I'm a huge proponent of Cleveland staycations, which allow you to explore The Land like a tourist. When we peel back the veil of familiarity, we'll often discover amazing gems hiding in unexpected places. Usually, nature lovers might look to a sprawling park district like the Cleveland Metroparks for an unforgettable hike, but I can't ignore the incredible beauty that's hiding in municipal parks. Though smaller, these oft-forgotten local landscapes are hidden gems in familiar communities like Aurora, Ohio. Today, we're going to take a look at one stunning little park that's hiding in this suburb between Cleveland and Akron. It may be small, but the beauty hiding in this city park near Cleveland is simply beyond comparison.

At first glance, Sunny Lake Park in Aurora, Ohio is just like any other local park.

Never judge a book by its cover! In this town of 17,000 residents, locals know that this charming little park is filled to the brim with adventure.

Aurora, a community in Portage County, was perhaps best known for Geauga Lake amusement park.

The amusement park closed in 2007, of course, but Geauga Lake is far from the only lake in the area. This beauty is Sunny Lake, a 68-acre perennial pond that's naturally occurring. Believe it or not, many local lakes are man-made due to dammed waterways, but this gorgeous slice of paradise is a work of art painted by Mother Nature herself.

A 1.75-mile trail encircles the lake and stretches through the park, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with this stunning landscape.

The trail is paved, so it's both accessible and ideal for parents with small children and strollers. Locals love hiking, exercising, and biking along this route, and it's plain to see why!

Along the way, there are plenty of benches to allow you to rest and take in the beauty of the 173-acre park.

For reference, Wade Park, the first large public park in Cleveland, is only 63 acres in size. That's smaller than the total size of Sunny Lake!

In the cooler months, there's an eerie beauty that clings to this landscape.

The stillness of winter in this park is oh so peaceful, but the open space does allow for a decent breeze. If you're planning a wintertime visit, be sure to bundle up!

Once things warm up, however, beauty is in full bloom.

So, too, is fun! Three baseball fields, a sand volleyball court, one stunning Memorial Tree Garden, and plenty of nature trails help visitors indulge in the splendor of time spent outdoors.

Visitors also love fishing, hiking, and taking in the wonder of native wildlife here.

Birding is popular here, but it's also a coveted pastime elsewhere in the city. Aurora Sanctuary State Nature Preserve is the oldest bird sanctuary in Ohio, and it was established in 1941 when it was purchased by The Cleveland Bird Club. Clevelanders have long flocked to the Aurora area to admire its abundance of waterfowl and nesting species!

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, visitors can rent a row boat, paddle boat, or kayak at the on-site boathouse.

For non-residents, a fishing boat rental costs only $15 for four hours or $20 for an all-day rental. There's also the boat launch cost of $5, but this is a potentially budget-friendly chance to get out and try something new.

And if you're lucky, a special event might be taking place during your visit.

The classic car show typically takes place around September, and it's a coveted tradition in Aurora. I love seeing all the old workmanship on display... they just don't make cars like they used to!

Whatever you do, aim to visit around sunset... you won't regret it!

At my day job, I travel all around the United States, so I've seen a sunset or two in my time. Let me tell you... there's nothing like a Northeast Ohio sunset. Seeing the gorgeous hues of the setting sun reflected over Sunny Lake... well, it's easy to see where the lake got its name.

With abundant beauty, hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and more, it's easy to see why this city park near Cleveland is a true hidden gem.

Sunny Lake Park in Aurora, Ohio is one of those unexpected surprises hiding in plain sight. Hidden behind a mundane sign that doesn't even hint at the splendor waiting here, this is truly one of those spots where you have to be in-the-know to pursue adventure.

Lace up those hiking books, dust off the binoculars, and get ready for an awesome adventure.

You're going to love exploring this quaint park between Cleveland and Akron!

Adventure awaits in Aurora, Ohio!

You can find the park at 885 E Mennonite Rd, Aurora, OH, 44202.

There's nothing like a trip to this quaint city park near Cleveland, no matter the season! From blooming flowers to foggy mornings and incredible sunsets, there's no shortage of adventure waiting to be pursued in Aurora, Ohio's Sunny Lake Park.

Want to explore more nature in Aurora? Check out Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve. It's less than 10 minutes away from Sunny Lake!