
Summer may be over, but don't start hibernating just yet. Spectacular fall foliage is a great reason to head outdoors and hit the road or the hiking trails. Plan a day trip to view incredible color displays at these amazing locations around Northeast Ohio.
4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, OH 44843
The history of Malabar Farm State Park is as colorful as the falling leaves of autumn. Louis Bromfield, Mansfield native and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, built the "Big House" as a refuge from the war-torn France of the 1930s, where he and his family had been living. Bromfield's good friends Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall were married at the farm, which also served as a filming location for The Shawshank Redemption. Today, visitors can tour the farm and house while kids enjoy the petting barn animals. Explore the full splendor of the grounds on a farm wagon tour. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Admission is free, with a $3 per person charge for farm wagon tours.
15610 Vaughn Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141
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When it comes to outdoor adventures in Northeast Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is bound to be at the top of the list. With 33,000 acres of stunning landscapes, including 20 miles of the Cuyahoga River, the park provides a beautiful oasis not far from the region's urban areas. Hike along more than 125 miles of pet-friendly trails or get a different perspective canoeing or kayaking on the Cuyahoga River. The park has been named an Important Bird Area (IBA) by the National Audubon Society, making it a great place to view our fine feathered friends as well as foliage. Admission is free, and park grounds are open 24/7.
9500 Lakeview Road NE, Mineral City, OH 44656
Get in some late-season boating on the namesake body of water at the center of Atwood Lake Park. Pontoons, fishing boats, sailboats, canoes, and kayaks can all be found on the lake. When you're ready for dry land, hike the pet-friendly trails which range from easy to challenging. Climb to the top of the observation tower for panoramic views of the surrounding foliage. The park also has a leash-free dog park where Fido can romp to his heart's content. Plan your trip along SR 212 from I-77 to the park for additional leaf viewings. Atwood Lake Park is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free from Labor Day until Memorial Day.
8765 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
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Leaves aren't the only things coming out of trees during fall. Have fun picking your own Honeycrisp and Gingergold apples at Patterson Fruit Farm. Several generations of Pattersons have been involved in running the family farm, dating back to patriarch Augustus and his wife Vandora in 1879. Don't miss their annual Family Fun Fest, which includes seasonal activities such as a corn maze, wagon rides, and pumpkin paintings. Afterward, stop by the farm market to take home some apple cider, maple syrup, and freshly-baked donuts. Orchard hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. The Family Fun Fest runs from September 17 - October 30 and admission is $6 Monday through Thursday and $10 Friday through Sunday.
All aboard the Fall Flyer! Sit back and relax as you view the autumn colors during a trip along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The two-hour trips pass through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For the ultimate experience, take in the sights from above through the panoramic glass enclosure in the upper dome. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase in the cafe car. The train leaves the station at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. each Sunday in October. Saturday trips depart at 9:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from the Independence station at 7900 Old Rockside Rd. Tickets are $20-$30.
9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
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"Bird's-eye view" is more than just an expression at Holden Arboretum. The breathtaking Canopy Walk spans 500 feet at a height of 65 feet above ground, offering incredible views of the forest and stream below. Want to catch some more air? Head to the Emergent Tower, which rises a full 12 stories above ground for sightlines all the way to Lake Erie. Other attractions include miles of hiking trails, 200 acres of cultivated gardens, and Stebbins Gulch, one of the most unspoiled preserves in Northeast Ohio. Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds. Arboretum hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $16 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.
All aboard the Fall Flyer! Sit back and relax as you view the autumn colors during a trip along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The two-hour trips pass through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For the ultimate experience, take in the sights from above through the panoramic glass enclosure in the upper dome. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase in the cafe car. The train leaves the station at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. each Sunday in October. Saturday trips depart at 9:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from the Independence station at 7900 Old Rockside Rd. Tickets are $20-$30.
1001 Canfield Rd., Youngstown, OH 44511
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Whether you use a top-of-the-line digital camera or a smartphone, Lanterman's Mill is one of the more photogenic spots in Northeast Ohio. In addition to the mill itself, a historic building perched alongside a picturesque waterfall, a classic covered bridge sits nearby. East Gorge Walk and West Gorge Trail take you further into the lush landscape around Mill Creek. The mill is open for tours 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday until the end of October. Admission is $1-$3.
