Clevelanders Adore Daytripping To This Gigantic Inland Lighthouse Surrounded By Vineyards
By Nikki Rhoades|Published February 15, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
The landscape of Greater Cleveland is incredible. Rolling forests, rich coasts, and charming brooks and streams have captured the hearts of residents. However, the beauty of Ohio’s landscape begins to change as you venture outside of Greater Cleveland. Hills become more dramatic, forests look different, and landmarks have their own personalities. There’s so much to see within driving distance of Cleveland that it’s almost challenging to resist the urge to day trip each and every weekend. When you find some free time, you’ll want to swing by the tiny Village of Warsaw, located about two hours south of the city.
Hidden in the rich, rolling hills of Coshocton County is a lighthouse that stands proudly, despite no sign of nearby water.
Traditionally, these charming structures are found on the shores of large bodies of water. This one, however, is completely inland. With no ships to guide, what could be the purpose of this mysterious structure?
The lighthouse is actually a beacon for Gospel Hill Ministry and has shined its light over Warsaw farmland and vineyards since 2002.
Located at 27610 Township Rd. 45 in Warsaw, it's hard to miss this brilliant landmark. It's a surprising find in the petite Village of Warsaw, where the largest body of water is the Walhonding River.
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From base to the tip of its cross, this 74-foot-tall landmark is the largest inland lighthouse in the nation.
The Gospel Hill Lighthouse attracts lighthouse lovers and people of faith alike, as there's truly nothing like it anywhere else in the country. At a mere two hours from Cleveland, this unusual destination is worthy of a day or weekend trip.
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Elevated on a hill on County Road 24, this lighthouse offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
While Gospel Hill Lighthouse is open in every season, the view is arguably most enchanting in the rich season of autumn. On certain mornings, fog encapsulates and surrounds the magnificent hills and valleys of Coshocton County's beautiful landscape.
Located at 27561 Township Road 45, this lovely spot is well worth a visit of its own. It's open year round, and its guest house is spacious yet cozy if you're looking to stay overnight.
The lighthouse is open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free for the public to visit and tour.
If you'd like to say a prayer during your visit, feel free to take a moment to step into the prayer room. Like the rest of the lighthouse, it's open to the public.
While it differs greatly from the lighthouses on Lake Erie, this delightful piece of heaven is well worth the visit from Cleveland.
With just 36,901 residents, Coshocton County enjoys a different pace of life than most Northeast Ohioans are accustomed to. It's an area that is full of history and small towns, and around each corner is a new surprise.
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After you visit the lighthouse, be sure make the most out of your trip by getting to know Warsaw and the rest of Coshocton County.
Whether you piece together an itinerary or let your heart lead the way, this is one adventure you'll surely cherish.
There’s something intriguing about lighthouses. They serve an essential purpose, yet there’s something incredibly whimsical about them. What’s your favorite Ohio lighthouse?
