The Sandstone Capital Of Ohio Is One Of The Most Charming Small Towns You’ll Ever Visit
Amherst, Ohio, known as the Sandstone Capital of the World, boasts a rich history and charming small-town atmosphere with significant sandstone landmarks.
Northeast Ohio is overflowing with natural features, ranging from an incredible diversity of trees and flora to a geomorphological treasure trove of splendor. When it comes to the latter, one of the greatest natural assets Ohio has to offer is Berea sandstone. In some areas, the deposit of Berea sandstone is hundreds of feet thick, thanks to a rich layer of sand and minerals from the Late Devonian, some 350 million years ago. Interestingly, the prominence of stone like this is why dinosaurs haven't been found in Ohio - the stone here is much, much older. If there's one town that can claim Berea sandstone as part of its identity, it's probably not the town you would initially guess... it's Amherst, Ohio, and it has quite the story to tell. Buckle up, because we're going to take a trip through time in the Sandstone Capital of the World.
Located a tad bit over half an hour from Cleveland is a Lorain County community that's overflowing with charm.
Amherst, Ohio is home to some 12,000 residents or so, and it exudes small town vibes. It has a history dating back to circa 1811, and it has cycled through a number of names over the years: Beaver Creek Settlement, Amherst Corners, and even Amherstville.
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Armed with a long-standing history and a walkable city center, it's easy to spend a day here.
This old-school cinema, built in 1959, is filled to the brim with charm. Amherst Cinema is located in the city's bustling downtown, and it's a landmark to many locals. After a busy day exploring the landscape of Lorain County, it offers a lovely place to sit down, relax, and snack.
While the town has remained fairly small, it also boasts a variety of modern and new attractions.
Savage Society Axe Throwing is one of many attractions in Amherst, and it's one visitors talk about for ages afterward. With both standard axe throwing and a specialty glow throw on select dates, Savage Society is a unique destination that allows locals to put their skills to the test.
However, as you explore the town, it's hard to ignore the abundance of old stone buildings.
This stunning structure is Amherst Town Hall, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. It was built roughly one century before in 1884 and, like many of the local buildings, was built with sandstone.
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So, what is Amherst, Ohio, known for? Right in front of town hall, you'll find a clue: a historic monument declaring this community as the "Sandstone Center of the World."
While it may look brand new, this sign was originally placed in 1915. It was even a point of contention for South Amherst residents, as they claimed that the title of the world's sandstone capital rightfully belonged to them. The truth is, of course, that this entire region is rich in sandstone... and it's some of the finest construction sandstone in the world.
The area's claim to fame comes as a result of its rich sandstone quarries, which once fueled local industry.
While this photo was snapped in neaby Berea circa 1893, it gives a pretty good idea of what area quarries once looked like. Amherst had nine active quarries at the height of the local sandstone industry! Quarries like this produces grindstones, which were used in industry, farming, and even in the household. Beyond that, locally-sourced Berea sandstone was also an incredible building material.
In addition to durability, this type of stone is also beautiful. Locally-sourced sandstone can be found on buildings throughout the Midwest, along the East Coast, and even up in Ontario. This demand, coupled with the need for grindstones, made resource-rich communities like Amherst blossom.
While quarrying is no longer done in the Amherst area, its prominence is hidden all across the sleepy small town.
Truly, Amherst's sandstone industry can be credited with fueling the community's growth. Amherst quarries brought the railroad industry to the area, attracted new settlers, and fueled shipping demand on Lake Erie. Of course, it also helped add to the beauty of many local edifices.
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All around town, it seems that history is waiting to entertain those in-the-know.
From the Lorain County Metro Parks' Beaver Creek Reservation to area landmarks, this area has much to offer visitors. At Beaver Creek Reservation, visitors can see a stream that once powered local mills as well as exposed stone cliffs that hint at an abundant natural resource. I recommend bringing your hiking boots for this leg of the journey, as the area around the creek can get fairly muddy.
There's so much to discover in Ohio's (and the world's) sandstone capital.
Here in Ohio, small town secrets are often intertwined with a massive piece of history. Lorain County's small town of Amherst is one of the best examples of this, and it merits a weekend or day trip from Cleveland.
The prominence of Berea sandstone in Amherst, Ohio has led to its reputation as the Sandstone Capital of the World. You'll notice, too, that the area is absolutely rich in sandstone buildings... next time you're in Downtown Cleveland, keep your eyes peeled for grayish, buff-colored stone. It just might have been mined in a nearby community.
Want to visit an active quarry? You can even hunt for Devonian-era fossils there! Swing by Fossil Park in Sylvania, Ohio - it's only about two hours away from Cleveland.
And don't be in a hurry to leave the Sandstone Center of the World - book a night at this charming VRBO and spend some time in this lovely locale!
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...
Eastlake in Lake County is an often-overlooked city... which is honestly criminal because this community has a lot to offer. Named for its location (northeast of Cleveland), this city is home to fewer than 20 thousand people. It has a small-town feel with fascinating attractions, and it comes with a slower pace of life than we're used to about 19 miles away in Cleveland. This weekend getaway near Cleveland is well worth a weekend trip, as there's much to see. Check it out:
Otherwise known as the Crown Jewel of Lake County, this charming little getaway is full of fun things to do. If you're looking for "cool things to see near me," you must come here!
Like Forest City, the landscape here is covered in trees and greenery, offering wildlife and humans the opportunity to coexist.
You truly never know what you'll see in town! This bald eagle was captured flying through the area, collecting sticks to build a nest.
There are so many things to do in Eastlake, Ohio. For instance, for many baseball fans, a trip to Lake County Captains Classic Park is the highlight of visiting Eastlake.
This fun Minor League team operates just 15 minutes away from Cleveland. If you're not a baseball fine, you still might enjoy the concerts, watch parties, and dining experiences frequently offered at the stadium.
And you have to check out the Boulevard of 500 Flags, which is a sight like no other.
Here, artifacts, resources, and traditions come to life. The Croatian Heritage Museum sheds light on fascinating traditional elements like dress, food, and music.
After you visit the local Croatian museum, you can dig into international comfort food at Dubrovnik Garden Restaurant.
Dubrovnik Garden Restaurant specializes in Croatian cuisine, which truly ties the experience together. Their soups are the perfect way to warm up in the colder months, but the schnitzel is a fan favorite.
There are also plenty of glorious parks in and around Eastlake that are worth visiting.
Pictured here is Sunset Park. As the name suggests, this park is best enjoyed reclining on a blanket at dusk. The views over the lake are downright breathtaking!
There's also quite a bit of culture, which many appreciate exploring in the nearby Downtown Willoughby Historic District.
The lovely Downtown Willoughby Historic District is filled to the brim with shopping, dining, architecture, socializing, and so much more. These Victorian streets will take you back in time.
You're going to love this cool community for a small-town getaway near Cleveland!
There's much to love about Eastlake for a weekend getaway near Cleveland. What do you recommend in Eastlake? We'd love to hear your thoughts! And if you're looking for a place to stay in Eastlake, book a reservation at Four Points by Sheraton Cleveland-Eastlake!
Looking for more Northeast Ohio day trips? Head out to Amish Country's Berlin for more family fun close to home.
