Ashtabula Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Ashtabula is a city located in Ashtabula County, Ohio. Listed below are the best attractions and things to do in Ashtabula.
1. Lakeshore Park
SCENIC PARK | ASHTABULA OH
Lakeshore Park features 54 acres of manicured grounds along Lake Erie, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a swimming beach, disc golf course, and picnic shelters, as well as a playground and sports courts. The park also hosts events like a classic car show and the annual Rib Burn Off. A public boat launch and a waterfowl pond add to its diverse amenities.
2. Walnut Beach Park
BEACH & RECREATION AREA | ASHTABULA OH
Walnut Beach Park is a 28-acre lakefront destination known for its wide sandy beach and stunning sunsets. It offers amenities such as a bathhouse, picnic shelters, and sports courts for visitors to enjoy. The park also features a unique handicapped-accessible boardwalk and low dunes that support rare plant species. As the northern terminus of the North Shore Trail, it is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers.
3. Ashtabula Harbor
HISTORIC WATERFRONT DISTRICT | ASHTABULA OH
Ashtabula Harbor blends maritime history with modern charm, offering scenic views of Lake Erie and a vibrant waterfront area. Visitors can explore unique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants while strolling along the docks. Historical sites like the Ashtabula Marine Museum provide insight into the region's nautical past. The harbor regularly hosts local events, adding to its appeal as a cultural hub.
4. Ashtabula Downtown Lift Bridge
ICONIC LANDMARK | ASHTABULA OH
The Ashtabula Downtown Lift Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city's industrial heritage and connects the harbor district to downtown. This bascule bridge rises every half hour to allow boats to pass, creating a unique spectacle for visitors. Its illuminated structure at night makes it a favorite spot for photography. The bridge also serves as a gateway to explore nearby shops and restaurants.
5. Ashtabula Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME BEACON | ASHTABULA OH
The Ashtabula Lighthouse has stood since 1905 as a testament to the city's rich maritime history on Lake Erie. This three-story steel structure guided ships safely for over a century and remains an enduring symbol of the harbor. While not open for tours, it offers picturesque views from Walnut Beach Park and nearby areas. Seasonal events often celebrate its historical significance.
6. Lake Erie
GREAT LAKE | ASHTABULA OH
Lake Erie offers diverse recreational opportunities along its scenic shoreline in Ashtabula County. Known for excellent fishing, it attracts anglers seeking walleye, perch, and steelhead year-round. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, kayaking, or motorboating on its waters, while beaches provide spots for swimming and sunbathing. The lake's stunning sunsets make it a perfect destination for relaxation and photography.
7. Brant's Apple Orchard
FALL ATTRACTION | ASHTABULA OH
Brant's Apple Orchard is a beloved fall destination offering fresh apple cider, donuts, and other seasonal treats. The orchard hosts an annual Fall Festival featuring activities like hayrides, carnival games, and apple launching. Visitors can explore interactive walking trails and enjoy family-friendly amenities such as a playground and picnic areas. Its rustic charm is complemented by educational tours showcasing its history.
8. Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival
CULTURAL CELEBRATION | JEFFERSON OH
The Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival celebrates the area's historic covered bridges with guided tours and family-friendly activities. Held annually at the fairgrounds, it features crafts, live entertainment, local food vendors, and historical displays. Visitors can explore 19 covered bridges through scenic driving tours or participate in contests like miniature bridge building. This festival highlights the county's architectural heritage and community spirit.
9. Harbor Yak
WATER ADVENTURES | ASHTABULA OH
Harbor Yak offers kayak, canoe, paddleboard, and pontoon rentals in Historic Ashtabula Harbor for water exploration enthusiasts. Visitors can paddle along miles of river or venture out to Lake Erie’s shoreline while enjoying scenic views of the harbor and lighthouse. Guided tours are available for groups of all sizes to enhance the experience. Friendly staff ensure safety and provide helpful tips for beginners.
10. Ashtabula Maritime Museum
MUSEUM OF NAUTICAL HISTORY | ASHTABULA OH
The Ashtabula Maritime Museum showcases the city’s rich nautical heritage through artifacts, photographs, and ship models housed in an 1871 lighthouse keeper’s quarters. Exhibits include a restored pilot house, a model of a Hulett ore-unloading machine, and displays on the 1876 train disaster. Visitors can also learn about the history of Great Lakes shipping at this engaging museum near the harbor.
11. Purola's Harbor Deli
ITALIAN DELI & PIZZERIA | ASHTABULA OH
Purola's Harbor Deli offers a delightful menu of New American, pizza, and Italian cuisine. The restaurant provides options for vegan and vegetarian preferences, catering to a diverse range of customers. Featuring savory dishes like their signature NY or Pan pizzas, pepperoni rolls, and delicious calzones, Purola's has garnered rave reviews for its flavorful and fresh ingredients. Customers praise the attentive service and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for families, groups, and even furry friends.
12. Hubbard House Underground Railroad Museum
HISTORIC MUSEUM | ASHTABULA OH
Hubbard House Underground Railroad Museum is a historic home that once served as a northern terminus of the Underground Railroad. Built by William and Katharine Hubbard around 1841, the house was code-named "Mother Hubbard's Cupboard" and "The Great Emporium" during its operation. The museum is listed on the US Department of the Interior National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore the history of the Underground Railroad and learn about the brave individuals who helped slaves escape to freedom.
13. Historic Bridge Street
HISTORIC DISTRICT | ASHTABULA OH
Historic Bridge Street is a charming district filled with unique boutique shops, restaurants, and exciting events. The street's main attraction is the Bascule Lift Bridge, which rises every half hour to allow boats to pass through. Visitors can explore the area's rich history at the Maritime Museum and the Underground Railroad Museum. The street comes alive in the evening when the Lift Bridge is illuminated, creating a spectacular sight for tourists and locals alike.
14. Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge
HISTORIC COVERED BRIDGE | ASHTABULA OH
Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the United States, spanning 613 feet across the Ashtabula River. The bridge features walkways along both sides and rises more than 93 feet over the river, carrying two lanes of legal-weight traffic. Constructed of Douglas fir, yellow pine, hemlock, and yellow poplar, the bridge showcases impressive craftsmanship and engineering. A visitors' pavilion was added to the site in 2010, enhancing the experience for tourists and history enthusiasts.
15. Hil-Mak Seafood Restaurant
SEAFOOD RESTAURANT | ASHTABULA OH
Hil-Mak Seafood Restaurant is a family-owned establishment known for its fresh and delicious seafood offerings. The restaurant's menu features a wide variety of fish and shellfish dishes, including popular items like lobster bisque and New England clam chowder. Hil-Mak prides itself on serving seafood that is shipped daily, ensuring the highest quality for its customers. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
16. Briquettes Smokehouse
BBQ RESTAURANT | ASHTABULA OH
Briquettes Smokehouse offers an authentic BBQ experience with a focus on low-and-slow smoked meats. The restaurant features a diverse menu of regional barbecue specialties, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Diners can enjoy craft beers and house cocktails alongside their meals in a cozy, rustic atmosphere. Located in the historic Ashtabula Harbor, Briquettes Smokehouse provides both dine-in and take-out options for barbecue enthusiasts.
17. Bascule Bridge Grille
UPSCALE CASUAL DINING | ASHTABULA OH
Bascule Bridge Grille is an upscale casual restaurant and wine bar serving modern American cuisine. The establishment offers a carefully curated wine list featuring local and international selections, as well as top-shelf Scotch and craft cocktails. Diners can enjoy a seasonal menu that showcases fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant's knowledgeable staff provides excellent service, making it a popular choice for intimate dinners and special occasions.
18. The Crow's Nest
SPORTS BAR & GRILL | ASHTABULA OH
The Crow's Nest is a lively sports bar offering American cuisine with a focus on chicken wings. The establishment features amenities such as outdoor seating, free Wi-Fi, and a full bar, making it perfect for groups and families. Vegetarian options are available, and the restaurant provides convenient services like delivery and takeout. The Crow's Nest is known for its flavorful chicken wings and cozy atmosphere, making it a popular spot for sports fans and casual diners alike.
19. Bum Boat
WATERFRONT BAR | ASHTABULA OH
Bum Boat is a unique waterfront bar located on the Ashtabula River, offering stunning sunset views and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy cold drinks while watching boats navigate the river's channel and the nearby lift bridge in operation. The bar features a top deck for optimal viewing and a family-friendly environment, welcoming patrons with or without children. Recently under new ownership, Bum Boat has expanded its offerings to include a party boat for special events and outings.
20. Cloven Hoof Brewing Co.
CRAFT BREWERY | ASHTABULA OH
Cloven Hoof Brewing Co. is a local craft brewery offering a variety of unique and flavorful beers. The brewery features a taproom where visitors can sample their creations and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. Cloven Hoof also offers beer to go and hosts food trucks for those looking to pair their brews with delicious eats. With a private event space available, the brewery is an excellent venue for gatherings and celebrations.
21. Marianne's Chocolates
HANDCRAFTED CONFECTIONS | ASHTABULA OH
Marianne's Chocolates is a delightful local chocolate and fudge store offering a wide range of handmade confections. Their specialty is Sea Salt Bark, available in both milk and dark chocolate varieties. The shop also features an impressive selection of truffles, fudge flavors, and unique treats like chocolate-covered marshmallows on sticks. Marianne's Chocolates prides itself on using original recipes and crafting fresh chocolates daily.
22. Olin's Covered Bridge
HISTORIC BRIDGE | ASHTABULA OH
Olin's Covered Bridge is a historic structure located on Dewey Road in Plymouth Township. Built in 1873, this charming bridge is named after the Olin family, who have owned property adjacent to it since its construction. The bridge spans a picturesque section of the local landscape, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich architectural heritage. As one of Ashtabula County's covered bridges, it serves as a popular attraction for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
23. Benetka Road Covered Bridge
SCENIC RIVER CROSSING | ASHTABULA OH
Benetka Road Covered Bridge is a charming landmark spanning the Ashtabula River, capturing the essence of the county's rural heritage. Built in 1900, this historic structure exemplifies the covered bridge design prevalent in the region during that era. The bridge offers visitors a picturesque glimpse into Ashtabula County's past and serves as a popular spot for photographers and history enthusiasts. Its rustic appeal and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit attraction for those exploring the area's architectural legacy.
24. Ashtabula Family Roller Den
SKATING & ENTERTAINMENT | ASHTABULA OH
Ashtabula Family Roller Den is a popular entertainment venue offering roller skating fun for all ages. The facility features a spacious skating rink with smooth surfaces perfect for both beginners and experienced skaters. In addition to open skate sessions, the Roller Den likely hosts special events and themed nights throughout the year. This family-friendly attraction provides a nostalgic and enjoyable experience for locals and visitors alike.
25. Indian Trails Park
NATURE & RECREATION | ASHTABULA OH
Indian Trails Park is a sprawling 369-acre natural area stretching along the Ashtabula River. The park features a mix of paved and dirt trails, offering visitors scenic walks through lush woodland areas rich in diverse flora. Birdwatchers can spot various species, including Bald Eagles, Eastern Bluebirds, and Belted Kingfishers. The park is home to the Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge in the United States, and includes educational pavilions with information about local history and nature.