ASHTABULA COUNTY
Dorset Ohio
25 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Dorset Convenience Store
LOCAL SHOPPING HUB | DORSET OH
Dorset Convenience Store is a quintessential small-town shop offering a wide range of everyday essentials. This charming store serves as a central gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, providing groceries, snacks, and basic household items. It's the perfect place to stock up on supplies or grab a quick bite while exploring the area.
2. South Denmark Road Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGE | DORSET OH
South Denmark Road Covered Bridge is a picturesque wooden structure spanning a local waterway. This historic bridge offers a glimpse into the area's past, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and architectural design. Visitors can admire its rustic charm, take photos, or enjoy a peaceful moment surrounded by scenic rural landscapes.
3. Netcher Road Covered Bridge
ICONIC RURAL LANDMARK | DORSET OH
Netcher Road Covered Bridge stands as a testament to Ohio's rich covered bridge heritage. This well-preserved structure offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the charm of rural America. The bridge provides excellent photo opportunities and serves as a peaceful spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
4. New Lyme Wildlife Area
NATURE & WILDLIFE PRESERVE | NEW LYME OH
New Lyme Wildlife Area is a sprawling natural preserve offering diverse habitats for local flora and fauna. This expansive area provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and nature photography. Visitors can explore its trails, observe native species in their natural environment, and enjoy the tranquility of unspoiled Ohio wilderness.
5. Dorset Wildlife Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION | DORSET OH
Dorset Wildlife Area is a pristine natural sanctuary perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive preserve offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of Ohio's native ecosystems, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy the serenity of unspoiled nature.
6. Blue Heron Lake
SCENIC WATER RECREATION | DORSET OH
Blue Heron Lake is a picturesque body of water offering a range of recreational activities. This serene lake provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the shoreline, spot various bird species, or simply relax and take in the beautiful natural surroundings.
7. Lake Erie
GREAT LAKE | ASHTABULA COUNTY OH
Lake Erie, one of the five Great Lakes, offers a wealth of recreational opportunities along its shores in Ashtabula County. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and beachcombing at numerous access points. The lake's expansive waters and scenic coastline provide breathtaking views and a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
8. Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge
LONGEST COVERED BRIDGE | ASHTABULA OH
Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the United States, spanning an impressive 613 feet. This architectural marvel offers visitors a unique blend of history and engineering. The bridge provides stunning views of the Ashtabula River gorge and serves as a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
9. Geneva State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA | GENEVA OH
Geneva State Park is a 698-acre recreational haven situated along the shores of Lake Erie. This diverse park offers a multitude of activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy scenic trails, a marina, campgrounds, and picnic areas while taking in breathtaking views of Lake Erie.
10. Ashtabula Harbor
HISTORIC DISTRICT | ASHTABULA OH
Ashtabula Harbor is a charming historic district showcasing the area's rich maritime heritage. Visitors can explore quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in restored 19th-century buildings. The harbor offers scenic views of Lake Erie, opportunities for boat watching, and a glimpse into the region's nautical past.
11. Hubbard House Underground Railroad Museum
HISTORICAL SITE | ASHTABULA OH
This museum, housed in a former station on the Underground Railroad, offers a powerful look into the history of slavery and the fight for freedom. Visitors can explore exhibits and learn about the brave individuals who risked everything to help enslaved people escape to freedom.
12. Ashtabula Marine Museum
MARITIME HISTORY | ASHTABULA OH
The Ashtabula Marine Museum showcases the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes region. Housed in the former Ashtabula Lighthouse Keepers' house, it features exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the development of Great Lakes shipping, offering a fascinating glimpse into local nautical heritage.
13. Conneaut Township Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | CONNEAUT OH
Conneaut Township Park offers a beautiful stretch of sandy beach along Lake Erie. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and fishing. The park also features playgrounds, sports facilities, and hosts various events throughout the year, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
14. Brant's Apple Orchard
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM | ASHTABULA OH
Brant's Apple Orchard offers a quintessential fall experience with apple picking, fresh cider, and homemade treats. Visitors can enjoy scenic hayrides, explore the pumpkin patch, and savor delicious apple cider donuts. The orchard's country store sells a variety of local products and seasonal gifts.
15. Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival
ANNUAL EVENT | ASHTABULA COUNTY OH
This annual festival celebrates Ashtabula County's famous covered bridges. Held in October, it features tours of the bridges, local food and craft vendors, live entertainment, and educational displays. It's a perfect opportunity to explore the county's rich history and scenic beauty.
