Explore Lakefront History

 Looking for some fresh ideas to explore Lorain County's Lake Erie shoreline area? Here's an itinerary that will probably include some fascinating new sites for you. 

Begin at the  Sheffield Lake Community Park on E. Lake Road. It's got a fantastic, free, 2-lane boat launch for boats up to 30' and sandy landing space for small boats, kayaks and jet skies. Enjoy the lake from the shore with picnic space and some of the area's best swimming and fishing. Erie Outfitters is nearby and has all your fishing needs covered. It's a great place to stop in and and chat with Lake Erie locals who might have some secrets about fishing the area. 

Shell Cove Park, Sheffield Lake

Other nearby parks include Shell Cove Park, also on Lake Road or Route 6. The park is beautiful for lake observation with picnic and playground space. It's known for fossils of ancient "terrible fish" found there and commemorated with historical markers. 

103rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Civil War Museum

Also on E. Lake Rd. in Sheffield Lake you'll find the 103^rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Civil War Museum commemorating the service of a local volunteer infantry. The soldiers were a tight knit group, fond of holding reunions, and decided to purchase the land and house so that their history would have a home their descendants could always return to. You can experience it by emailing for a tour.


So you've had a long day enjoying Lake Erie and its history and it's time for a good meal. Not far from Sheffield, on Chester Rd. in Avon you'll find Wood and Wine, an amazing place for pizza, pasta and of course wine. Another favorite in the area is Quaker Steak & Lube - Sheffield it's in a convenient spot right off I-90. Watch their promotional schedule for specials on their famous wings, drinks and theme nights. 

Miller Road Park in Avon Lake

Sheffield Lake isn't the only community with amazing Lake access. Avon Lake is also home to several parks and historical sites. Start day 2 on the shore with a trip to Miller Road Park which is a great beach for swimming and fishing with two piers. It also has a two-lane boat launch that you can access 24 hours a day! 
Also on the Miller Park property is the historic Peter Miller House. This is a unique home belonging to the son of Avon Lakes first permanent resident. Call 440.933.6333 for a tour or just stop by to see the outside and garden.

Fratello's Restaurant 

For lunch you can't beat Fratello's which is just a skip away from the lake on Electric Blvd. Besides their excellent, authentic, Italian menu Fratello's has an amazing wine selection that will warm you up for an afternoon trip to Klingshirn Winery. Sample their award-winning, locally made wine varieties and maybe pick up a few for the road. Prepare to be charmed by Klingshirn's staff and retail store on Webber Rd. where you will feel like family. 

The Folger Home in Avon Lake

The perfect way to end your day has got to be picnicking, enjoying the views, and maybe going for one last dip at Veteran's Memorial Park in also on Lake Road. On the park property sits the Folger Home which is a newly restored 18th century home with a great view. 

Enjoy the sunsets this summer with a novelty ice cream treat sold on the porch of the Folger Home weekdays 7:30-9pm.