Posts in category 'Northeast Ohio'
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July
13
13
The 10 Best Places to Kayak Near Cleveland, Mapped
It's no secret that Cleveland is a haven for water sports enthusiasts! Not only are we tucked along the shoreline of Lake Erie, but we are also surrounded by smaller lakes, rivers and waterfalls that make exploring an absolute treat. If you're looking to hit the water on a canoe, in a kayak or even on a stand-up paddle board, there are endless options at your fingertips.
We rounded up 10 of the most beautiful and accessible paddling destinations near Cleveland, as well as several great rental options if you don't have a vessel of your own. So, pack up your swimsuit and your water shoes, and get ready for a fun day in the sun. Adventure awaits!
Put-In-Bay is an adventurer's paradise. Not only is it one of Ohio's most popular summertime getaways, it's also a fantastic place to go camping. Since it's an island, there are naturally lots of opportunities for swimming and boating — each more picturesque than the last. Refuge Harbor, Squaw Harbor and Oak Point State Park are all fantastic places to start!
North Coast Harbor is conveniently located near FirstEnergy Stadium and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame! Set off from the dock for a paddling trip against a spectacular backdrop of the Cleveland skyline. Once you're done, you can relax on the green space next to the harbor and enjoy a picnic. Your best bet for rentals in the area is the Rock & Dock, which offers paddle boat, jet ski, kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Rocky River
Photo courtesy of 41° North
The Rocky River winds through the western suburbs of Cleveland, eventually feeding into Lake Erie. A trip here will allow casual paddlers to explore the Cleveland Metroparks' Rocky River Reservation, marveling at the pristine water, magnificent shale cliffs and lush greenery. 41° North is the most convenient rental destination if you're planning to paddle the Rocky River, but you can also easily venture to other nearby paddling destinations. The rental shop offers high-quality sea kayaking instruction for all levels and offers a wide range of affordable ways to get in the water, including hourly rentals, 2.5-hour sunset tours, full-day outings and multi-day adventures.The Vermilion-Lorain Water Trail
Accessible enough for beginners but scenic enough to thrill experts, the 27-mile-long Vermilion-Lorain Water Trail is one of the area's most popular kayaking routes. It's one of just 10 waterways designated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, comprised of portions of the Vermillion River, the Black River and a stretch of Lake Erie. That means you'll have the chance to try both river and open water travel along the shore!Cuyahoga Valley National Park
One of Ohio's most beloved natural gems, Cuyahoga Valley National Park boasts lush foliage, abundant hiking trails, and lots of opportunities for water-bound adventure along the 100-mile stretch of the Cuyahoga River. There are three different paddler access points for the river within the park, including the Boston Shore Visitor Center, Red Lock and Station Road Bridge Trailhead. The river offers more of a challenge, so beginners should venture to Cuyahoga Fall's Burning River Adventures, which offers guided tours along stretches of the river.Hinckley Lake
Situated within the Hinckley Reservation, this 90-acre lake is a little slice of paradise for boaters and paddle boarders alike. The mirror-like surface of the water makes it easy to traverse, and the lake is also full of fish in case you'd like to bring a rod with you! The hub for rentals in the area is the Hinckley Lake Boathouse — which provides motorized and non-motorized options for your enjoyment.Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park
Photo courtesy of Lake Metroparks
Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park is situated in the heart of Lake County on Lake Erie's shore, and is an easily accessible option for those wanting to try their hand at open-water kayaking on the lake. The park offers rental options including sit-on-top ocean kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, and you can also register for private lessons or sunset trips!The Flats: The Lake Erie Junction of the Cuyahoga River
The Flats is one of Cleveland's most culturally rich and historic neighborhoods, and it's also a fantastic spot to enjoy water sports on Lake Erie! This area is home to the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, and offers plenty of opportunities for scenic sunset kayaking. Stop into Great Lakes Watersports for your rentals, which are priced per hour!Put-In-Bay
Put-In-Bay is an adventurer's paradise. Not only is it one of Ohio's most popular summertime getaways, it's also a fantastic place to go camping. Since it's an island, there are naturally lots of opportunities for swimming and boating — each more picturesque than the last. Refuge Harbor, Squaw Harbor and Oak Point State Park are all fantastic places to start!
