Westlake Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Westlake, Ohio. Our travel guide covers the natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, safety tips, and transport options in Westlake.


Explore Westlake, Ohio: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Located in Cuyahoga County, in Greater Cleveland, in Northeast Ohio, Westlake is a city known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From stunning outdoor vistas to historical landmarks, Westlake offers something for everyone.

Introduction to Westlake

Westlake is a city with a population of around 32,000 people. It was originally settled by Native Americans before being colonized by European settlers. Today, the city is known for its thriving economy, excellent schools, and friendly community.

List of Places to Visit in Westlake

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or cultural attractions, Westlake has plenty of options to explore. Here are the top places to visit in Westlake:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Crocker Park - A shopping center with more than 130 stores and restaurants.
  • Clague House Museum - A historic house built in 1876 that now functions as a museum.
  • Westlake Historical Society Museum - An excellent collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history of Westlake.

Natural Attractions of Westlake: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bradley Woods Reservation - A popular spot for birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking.
  • Cleveland Metroparks - A vast network of parks and hiking trails in nearby communities.
  • Lake Erie Nature and Science Center - A nonprofit educational center focused on environmental education and wildlife rehabilitation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Westlake

Westlake has plenty of scenic hiking and biking trails that traverse the city’s beautiful natural landscapes. The following are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Westlake:

  • Porter Creek Trail - A two-mile paved trail that runs along a scenic creek.
  • Bradley Woods Reservation - A popular spot for nature walks and hiking.
  • North Coast Inland Trail - A 13-mile paved trail that passes through Westlake and several other nearby communities.

Best Things to Do in Westlake: Activities and Tours

From family-friendly fun to cultural attractions, Westlake offers plenty of exciting things to do. Here are some highlights:

  • Westlake Recreation Center - A family-friendly facility with a gymnasium, pools, and fitness classes.
  • Rocky River Reservation - A scenic park with numerous hiking trails and an ice skating rink.
  • Crocker Park Shopping Center - A popular shopping destination in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Westlake

Day 1: Visit the Clague House Museum and learn about the history of Westlake.

Day 2: Explore the nature trails at Bradley Woods Reservation.

Day 3: Take a scenic drive to see the sights along Lake Erie’s shoreline.

Day 4: Spend the day shopping and dining at Crocker Park.

Day 5: Visit the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center to learn about the local wildlife.

Day 6: Enjoy a day of outdoor activities at Cleveland Metroparks.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy a leisurely day in the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Westlake

Westlake has a diverse food scene that draws from several ethnic and cultural influences. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogies - A popular Polish dish made with seasoned mashed potatoes and cheese filling.
  • Cleveland-style barbecue - A type of barbecue that is unique to the Cleveland area and typically includes meaty spare ribs and a spicy sauce.
  • Potato pancakes - A variation of the traditional pancake that incorporates grated potatoes, flour, and eggs.

Local Beverages

  • Great Lakes Brewing Company - A popular brewery that produces a wide array of craft beers and ales.
  • Cleveland Whiskey - A local distillery that specializes in bourbon and rye whiskey.

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

Westlake has a variety of lodging options to choose from, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Westlake include:

  • Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Westlake - A modern hotel with an indoor pool and fitness center.
  • Hampton Inn Cleveland-Westlake - A hotel with a convenient location and free breakfast.
  • Sonesta ES Suites Cleveland Westlake - A family-friendly hotel with spacious suites and a pool area.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to remember your trip to Westlake, consider purchasing items such as:

  • Pottery and ceramics from local artisans.
  • Handmade jewelry and accessories.
  • Local food products such as hot sauce and pickles.

Local Culture and Customs of Westlake

Westlake has a diverse population that includes a mix of ethnic and religious groups. The city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Westlake

The best time to visit Westlake is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the outdoor activities are plentiful. However, spring and fall also offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Westlake

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the city’s natural surroundings and outdoor attractions.
  • Disrespect local residents or businesses.
  • Be careless or reckless during outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Westlake

Westlake is a relatively safe city, but visitors should still take basic precautions to ensure their safety. These include:

  • Locking doors and windows at night.
  • Avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • Paying attention to surroundings and being aware of any potential dangers.

Health in Westlake

Westlake has excellent healthcare facilities, including several hospitals and medical clinics. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before visiting the city.

Getting to Westlake: Transportation Options and Logistics

Westlake is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus. The following are the major transportation options available:

Airports Near Westlake

  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

Bus Stations Near Westlake

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Megabus

Other Options

  • Renting a car
  • Taking a taxi or ride-sharing service

How to Get Around in Westlake

Westlake is a relatively small city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, as well as local bus services.

Where to Go Next from Westlake: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Westlake is conveniently located near several other popular destinations in the area. Some nearby excursions to consider include:

  • Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in nearby Cleveland.
  • Explore the Amish Country in Holmes County.
  • Hike the trails at Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or cultural attractions, Westlake has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages. With top-rated museums, scenic trails, and unique food and drink options, it’s no wonder Westlake has become a beloved destination for travelers from all over the world.