Cleveland is home to some incredible attractions, but the reality is that the entirety of Northeast Ohio hides truly incredible secret sites. There is so much to see around the region that one could spend an entire lifetime here and still discover something new to see every single day. However, of the discoveries you make and the places you choose to explore, one site stands out from the rest as a true gem that you simply must see. Get ready for a road trip, because this site has beauty, history, and charm galore, and it's not too far from home.
Welcome to the National First Ladies' Library & Historic Site, a gem of a destination hidden in Northeast Ohio.
This cozy space was once the family home of First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley, and she and her husband President William McKinley once resided in the charming home.
This space, along with the nearby Education and Research Center, comprise the library, which is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the contributions of our First Ladies.
These slippers were handmade by Ida McKinley for her friend Mrs. George Gittens in New Jersey. The Gittens' descendants donated the slippers in memory of their great-grandparents, but in doing so they captured a snapshot of daily life for one former first lady.
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This gorgeous site is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and it is also open Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. in June, July, and August.
Northeast Ohio hides so much splendor that it is almost unbelievable. Of all the places to explore, however, this one incredible historic site must top your bucket list.
We're so used to the landscape here in Greater Cleveland that we, as locals, often overlook its beauty. The rocky bluffs of Lake Erie, the otherworldly design of man-cut quarries, the verdant foliage of our many parks... it's all stunning. On this fun Greater Cleveland area road trip, we're celebrating all that nature and places of our human design have to offer. Prepare to experience pure splendor, because this journey shows that the area we call home has never been more beautiful. If you choose to really make the most out of this road trip, be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list to make your preparations a piece of cake.
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Ready to experience the beauty of Cleveland? You can visit these sites along a 3-hour road trip, or you can budget time to visit them one by one. Either way, you're in for a treat!
Lakewood Park's Solstice Steps are one of the most coveted tourist destinations in Greater Cleveland. Here, human ingenuity and Mother Nature work together to create an urban oasis. The steps are a relaxing spot to listen to the chorus of frogs on warm summer evenings, or just to stop for a while to take in the splendor of Lake Erie's shoreline. The unique steps are the perfect place to watch the sunset on the solstice, as the structure is positioned to observe the sun at its northernmost point. This is a great start to our scenic road trip around Cleveland.
While the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument in Cleveland's Public Square is truly a work of art, its very features are designed to tell a story. Designed by veteran and Cleveland architect Levi Scofield, this monument honors the Ohioans that fought during the Civil War. Statues and bronze panels on the monument showcase the beginnings of the war, emancipation, and other landmarks. The story told by this monument is humbling, but the artistry in its design is downright awe-inspiring.
There's something almost otherworldly about the Towpath Mounds. This unusual portion of the Towpath Trail was unveiled in 2020, and locals and tourists alike have found it to be a unique hiking destination. Here, art and nature work together to create an outdoor experience like no other. Just remember to bring your camera... the views offered by these climbable landmarks are beyond breathtaking.
Located in the Cleveland Metroparks' Garfield Park Reservation, Mill Creek Falls is an impressive 48-foot-tall waterfall. In addition to being the tallest waterfall in the county, this urban gem is actually man-made. At the turn of the century, a railroad company diverted Mill Creek. The stream's new course caused it to spill over natural stone ledges, cascading down into a stunning ravine. This waterfall is just paces away from the parking lot!
West Creek Reservation in Parma is an undercelebrated Cleveland Metroparks greenspace. This beautiful park has forest, gorges, and Lookout Ridge, one of the most breathtaking overlooks in the Metroparks. At about 1.5 miles in length, the trail to get to the ridge isn't too challenging... but the payoff will absolutely take your breath away. You'll find yourself more than 1,000 feet above sea level and facing the stunning Cleveland skyline! This is such a great stop on one of the best road trips near Cleveland.
