NORTHEAST OHIO
Portage Lakes Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Portage Lakes State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Portage Lakes State Park offers a diverse range of outdoor activities centered around its eight interconnected lakes. Spanning 411 acres, the park provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy the 900-foot public beach, numerous boat ramps, and scenic trails winding through woodlands and wetlands, making it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.
2. Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park
SERENE LAKE GETAWAY | GREEN OH
Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park features a 825-acre lake perfect for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a boat launch, providing a tranquil escape for nature lovers. Birdwatchers flock to the park for its diverse waterfowl population, while anglers enjoy catching bass, bluegill, and crappie in the reservoir's calm waters.
3. Turkeyfoot Lake Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SWIMMING SPOT | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Turkeyfoot Lake Beach, part of Portage Lakes State Park, offers a 900-foot public swimming area perfect for families and sun-seekers. The sandy beach provides a great spot for relaxation and picnicking, while the clear waters of Turkeyfoot Lake invite visitors to cool off during hot summer days. Amenities include restrooms, changing areas, and nearby picnic facilities.
4. Lala's in the Lakes
LAKESIDE DINING EXPERIENCE | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Lala's in the Lakes offers a delightful waterfront dining experience in the heart of Portage Lakes. This charming restaurant serves a diverse menu of American cuisine, including fresh seafood, steaks, and sandwiches. Guests can enjoy their meals on the outdoor patio overlooking the lake, creating a perfect atmosphere for both casual dinners and special occasions.
5. Lagos at Portage Lakes
LAKEFRONT DINING & ENTERTAINMENT | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Lagos at Portage Lakes is a popular waterfront restaurant and bar offering a vibrant atmosphere and stunning lake views. The menu features a variety of American and international dishes, complemented by a full bar and live entertainment. With its spacious outdoor patio and dock access, Lagos provides a perfect blend of dining, socializing, and enjoying the scenic Portage Lakes setting.
6. Portage Lakes Cruises
SCENIC BOAT TOURS | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Portage Lakes Cruises offers enchanting boat tours through the scenic Portage Lakes chain. Passengers can enjoy narrated excursions highlighting the area's history and natural beauty aboard comfortable pontoon boats. These relaxing cruises provide a unique perspective of the lakes, surrounding landscapes, and wildlife, making them perfect for both tourists and locals seeking a leisurely water adventure.
7. Dusty's Landing
FULL-SERVICE MARINA | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Dusty's Landing is a comprehensive marina serving boating enthusiasts in Portage Lakes. The facility offers boat rentals, including pontoons and fishing boats, as well as docking services and boat storage. With its convenient location and friendly staff, Dusty's Landing provides easy access to the lakes for both experienced boaters and those looking to enjoy a day on the water.
8. Portage Lakes Disc Golf Course
CHALLENGING OUTDOOR SPORT | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Portage Lakes Disc Golf Course, located within Portage Lakes State Park, offers an exciting 18-hole course for disc golf enthusiasts. The course winds through scenic wooded areas and open fields, providing a challenging and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. With well-maintained tees and baskets, this course is a popular destination for both casual players and competitive tournaments.
9. Knapp Recreation Area
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARK AMENITIES | NEW FRANKLIN OH
Knapp Recreation Area, part of Portage Lakes State Park, offers a variety of family-friendly amenities for outdoor enjoyment. The area features picnic shelters, playgrounds, and open green spaces perfect for gatherings and recreational activities. With its proximity to the lakes and easy access to hiking trails, Knapp Recreation Area serves as a versatile hub for visitors seeking diverse outdoor experiences.
10. The Boathouse
WATERFRONT DINING & ENTERTAINMENT | NEW FRANKLIN OH
The Boathouse is a popular waterfront restaurant and bar offering stunning views of Portage Lakes. Known for its casual atmosphere and diverse menu featuring seafood, burgers, and local specialties, The Boathouse attracts both locals and visitors. The establishment's outdoor patio and dock provide the perfect setting for enjoying live music, refreshing drinks, and picturesque sunsets over the lake.
Portage Lakes Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN PORTAGE LAKES
Portage Lakes, Ohio, is renowned for its stunning chain of eight interconnected lakes, offering a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. This picturesque area, located just south of Akron, is a haven for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The centerpiece of the region is Portage Lakes State Park, a 411-acre oasis that provides visitors with a diverse range of activities throughout the year.
One of the most popular attractions in Portage Lakes is the extensive network of waterways, perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports. Visitors can enjoy sailing, jet skiing, and water skiing on the lakes, with several boat launch ramps available for easy access. Fishing enthusiasts flock to the area for its abundant populations of largemouth bass, catfish, and panfish. The park also features a 900-foot public swimming beach at Turkeyfoot Lake, ideal for families looking to cool off during hot summer days.
For those who prefer land-based activities, Portage Lakes offers numerous hiking trails that wind through scenic woodlands and wetlands. The park's diverse ecosystem attracts a wide variety of waterfowl and shorebirds, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy ice skating, ice fishing, and even snowmobiling on the frozen lakes, providing year-round entertainment.
Beyond the natural attractions, Portage Lakes boasts a vibrant community with waterfront dining options and local events. Visitors can explore charming restaurants like Pick's at PLX, which offers three dining experiences in one location, including a lakeside bar. The area also hosts various community events throughout the year, such as the popular Portage Lakes Fireworks and the Free Kids Fishing Derby, adding to the region's appeal as a family-friendly destination. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat by the water, Portage Lakes offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make it a standout destination in Northeast Ohio.