16. Grand River Valley Wineries
WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE | ASHTABULA COUNTY OH
Explore the renowned Grand River Valley wine region, home to numerous award-winning wineries. Take a scenic drive through rolling vineyards, sample local varietals, and enjoy stunning views of the countryside. Many wineries offer tours, tastings, and seasonal events, providing a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts.
17. Conneaut Township Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | CONNEAUT OH
This beautiful park offers a mile-long sandy beach on Lake Erie, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Enjoy fishing from the pier, watch boats in the harbor, or explore the park's playgrounds and sports facilities. The park hosts various events throughout the year, including a popular D-Day reenactment.
18. Ashtabula Arts Center
CULTURAL HUB | ASHTABULA OH
Immerse yourself in the local arts scene at the Ashtabula Arts Center. This vibrant cultural hub offers a variety of programs, including theater productions, art exhibitions, music concerts, and dance performances. Participate in workshops or classes to unleash your creativity during your visit.
19. Ashtabula County Antique Engine Club
HISTORICAL MACHINERY SHOWCASE | ASHTABULA OH
Step back in time at the Ashtabula County Antique Engine Club. This unique attraction showcases a collection of vintage tractors, engines, and farm equipment. Visit during their annual show to see demonstrations of antique machinery in action and learn about the area's agricultural heritage.
20. Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival
ANNUAL CELEBRATION | ASHTABULA COUNTY OH
Experience the charm of Ashtabula County's covered bridges during this annual festival. Held in October, the event features tours of the historic bridges, local food and craft vendors, live entertainment, and educational displays. It's a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's rich history and scenic beauty.
21. Pymatuning State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE | ANDOVER OH
Discover the natural beauty of Pymatuning State Park, home to Ohio's largest inland lake. Enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and camping opportunities. The park's wildlife sanctuary is famous for its spillway, where visitors can watch carp feeding - a unique spectacle often described as "where the ducks walk on the fish."
22. Ashtabula County Fairgrounds
COMMUNITY EVENTS CENTER | JEFFERSON OH
Visit the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, a hub for community events and activities. The annual county fair, held in August, showcases local agriculture, livestock exhibitions, carnival rides, and live entertainment. Throughout the year, the fairgrounds host various events, including flea markets, concerts, and seasonal festivals.
23. Indian Trails Park
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION | ASHTABULA OH
Explore the natural beauty of Indian Trails Park, featuring scenic hiking trails along the Ashtabula River. The park offers both paved and primitive trails, perfect for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Enjoy picturesque views of the river, observe local wildlife, and take in the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem.
24. Ashtabula County Metroparks
DIVERSE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES | ASHTABULA COUNTY OH
Discover the diverse natural landscapes of Ashtabula County through its Metroparks system. With multiple parks offering over 45 miles of trails, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, birding, fishing, kayaking, and cycling. In winter, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing for a unique outdoor experience.
25. Brant's Apple Orchard
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM | ASHTABULA OH
Experience a quintessential fall outing at Brant's Apple Orchard. Enjoy apple picking, fresh cider, and homemade treats. Take a scenic hayride, explore the pumpkin patch, and savor delicious apple cider donuts. The orchard's country store offers a variety of local products and seasonal gifts, perfect for souvenirs.
Dorset, Ohio
ASHTABULA COUNTY
LAKE ERIE | ASHTABULA COUNTY
Dorset, Ohio, a quaint village in Ashtabula County, is renowned for its charming small-town atmosphere and unique claim to fame as the "Pie Capital of Ohio." This delightful community draws visitors with its annual Pie Festival, a celebration that has put Dorset on the map for pie enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The festival features an impressive array of homemade pies, pie-eating contests, and baking demonstrations that showcase the town's culinary expertise.
Beyond its pie-centric fame, Dorset offers a variety of attractions that appeal to history buffs and antique lovers. The town's main street is lined with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, many of which now house quaint antique shops and local businesses. Visitors can spend hours browsing through these stores, uncovering unique treasures and getting a glimpse into the area's rich history.
Nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers will find plenty to explore in and around Dorset. The nearby Grand River, a state-designated wild and scenic river, provides excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The surrounding countryside offers scenic drives and hiking trails that showcase the beauty of Northeast Ohio's landscapes, particularly stunning during the fall foliage season.
For those interested in local culture, Dorset hosts several events throughout the year that highlight the community's tight-knit spirit. From summer concerts in the park to holiday celebrations, these gatherings offer visitors a chance to experience the warmth and hospitality that define this small Ohio town. Whether you're drawn by the promise of perfect pie, the allure of antiquing, or the charm of rural Americana, Dorset offers a slice of small-town life that's sure to leave a lasting impression.