Lake Erie may be the smallest of the five Great Lakes, but it still contains 871 miles of family-friendly shoreline! Ohio is blessed to have this body of water as our northern border, and here are 5 family-friendly places in Ohio to enjoy all that Lake Erie has to offer.
Cedar Point – Sandusky, OH
Older children will think you’re the best mom or dad around when you spend some time whizzing down roller coasters right on America’s Roller Coast. Cedar Point is known throughout the world for its tall and fast coasters- so why not spend the day enjoying the view of the sparkling waters of Lake Erie before you drop 310 feet from the Millennium Force or as you climb the first hill of the World’s Longest wing coaster, the Gatekeeper?
Cedar Point offers something for all ages- and if you’re too fearful of a speedy coaster, you can see the lake just fine from the Giant Wheel.
My review of the Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point
Vermilion, OH
Vermilion is a quaint, seaside community that has something for old and young alike. Parents and grandparents will enjoy the antique and specialty shops, while younger ones will be excited by boats, the beach, and giant root beer float at the old soda fountain found inside the Main Street Soda Grill. The historic downtown was settled in 1837 which makes families feel as if they are strolling through a New England settlement, not a town just 45 minutes from Cleveland.
Dad and kids can swing at the Exchange Park while mom shops the afternoon away, and after dinner catch a beautiful Lake Erie sunset from Main Street Park (while a replica lighthouse adds to the ambiance). For more on visiting Vermilion, check out this post from Blissmersion. Check rates at the Holiday Inn Vermilion.
Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve- Huron, OH
Sheldon Marsh is a playground for wildlife and bird watching. A one-mile paved trail (great for strollers) leads you to a pristine view of Lake Erie, but don’t get too focused on making it to the beach: enjoy the cattail marsh, the chipmunks scouring for food, and the stillness of the herons before they take flight. A shell-covered beach and peaceful view are worth the long walk.
No swimming is allowed here, but you’ll make plenty of family memories by playing in the sand.
Headlands State Park- Mentor, OH
Headlands State Park in Lake County is the perfect spot to bring a blanket and swimsuit and relax a summer day away. The mile-long sandy beach is the longest in Ohio and when the kids are bored of building castles you could drop a line in for some fishing or take a walk down the Buckeye Trail.
The Buckeye Trail is a paved, handicap accessible trail, so bring your stroller and sweat off all of the treats consumed while picnicking. Only 40 minutes east of downtown Cleveland, the park is just a quick drive from the fast-paced city.
Marblehead Lighthouse- Marblehead, OH
Driving into Marblehead with the kids will make you think one thing – I want a few days here. The downtown district is full of pubs, restaurants, and craft shops, but continue past it all as you head to the Lighthouse. The Marblehead Lighthouse not only stands out for its beauty and idyllic setting, but it is also the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on all of the Great Lakes. The 1821 Lighthouse sits on the limestone shore and the 1880 Keeper’s cottage still stands and now houses a museum for the lighthouse.
Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse, but hours are seasonal and tickets sell quickly. Arrive early! As if watching sailboats and barges go by isn’t enough for your kids, they can gaze longingly at Cedar Point Amusement Park- just 6 miles away.
Check rates: Hotel near Marblehead
Have you been to any of these fantastic Lake Erie destinations??
Check out more to do in Sandusky, Ohio!
Visiting Put-in-Bay while you’re in the area? Check out my posts on Family-friendly activities at Put-in-Bay and Cheap things to do with kids at Put-in-Bay.
Pingback: 5 things to do in Sandusky, Ohio with kids - yodertoterblog