Lakeside Travel Guide

Lakeside is a charming Ohio Erie shore west destination with top museums, hiking/biking routes, natural attractions, delicious food, and much more to explore. Discover everything you need to know with our ultimate travel guide.


Introduction to Lakeside

Lakeside is a beautiful and intimate community located on the shore of Lake Erie, in Ohio’s Erie shore west region of the Midwest. This picturesque town is a popular vacation spot for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxing getaway and an opportunity to reconnect with nature while enjoying a variety of fun activities and attractions.

The town has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its many museums, historical sites, and landmarks. Visitors can also take part in exciting outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. Lakeside is also famous for its local cuisine, charming shops, and stunning lakeside views.

List of Places to Visit in Lakeside

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lakeside offers several cultural attractions for visitors interested in history and the arts. Some of the top museums and historical places include:

  • The Marblehead Lighthouse: Built-in 1822, this iconic lighthouse is one of the oldest and tallest on the Great Lakes. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of Lake Erie.

  • Hoover Auditorium: This rustic, open-air venue regularly hosts concerts, plays, and other live performances. It has been a fixture in Lakeside for over 80 years and is considered an iconic part of the town’s culture.

  • Heritage Hall: This museum showcases the history of Lakeside through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.

Natural Attractions of Lakeside: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lakeside is home to several natural attractions that offer visitors a chance to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures. Some of the most notable natural attractions include:

  • Lakeside Daisy State Nature Preserve: This nature preserve is home to one of the world’s largest remaining populations of the Lakeside Daisy, a rare and endangered plant. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the plant and its habitat.

  • Johnson’s Island: This historic site was once a prison camp during the Civil War and is now a popular destination for birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking.

  • East Harbor State Park: This beautiful park offers over 2,500 acres of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, boating, and beachcombing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lakeside

Lakeside has several scenic hiking and biking routes that offer visitors a chance to explore the town’s natural beauty. Some of the top routes include:

  • Lakeside Chautauqua Nature Trail: This easy, ¾ mile trail takes hikers through a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and wetlands.

  • Ottawa County Water Trail: This 28-mile long trail is ideal for kayaking or canoeing and offers stunning views of the Lake Erie shore.

  • North Coast Inland Trail: This 118-mile long trail runs from Toledo, Ohio, to Lorain, Ohio, and passes through Lakeside. Visitors can bike, walk, or jog along the trail and enjoy scenic views of the area’s countryside.

Best Things to Do in Lakeside: Activities and Tours

Lakeside offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the must-try activities include:

  • Lakeside Symphony Orchestra: This critically-acclaimed orchestra performs classical and pops concerts throughout the summer months.

  • Virtual Reality Experience: Experience the latest in virtual reality technology at the Lakeside Virtual Reality Experience.

  • Wine Tasting: Visit the Firelands Winery Tasting Room and enjoy a selection of award-winning wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lakeside

Day 1: Explore Lakeside’s cultural attractions, including the Marblehead Lighthouse and Hoover Auditorium.

Day 2: Take a hike or bike ride along the Lakeside Chautauqua Nature Trail and explore the town’s natural beauty.

Day 3: Experience the Lakeside Virtual Reality Experience and try the latest in virtual reality technology.

Day 4: Enjoy a day at the East Harbor State Park, with plenty of outdoor activities on offer.

Day 5: Take a guided tour of the Johnson’s Island Historic Site and learn about its fascinating history.

Day 6: Taste some award-winning wines and enjoy the scenery at the Firelands Winery Tasting Room.

Day 7: End your trip with a relaxing day at the beach or exploring the town’s charming shops and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Lakeside

Must-Try Dishes

Lakeside is known for its delicious local cuisine, with several must-try dishes. Some of the top dishes include:

  • Walleye Sandwich: A local favorite, this sandwich is made with freshly caught walleye fillets and comes served on a buttered and toasted bun.

  • Great Lakes Shrimp Salad: A delicious and refreshing salad made with locally-sourced shrimp, tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumber.

  • Perch Chowder: A thick and creamy chowder made with locally caught perch and garden-fresh vegetables.

Local Beverages

Lakeside’s local beverages emphasize the area’s rich agricultural heritage. Some of the must-try local beverages include:

  • Catawba Island Brewing Co. Beers: A variety of craft beers brewed on Catawba Island.

  • Heineman’s Winery Wines: Established in 1888, this winery is located on South Bass Island and offers a selection of award-winning wines.

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

Lakeside has several accommodation options for visitors, including:

  • Hotel Lakeside: A historic hotel with a variety of rooms and suites, some with views of the lake.

  • Hotel Lakeside Cottages: Charming cottages with one or two bedrooms located near the hotel.

  • Chautauqua Home Rentals: A variety of private homes and apartments available for rent throughout Lakeside.

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

Lakeside offers several unique souvenirs and local products for visitors to take home as a reminder of their trip. Some of the top items include:

  • Marblehead Lighthouse Souvenirs: From t-shirts to coffee mugs, there are plenty of souvenirs available to commemorate your visit to the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse.

  • Catawba Island Winery Wines: Take home a few bottles of award-winning wine from the Catawba Island Winery for the perfect gift or personal souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Lakeside

Lakeside has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its various traditions and customs, including:

  • Lakeside Chautauqua: An interdisciplinary, religious, and cultural organization that hosts performances, lectures, and workshops in the community.

  • Labor Day Arts and Crafts Show: A popular annual event that showcases local artisans and their handmade crafts.

Best Time to Visit Lakeside

The best time to visit Lakeside is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny, and the area’s numerous outdoor activities and events are in full swing. However, visitors should be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lakeside

Do:

  • Do take a tour of the Marblehead Lighthouse for stunning views of Lake Erie.

  • Do visit the Johnson’s Island Historic Site for a unique look into Civil War history.

  • Do take time to explore the charming shops and restaurants in downtown Lakeside.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

  • Don’t litter or damage any of Lakeside’s natural or cultural resources.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lakeside

Lakeside is a safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate safety precautions when enjoying outdoor activities or exploring the town after dark.

Health in Lakeside

Visitors should bring appropriate medications and supplies if needed and consult their healthcare provider before traveling to Lakeside.

Getting to Lakeside: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lakeside

  • Toledo Express Airport (TOL) - 58 miles from Lakeside

  • Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport (CLE) - 85 miles from Lakeside

Bus Stations Near Lakeside

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Sandusky, Ohio - 24 miles from Lakeside

  • Miller Ferry Bus Station in Catawba Island, Ohio - 2 miles from Lakeside

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Lakeside by taking Interstate 90 or the Ohio Turnpike.

How to Get Around in Lakeside

The best way to get around in Lakeside is by walking, biking, or driving. Visitors can rent bikes in town or bring their own. There are also several car rental agencies located in the area.

Where to Go Next from Lakeside: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Put-in-Bay: A popular tourist destination located on South Bass Island, known for its Lake Erie views and lively nightlife.

  • Cedar Point: An amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio, that features some of the world’s best roller coasters.

Conclusion

Lakeside, Ohio, is a charming town that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature, explore Ohio’s rich history and culture, and enjoy a variety of fun activities and attractions. From its scenic hiking and biking routes to its delicious local cuisine and charming shops, Lakeside has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has been helpful in planning your visit to this beautiful Ohio destination.

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