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is considered one of the most idyllic destinations in Ohio, featuring pristine sand beaches, trees and foliage from the Huntington Reservation and stunning views of the vast lake and the distant Cleveland skyline. This spectacular paddling destination is just a half hour from downtown Cleveland, and well worth the trip! Once you're done with your Lake Erie adventure, enjoy a meal in one of the picnic structures on the beach, from which you can watch the surf and the surrounding wildlife.Wendy Park
Situated on the edge of downtown Cleveland, the 22-acre Wendy Park is an urban oasis and a wonderful place for lovers of nature to escape from the city for a little bit. Launch your kayak into the bay for a leisurely midday paddle, and keep your eye out for birds! The park is home to 260 recorded bird species. There are volleyball courts on the shore in case you and your companions are up for a quick game before or after kayaking.North Coast Harbor
North Coast Harbor is conveniently located near FirstEnergy Stadium and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame! Set off from the dock for a paddling trip against a spectacular backdrop of the Cleveland skyline. Once you're done, you can relax on the green space next to the harbor and enjoy a picnic. Your best bet for rentals in the area is the Rock & Dock, which offers paddle boat, jet ski, kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Enjoy your kayaking adventure!
July
6
6
The 10 Most Picturesque Waterfalls Near Cleveland, Mapped
TLC once sang "don't go chasing waterfalls," but they must not have lived in Cleveland. In this gem of a city, we are lucky to be surrounded by abundant natural beauty, including a number of sparkling waterfalls within easy reach. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few moments, chasing waterfalls might be just what the doctor ordered.
We rounded up 10 incredible waterfall hikes (or leisurely walks) in the area, so grab your camera, your loved ones, your favorite picnic lunch, and explore one of these local treasures!
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is among the most popular attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and there's no mystery as to why. The spectacular falls cascade 65 feet into a lush gorge surrounded by natural moss and colorful foliage. The boardwalk allows you to view the waterfall from an elevated platform — and you can also take stairs down to the gorge to explore the sandstone below. There are two ways to get there. You can either start at the Brandywine Gorge Trailhead and hike the easy 1.5 miles to the platform, or extend the hike by parking at Stanford House and walk 3.8 miles to your destination. The longer hike takes you past gorgeous vistas, colorful wildflowers and serene forests, so you will hardly notice the additional distance.
The falls are a wonderful place to spend a hot summer afternoon, but for your safety, the National Park Service asks that visitors refrain from climbing the rocks or jumping the fences.
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is among the most popular attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and there's no mystery as to why. The spectacular falls cascade 65 feet into a lush gorge surrounded by natural moss and colorful foliage. The boardwalk allows you to view the waterfall from an elevated platform — and you can also take stairs down to the gorge to explore the sandstone below. There are two ways to get there. You can either start at the Brandywine Gorge Trailhead and hike the easy 1.5 miles to the platform, or extend the hike by parking at Stanford House and walk 3.8 miles to your destination. The longer hike takes you past gorgeous vistas, colorful wildflowers and serene forests, so you will hardly notice the additional distance.
The falls are a wonderful place to spend a hot summer afternoon, but for your safety, the National Park Service asks that visitors refrain from climbing the rocks or jumping the fences.
Mill Creek Falls
Standing 48 feet in the air, Mill Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in Cuyahoga County. The falls are tucked away in the Garfield Park Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks, and the picturesque surroundings make for a gorgeous hike during any season. Hike just over a mile and a half from the trailhead in Garfield Park to reach Mill Creek Falls. Once you're there, you can take in the majesty from one of two different observation decks!Great Falls of Tinker's Creek
There are so many metroparks in the Cleveland area, it can be tough to decide which one to visit first. But here's one reason that Viaduct Park deserves your attention — the Great Falls at Tinker's Creek are nothing short of picturesque, surrounded by charming woodlands and gorgeous cliffs. It's the perfect destination for a romantic picnic, or for simply enjoying some peace and quiet.Blue Hen Falls
Photo courtesy of the National Park Service
Visit one of the prettiest destinations in Cuyahoga Valley National Park! Spring Creek drops fifteen feet over smooth Berea sandstone to a layer of Bedford shale below — and when the sun is sparkling through the trees just right, it's a photographer's dream! The hike to get there is not strenuous. Walk a half mile on the Blue Hen Falls Trail from the trailhead at 2001 Boston Mills Road, crossing Spring Creek via an old wooden bridge, until you reach your destination.Buttermilk Falls