As the southernmost landscape in the Cleveland Metroparks, Hinckley Reservation might seem like it's a bit off the beaten path. However, it hides pure splendor... especially at Worden's Ledges, where historic moss-covered rock carvings are waiting to greet hikers. This portion of the park is a bit untamed and rocky, but a trek through the woods will take you to carvings like this ship. There's even a sphinx that's free-standing, which must have been an unbelievably time-consuming task in the 1940s. It was at that time when these stunning carvings were made by Noble Stuart, who actually lived on the property. Today, eight decades later, his work is just as striking as it was when he allowed his artistic talent to flourish in secret.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the most majestic sites in all of Northeast Ohio... and it's also the only national park in the state. Featuring over 32,500 acres of unimaginable beauty, this park has lakes, streams, rivers, forests, wetlands, and gorgeous views, not to mention wildflower viewing, birdwatching, and easy access to hiking trails. Located in neighboring Summit County, this gorgeous park has something for everyone. Plus, portions of it are open after dark, which means it's a romantic place to catch the sunset!
Want to feel like you've stepped inside a fairytale? Just pay a visit to the Holden Arboretum. In this natural space and outdoor laboratory, unique plant species flourish alongside unusual outdoor art exhibits. The various on-site gardens are magical pieces of landscaping, and an aerial boardwalk practically immerses you in the forest canopy. There's something for everyone at the Arboretum... just don't forget your camera!
Paine Falls Park is truly a Northeast Ohio gem. This 25-foot-tall tiered waterfall is stunning all year round. The waterfall overlook is close enough to the road for a quick and easy trek. In fact, you can even drive over it... though the view from the road is nothing compared to facing the falls head-on. This Lake Metroparks spot is too scenic to pass up!
There's so much to explore along this epic Greater Cleveland area road trip! Which destination is your favorite? If you have been to any of these places, let us know about your experience. Share your thoughts in the comment section below along with your favorite Ohio road trips. We love to hear from you!
It's funny... after living in a city for so long, you suddenly find yourself cherishing those pleasant scenic drives. You know the kind I'm talking about: the gorgeous stretches of country road that are fully forested and lined with flowers. Here in Northeast Ohio, there's no shortage of roads like this, but locals tend to covet one over the rest. We're going to take a virtual visit to Chagrin River Road in Greater Cleveland, as its stunning views and variety of attractions have made it a favorite scenic drive among locals.
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One of the prettiest drives in Greater Cleveland is a stretch of road known as Chagrin River Road.
The route starts in Moorland Hills near Miles Road, then stretches across several communities before becoming River Road in Willoughby Hills. This lovely route is known for miles and miles of scenic views, ranging from untamed meadows to gorgeous forests.
As the name implies, portions of the road include stunning views of the Chagrin River.
The river is assumed to be named for Sieur de Seguin, a French trader who established a trading post on the river in the 1740s. Like many local waterways, it empties into Lake Erie. Now considered a State Scenic River, sitting alongside its lovely waters is a treat like no other. You're going to love driving along this route, but be sure to budget some time to stop at the local landmarks along the way.
If you find yourself hungry along the way, Sara's Place By Gavi's is one of the cutest Italian restaurants in Greater Cleveland.
Charming and welcoming, this cozy restaurant specializes in Italian and American comfort foods. It's upscale but laid back, and its menu has various options to ensure that even the pickiest diners leave happy and full.
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As you might have imagined, this stretch of road is home to the Chagrin Metroparks.
North and South Chagrin Reservation both offer sweeping views of the local landscape, and both are filled to the brim with surprises, from a castle to an old growth forest. Pictured here is one of my favorite details in the area: the Henry Church Rock. Carved in 1885 by its namesake artist, exactly what the rock is depicting is a bit of a mystery to this day.
If you're looking to dig deeper into local history, the charming Gates Mills Historic District is along the way, too!
This community was named for its founder, Holsey Gates, and the ample mills that once fueled the local economy. As you may have guessed, the might Chagrin River fueled those local mills, effectively enhancing the area's economy and allowing its residents to live more comfortably. Exploring landmarks like the Southwick House Museum allows you to see this history blossom!
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The history on this stretch includes so much more than just houses and buildings, though.
There are a number of historic cemeteries off Chagrin River Road, including Orange Hogsback Hill Cemetery, pictured here. The earliest internments at this cemetery date back to the late 1810s, with the most recent dating to the 1960s. Truly, this burial ground (and others along the scenic route) tells the story of the earliest residents in the area.
With gorgeous views and plenty to do, a drive along Chagrin River Road in Cleveland simply can't be beat.
There's so much to love about Chagrin River Road. Have you ever taken this scenic drive in Greater Cleveland Cleveland? We'd love to hear about your favorite local views in the comments.