Why not revive the tradition of Sunday family drives? Start at charming Geneva-on-the Lake and head south to Windsor along State Route 534. Dense forests, acres of vineyards, and two covered bridges offer some incredible sights. If you're in the mood for a lengthier trip, mark your calendar for the annual Ashtabula Covered Bridge Festival on October 8-9. Visit all 19 covered bridges in the county, including the longest and shortest in the United States.
A change in seasons can be a good time for personal change. What's your #1 goal for this fall?

Did you know that every June 15 is Nature Photography Day? While there's never a bad time to capture the natural beauty of Ohio, this day provides the perfect excuse to explore the scenery of your favorite communities and take some great photos in the process. Whether you're exploring glacial, urban waterfalls in Northeast Ohio, gorgeous gardens around Columbus, or an ancient, world-renowned historic site near Cincinnati, you're sure to capture something special. Start your photography journey with our guide to nine of the best places around Ohio to capture nature for Nature Photography Day.
136 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44017
One of the cool things about Ohio cities is how opportunities for nature photography are seamlessly integrated into urban landscapes. The Berea Falls Scenic Overlook, located a short drive from the heart of Cleveland, is one great example. After the glaciers receded following the last ice age, melting water formed rivers that reshaped the landscape. The Berea Falls were created by water from the Rocky River, carved through the abundant sandstone around Berea. There's so much natural beauty to capture here, with a different look every season.
6947 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
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Also located a short drive from Cleveland is the vast Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which features some of the most spectacular scenery that you'll find anywhere in Ohio. The park is located around the Cuyahoga River, with a mix of forests, rolling meadows, and farmland, all connected with an extensive, well-maintained trail system. Brandywine Falls is one of the most popular natural sites within the park and a perfect destination to seek out for nature photography. There's a viewing deck near the falls that makes it easy to get a great photo, as well as a nearby trail that allows you to capture images from various angles.
123 McKinley Ave., Youngstown, OH 44509
Did you know that Ohio is home to the second-largest metropark in the United States, behind only Central Park in New York City? Mill Creek Park covers more than 2,500 acres, with a diverse selection of attractions located within park borders. There are beautiful gardens, lush wetlands, waterfront scenery, historic structures, and so much more to capture. Spend your day near the historic Lanterman's Mill, the Fellows Riverside Gardens, or the Ford Nature Center. The D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center is the ideal place to start your journey at Mill Creek Park.
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
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If you love art just as much as you love nature, then the Topiary Park in Columbus is one destination on our list that you definitely won't want to miss. It's home to one of the world's largest, most impressive topiary gardens, with 80 perfectly maintained life-size topiaries. The topiaries are laid out in a way that recreates a painting from the post-Impressionist era painter Georges Seurat.
75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316
Located less than an hour west of Columbus, you'll find the idyllic, natural setting of Historic Clifton Mill. Home to one of the few working grist mills in Ohio, Historic Clifton Mill is a great destination for blending nature and historical photography. The mill itself is a beautiful structure, which has been preserved to look and work just as it did during its heyday. The natural woodlands, serene creek, and gently flowing waterfalls surrounding the mill provide endless opportunities for capturing the perfect photo.
8701 Laymon Rd., Gambier, OH 43022
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With more than 50 acres of beautifully manicured gardens to explore, Schnormeir Gardens will keep you coming back again and again for nature photography. Many of the gardens here were created in the Chinese and Japanese styles, with abundant water features blending in with natural scenery. There are lakes, waterfalls, streams, woodlands, bridges, and beautiful, exotic plants to discover. Spring and summer are ideal times to visit for photography, with so many of the plants within the gardens in full bloom.
12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140
Part historic landmark, part tribute to an order of knights, Loveland Castle is unlike any other destination on our list. It is, after all, a castle that looks like it was plucked straight from the medieval era and dropped into modern-day Ohio. The castle itself is more than worthy of some dedicated time with the camera, and the natural beauty around Loveland Castle makes this a fun destination for nature photography. While you're there, check out the on-site museum to learn more about how and why a stone castle was built in the 1920s around the corner from Cincinnati.
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Here's another truly unique destination with a history that stretches back thousands of years to a time when Ohio looked very different than it does today. The Serpent Mound was built by the Adena tribe of Native Americans who called the area home thousands of years ago, stretching for 1,300 feet and built in the shape of a serpent. It's the largest effigy mound of its kind in the world and still stands out among the wooded, hilly landscape even after thousands of years. So if you want to capture something unique to Ohio which can't be found anywhere else, this is the perfect place to find it.