If you'd like to see two waterfalls in one day, we recommend linking Blue Hen Falls and Buttermilk Falls. These two idyllic destinations are located within easy reach of each other — in fact, you can hike between them! Take the hike up to Blue Hen Falls using the instructions listed above, and then trek an additional 1.2 miles down to Buttermilk Falls. The hike is a bit steep (and sometimes slippery) so make sure to wear hardy footwear! But the reward at the end is definitely worth it. Splash around in the falls to cool off before returning to the Blue Hen trailhead.Paine Falls Park
Photo courtesy of Lake Metroparks
If you're looking for minimum hiking with maximum views, Paine Falls Park is your spot. Conveniently located along I-90, the small metropark features restrooms, grills, a picnic area, picturesque bridges and a stunning, two-tiered waterfall. It's the perfect rest stop on a trip, but also a wonderful destination for a peaceful afternoon.Bridal Veil Falls
Named for the veil-like effect the water makes when flowing over small pieces of sandstone, Bridal Veil Falls measures 30 feet tall in the heart of Walton Hills, Ohio. You can reach the falls easily from the Buckeye Trailhead! Walk just a quarter mile down to the perfect viewing platform. The area is spectacular with or without water, but we recommend visiting after a heavy rain to ensure that the falls are flowing.Chagrin Falls
Photo courtesy of Chagrin Falls
Chagrin Falls (the namesake of the small town they reside in) are unique in that they are located smack dab in the center of an urban area. The falls are perfect for an afternoon picnic, fishing or even a quick dip! In fact, they made our list of the best swimming holes near Cleveland. Walk down the stairs from the street to access all of it!East Falls and West Falls at Cascade Park
Visit two falls in one trip by heading to the aptly named Cascade Park in Elyria, Ohio. Flanking the Black River, the 135-acre park is filled with lush greenery, wildlife and several pedestrian trails for exploring. The West Falls (the taller of the two), stand at 35 feet and shadow a 50-foot cave that allows you to view the cascade from the other side — a fun adventure on warm weather days. The East Falls are slightly smaller but definitely worth the visit! The water tumbles over impressive rock formations and sandstone to crash into the basin below. While you're here, look out for the remains of an old mill on the banks of the Black River!Lanterman's Falls
Lanterman's Mill dates back to 1845, and is recognized as one of Mahoning County's most historic landmarks — and one of its most picturesque! The mill overlooks Lanterman's Falls, which makes for a great photo from the outside. But don't leave without venturing in — the mill still offers stone-ground flours and gifts to the public, and is staffed by knowledgeable people who can inform you about the history of the area!Enjoy your waterfall adventure!
June
29
29
9 Romantic Lodges on Lake Erie to Escape to This Season
Those living on America's East or West coast might have the ocean at their doorstep, but they don't know what they're missing. Lake Erie, which spans Ohio's entire northern border and stretches all the way to Buffalo, New York, boasts pristine sandy beaches, lush surroundings, nearby vineyards and plenty of romantic lodges to take it all in. Regardless of the season, a vacation to Lake Erie is always a great idea. That's why we rounded up 10 of the most irresistibly romantic lodges near the coast!
Next time you're booking a getaway, look to one of these charming inns — each guaranteed to provide you with memories to last you a lifetime.
The Lakehouse Inn
5653 Lake Road East, Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio
June
29
29
12 Amazing Restaurant Patios in Akron and Canton to Enjoy This Season
When patio season hits, we take it seriously. After all, what's better than enjoying an excellent meal and soaking in the sunshine at the same time? Luckily for us, the Akron and Canton region is filled with sun-splashed patios with festive atmospheres and gorgeous views. The only question is, where to go first?
Next time you're looking to enjoy a meal al fresco, look to one of these local hot spots. Each features a different feel and personality, but they have one thing in common — they should all be at the top of your list this summer!
Akron Area
Crave
57 East Market Street, Akron
June
13
13
The Top 10 Most Thrilling Roller Coasters in Ohio
Conquering roller coasters is one of our favorite summertime activities in Ohio — especially since our state is home to several incredibly well-known amusement parks! Up north in Sandusky, we have Cedar Point (famously known as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World), and then in Cincinnati, we have Kings Island (the largest amusement and waterpark in the Midwest). We also love Stricker's Grove, the slightly less well-known, historic, family-owned park in central Ohio that opens to the public only a few times a year!
Of course, the parks can get crowded during the summer months, which means that it's important to have a plan for your visit. We rounded up the top 10 roller coasters in the state so that you know which ones are worth waiting in line for. All of them boast different attributes, ranging from breath-stealing drops to dizzying corkscrews, and they are all worth trying out at least once. Have fun this summer!
