Lake County Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, and more in Lake County, Ohio, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lake County

Nestled in Greater Cleveland in Northeast Ohio, Lake County boasts of beautiful natural attractions, culturally important museums and historical landmarks, and a vibrant culinary scene that showcases the best of local ingredients and traditional Ohio dishes. Visitors can spend their days hiking or biking through scenic routes, exploring museums and galleries, sampling local wines, and even picking their own fruit in one of the many orchards in the area. This comprehensive guide to Lake County covers all the must-see attractions, top things to do, where to eat and stay, transportation options, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Lake County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most significant historical sites in Lake County is the James A Garfield National Historic Site, the restored home of the United States’ 20th president. Visitors can take a guided tour of the 20-room home and learn about Garfield’s life and career. Another must-visit cultural attraction is the Lake County History Center, which houses fascinating exhibits on the county’s history, including a replica of a 19th-century general store and a one-room schoolhouse.

Natural Attractions of Lake County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lake Erie Bluffs is a stunning 600-acre park that features spectacular views of Lake Erie, from towering cliffs to a pristine beach. The park is also home to the Lake Erie Bluffs Observation Tower, which offers panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings. Squires Castle is another natural landmark in the area, a stunning castle-like structure surrounded by beautiful forests and trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake County

Lake County boasts of several popular hiking and biking routes, including the Greenway Corridor Trail, a 4.4-mile trail that follows an old railway route through Painesville, Concord Township, and Painesville Township. The Lake Metroparks Greenway Trail is another beautiful trail that stretches for 8 miles from Concord Township to Painesville Township.

Best Things to Do in Lake County: Activities and Tours

For a unique experience, visitors can pick their own fruits and berries at one of the several local orchards, including Patterson Fruit Farms, where apples, peaches, cherries, and strawberries are available for picking depending on the season. Wine enthusiasts can visit one of the many wineries in the area, including Debonne Vineyards, one of the largest wineries in Ohio. Visitors can also take a scenic hot air balloon tour of Lake County or go on a fishing charter in Lake Erie for a fun-filled day with family and friends.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake County

Day 1: Visit James A Garfield National Historic Site and Lake Erie Bluffs Day 2: Explore the Lake County History Center and Squires Castle Day 3: Hike or bike along the Greenway Corridor Trail Day 4: Pick fruits and berries at Patterson Fruit Farms Day 5: Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the wineries in the area Day 6: Take a hot air balloon tour or go on a fishing charter Day 7: Relax and unwind at one of the local spas or beaches

Food and Drink Scene of Lake County

Must-Try Dishes

Lake County is known for several traditional Ohio dishes, including pierogies, sausages, and burgers. Wilson’s Sandwich Shop, located in downtown Willoughby, is known for its classic burgers, milkshakes, and fries. Sokolowski’s University Inn, located in Cleveland near Lake County, is famous for its Polish cuisine, including pierogies, kielbasa, and stuffed cabbage.

Local Beverages

Lake County is also home to several breweries and wineries. Goldhorn Brewery in Cleveland is one of the most popular breweries in the area, offering a wide array of craft beers. Debonne Vineyards, one of Ohio’s largest wineries, is located in Madison and offers wine tastings, tours, and a gift shop with unique wine accessories.

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

Visitors to Lake County have a variety of accommodation options to choose from. For those on a budget, the Red Roof Inn Cleveland East - Willoughby offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a more luxurious stay at one of the many bed and breakfasts in the area, including the Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub, a stunning mansion with beautifully appointed rooms and plenty of amenities.

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

Visitors can bring home a piece of Lake County by purchasing locally made crafts, such as pottery, glassware, and jewelry. The Lake County Visitors Bureau has a gift shop that sells unique souvenirs and locally sourced products, such as homemade jams, sauces, and honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Lake County

Lake County has deep-seated traditions that are celebrated annually, such as the Strawberry Festival in Painesville Township, the Kirtland Kiwanis Strawberry Festival, and the Lake County Fair. The area is also known for its wineries and breweries, which host several events throughout the year, including wine tastings, festivals, and music concerts.

Best Time to Visit Lake County

The best time to visit Lake County is during the summer months, from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny. The fall season, from September to October, is also ideal for a visit, as visitors can admire the breathtaking fall foliage and attend harvest festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake County

Do:

  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking or biking the trails
  • Try the local cuisine, including pierogies and sausages
  • Visit the local wineries and breweries
  • Attend the annual festivals and events
  • Take a day trip to Cleveland

Don’t:

  • Litter in the parks or on the beaches
  • Ignore safety guidelines when hiking or biking
  • Forget to tip at restaurants and cafes
  • Smoke in public areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake County

Lake County is a safe area with low crime rates, but it is still recommended to take precautions and not leave valuables in plain sight in cars or public places. Visitors are also advised to stick to designated trails when hiking or biking and to carry a map or a GPS device.

Health in Lake County

Visitors to Lake County should ensure they have adequate medical coverage for their trip. There are several health facilities in the area, including the University Hospital Madison Health Center.

Getting to Lake County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake County

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is the closest airport to Lake County, about 20 miles away. Akron-Canton Regional Airport is located about 75 miles south of Lake County and is another option for visitors.

Bus Stations Near Lake County

Greyhound bus services are available in Cleveland, and Lake County has several taxi and shuttle service companies that provide transportation to and from the airport and other destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Lake County by car via several major highways, including I-90 and I-271, or by train via the Cleveland Amtrak Station.

How to Get Around in Lake County

Public transportation in Lake County is limited, and visitors are advised to rent a car or use a taxi service to get around. Biking and hiking are also viable options for exploring the scenic routes and trails in the area.

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

Visitors can extend their trip by visiting nearby destinations, such as Cleveland, where they can explore the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or attend a Cleveland Cavaliers basketball game. Cedar Point, a premier amusement park, is also located in Sandusky, about two hours away from Lake County.

Conclusion

With its beautiful natural attractions, rich cultural heritage and vibrant food scene, Lake County is a must-visit destination for visitors to Ohio. This comprehensive guide highlights all the top things to do, places to visit, where to eat and stay, and transportation options for a memorable trip to Lake County, Ohio.



    Mentor
    Willoughby