8 Scenic Counties Near Cleveland That Are Worth Roadtripping Through
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Cleveland is an immensely stunning city, but the reality is that there is something special about this entire region. All across Northeast Ohio are oodles of discoveries just waiting to be made, and the only thing that is stopping you from discovering them is your schedule. When you find a bit of free time this summer, you simply must take the chance to get to know some of the lovely places that surround our hometown.
Medina County, located just south of Cuyahoga County, is one of the state's best-kept secrets. This charming area is a blend of suburban and rural, and the people that call it home are the kindest breed you'll ever meet.
The county is full of quaint communities with historic roots, and there always seems to be something going on in areas like Medina Square and Downtown Wadsworth. This summer, be sure to catch Jazz Under The Stars in Medina Square. This weekly concert takes place on Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., and it occurs in the heart of Medina Square. In the event of rain, the concert will take place nearby at the United Church of Christ.
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Ottawa County is one of the loveliest places in all of Ohio. From its many charming wineries to its iconic islands, there truly is never a dull day in this lovely area. One could start the day on the shores of Port Clinton and then retire in a cozy bed and breakfast on South Bass Island. There will be a ferry trip involved if you wish to see the islands of Ottawa County, but it's worth it. While you're traveling, swing by Crystal Cave in Put-in-Bay... it's the largest geode in the world!
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Located just northeast of Cleveland is a petite county with a whole lot to love. Lake County is a mere 228-square-miles, but in that space is oodles of history and amazing destinations. From the incredible atmosphere of Downtown Painesville to the charm of the Lake Metroparks, there is much to see in this gorgeous area.
This summer, you simply must check out the county's famous Lake Metroparks in Kirtland. While you're in the area, you may also want to explore some of Kirtland's famous landmarks, like the local mountaintop or the historic first Mormon temple.
Geauga County is Cleveland's neighbor to the east, and its landscape is full of charm, history, and a few surprises. With Amish Country serving up homemade goodies and countless wineries growing and fermenting fruit, there is so much to do and see in this charming area that one could spend a lifetime here and still make daily discoveries.
You'll adore the Victorian charms of Chardon's downtown district as well as the rural charm of places like Alpacas Run Hideaway Farm & Gift Hut. You might also remember the county's now-abandoned amusement park.
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When this dreamy county was established in 1838, locals must have been in awe of the beauty on its shores. Today, the county draws visitors from across the nation to its incredible amusement park. While Cedar Point is undoubtedly one of the greatest attractions in the area, there is so much to see. Vermilion is a gorgeous and charming community to visit, and Bellevue hides a body of water that's bluer than any other you've ever seen. The landscape is breathtaking all over this gorgeous county.
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Located just west of Cuyahoga County is an area that's full of beauty and adventure. Lorain County is the home of places like Carlisle Reservation, where locals love to ride The Little Green Choo, and the historic community of Amherst, which was once known as the Sandstone Capital of the World.
You simply must explore Downtown Amherst while you're in the area, and you'll find that there is always something going on in the charming Lorain County Metro Parks district.
Summit County is Cleveland's neighbor to the southeast and it is full of lovely surprises.
From epic destinations like The Bomb Shelter (which, by the way, is the coolest antique store in this part of the state) and the Summit County Historical Society. It is also home to the stunning Summit Metro Parks, which hides wonders like Deep Lock Quarry, which you simply have to see to believe.
This lovely little county is home to iconic wonders like Grandpa's Cheesebarn and the incredible Ashland BalloonFest, which runs this year from June 29 through July 1, 2018.
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Ashland is rural and quaint, but you can also find luxury befitting royalty at places like Landoll's Mohican Castle and nearby you can even spend the night in a gorgeous treehouse.
There is much to love throughout Ohio, but we reside in its dreamiest region. There is beauty throughout the landscape here and there are wonders hidden in plain sight just about everywhere you look. Which nearby county is your favorite to visit? Tell us why in the comments below!
For more local fun, check out these epic adventures right here in Cleveland.
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