We’re approaching the loveliest season in Northeast Ohio, and things are looking… well, beautiful. That beauty is amplified throughout local parks and green spaces, and you’ll love visiting them this season. There’s an indescribable smokiness in the air and a crunching of colorful leaves underfoot. We hope you’re ready for a vibrant experience, because we’re about to spend some time in the loveliest parts of Greater Cleveland.
1. Baldwin Wallace University (275 Eastland Rd., Berea)
This gorgeous Northeast Ohio college was founded as Baldwin Institute in 1845 by Methodist settlers and merged with German Wallace College in 1913 to expand opportunities for students. Its historic landscape is truly a treat in the fall, and students and visitors alike can't get enough of its beauty.
2. Hinckley Lake (East Dr., Hinckley)
Hidden amongst the beauty of the Rocky River watershed is an 87-acre area that's nothing short of stunning in the fall. The entirety of Hinckley Reservation comes to life in the cooler months, but there's nothing like a stroll around this gorgeous lake.
3. Rocky River Reservation (Valley Pkwy., North Olmsted)
You'll find yourself humbled by the mighty Rocky River in the autumn months. Surrounded by massive shale cliffs and an incredible array of trees, it is plain to see why this beloved scenery became the first of the Cleveland Metroparks.
4. David Fortier River Park (Water St., Olmsted Falls)
Encompassing roughly five acres along the West Branch of the Rocky River and Plum Creek, this park is teeny, but it shouldn't be overlooked. With gorgeous trails, a charming pavilion, and a waterfall that'll leave you speechless, this pretty park is a must-see in autumn.
5. University Circle (Cleveland)
This beautiful hub of activity is one of Cleveland's loveliest and most distinguished neighborhoods. Some of its stunning features include Wade Lagoon, The Cleveland Museum of Art, and Severance Hall. The entirety of this neighborhood is charming in every season, but fall is a particularly picturesque time to pay it a visit.
6. Lake View Cemetery (12316 Euclid Ave., Cleveland)
Nothing says fall quite like an stroll through a cemetery; however, Lake View Cemetery is nothing like the eerie Halloween-style graveyard attractions. This historic Victorian garden cemetery in the heart of Cleveland's east side truly comes to life as the leaves begin to turn.
7. Brandywine Falls (8176 Brandywine Rd., Sagamore Hills)
There's nothing lovelier than a visit to this waterfall in the fall. At 65 feet, it features an impressive veil of water as well as a dramatic gorge that will take your breath away. Plus, it's located right in the heart of our gorgeous national park!
8. Tinkers Creek Viaduct Park (Bedford Reservation)
This historic destination was once a site of great industry, but today it is mere ruins. Fortunately, the incredible waterfall that once fueled its mills still tumbles at the site, contributing to the tumultuous flow of Tinker’s Creek. You'll love a visit to this scenic destination in the fall.
9. Derthick’s Corn Maze & Farm Experience (5182 State Route 82, Mantua)
This charming farm in Mantua is one of the quaintest spots in the area. Each year, it opens an incredible corn maze to the public that spans an astonishing 17 acres. You can find more information on local corn mazes in our previous article
here .
10. North Chagrin Reservation (Willoughby Hills)
With thousands of acres awaiting exploration, it is no wonder locals adore this gorgeous Cleveland Metropark. Of course, features like the A.B. Williams Memorial Woods, Buttermilk Falls, and Squire's Castle make it truly memorable. You'll definitely want to snap a few photos of the lovely landscape while you're here.
11. Chagrin Falls (Cuyahoga County)
This gorgeous village has grown around the falls at the center of town. The waterfall flows along the impressive Chagrin River, and its beauty - surrounded by antique scenery - is something to behold in the fall.
12. Mapleside Farms (294 Pearl Rd., Brunswick)
This apple orchard is too close to home to pass up. Its gorgeous landscape has been a farm since the Tillotson family arrived from Massachusetts in 1817, and it becomes your local headquarters for fall fun each year.
13. Along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
There's no lovelier way to experience the national park than via train. Rides depart from the Cleveland and Akron area, allowing you flexibility in your exploration and excursions. For a schedule of departing tours from the Cleveland area, click
here .
14. Heritage Farms (6050 Riverview Rd., Peninsula)
This historic farm in scenic Peninsula has remained family owned and operated despite the encroachment of urbanization, and they offer an autumnal experience that's as sweet as pie. As the foliage grows more golden each passing day, they gear up for their annual Pumpkin Pandemonium festival. Want to attend this year's event? Click
here to learn more.
Autumn is a glorious season here in Northeast Ohio, and these gorgeous destinations make it memorable. What would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share your photos of the gorgeous fall foliage by tagging us on Instagram using #onlyincleveland !
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