Geauga County Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Geauga County with this comprehensive tour guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Geauga County

Geauga County, located in Greater Cleveland, in Northeast Ohio, in the Midwest region of the United States of America, in North America, is a popular destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. The county features stunning natural attractions, including parks, preserves, and scenic views, as well as culturally important attractions such as museums and historical places.

List of Places to Visit in Geauga County

Here are some of the must-visit places in Geauga County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The James A. Garfield National Historic Site: A museum dedicated to President James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, and his family. The site includes the Garfield home, museum, and visitor center.
  • Century Village Museum: A living history museum showcasing life in 19th-century Geauga County through exhibits, artifacts, and demonstrations.
  • The Little Mountain Country Club: A golf course and event venue located on the former estate of John D. Rockefeller.

Natural Attractions of Geauga County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Geauga Park District: A collection of more than 30 parks and preserves with activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Punderson State Park: The largest state park in Geauga County, featuring a lake, camping, hiking trails, and a 1960s-era lodge with rooms and cabins for rent.
  • The Holden Arboretum: A 3,600-acre public garden with over 20 miles of hiking trails, tree canopy walks, and a butterfly garden.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Geauga County

Geauga County is home to a variety of hiking and biking trails, including:

  • The Buckeye Trail: A 1,444-mile trail that passes through Geauga County, provides scenic views and is great for multi-day trips.
  • The Maple Highlands Trail: A 21-mile paved trail for walking, biking, and rollerblading. It connects the towns of Chardon and Mantua through rural countryside.
  • The North Country National Scenic Trail: A 4,600-mile trail that crosses the United States from New York to North Dakota. The trail passes through Geauga County and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Geauga County: Activities and Tours

  • Head to Patterson Fruit Farm for apple picking, cider pressing, and hayrides.
  • Explore the Cuyahoga River, which flows through nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with a canoe or kayak rental from Chagrin River Outfitters.
  • Take a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque Amish countryside with Buckin’ Ohio.

Week-Long Itinerary for Geauga County

Day 1: Visit the James A. Garfield National Historic Site and the Century Village Museum.

Day 2: Explore the Geauga Park District and Holden Arboretum.

Day 3: Experience the rural lifestyle of the Amish with a visit to their shops and farms in nearby Middlefield.

Day 4: Hike the Buckeye Trail and enjoy the scenic vistas.

Day 5: Play a round of golf at the Little Mountain Country Club and have lunch at their on-site restaurant.

Day 6: Enjoy a relaxing day at Punderson State Park, or take a guided fishing tour on nearby Chagrin River.

Day 7: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Amish countryside with Buckin’ Ohio.

Food and Drink Scene of Geauga County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Apple cider donuts from Patterson Fruit Farm.
  • Homemade maple syrup from Burton, one of the largest maple syrup producing regions in the country.
  • The classic Sloppy Joe sandwich from the Chardon Tavern.

Local Beverages

  • Beer from the Chardon BrewWorks & Eatery and the Jilbert Winery.
  • Coffee from the Bean & the Baker and Solstice Roasters.
  • Homemade apple cider from Patterson Fruit Farm.

Where to Stay in Geauga County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Red Maple Inn: A cozy bed and breakfast located in Burton, which is known as the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country.
  • Punderson Manor Lodge: A 1960’s-era lodge located in Punderson State Park, featuring rooms and cabins for rent.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites: A modern hotel located in the city of Cleveland, just a short drive from Geauga County.

What to Buy in Geauga County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade wooden furniture and crafts from Amish County shops.
  • Homemade maple syrup and other maple products from the Burton syrup shacks.
  • Local fruits and vegetables from farm markets, such as Patterson Fruit Farm and Rittman Orchards Farm Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Geauga County

Geauga County is home to a large Amish community, and visitors should be respectful of their culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Geauga County

The best time to visit Geauga County is in the fall when the leaves change colors and the air is crisp. Outdoor activities, including hiking and apple picking, are also popular in the fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Geauga County

Do:

  • Respect the Amish culture and customs.
  • Visit the maple syrup shacks in Burton during the spring.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities of Geauga County.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private Amish property.
  • Swim or fish in prohibited areas of the parks and preserves.
  • Litter in Geauga County parks and public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Geauga County

Geauga County is a safe destination with low crime rates and friendly locals.

Health in Geauga County

Visitors should take precautions for tick-borne illnesses, as Lyme disease is prevalent in the area. It is recommended to wear long sleeves and pants and use insect repellent when hiking or spending time outdoors.

Getting to Geauga County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Geauga County

  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: Located in Cleveland, Ohio, approximately 35 miles from Geauga County.
  • Akron-Canton Regional Airport: Located in North Canton, Ohio, approximately 50 miles from Geauga County.

Bus Stations Near Geauga County

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in Cleveland, Ohio, approximately 35 miles from Geauga County.

Other Options

Renting a car or hiring a private driver for transportation is recommended for getting around Geauga County and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Geauga County

Renting a car and navigating the county with GPS is the most convenient way to get around. Taxi and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Geauga County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park: One of Ohio’s treasures, located approximately 25 miles south of Geauga County.
  • Cleveland: The city offers a variety of attractions, such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, just a short drive from Geauga County.

Conclusion

Geauga County offers visitors a unique mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. From the peaceful farmlands of the Amish to the sprawling parks and preserves, there is something for everyone in Geauga County.

Geauga County, Ohio Geauga County, Ohio


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