1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Cincinnati area is also home to some more conventional locations for nature photography, including some like the Krohn Conservatory, which doesn't even require you to leave the city. Created in 1933, the Krohn Conservatory is home to thousands of plants from around the world, with different "houses" holding plants from different parts of the world. The Palm House replicates a tropical rainforest environment, while the Desert House is attuned to plants that thrive in an arid, hot landscape with minimal rainfall. The Krohn Conservatory is also home to the Orchid House, which showcases orchids from all around the world, and the John Carroll Bonsai Gallery, which highlights the unique techniques used to grow bonsai trees.
These nine destinations are just the start of what you'll find in Ohio. From limestone caverns deep underground to the rolling, rustic landscape of Amish Country, there's so much to explore. What will you capture next?

Going on a picnic with either a significant other or your family is a tried-and-true tradition that's become a national pastime throughout the ages. There are plenty of great parks in the Columbus area where you lay out a blanket or sit at a table for a nice meal and even nicer company. Here are some of our favorite picnic hotspots for National Picnic Day April 23.
5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123
You could spend nearly the entire day at Scioto Grove Metro Park because there are so many things to do. In addition to picnic shelters that will keep you off the ground, you can burn off some calories with a nice walk along one of its eight trails. You'll also find a sizable event space, archery ranges, disc golf course, and beautiful river views.
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Situated next to the Columbus Metropolitan Library's main branch, Topiary Garden Park is a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic with friends or family. The spot is also unique because it's home to the only existing topiary interpretation of a painting. This makes it great for art lovers or people looking to snap a cool picture for their Instagram.
1755 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
As one of the many iconic parks in Columbus, Franklin Park Adventure Center is perfect for couples and families who are interested in having a picnic or simply spending time together. After your feast, feel free to head over to the conservatory where you can explore several types of environments and plants. You'll need to purchase admission, but it's a small charge and worth every penny.
3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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As you can probably guess from the name, the Columbus Park of Roses is an absolutely gorgeous spot for a picnic. This 13-acre park is also known as Whetstone Park and the landscape changes throughout the seasons depending on which flowers are in bloom. Every park on our list is beautiful and unique, but this is arguably the most romantic in the Columbus area.
400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215
Whether you're in the mood for a gorgeous view of the city or prefer a river view, Scioto Audubon Metro Park has more than enough options. In addition to a healthy amount of picnic tables, you'll find a dog park, rock climbing area, obstacle course, picturesque water tower, and more. There's even a playground for kids of all ages and a mister to keep them cool on hot days.
120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Perhaps one of the greatest things about Goodale Park—Columbus' first public park—is that it's situated near quite a few restaurants, which means you can grab food at one of those instead of cooking yourself. While you're there, you'll surely be enthralled by the architecture of Victorian Village homes and can find plenty of things to do between the park's pond, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and playground.
7701 Sunbury Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
With more than 4700 acres, Hoover Reservoir Park has many great spots to enjoy a picnic. There's wildlife in many areas of the park to enjoy. If you're lucky, you may even spot a bald eagle. There are also many types of water sports available and families often spend some time on the water before returning to land for a picnic.
303 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
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For fans of skylines, Genoa Park is the place you want to be because you'll get some stunning views of Downtown Columbus. The first things most visitors will notice, however, are the humanized deer sculptures that are enjoying a day at the park just as you will be. This park is also home to an amphitheater that holds concerts and other events throughout the year.
218 West St., Columbus, OH 43215
Often referred to as Arch Park thanks to the iconic Union Station Arch that's found there, McFerson Commons Park is what you might consider an urban oasis. Surrounded by a wall of trees that provides plenty of shade, this is a popular spot for annual festivals, 5K races, casual sports leagues, and more.
What picturesque surroundings will make your Columbus picnic-perfect?

Spring is in the air, and it's a mighty fine time of year to go for a bike ride in Ohio. Here in the Cincinnati area, we're blessed with hundreds of miles of trails and greenways where cyclists can let loose.
From flat bike paths that offer smooth pedaling to rugged parks crisscrossed by challenging mountain bike singletrack, you'll never run out of trails in Cincinnati. We're excited to share our favorite places for a family bike ride in the area.
