HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK
Painesville, Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Lake County History Center
HISTORICAL EXHIBITS | PAINESVILLE OH
Lake County History Center showcases the rich heritage of Lake County, Ohio. Housed in a beautifully restored 1876 poor house, the center features changing museum exhibits, rare 1900s music boxes, and a vast collection of historical artifacts. Visitors can explore themed rooms, attend educational programs, and participate in special events that bring local history to life.
2. Painesville Railroad Museum
VINTAGE TRAIN DISPLAYS | PAINESVILLE OH
Painesville Railroad Museum preserves the rich railroad history of the area. Located in the historic NYC Painesville Depot, the museum features an extensive collection of railroad memorabilia, model train displays, and restored rail cars. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the impact of railroads on local development and enjoy special events throughout the year.
3. The Shop Bar And Grill
BURGERS & BREWS | PAINESVILLE OH
The Shop Bar and Grill is a popular local hangout known for its delicious burgers and extensive beer selection. This casual eatery offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying comfort food and catching up with friends. With a menu featuring classic American fare and daily specials, The Shop Bar and Grill is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
4. Jackie's Sports Bar And Grill
SPORTS BAR & AMERICAN CUISINE | PAINESVILLE OH
Jackie's Sports Bar and Grill is a lively establishment offering a perfect blend of sports entertainment and delicious American cuisine. With multiple TVs showcasing various sports events, it's an ideal spot for game day gatherings. The menu features a wide range of pub favorites, from hearty burgers to crispy wings, complemented by a full bar with craft beers and cocktails.
5. Headlands Beach State Park
LAKEFRONT BEACH | MENTOR OH
Headlands Beach State Park boasts the longest natural sand beach in Ohio, stretching along the shores of Lake Erie. This mile-long beach offers stunning views, swimming opportunities, and excellent bird-watching. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and hiking trails. The adjacent Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve showcases unique flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
6. Painesville Party In The Park
ANNUAL MUSIC FESTIVAL | PAINESVILLE OH
Painesville Party in the Park is Ohio's largest free music festival, drawing thousands of visitors each summer. This three-day event features over 30 musical acts across multiple stages, offering a diverse range of genres. Attendees can enjoy food vendors, craft booths, and family-friendly activities, making it a highlight of the summer season in Lake County.
7. Lake County Visitors Bureau
TOURISM INFORMATION | PAINESVILLE OH
Lake County Visitors Bureau serves as the primary resource for tourists exploring the region. This information center provides comprehensive guides, maps, and recommendations for local attractions, accommodations, and events. Knowledgeable staff offer personalized assistance to help visitors plan their stay, ensuring they experience the best of Lake County's diverse offerings.
8. Downtown Painesville
HISTORIC DISTRICT | PAINESVILLE OH
Downtown Painesville is the heart of the city, featuring a charming blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The area is centered around the picturesque Painesville Square, which boasts beautiful botanical gardens. Visitors can explore local shops, dine at unique restaurants, and enjoy community events. The downtown district also hosts seasonal farmers markets and festivals throughout the year.
9. Lake Metroparks Farmpark
EDUCATIONAL WORKING FARM | KIRTLAND OH
Lake Metroparks Farmpark is a unique, family-friendly attraction that brings agriculture to life. This working farm offers hands-on experiences with farm animals, crop harvesting, and food processing demonstrations. Visitors can explore science and technology exhibits, enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, and participate in seasonal events. The park's educational programs provide insights into sustainable farming practices and rural heritage.
10. Fairport Harbor Marine Museum And Lighthouse
MARITIME HISTORY | FAIRPORT HARBOR OH
Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse offers a fascinating glimpse into Lake Erie's maritime history. The museum, housed in a historic lighthouse, features exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouse technology, and local nautical heritage. Visitors can climb the lighthouse tower for panoramic views of Lake Erie and explore the keeper's house, which showcases period furnishings and artifacts.
11. Holden Arboretum
BOTANICAL GARDENS | KIRTLAND OH
Holden Arboretum is a vast outdoor living museum spanning 3,600 acres of gardens and natural areas. The arboretum features diverse plant collections, hiking trails, and the popular Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower. Visitors can explore themed gardens, participate in educational programs, and enjoy seasonal events. The arboretum's research initiatives contribute to plant conservation and environmental education.
12. James A. Garfield National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL HOME & MUSEUM | MENTOR OH
James A. Garfield National Historic Site preserves the home of the 20th U.S. President. This beautifully restored Victorian mansion, known as Lawnfield, offers guided tours showcasing period furnishings and personal artifacts. Visitors can explore the presidential library, walk through manicured grounds, and learn about Garfield's life and legacy through exhibits and educational programs.
13. Hell Hollow Wilderness Area
HIKING & NATURE TRAILS | LEROY TOWNSHIP OH
Hell Hollow Wilderness Area is a rugged and scenic park offering challenging hiking trails and breathtaking natural beauty. The park features deep ravines, towering hemlocks, and the picturesque Paine Creek. Hikers can explore diverse ecosystems, observe wildlife, and enjoy stunning views from the overlooks. The area is particularly popular for its fall foliage and spring wildflowers.
14. Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park Beach
LAKESIDE RECREATION | FAIRPORT HARBOR OH
Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park Beach is a popular summer destination offering a sandy beach along Lake Erie. This 21-acre park features swimming areas, beach volleyball courts, and a children's playground. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, sunbathing, and water activities. The park also hosts special events and concerts throughout the season, making it a vibrant community gathering place.
15. Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve And Marina
WETLANDS & BOATING | MENTOR OH
Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve and Marina offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This 450-acre preserve features rare coastal wetlands, hiking trails, and a protected harbor. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, enjoy bird watching, and participate in water activities. The marina provides boat launches and docking facilities, making it a popular spot for boating enthusiasts.
16. Squire's Castle
HISTORIC LANDMARK | WILLOUGHBY HILLS OH
Squire's Castle is a picturesque stone structure nestled in the North Chagrin Reservation. Originally built as a gatehouse for a never-completed country estate, it now serves as a popular picnic and photo spot. Visitors can explore the castle's exterior, enjoy the surrounding hiking trails, and learn about its intriguing history through interpretive signs.
17. La Mexicana
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE | PAINESVILLE OH
La Mexicana is a beloved local eatery known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. This family-owned restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients. Visitors can savor homemade tacos, burritos, and specialty plates in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. La Mexicana also operates as a grocery store, allowing patrons to purchase Mexican ingredients and products.
18. The Pompadour
UPSCALE DINING EXPERIENCE | FAIRPORT HARBOR OH
The Pompadour offers an upscale dining experience in a charming setting. This restaurant is known for its innovative menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients and creative culinary techniques. Guests can enjoy a variety of gourmet dishes, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine list. The Pompadour's elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular choice for special occasions and fine dining.
19. Craft And Antique Co-op
VINTAGE & HANDMADE GOODS | PAINESVILLE OH
Craft and Antique Co-op is a treasure trove for collectors and craft enthusiasts. This expansive marketplace features a wide array of vintage items, antiques, and handcrafted goods from local artisans. Visitors can browse through multiple vendor booths offering unique furniture, home decor, jewelry, and collectibles. The co-op regularly updates its inventory, ensuring a fresh shopping experience with each visit.
20. Mentor Civic Ice Arena
ICE SKATING & HOCKEY | MENTOR OH
Mentor Civic Ice Arena is the premier ice skating facility in Lake County. This indoor rink offers public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, and figure skating programs for all ages and skill levels. Visitors can enjoy recreational skating, take lessons, or watch local hockey games. The arena also hosts special events and ice shows throughout the year.
21. Escape Room Mentor
INTERACTIVE PUZZLE ADVENTURES | MENTOR OH
Escape Room Mentor offers thrilling interactive puzzle experiences for groups of all sizes. Participants are immersed in themed rooms where they must solve clues and riddles to "escape" within a set time limit. The facility features multiple room scenarios, each with unique challenges and storylines. This attraction is perfect for team-building events, family outings, or fun nights out with friends.
22. All City Candy
SWEET TREATS & NOSTALGIA | MENTOR OH
All City Candy is a sugar lover's paradise, offering a vast selection of candies, chocolates, and nostalgic treats. This 5,000-square-foot wonderland features both modern and classic confections from around the world. Visitors can explore aisles of colorful sweets, create custom gift baskets, and indulge in freshly made fudge and popcorn. The store also hosts candy-making classes and special events.
23. Indian Museum Of Lake County
NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS | MENTOR OH
The Indian Museum of Lake County showcases the rich Native American heritage of the region. This small but informative museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including arrowheads, pottery, and tools. Visitors can learn about the indigenous cultures that once inhabited the area through exhibits and educational programs. The museum also features a gift shop offering Native American-inspired crafts and books.
24. Benny Vino Urban Winery
WINE TASTING & EVENTS | GENEVA OH
Benny Vino Urban Winery offers a unique wine-tasting experience in a charming setting. This boutique winery produces a variety of handcrafted wines using locally sourced grapes. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tour the winemaking facilities, and relax on the outdoor patio with scenic views. The winery hosts live music events, food pairings, and seasonal festivities throughout the year.
25. The Roll House
BOWLING & ENTERTAINMENT CENTER | MENTOR OH
The Roll House is a modern entertainment center offering a variety of activities for all ages. The facility features state-of-the-art bowling lanes, arcade games, and a full-service restaurant and bar. Visitors can enjoy cosmic bowling, participate in leagues, or host private events. The Roll House also offers escape rooms and virtual reality experiences, making it a one-stop destination for family fun and group outings.
Painesville, Ohio
LAKE COUNTY
LAKE ERIE | LAKE COUNTY
Painesville, Ohio, is a charming city known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and vibrant community events. Located in Lake County, it offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Painesville is home to several notable attractions, including the Lake Metroparks Farmpark, a working farm with educational programs, and the historic James A. Garfield National Historic Site, which preserves the home of the 20th U.S. President.
One of Painesville's most popular attractions is the Lake County History Center, which houses changing museum exhibits and rare 1900s music boxes. The center provides visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the area's past. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Hell Hollow Wilderness Area, a park offering hiking trails and scenic views. For those interested in railroad history, the Painesville Railroad Museum, located in the historic NYC Painesville Depot, is a must-visit destination.
The city's downtown area is a hub of activity, featuring the beautiful Painesville Square with its botanical gardens, local shops, and restaurants. The annual Painesville Party in the Park, Ohio's largest free music festival, draws thousands of visitors each summer with over 30 musical acts. Food lovers can explore local favorites like The Shop Bar and Grill for burgers and bar food, or Jackie's Sports Bar and Grill for American cuisine in a sports bar setting.
Painesville's proximity to Lake Erie adds to its appeal, with nearby attractions like Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park Beach and Mentor Headlands Beach offering opportunities for summer recreation. The city's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern development makes it an attractive destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and families alike. Whether you're exploring its historical sites, enjoying its parks, or participating in community events, Painesville offers a diverse range of activities for visitors and residents.