This weather is for the birds! Literally!

The month of November has blown in with gusto!  Often times when the weather is not great for us, it can be a great opportunity for bird watching...the winds can drive birds inland and right into view.

Lorain County is a fabulous birding destination. With more than a dozen birding locations in the Huron & Lorain Loop of the Lake Erie Birding Trail you will find a plethora of options to see various species of birds. So bundle up and grab your binoculars and camera and step out into nature!

We visited a couple areas on the Lake Erie Birding Trail this week and, WOW, the color in our fall foliage is a tremendous backdrop for bird watching.

Inland at Lorain County Metro Park's Sandy Ridge Reservation in North Ridgeville birders marveled at the majestic Bald Eagles. The area attracts about 250 species through out the year. The wetlands at Sandy Ridge provide a safe haven for shorebirds in the fall and the beautiful wooded areas draw songbirds during fall migration.





Our fall foliage is peaking and our birding along Lake Erie is as well. November through early January, or whenever Lake Erie freezes, marks prime time for birds to flock to the Lorain Harbor. See flocks of gulls, from the common to the rare seeking shelter.                

Just east of the beautifully renovated Mile Long Pier overlooking the harbor is a perfect spot to enjoy songbirds in migration. A newly constructed platform extends out over the water for optimal viewing.



We have given you a glimpse at birding in north central Ohio, now it's up to you to get out there and step into nature. And when you need to warm up, stop in at Jackalope Lakeside for a bite to eat, located at the base of the Mile Long Pier. Or select from a number of dining options around Lorain County. And since you can't complete the birding loop and take in our picturesque fall foliage in just one day, you can cozy up in one of our B&B's or a nice hotel room. If you would like assistance in planning a bird watching adventure don't hesitate to call us at 1.800.334.1673.

The Interns Learn What's "SUP"

We Visit Lorain County interns (or "funductors") had another exciting adventure! We hit the water on Lakeview Beach in Lorain to check out stand up paddling (SUP) with Lake Erie Paddler.

Jim teaching on the beach

When Kaitlin and I first arrived on the beach, we watched Jim Lawhead, the founder of Lake Erie Paddler, teach his last class of the day to kids of the Outdoor Adventure Camp through the Lorain County Metroparks. The kids got a lesson on where to be on the board, how to paddle, and how to stand up once they got on the water. After the kids came in from their little trip around the cove, we got to chat with them for a while. One boy excitedly told us about how he loved paddle boarding so much he was asking for a board for his next birthday. Other kids talked about how they were nervous at first, but once they actually did it they realized it was much easier than they thought, and a lot of fun! We also asked the group what their favorite parts were and some of the answers were bouncing on the waves, the challenge when waves rocked their board a bit, or just everything about it!

Jim helping the kids get  settled on their boards

After watching the kids have a blast on the water, we decided to try it for ourselves! Read on for our reactions from our day on the water!

Kaitlin

The interns out on the water

Paddle boarding was so much easier than I thought it would be! I was a little nervous on the drive over, not knowing what to expect. When we first got there I took some photographs of the kids getting ready and actually paddling out on the water. It was fun to see their excitement to try something new! Seeing all of the kids falling into the water made me a bit apprehensive, but after we watched a little closer, it seemed that most of the kids who fell in were being pushed. I'm glad that Melody and I weren't into rough housing on the water! Our instructor, Julie, showed us the basics and had us go out pretty quickly. After our lesson, it seemed that the best way to get better was to practice! I had so much fun! It was great to just relax and float around out on the water. The great thing about SUP is that anyone can do it, which I found out on first hand on our trip! Out of everything to do at Lakeview beach, Melody and I definitely had the best time with Lake Erie Paddler!

Melody

Melody, Kaitlin, and instructor Julie enjoying the lake

Ok, I officially have the best summer internship there is. Going paddle boarding was one of the most fun things I've gotten to do all summer. I was a little hesitant when we first got to the beach (mostly because I had a meeting pretty soon after, and didn't particularly want to get my hair wet) but it looked so fun I couldn't justify hanging out on the beach and just watching. And, as it turned out, I managed to stay dry above my knees, so don't even try that excuse ladies! We were off after a quick lesson from Jim's right hand girl Julie, who is not only a SUP instructor but also really talented in other water sports like kite boarding and surfing! When I first pushed off I had a hard time finding my balance, but once I relaxed and settled into it, it was great! I had so much fun out on the water, and I'd love to get out there and try it again sometime. I have to admit- it's a little addicting.

There you have it! It's a pretty clear consensus; stand up paddling is an awesome way to spend a day. We officially give Lake Erie Paddler the funductor seal of approval! Check 'em out next time you're planning a family day, birthday party, or maybe even date! When you're ready to plan your day with them, make your reservation by calling 440.935.9291 or emailing lakeeriepaddler@gmail.com. 