5083 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223
Mt. Airy Forest is one of America's oldest reforestation projects, originally established in 1911. Today, this 1,400-acre tract of reclaimed woodland is an amazing resource for Cincinnati residents looking for outdoor adventure. The terrain and trails in Mt. Airy Forest are also a bit more rugged and challenging than a typical city park, which makes this prime territory for mountain biking. The forest includes several multi-use trails as well as a 3.9-mile singletrack loop that was designed with mountain bikers in mind.
3811 Newtown Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45244
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Arguably the most well-known bike path in Cincinnati, the Little Miami Scenic Trail is also the longest, following the course of its namesake river for 78 miles between Newtown and Springfield. Along the way, it crosses five counties and is accessible through dozens of parks and trailheads in the Cincinnati area. The Trail is also paved, well-maintained, and for the most part, quite flat, making it ideal for cycling. The Avoca Trailhead and the Bass Island Trailhead are great places to start, both offering restrooms and ample parking, with access to a stretch of the Little Miami Scenic Trail that meanders through some lovely riverside city parks.
Corbin Street, Cincinnati, OH 45226
Following the bank of the Ohio River through the heart of Downtown Cincinnati, the Ohio River Trail offers one of the city's best urban bike rides. You can take in some great views of the river and the city skyline along the way. There are several access points, but the parking lot on Corbin Street, near the Schmidt Boat Ramp and Ball Fields, is a good place to start. The Ohio River Trail is also a work in progress. Around 10 miles are currently open, but it will stretch 23 miles end-to-end once completed, and provide a vital link from Downtown Cinci to many other parks and trails throughout the city.
9001 Mt. Hope Rd., Harrison, OH 45030
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The largest unit in the Hamilton County Parks system, Miami Whitewater Forest encompasses over 4,600 acres of woods, wetlands, meadows, creeks, and lakes. The park includes many miles of multi-use hike-and-bike trails for cyclists of all skill and fitness levels. The paved, 7.8-mile Shaker Trace Trail is great for a fairly easy bike ride over gently rolling terrain, but Miami Whitewater Forest also offers several shorter, more challenging dirt trails that twist and turn through the woods. The park also includes campgrounds and a 9-hole golf course.
Wilmer Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45226
The Lunken Airport Bike Path is a 5-mile loop that encircles Cincinnati's Lunken Airport. It's a flat, paved pathway that's just a short trip from Downtown, making it an easily accessible loop for city residents. The path sits atop a levee that protects the airport from flooding. It connects with the Ohio River Trail and is also linked to the trail system in nearby Otto Armleder Memorial Park, so there are plenty of options if you want to alter or extend your route.
3294 Elklick Rd., Bethel, OH 45106
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Just a 30-minute drive east of Cincinnati, East Fork State Park is one of the great destinations in the region for outdoor adventures of all kinds, biking included. A little over 4,800 acres, it's one of the largest state parks in Ohio and offers about 12 miles of hiking and biking trails that follow the ridges overlooking East Fork Lake. With numerous switchbacks, steep climbs, hills, and gullies, these trails offer some exciting terrain for mountain bikers, as well as sweeping views across the lake. Most park roads are also open to cyclists, and the park includes a campground, swimming beach, boat launch, and fishing pier.
Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45232
The Mill Creek Greenway is a beautiful paved bike path that follows the banks of Mill Creek through western Cincinnati. At present, only 3.5 miles of the trail are completed. But more ambitious plans are in the works, which will extend the trail over 50 miles along the banks of the creek that gives it its name, eventually connecting it to the Ohio River Trail and Winton Woods. For now, the existing segment provides a pleasant bike ride through Salway Park and long the edge of the Northside neighborhood, where you might be tempted to stop for a drink at beloved local watering holes like the Northside Yacht Club, which is just footsteps from the trail.
5401 Zion Rd., Cleves, OH 45002
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Located way out on the far west side of Cincinnati, Mitchell Memorial Forest is widely regarded as the best destination in the area for experienced mountain bikers. This 1,600-plus-acre park includes approximately 8 miles of challenging mountain biking trails, divided into two loops of around 4 miles each. The terrain is rugged and densely wooded, and the trails are tight singletrack with plenty of twists, turns, steep ascents and other challenges to keep the ride interesting.
Where's your favorite place to ride around Cincy?

Ohio is such a beautiful state, offering so many lovely opportunities for family vacations and quick getaways. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to relax or a grand adventure to get the adrenaline pumping, Ohio is the place to be. Here are nine places to consider taking your family for a memorable summer vacation.