The Banshee | Kings Island
At $24 million, the Banshee is Kings Island's largest investment to date. And if you're confused at all by the name, you won't be after riding it. Banshees are mythical creatures known for their screams, and whoops of joy (or more likely, of terror) can be heard on this roller coaster even before the first drop. If you're brave enough, hop on the coaster and scream your way through 4,124 feet of steel track and seven stomach-churning inversions at up to 68 miles per hour — but don't say we didn't warn you.The Beast | Kings Island
Photo courtesy of Kings Island
The Beast is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest wooden roller coaster in the world at a staggering 7,359 feet! The ride traverses more than 35 acres of spectacular forested terrain at speeds of more than 64 miles per hour. This famed coaster lasts for more than four minutes and features not just one, but two chain lift hills. Try the ride at night for a truly unique experience — the tunnels just seem more dramatic after dark.The Maverick | Cedar Point
The Maverick is one of Cedar Point's newest roller coasters and also one of its claims to fame! With a $21 million price tag, this ride is 4,450 feet in length, has a heartline roll element, and a first drop of 95 degrees — which is about as steep as it gets in the coaster world. The ride's tagline is "The Old West was never this wild" and though we never lived that era, we certainly hope it wasn't!Millenium Force | Cedar Point
At 93 miles per hour, the Millenium Force takes you on one of the fastest, most thrilling journeys in the entire country. Upon its completion in 2000, the ride immediately shattered six world records and was dubbed the world's first "giga coaster," a term coined to represent coasters exceeding 300 feet and completing a full circuit. The ride has been voted as the #1 steel coaster 10 different times in Amusement Today's Golden Ticket Awards. Check it out for yourself and see what all the hype is about!Mystic Timbers | Kings Island
Photo courtesy of Kings Island
Mystic Timbers was voted the "Best New Ride in the World" by Amusement Today for 2017. With 16 airtime moments, cool wooden tunnels, fantastic terrain, 3,265 feet of track and speeds over 50 miles per hour, we can see why! Mystic Timbers is definitely one of the best wooden coasters out there.The Steel Vengeance | Cedar Point
The Steel Vengeance is the newest addition to Ohio's impressive roller coaster collection. You might have heard some of the buzz surrounding it, because since it opened to the public this year, it has already crushed several world records and claimed the title of the world's tallest roller coaster. Wowza! The ride drops four times at more than 200 feet per drop and reaches a maximum speed of 74 miles per hour. Just looking at the ride is daunting, but experiencing it is a whole new level of thrill.The Valravn | Cedar Point
The Valravn is the tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster in the world — elevating its riders 223 feet into the air and then dangling them at the precipice of a 90-degree drop for more than four seconds. If that isn't thrilling enough for you, maybe the multiple inversions or 270-degree corkscrew will do the trick!The Vortex | Kings Island
The Vortex has maintained its title as one of Ohio's coolest coasters since it was built for $4 million in 1987. Back then, the coaster debuted as the tallest, full-circuit coaster with the highest drop in the United States — and with nearly 40 million rides given, it is one of the most popular rides at Kings Island! The blue and orange steel thriller inverts six different times (including two corkscrews and two vertical loops) for an experience that turns the amusement experience on its head, literally. Classic coaster lovers and thrill-seekers alike will adore the Vortex!The Top Thrill Dragster | Cedar Point
Upon beginning their adventure on the Top Thrill Dragster, riders are advised to "keep arms down, head back and hold on!" The warning should be heeded — the steel accelerator coaster reaches speeds of up to 120 miles per hour in just 3.8 seconds. Shortly after reaching maximum velocity, the coaster begins a 90-degree ascent to the clouds to a 130-meter-high "top hat," and then twists back around to where it all began. Hold on to your lunch!The Tornado | Stricker's Grove
Stricker's Grove is a family-owned amusement park that is generally closed to the public, opening its gates just a few days out of the year (including on the 4th of July and Labor Day). Take one of these rare and coveted chances to experience the thrills at Stricker's Grove — and make sure to check out the Tornado while you're there. The Tornado is the larger of the two wooden roller coasters in the park and features great views of the surrounding countryside from the top — if you're brave enough to open your eyes, of course. It's not the tallest, the newest or the steepest coaster in Ohio, but its charm and exclusivity lands it a spot on the top 10 list. Do you have a special occasion coming up? You can also rent Stricker's Grove for weddings and family gatherings. Check out the website for more information.How many of these iconic coasters can you check off of your list?
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