Ohio is a spectacular state full of rolling agricultural landscapes and enchanting forests. Up near Cleveland, we have a stunning mix of both landscapes as well as a particular urban flair that’s downright enchanting. Northeast Ohio locals love each and every landscape, but there’s one that’s particularly cherished: the lovely parks. Whether visitors are exploring local, state, or national parks, they’ll find that the untamed Ohio wilderness has much to offer - even if you are looking to spend the night! Yes, you read that right... you can actually spend the night in a manor house in the heart of one of the area’s loveliest parks. Are you ready to experience one of the loveliest places to stay near Cleveland? Pack your bags and prepare for adventure!
Welcome to Punderson State Park, a stunning 741-acre state park that’s less than an hour from Cleveland.
This enchanting state park is a nature lover’s paradise! Early settlers arrived in the area around 1800, but they’ve done little to change the local environment. Since the Ohio Division of Wildlife purchased the land at Punderson in the 1940s, it has only grown lovelier and more beloved by visitors.
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Complete with a 100-acre natural lake, a fascinating array of native plant and animal species, and even golf and disc golf courses, this site truly has something for everyone.
Fishing, swimming, and hiking are adored by summertime visitors, and locals and out-of-towners alike flock to this charming state park for wintertime fun. Of course, this dreamy destination is also a treat in the fall and spring – both as color is fading and as color is returning to the landscape.
In addition, the outdoor fun that’s offered at this enchanting state park, visitors will also find a surprisingly castle-like resort in Punderson State Park.
Punderson Manor is tucked just a stone’s throw away from this park’s iconic glacial lake. The manor is a cozy English Tudor structure from the Jazz Age, and it beckons to visitors with its warm and welcoming milieu.
Hospitality abounds in this charming estate, whether you stay in an old school manor room or a more modern room.
The estate-style rooms in the oldest portion of Punderson Manor are gorgeous and cozy. The rooms in the newer portion of the resort are complete with modern accommodations and are delightfully welcoming. There are also pet-friendly cabins if you’re traveling with your furry friends!
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There’s nothing quite as enchanting as waking up in your cozy accommodations and then hitting the trails immediately—it’s the perfect getaway for nature lovers!
Throughout Punderson State Park, visitors will find approximately 11 miles of trails. They’re ideal for hiking in the warm months and skiing in the snow. Beachfront sunrises here are magical, and autumn is a season of warm wishes and bright colors in this brilliant state park.
After you spend some time outside, you'll enjoy all the amenities of any classic resort-style stay.
Ever dined in a state park? You'll adore swinging by the Cherry Dining Room, the on-site restaurant in this charming lodge. Bring your appetite - their family-style dinners are downright delicious.
If you're a fan of the paranormal, you might enjoy learning about the purported haunts at this manor.
Natural splendor abounds at this lovely site, and inside this Tudor-style manor, you'll find endless hospitality. Have you ever stayed in a state park?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Cleveland is a lovely place to call home. It’s so lovely, in fact, that some people never want to leave… not even after their time on this physical plane has expired. There are many places in Cleveland that are said to have spectral residents lingering around, and some are startlingly mundane. One of the most unexpectedly haunted hotels in Cleveland Ohio is the Renaissance Hotel – it’s charming, luxurious, and bright… perhaps these features are just as attractive in the afterlife as they are now. Let’s take a look at the history of one of the most haunted hotels in Cleveland to get to the bottom of just who these ghosts are.
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The Renaissance opened its doors to visitors in 1918 as the Hotel Cleveland, but the site on which it is built has a further-reaching history.
Sources say that this plot of land has been occupied since the early 1800s. Mowrey's Tavern opened here in 1814, and it passed through a few hands before being destroyed in a fire. Another building, the Forest City House, replaced the tiny tavern. This "house" was actually an impressive hotel, but it was demolished in 1916 in anticipation of the Hotel Cleveland’s construction.
Over the years, a few interesting events took place here.
Ever heard of the Torso Murders? Eliot Ness questioned one of the suspects, Francis Sweeney, in one of the hotel rooms here in the 1930s. Ness was a frequent guest here, often staying in the Bronze Room. Purportedly, he also entertained factory owners here, hoping to gain the trust of would-be informants… of course, this move frustrated J. Edgar Hoover and left him at odds with Ness for his entire lifetime. Martin Luther King Jr. was honored here with a dinner, and Duke Ellington performed a show in this historic structure.
Presidents have stayed here, celebrities have stayed here, and everyday people have stayed at this haunted hotel in Cleveland Ohio… and some emerge with chilling tales.
Most of the reported activity centers around the fourth floor. Doors slam, toilets flush, and faucets turn on and off seemingly of their own accord. Some even say people are spotted entering rooms that turn out to be vacant.
In recent years, a spooky video surfaced of what seems to be a strange Snapchat glitch on the fourth floor… but the person who captured it explained that she heard the sound of movement and felt someone breathing down her neck.
So who could be causing the hauntings? Some insist they date back to the era in which Mowry’s Tavern, Cleveland’s first hotel, occupied the site.
Could early visitors to The Land be stopping by the old hotel to this day for some afterlife-edition vacation? Some theorists have also proposed that early construction workers could have died building this hotel… could they be the spirits hanging around?
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Whether or not you believe in the purported hauntings (after all, it is just local lore... right?), The Renaissance remains a breathtaking place to stay. Vibrant and lovely, this hotel is a charming place to stay during your time in Cleveland. Additionally, its location ensures easy access to all of Cleveland's finest attractions.You can find rates and book your stay via the hotel's website.
Cleveland's history comes to life in this historic hotel... and, according to some, it comes to life in an incredible way.
Could this incredible hotel be haunted? The answer doubtlessly lies in its lovely halls... but are you brave enough to book a stay?
Check out this paranormal investigation of this haunted hotel:
Cleveland has a lot of charm, and it comes to life in an unforgettable way in places like this striking hotel. Have you ever had any spooky experiences at this notoriously haunted Hotel Cleveland Ohio? Have you been to any other haunted hotels in Cleveland? We'd love to hear about them!
