accessibility accommodations.
Accessibility, Wheelchairs & Visitor Assistance
Bayfront Convention Center offers accessible parking, step-free entrances, public restrooms and other accommodations for visitors with disabilities.
Building Accessibility
- Designated accessible outdoor parking.
- Accessible parking in the published garage options.
- Step-free entrances and accessible doorways.
- Accessible public restrooms.
- Wheelchair assistance on an as-needed basis.
- Service animals permitted under venue policy.
Special Arrangements
- Accessible event seating when offered.
- Hearing-assistance options.
- Interpreting arrangements with advance notice.
- Help finding accessible routes within the venue.
- Individual accommodations through the event organizer.
How to Arrange Accessibility Support
- Identify your specific need. Parking, wheelchair use, hearing support, interpreting or event seating.
- Contact Erie Events. Explain your event date and accommodation.
- For ticketed accessible seating, ask before buying. Seating availability can depend on the event arrangement.
- For sign language interpreting, contact the venue early. Erie Events requests at least three weeks’ advance notice.
- Confirm arrival instructions. Ask which entrance or parking area is best for your needs.
How to Book Bayfront Convention Center for a Conference, Wedding or Expo
The convention center accommodates large exhibits and small professional meetings as well as private celebrations. Rental fees are quoted according to the selected event space, dates and requested services.
Planning a Private or Business Event
- Decide what kind of event you need. Conference, wedding, banquet, exhibition, tournament or business meeting.
- Estimate attendance. Include guests, exhibitors, staff and required support areas.
- Choose potential rooms. Compare the Great Hall, Grand Ballroom, meeting rooms and Sunset Terrace.
- Identify services. Catering, AV, electricity, internet, staging, security and room setup.
- Request a proposal. Submit event requirements through the Bayfront Landing planning page.
- Review the quotation. Check rental fees, deposits, cancellation, approved vendors, food minimums and equipment charges.
- Confirm in writing. Do not announce a booked date until the venue accepts the arrangement.
Important Organizer Policies
- Venue catering is managed through the approved food-and-beverage team; outside food is generally restricted.
- Outside AV and service providers require management approval.
- Decorations and installation arrangements are generally the client’s responsibility.
- Open-flame candles are not ordinarily permitted; LED alternatives are preferable.
- Rental pricing and deposit requirements are event-specific rather than a universal published flat rate.
For event planners comparing Pennsylvania facilities, our Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Convention Center visitor guide explains the David L. Lawrence Convention Center’s downtown location, exhibit space, garage entrance and accommodation options.
You can also explore our David L. Lawrence Convention Center accessibility and floor-planning guide when considering a larger Pittsburgh venue for a future conference.
Map: Bayfront Convention Center Erie, Pennsylvania
This map shows the convention center at Sassafras Pier. Use your selected hotel’s address instead when navigating directly to overnight accommodation.
Public Contact
Erie Events / Bayfront Landing
814-455-1260
Confirm event access times directly with the organizer.
First-Time Visitor Checklist
Before Traveling
- Confirm event date and admission time.
- Save your ticket or registration confirmation.
- Identify your event hall or ballroom.
- Check bag and equipment restrictions.
- Choose outdoor or paid garage parking.
- Confirm connected hotel reservation if staying overnight.
- Plan accessible services in advance if needed.
When You Arrive
- Use 1 Sassafras Pier in navigation.
- Follow Bayfront parking signs.
- Read any event-specific parking instructions.
- Have your mobile ticket available.
- Prepare for security screening.
- Follow signs to event registration.
- Keep your hotel and parking location saved.
Erie Bayfront Convention Center: 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Erie Bayfront Convention Center address?
The Bayfront Convention Center is located at 1 Sassafras Pier, Erie, Pennsylvania 16507, on Presque Isle Bay.
2. Is parking free at Bayfront Convention Center?
Yes. The convention center offers free outdoor on-site parking. Paid parking garages are also available, and space availability can vary by event.
3. How much does the Bayfront Convention Center parking garage cost?
Erie Events lists a $16 daily rate for the Bayfront Convention Center parking garage and $16 daily for the Sheraton Erie Bayfront garage. These charges are separate from free outdoor venue parking.
4. What events are coming to Bayfront Convention Center?
Official listings for late 2026 include the Holiday Craft & Gift Festival on November 7–8, Bayfront Brawl 19 on November 25, Festival of Trees on November 27–29 and Barber Christmas Ball on December 12.
5. Which hotels connect to Bayfront Convention Center?
Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel and Courtyard Erie Bayfront Hotel are connected to the convention center by enclosed walkways on the Bayfront Landing campus.
6. Can I buy Bayfront Convention Center tickets at the door?
Ticket availability depends on the individual event. Erie Events lists its in-person box office at Erie Insurance Arena, 809 French Street, Erie, PA. Some events also use AXS Mobile ID.
7. What is the Bayfront Convention Center bag policy?
Ordinary bags must be smaller than 6 × 8 × 2 inches. Clear bags up to 12 × 12 × 6 inches are allowed. Medical and diaper-bag exceptions may be made after inspection.
8. Is Bayfront Convention Center cashless?
Yes. Erie Events identifies Bayfront Convention Center as a cashless venue. Visitors should bring a valid payment card or supported contactless payment method.
9. Is Erie Bayfront Convention Center wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Accessible parking, step-free entrances, restrooms and other support services are provided. Contact Erie Events in advance for specific seating or assistance needs.
10. How do I book an event at Erie Bayfront Convention Center?
Contact Bayfront Landing at 814-455-1260 or submit an event inquiry through its official event-planning page. Provide dates, attendance, room requirements and service needs to request a customized proposal.
Official Erie Bayfront Convention Center Resources
These resources provide primary information for visitor policies, event schedules, parking fees and event-planning arrangements.
- Official Bayfront Convention Center Venue & Events
- Official Directions & Parking Rates
- Visitor Information, Hotels & Dining
- Official Hall, Ballroom & Meeting Room Capacities
- Venue Policies and Frequently Asked Questions
- Official Accessibility Information
- Event Booking & Catering Information
- Bayfront Landing Rental & Service FAQs
Venue: Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Pier, Erie, PA 16507.
Telephone: 814-455-1260
Information reviewed October 26, 2026. This independent visitor guide is published by convention-center.org and is not an official Erie Events or Bayfront Landing website. Event schedules, parking rates, public entry rules and hotel services can change; confirm final transactions with the responsible organizer.