There's something undeniably charming about holiday movies. Though the plots tend to be fairly predictable and somebody almost always falls in love, there is a certain seasonal magic in these films that's impossible to not adore. One of the loveliest aspects of those movies is the old-fashioned, small-town atmosphere of the featured city or town, and you'll be delighted to know that Cleveland is surrounded by winter wonderlands that are just as lovely as those you see on the big screen.
1. Chagrin Falls, Cuyahoga County
This quaint village grew around an urban waterfall and its community is overflowing with beauty and history alike. This suburb has enchanted and inspired many artists, but some say it is loveliest at Christmastime. Downtown Chagrin Falls and its surrounding neighborhoods come to life in vibrant hues each winter as thousands of fairy lights line Chagrin Falls' beautiful streets.
2. Hudson, Summit County
This lovely community of roughly 23,000 is absolutely transformed by the presence of winter. The holiday brings an onslaught of epic activities to Hudson, including a tree lighting ceremony, a German Christmas market, and all sorts of festivities.
3. Chardon, Geauga County
Chardon Square is gorgeous, but it is particularly enjoyable in the holiday season. This historic community of just over 5,000 residents truly knows how to celebrate an old-fashioned holiday. This city, best known for hosting the annual Geauga County Maple Festival, lights up brilliantly for the holiday season, and the area is too charming for words.
4. Strongsville, Cuyahoga County
Some 45,000 people call Strongsville home, and it is no secret why. This lovely city is a scene straight out of a holiday movie in the winter. As a soft, white blanket of snow coats the historical village, community commons, clocktower, and surrounding neighborhoods become a real-life winter wonderland. The city is even home to a famously extravagant neighborhood light display!
5. Bedford, Cuyahoga County
Bedford is a community where you can experience an authentic, old-fashioned Christmas. If you have ever seen It’s a Wonderful Life, then you're familiar with the splendor of Bedford Falls. Our own Bedford, Ohio transforms into the dreamy Bedford Falls each holiday season, and hot chocolate and Christmas carols keep the season merry and bright.
6. Kirtland, Lake County
As the early headquarters of the Latter Day Saints movement, one can expect to find a stunning history in this pretty Lake County community. At Christmastime, this pretty place is downright unbelievable. Quaint, earthy, and featuring hidden gems like the Lake Metroparks Farmpark, this community truly is a scene from a movie.
7. Medina, Medina County
Medina Square is the heart and soul of this lovely community. Though the city boasts 27,000 residents (many of which commute to Cleveland or Akron for work, as it is smack-dab in the middle of these metropolitan areas), it maintains a small-town feel. This is particularly true in the winter, when lights, seasonal displays, and even visits by Saint Nick himself transform the area into something truly magical.
8. Ashtabula, Ashtabula County
Ashtabula is pleasant in every season, but the 54 acres of its most beautiful lakefront park are best enjoyed in the winter. At Ashtabula County's Lights on the Lake, an annual holiday light attraction casts colorful hues across ice and water, mesmerizing visitors of all ages. This drive-through display costs only $5 per car to experience!
9. Independence, Cuyahoga County
All aboard for a season of wintertime fun! This Cleveland suburb's Town Square is a splendid beauty, but the Rockside Station helps make this community memorable. You can ride the Polar Express and travel through the wintry Cuyahoga Valley National Park or cozy up in a local eatery for a meal made with love.
10. Wadsworth, Medina County
Wadsworth is a bit of a trip from Cleveland, but it is truly worth a visit. This tiny city has grown around its historic downtown district, and wintertime snow adds a particular glow to its streets. With a gazebo and storefronts lined in lovely lights, this vibrant town is something to behold. Its cafes offer delectable coffees and all sorts of local gift shops will help you complete your holiday shopping.
11. Lakewood, Cuyahoga County
Lakewood is home to more than 50,000 people, but it truly feels like a community where everybody knows everybody else. Its tiny storefronts and historic streets are transformed by the seasonal charm and events like Light Up Lakewood delight locals and visitors alike.
There's a lot of Christmas cheer in Northeast Ohio, and many communities around Greater Cleveland perfectly embody seasonal charm. Do you think your hometown belongs on this list? Tell us about it in the comments below!
These communities prove that wintertime gloom can't bring our spirits down. So, too, do these epic wintertime destinations around Cleveland.
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