Cuyahoga National Park is a 33,000-acre park in Northeast Ohio. Inside the park, you can follow the 87-mile towpath along the Cuyahoga River, admire Brandywine Falls, and take a tour of the wetlands. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs through the park, and rides are just $5 a person. Visitors also enjoy the Canal Exploration Center, where they can learn about the construction and early operation of the canal.
If you're looking for places to stay, there are several options inside Cuyahoga National Park, including the Inn at Brandywine Falls and the Stanford House, a nine-bedroom, historic home.
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870
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Those who love an adrenaline rush will enjoy a vacation at Cedar Point, one of the nation's largest amusement parks. Located in Sandusky, the park offers 17 roller coasters, a thrilling water park, and an endless selection of kid-friendly rides. There's also an on-site mini-golf course, musical performances, brew tours, and more.
Cedar Point is also known for its beach. Along the shores of Lake Erie, this beach has soft sand, quiet waters, and paddleboard rentals. There are plenty of hotels in and around Sandusky, within easy reach of the park. Some guests also stay at Lighthouse Point, the on-site RV campground.
If you prefer a faster-paced, more urban vacation spot, then a trip to downtown Dayton could be perfect for your family. Dayton is a mid-sized city about an hour from Columbus with many fun attractions. If you stay in a hotel downtown, you'll be within easy reach of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and Dayton Art Institute.
Another great place to visit in Dayton is the Wright Cycle Company Complex. Here, you can learn how Orville and Wilbur Wright, the inventors of the airplane, once made and sold bicycles.
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Ohio's Amish Country is centered in and around Millersburg in Holmes County, home to about 37,000 Amish people. This quiet community is a lovely place to relax in nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can browse local shops selling baked goods, locally made cheese, and crafts. Eat at a real Amish restaurant, or learn about Amish culture on a guided tour. There are plenty of places to stay in Amish Country, including some quaint bed and breakfasts and RV parks.
Put-in-Bay is a village on the island of South Bass in Lake Erie. The village and surrounding island offer fun for all ages. There are several wineries to explore, and guests can go hiking at Oak Point State Park or South Bass Island State Park. Perry's Cave Family Fun Center offers a mini-golf course, butterfly house, and a climbing wall, along with tours of the limestone caves.
Several ferries offer service to and from South Bass Island from the mainland. Once on the island, most people stay in a lakeside cottage or condo for the duration of their vacation.
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Hocking Hills State Park is a great place to immerse yourself in nature. The park offers seven hiking areas, including Rock House and Ash Cave. Old Man's Cave is a popular mountain biking trail offering both a medium and hard loop for bikers of various skill levels. The park also offers guided nature tours throughout the week, many of which are designed with kids in mind.
There are cabins for rent on-site in Hocking Hills State Park. They also offer both RV and primitive tent cabin sites. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at Hocking Hills State Park Dining Lounge. The park is a short drive from Cincinnati, making it convenient for weekend getaways.
A vacation in downtown Cleveland is a great choice for families who like museums and a faster pace. The downtown area is quite walkable, offering attractions like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Cleveland Museum of Art. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is fun for all ages, too.
Those who love nature may enjoy a visit to Cleveland's Edgewater Beach or the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve. West Side Market is a popular destination for "foodies," selling locally grown produce and prepared foods.
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Marietta is one of the first towns settled in the Northwest Territory of the United States. As such, it's rich with history and a great place to visit with family. Learn about the village's history at the Campus Martius Museum or the Ohio River Museum, or see a show at the historic Peoples Bank Theater.
There are plenty of historic homes to admire in Marietta. Nature lovers often enjoy walking or cycling along the Marietta River Trail or watching the sunset along the Ohio River. Marietta has a bustling restaurant scene with plenty of cafes, Italian restaurants, and barbecue joints.
Marblehead is a tiny village on the Marblehead Peninsula along Lake Erie. The population is just under 1,000, although the village does receive a lot of tourism in the summer months. Once in Marblehead, you can relax on the sandy beaches, sip wine at one of the island's wineries, or browse the art galleries.
Marblehead is known for its lighthouse and the longest continually lit U.S. lighthouse on the Great Lakes. It was also the first lighthouse to employ a female lightkeeper. In the summer, guests can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy a stunning view of Lake Erie and its islands.
Where will you vacation in this great state? From nature to museums, there truly is something for every family.