Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chardon, OH to Lakewood, OH
If you're looking for a scenic drive through Ohio, the route from Chardon to Lakewood might pique your interest. It takes about an hour to drive non-stop, but there are plenty of worthwhile places to stop along the way. From quirky landmarks to delicious food, here are five unexpected places to visit on this drive.
Cleveland, OH: The Halfway Point
No road trip from Chardon to Lakewood would be complete without a stop in Cleveland, the halfway point. Known as "The Rock and Roll Capital of the World," Cleveland offers an abundance of attractions, from museums and art galleries to parks and outdoor activities. Music lovers will enjoy the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, while history buffs can learn about the city's industrial past at the Cleveland History Center. And of course, sports fans can catch a game at Progressive Field or Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
The West Side Market
No trip to Cleveland would be complete without a visit to the West Side Market. This historic indoor market features dozens of vendors selling fresh produce, meat, seafood, cheese, baked goods, and more. It's a great place to grab a quick bite or stock up on picnic supplies for the rest of your drive. Don't miss the hot corned beef sandwiches from Slyman's Deli, a Cleveland institution.
Place 1: Chagrin Falls, OH
Located just a few miles south of Chardon, the picturesque town of Chagrin Falls is a must-see destination. Its downtown area is filled with charming shops and restaurants, and the namesake waterfall is a popular spot for photos. The falls are especially beautiful in the fall when the foliage surrounding the falls is at its peak.
The Popcorn Shop
No visit to Chagrin Falls is complete without a stop at The Popcorn Shop. This local institution has been serving up fresh popcorn, candy, and ice cream for over 70 years. Their signature flavor is the "Chicago Mix" -- a blend of cheddar and caramel popcorn that's sweet, salty, and addictively delicious.
Place 2: Punderson State Park
About halfway between Chardon and Cleveland, you'll find Punderson State Park, which offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park's centerpiece is a picturesque lake, which offers swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also hike, bike, or horseback ride on the park's trails, or stay overnight in one of the park's cabins.
The Lakeside Restaurant and Lounge
Located on the shores of Punderson Lake, The Lakeside Restaurant and Lounge is a great place to grab a bite after a day of outdoor activities. The restaurant specializes in seafood and steak dishes, and the outdoor patio offers stunning views of the lake.
Place 3: James A. Garfield National Historic Site
History buffs won't want to miss a visit to the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, located in the town of Mentor. This site preserves the home of President Garfield, who served just 200 days in office before he was assassinated in 1881. Visitors can tour the house, which is filled with original furnishings and artifacts, and learn about Garfield's life and legacy.
Skyline Chili
After a visit to the Garfield site, head to nearby Streetsboro for a taste of Cincinnati-style chili at Skyline Chili. This chain restaurant serves up spaghetti topped with a sweet, spicy meat sauce and a mountain of shredded cheese. It may sound unusual, but locals swear by it.
Place 4: Holden Arboretum
Just a few miles west of Mentor, you'll find the Holden Arboretum, a 3,600-acre preserve that's home to over 120,000 plants from around the world. Visitors can explore 20 miles of hiking trails, visit the butterfly garden, and climb the Canopy Walk, a suspended walkway that offers incredible views of the forest canopy.
M Italian
After a morning of hiking and exploring at the Arboretum, stop by M Italian in nearby Willoughby for a delicious lunch. This cozy Italian restaurant offers a variety of pasta dishes, sandwiches, and salads, as well as an impressive selection of wine and cocktails.
Conclusion
From the bustling city of Cleveland to the tranquil beauty of Punderson State Park, there's no shortage of interesting places to visit on a drive from Chardon to Lakewood. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack up your car and hit the road -- adventure awaits!