Hotel Review: Courtyard Erie Bayfront – Infinity Pool, Bay Views & Walkable Eats
Looking for a Courtyard Erie Bayfront review before booking? This waterfront hotel in Erie, Pennsylvania delivers incredible bay views, an infinity pool overlooking Presque Isle Bay, and easy access to restaurants and attractions.
I stayed here for one night during my Summer 2025 road trip—and this Courtyard Erie Bayfront review breaks down everything you need to know from a teen perspective.
If you’re searching for one of the best waterfront hotels in Erie PA, this one should absolutely be on your list.
Last updated: April 2026
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First Impressions & Check-In
We rolled in just before 3 p.m. on a busy Saturday, parked in the front temporary spots, and headed inside. Right away: tons of luggage carts (both big hotel carts and smaller airport-style carts). More hotels should do this.
Check-in was quick even with the crowds. The lobby is bright and open with couches and a big TV in the middle, the check-in desk on one side, and the restaurant on the other. The left side is all floor-to-ceiling windows facing the bay—a very “whoa” moment. Past the elevators you’ll find The Bistro.
Bonus context: the hotel is part of Bayfront Landing—two hotels, a big convention center, ~400 rooms, five restaurants, and enough to keep you busy for days.
The Room: Newer Courtyard Design, Great Mixed View
We had a Deluxe Guest Room, 2 Queen, Courtyard View on the 5th floor. Clean, modern Courtyard design with:
- Two queen beds
- Chair with ottoman
- Good-sized desk
- Bathroom with stand-up shower
I just wish the TV was bigger. Some newer Courtyards have larger screens. But our view actually made up for it: the courtyard, the Sheraton next door, the Bicentennial Tower, the marina, and a slice of the bay. A little bit of everything.
Wi-Fi & Tech: Easy Wins for Teens
Connecting my laptop, phone, iPad, and Nintendo Switch was fast and painless. Streaming and gaming were smooth with no hiccups. My Switch plugged into the TV right away.
Like most hotels, I wanted more outlets at the desk. My power bar saved the day (as always). Pro tip: pack one if your family travels with lots of devices. Overall, Wi-Fi performance is a big plus in this Courtyard Erie Bayfront review—especially for streaming and gaming.
👉 Curious where this hotel ranks? Check my Hotel Wi-Fi Speed Leaderboard.
Pool Vibes at the Courtyard Erie Bayfront (Infinity Pool Highlight)
This Courtyard has two pools:
- Indoor pool + hot tub with bay views (I bet winter views are epic when the bay is frozen).
- Outdoor infinity pool overlooking Presque Isle Bay—easily one of the coolest pools I’ve seen at a Courtyard. Plenty of Adirondack chairs and loungers up top, with another lower outdoor level of tables and chairs.
The gym is a good size with lots of cardio machines and free weights—solid for a Courtyard.
Food & Dining: On-Site + Walkable Picks
We ate dinner at Shoreline Bar & Grille (11:30 a.m.–10:00 p.m.). Bay views from inside, plus a big patio with fire tables, couches, and umbrellas. Food was a hit:
- Me + my sister: adult grilled cheese + fries
- Dad: smoked turkey club (house kettle chips)
- Mom: mahi mahi tacos (winner)
The Bistro is mornings only (since there’s a full restaurant). We slept in and skipped breakfast.
Walkable options (5–10 minutes):
- Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant – Erie’s only fresh oyster bar.
- Pier 6 Rooftop – street tacos, burgers, fireplaces, views.
- Two45 Waterfront Grille (inside Sheraton via skybridge) – excellent breakfast reviews.
- Oliver’s Beer Garden (outdoor, summer vibes, live music + food truck) & Oliver’s Rooftop (fine-dining views).
Short drive must-tries:
- Sara’s Diner (seasonal, by Presque Isle State Park): burgers, dogs, curly fries, onion rings, milkshakes, and the orange sherbet/vanilla twist soft serve.
- Romolo Chocolates – my fave was the sponge candy dipped in milk chocolate.
- The Lawrence Park Dinor – classic train-car “dinor,” 8 a.m.–2 p.m. (still on my list).
Things to Do Near the Hotel
Right around Bayfront Landing (walkable):
- Bicentennial Tower – ride up for 360° views of the bay and city.
- Scallywags Pirate Cruise – super interactive; younger kids will love it.
- Fishing & Charters – boats and shore spots all around the waterfront.
- Oliver’s Bayfront Mini Golf – across from the Sheraton.
- Erie Maritime Museum / U.S. Brig Niagara – great exhibits (the ship is being repaired until 2026).
- Downtown Erie – ~15–20 minute walk for shops, eats, and entertainment.
A short drive away:
- Waldameer Park & Water World – 100+ rides and slides; free admission and parking (pay per ride/Water World).
- Presque Isle State Park – sandy beaches, trails, and lake views for days.
Map: Things to Do Near Courtyard Erie Bayfront
Explore everything around the Courtyard Erie Bayfront—from walkable restaurants to top attractions like Presque Isle State Park and Bicentennial Tower. This map helps you plan your stay and see exactly what’s nearby.
Final Verdict: Courtyard Erie Bayfront Review – Is It Worth It?
If you’re deciding whether the Courtyard Erie Bayfront is worth it, the location on the water, the skybridge connection to the convention center and Sheraton, and that outdoor infinity pool make this one of the most unique hotel stays in Erie. Add in walkable restaurants, a solid gym, and easy Wi-Fi/console setup, and you’ve got a great base for families—especially teens who want pool time + things to do nearby.
I still wish rooms had bigger TVs and more outlets, but overall? The Courtyard Erie Bayfront earns a This Teen Travelz Approved from me.
Credits & Thanks
Huge thanks to Ryan and Brianna for hosting me and my family. Opportunities like this help me share honest teen reviews and make memories together. Appreciate you believing in This Teen Travelz!
– Mateo / This Teen Travelz
FAQs: Courtyard Erie Bayfront Review
Is the Courtyard Erie Bayfront a good hotel for families?
Yes — this hotel is a great choice for families, especially those traveling with teens. The pool setup, walkable location, and variety of nearby activities make it easy to stay entertained without needing to drive everywhere.
Does the Courtyard Erie Bayfront have an infinity pool?
Yes — one of the standout features of this hotel is its outdoor infinity pool overlooking Presque Isle Bay. It’s easily one of the coolest pool setups you’ll find at a Courtyard property and gives the hotel a more resort-like vibe.
Is the Courtyard Erie Bayfront within walking distance of restaurants?
Definitely. There are several walkable dining options within 5–10 minutes, including waterfront spots, rooftop restaurants, and casual places. You’ve got plenty of variety without needing to leave the area.
How is the Wi-Fi at the Courtyard Erie Bayfront?
Wi-Fi was fast and reliable during my stay. I was able to connect multiple devices, stream content, and use my Nintendo Switch without any issues — which is always a big win from a teen perspective.
What are the best things to do near the Courtyard Erie Bayfront?
There’s a lot to do nearby. Within walking distance, you’ve got the Bicentennial Tower, waterfront activities, mini golf, and boat tours. A short drive gets you to Presque Isle State Park and Waldameer Park, which are both worth checking out.
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