NORTHEAST OHIO
Vermilion Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Main Street Beach and Vermilion Lighthouse
LAKEFRONT RECREATION AREA | VERMILION OH
Main Street Beach and Vermilion Lighthouse offer a picturesque lakeside experience. The beach provides stunning Lake Erie views, perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and watching breathtaking sunsets. The iconic lighthouse, a replica of the original 1877 structure, stands as a proud symbol of Vermilion's rich maritime heritage.
2. Historic Downtown Vermilion
CHARMING HARBOR TOWN | VERMILION OH
Historic Downtown Vermilion, known as Harbour Town 1837, exudes New England charm. This quaint district features beautifully preserved captains' homes, unique boutiques, art galleries, and cozy restaurants. Stroll along brick-lined streets, admire the Victorian architecture, and experience the town's rich nautical history firsthand.
3. Vermilion River Reservation
SCENIC NATURE PRESERVE | VERMILION OH
Vermilion River Reservation offers a serene natural escape. This 271-acre park features scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots along the Vermilion River. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows, while enjoying birdwatching and wildlife observation opportunities throughout the year.
4. Bacon House Museum
HISTORIC SETTLER'S HOME | VERMILION OH
Bacon House Museum, located in the Mill Hollow area of Vermilion River Reservation, offers a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life. This restored 1845 settler's home features period furnishings and artifacts, providing visitors with an immersive experience of Vermilion's early history and the daily lives of its first European settlers.
5. Woollybear Festival
QUIRKY AUTUMN CELEBRATION | VERMILION OH
The Woollybear Festival is Vermilion's beloved annual event celebrating the woolly bear caterpillar. Held in October, it's Ohio's largest one-day festival, featuring a grand parade, costume contests, and quirky weather predictions based on the caterpillar's markings. This family-friendly celebration attracts thousands of visitors from across the region.
6. Festival of the Fish
MARITIME SUMMER FESTIVAL | VERMILION OH
Festival of the Fish is Vermilion's vibrant three-day summer celebration. Held in June, this event honors the city's fishing heritage with a lively mix of activities including a sand castle contest, fish fry, Queen's pageant, and fireworks display. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, local cuisine, and family-friendly attractions.
7. The Postcard Project
PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION | VERMILION OH
The Postcard Project is a unique public art installation showcasing Vermilion's history and charm. Fifteen mural-sized paintings of vintage postcards are scattered throughout the town, creating an engaging outdoor gallery. This self-guided tour offers visitors a creative way to explore Vermilion's landmarks and scenic spots.
8. Vermilion Farm Market
LOCAL PRODUCE & GOODS | VERMILION OH
Vermilion Farm Market is a beloved local institution offering fresh produce and artisanal goods. This family-owned market features a wide selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, jams, and preserves. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal attractions like hayrides and a pumpkin patch in the fall.
9. Paper Moon Winery
VINEYARD & TASTING ROOM | VERMILION OH
Paper Moon Winery offers a delightful wine-tasting experience in a scenic setting. This family-owned establishment produces a variety of wines from locally grown grapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyard and production facilities, and relaxing evenings on the patio with live music events.
10. Chez Francois Restaurant
UPSCALE FRENCH DINING | VERMILION OH
Chez Francois Restaurant is a renowned fine dining establishment offering exquisite French cuisine. Located in a charming riverfront setting, this upscale restaurant serves meticulously prepared dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Diners can enjoy an elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and stunning views of the Vermilion River.
Vermilion Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN VERMILION
Vermilion, Ohio, is a charming lakeside town known for its picturesque beauty and rich maritime history. Often referred to as the "Village of Lake Captains," Vermilion boasts a unique blend of New England-style atmosphere and Midwest hospitality. The town's historic district, Harbour Town 1837, is home to numerous beautifully preserved captains' homes, showcasing architectural styles from the Victorian, Italianate, Arts and Crafts, and Queen Anne eras.
One of Vermilion's most popular attractions is Main Street Beach, where visitors can enjoy stunning Lake Erie sunsets, relax in Adirondack chairs, or snap photos of the iconic Vermilion lighthouse. The beach area is also a hub for various water activities, including recreational boating, jet skiing, canoeing, and sailing. For those interested in history, the Vermilion River Reservation's Mill Hollow area features the Bacon House Museum, an 1845 settler's home that offers a glimpse into the community's past.
Vermilion is renowned for its vibrant events and festivals. The Annual Vermilion Ice-A-Fair, a winter celebration featuring ice sculptures and carving demonstrations, draws crowds from across the region. During summer, the town comes alive with events like the Woollybear Festival, Ohio's longest parade, and the Festival of the Fish, a three-day celebration in June. Art enthusiasts will appreciate The Postcard Project, a public art installation featuring 15 mural-sized paintings of vintage postcards spread throughout the town.
For nature lovers, Vermilion offers numerous parks and outdoor spaces. The Vermilion River Reservation, with its Bacon Woods and Mill Hollow areas, provides picturesque trails and picnic spots. The town is also famous for its Vermilion Lagoons, one of the first planned residential communities on water in the United States. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and community events, Vermilion offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors of all interests.