Detailed Map Of Lake Erie

Discover the Best of Lake Erie

Top Attractions

Lake Erie is home to many top attractions, such as Cedar Point amusement park, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Cleveland Museum of Art. Other must-see attractions include the Toledo Zoo, the African Safari Wildlife Park, and the Marblehead Lighthouse.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Lake Erie has plenty of hidden gems. Visit the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial in Put-In-Bay, or explore the historic buildings and unique shops in downtown Vermilion. You can also check out the charming town of Lakeside, which has been a popular vacation spot for over 140 years.

Food Scene

From fresh lake fish to inventive farm-to-table cuisine, Lake Erie’s food scene is not to be missed. Try the famous perch tacos at Jolly Roger Seafood House in Port Clinton, or enjoy a glass of wine and a gourmet meal at the Lakehouse Inn and Winery in Geneva-on-the-Lake.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Lake Erie offers many budget-friendly activities, such as hiking in Geneva State Park or visiting the free exhibits at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. You can also save money by packing a picnic lunch and enjoying the many public beaches along the lake.

Outdoor Adventures

With miles of pristine shoreline, Lake Erie is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Great Lakes Kayaking in Vermilion, or go fishing for walleye with Reel Action Sportfishing in Port Clinton. You can also explore the lake’s islands by taking a ferry to Put-In-Bay or Kelleys Island.

Historical Landmarks

From the War of 1812 to the Underground Railroad, Lake Erie has a rich history to explore. Visit the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial in Put-In-Bay, or learn about the region’s industrial heritage at the Cleveland History Center. You can also explore the homes of famous Ohioans like Thomas Edison and James A. Garfield.

Family-Friendly Activities

Lake Erie is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for all ages. Visit the African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, or take a ride on the Jet Express ferry to Put-In-Bay. You can also explore the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, or enjoy a day at the beach at Headlands Beach State Park.

Natural Wonders

From waterfalls to wetlands, Lake Erie has many natural wonders to explore. Visit the Lake Erie Bluffs in Perry, or go birdwatching at the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. You can also hike the trails at the Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve, or take a scenic drive along the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail.

Vibrant Nightlife

From live music to craft cocktails, Lake Erie has a vibrant nightlife scene. Visit the Put-In-Bay Brewing Company for a locally brewed beer, or dance the night away at the Red Door in Cleveland. You can also enjoy a glass of wine and live music at the Winery at Spring Hill in Geneva.

Local Markets

From fresh produce to handmade crafts, Lake Erie’s local markets are a great place to find unique souvenirs. Visit the West Side Market in Cleveland, or check out the farmers’ markets in Sandusky or Vermilion. You can also shop for antiques and collectibles at the Olde Avon Village in Avon.

Beaches and Mountains

With its combination of sandy beaches and rolling hills, Lake Erie offers the best of both worlds. Visit Headlands Beach State Park for a day of swimming and sunbathing, or hike the trails at the Mohican State Park in Loudonville. You can also ski or snowboard at the nearby Alpine Valley in Munson.

Cultural Immersion

From art museums to ethnic festivals, Lake Erie has a rich cultural scene to explore. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art to see works by famous artists like Van Gogh and Monet, or attend the annual Hungarian Festival in Lorain. You can also explore the African American Cultural Gardens in Cleveland, or visit the Italian Cultural Gardens in Rockefeller Park.

Art and Music Scene

From street art to symphony orchestras, Lake Erie has a thriving arts and music scene. Visit the Waterloo Arts District in Cleveland to see murals and sculptures by local artists, or attend a concert at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. You can also catch a performance by the Cleveland Orchestra or the Cleveland Ballet.

Walking Tours

From historic neighborhoods to scenic parks, Lake Erie offers many walking tours for visitors. Take a tour of the Ohio City neighborhood in Cleveland, or explore the historic downtown area of Sandusky. You can also hike the trails at the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, or take a guided tour of the Marblehead Lighthouse.

Architectural Marvels

From Victorian mansions to modern skyscrapers, Lake Erie has many architectural marvels to admire. Visit the Wade Memorial Chapel in Cleveland to see the work of famous architect Louis Comfort Tiffany, or explore the historic homes in the Lakeview Cemetery. You can also take a tour of the Terminal Tower in downtown Cleveland, or admire the art deco style of the Cleveland Trust Company Building.

Historical Sites

From Native American history to the Civil War, Lake Erie has many important historical sites to explore. Visit the Fort Meigs State Memorial in Perrysburg, or explore the Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati. You can also learn about the history of the Great Lakes at the Inland Seas Maritime Museum in Vermilion.

Biking Routes

From scenic country roads to urban bike paths, Lake Erie offers many biking routes for cyclists of all levels. Take a ride on the Towpath Trail in Akron, or explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park on two wheels. You can also bike along the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail, which stretches over 270 miles from Toledo to Conneaut.

Wellness Retreats

From yoga retreats to spa getaways, Lake Erie offers many opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visit the Spa at Glenmoor in Canton for a massage or facial, or take a yoga class at the Cleveland Yoga studio. You can also stay at the Lakehouse Inn and Winery in Geneva-on-the-Lake, which offers wine tastings and a full-service spa.

Adventure Sports

From zip-lining to rock climbing, Lake Erie offers many opportunities for adventure sports. Visit the Lake Erie Canopy Tours in Geneva-on-the-Lake for a zip-lining adventure, or go rock climbing at Kendall Cliffs in Peninsula. You can also try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or windsurfing at the Edgewater Beach and Park in Cleveland.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural immersion, Lake Erie has something for everyone. Use this travel guide to plan your next visit to this beautiful region and discover all that it has to offer.