Lakewood Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in Lakewood, Ohio with this comprehensive travel guide, including top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink options, where to stay, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Lakewood, Ohio

Located in Cuyahoga County, Greater Cleveland, Lakewood is an exciting destination in Northeast Ohio that has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and beautiful natural surroundings. This comprehensive travel guide will take you on a virtual tour of Lakewood, highlighting the top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink options, accommodations, and more.

Introduction to Lakewood

Lakewood is a city that offers something for everyone, from history buffs and nature lovers to foodies and adventure seekers. The city is famous for its diverse neighborhoods, picturesque parks, and cultural events. Whether you are visiting Lakewood for the first time or are a local looking to explore your own backyard, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this exciting city.

List of Places to Visit in Lakewood

Here is a comprehensive list of places to visit in Lakewood:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lakewood Historical Society
  • Lakewood Solstice Steps
  • Lakewood Park
  • Lakewood Public Library
  • The Beck Center for the Arts

Natural Attractions of Lakewood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rocky River Reservation
  • Lakewood Park Lakefront
  • Rocky River Park
  • Edgewater Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lakewood

Lakewood is home to many beautiful parks and trails that offer excellent opportunities for hiking and biking. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Lakewood Park Loop Trail
  • Rocky River Reservation Loop Trail
  • Lake to Lake Trail

Best Things to Do in Lakewood: Activities and Tours

There is never a shortage of things to see and do in Lakewood. Some of the top activities and tours include:

  • Segway Tours of Lakewood
  • Lakewood Farmers Market
  • Lakewood Wine and Craft Beer Festival
  • Lakewood Alive Summer Fest

Week-Long Itinerary for Lakewood

If you are planning to stay in Lakewood for a week, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Lakewood Historical Society
Day 2 Explore Lakewood Park and Lakefront
Day 3 Hike or bike Rocky River Reservation
Day 4 Take a Segway tour of Lakewood
Day 5 Visit Beck Center for the Arts
Day 6 Spend a day at Edgewater Beach
Day 7 Shop at Lakewood Farmers Market

Food and Drink Scene of Lakewood

Lakewood has a thriving food and drink scene that is worth exploring. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogi from Pierogi Palace
  • Goat Cheese Fritters from Deagan’s Kitchen & Bar
  • Lakewood Burger from Jammy Buggars

Local Beverages

  • Beer Flight from Buckeye Beer Engine
  • Lakewood Lemonade from Lakewood Village Tavern
  • Hot Toddy from Mahall’s 20 Lanes

Where to Stay in Lakewood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a high-end hotel, Lakewood has plenty of options to choose from. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • Cleveland Hostel
  • The Glidden House
  • Hyatt Regency Cleveland

What to Buy in Lakewood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Lakewood, here are some ideas:

  • Lakewood T-shirt from CLE Clothing Co.
  • Handmade jewelry from Eleven Eleven Gifts
  • Vintage vinyl records from My Mind’s Eye Records

Local Culture and Customs of Lakewood

Lakewood is a diverse city that celebrates its culture through various events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the popular cultural events include:

  • Lakewood Arts Festival
  • Lakewood Summer Meltdown
  • Lakewood Celtic Festival

Best Time to Visit Lakewood

The best time to visit Lakewood is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and many fun outdoor activities take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lakewood

Do:

  • Do visit Rocky River Reservation for a scenic hike or bike ride.
  • Do try the local beer and food at the Buckeye Beer Engine.
  • Do attend the Lakewood Arts Festival for a taste of local culture and art.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the parks or beaches as it can harm the environment.
  • Don’t forget to tip your server at the restaurants, it is the custom in the United States.
  • Don’t miss the chance to see a show at The Beck Center for the Arts.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lakewood

Lakewood is a safe city, but like any other urban area, visitors should be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

Health in Lakewood

Lakewood has numerous hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to cater to the health needs of locals and visitors.

Getting to Lakewood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lakewood is easily accessible by air, road, and public transportation.

Airports Near Lakewood

  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
  • Akron-Canton Regional Airport (CAK)

Bus Stations Near Lakewood

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Lakefront Lines

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station

How to Get Around in Lakewood

Lakewood has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. However, the best way to explore the city is on foot or by renting a bike.

Where to Go Next from Lakewood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lakewood is a beautiful city that is surrounded by several nearby destinations worth exploring. Some of the top excursions include:

  • Cleveland
  • Rocky River
  • Westlake

Conclusion

Lakewood is a city that has so much to offer, from its beautiful parks and hiking trails to its vibrant food and drink scene and cultural events. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Lakewood and make the most of your stay. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Lakewood today!