Lakecation!

No matter where you live or what your ideal vacation consists of, north central Lake Erie is a great vacation spot! For those looking for a vacation filled with adventure at every turn, Lake Erie won't disappoint. Here are a few suggestions for a two or three day getaway.

Staying at Village Inn and Efficiencies in Vermilion puts you as close to the water as you can get. Start your morning out by exploring the Vermilion-Lorain Water Trail or stop at West River Kayak to rent a canoe, kayak, paddle board, or bike.

Vermilion River

You're just minutes away from Mill Hollow, a Lorain County Metro Park, where you'll find hiking trails and great fishing. Stop by Bad Boy Bait and Tackle to stock up for your trip out.  If hiking isn't your thing check out one of our many local charters for a day of fishing.

Mile-Long Pier in Lorain

Looking for lakeside dining? Stop by Jackalope Lakeside and enjoy a delicious meal and a cocktail while watching a beautiful Lake Erie sunset! Walk "The Mile-Long Pier" after dinner to do some evening pier fishing or to enjoy the view of the lighthouse or catch a sunset cruise.

Lake Erie is also a great place to relax. Here are several great places to kick back and rest your head...Sunset Shores B&B, Arbor Lights B&B, Lake Breeze Inn, and The Beacon B&B.

Sunset Shores Bed and Breakfast

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of these B&Bs and then check out the Historic Rose Garden at Lakeview Park. The shape of the garden, a wheel with 8 spokes, is the Rotary Club emblem. It has approximately 2,500 roses that are planted in 48 beds with connecting walkways, completing the wheel and spokes. Stop and smell the roses while admiring the view of the lake and get a glimpse of the Lorain Lighthouse!

Rose Cafe

While you're in Lorain stop at the Black River Historical Society to learn local Lake Erie lore! Head back over to the Rose Cafe for lunch. From there travel to Olde Avon Village for some shopping at Sassy's, The Treehouse Gallery and Tea Room and dinner at Strip Steakhouse! Wind down after dinner with a summer concert on Friday evenings in July at Lakeview Park.

For more shopping, food, and historical sites near Lake Erie check out Friends of Harbour Town 1837 in Vermilion, Papermoon Vineyards, K-Cream Korner in Lorain, Sorrento Ristorante & Pizzeria, and Peter Miller House Museum.

More Historical Adventures: Underground Railroad Part Two

I know you've all been on the edge of your seat waiting for my first hand account of the Lorain/Sheffield Village portion of the "On the Trail to Freedom"Underground Railroad tour! Never fear my friends,  the wait is over, and I'm back to tell you all about my afternoon checking out these historical sites.

Our first stop of the day was the Burrell Homestead. This house was built around 1820, and for a while it was actually used by the Oberlin Collegiate Institute. Later it became a station on the Underground Railroad.


                                                 I can only imagine how many lives were changed forever because of this house and others that became stops for people escaping to their freedom. If these walls could talk I'm sure we'd hear some truly shocking stories about the people that lived through such an ugly patch of history.


Not only is the Burrell Homestead hugely historically significant, it's on a beautiful property just a few minutes away from French Creek Reservation to balance your day of history with some general fun outdoors. Kaitlin and I certainly couldn't resist the trees in front of the house.

 I mean, how could we? They were just begging to be climbed! Would you expect anything different from a couple of interns spending the day outside?

After we thoroughly explored the area outside the house (we weren't able to go inside, but there are tours available for you to plan your visit around! Keep an eye on our calendar of events for the next one.) Next, we hit the road to make our way to our final stop, Station 100.

Being near a place as busy as Lake Erie, it's no surprise that even our commute was an adventure in itself. We were going down the road when all of a sudden traffic stopped just before the bridge. I knew the bridge was often lifted to let tall boats pass through, but I'd never actually seen it myself. It was really interesting! If you look to the left of the bridge, you can see the top of the sailboat that's heading for open water.

After the boat passed us, we were once again en route to the beautiful Station 100 monument at Black River Landing in Lorain. 

Station 100, — the last stop to freedom — is said to be the area near the mouth of the Black River and the shores of Lake Erie. This is where slaves would finally escape the United States into Canada.





After being at the monument for a little while, we caught a glimpse of something near by. Much to our excitement, we had stumbled upon one of the stops on the Follow the Fish Art and Adventure Trail! The goal of the project is to connect public art to local businesses and guide people to some of the really cool places and events in Lorain County. They come in a variety of sizes, and this one is huge! I could probably crawl up in it if I wanted to (though I'm not recommending that, it is a piece of art). Be sure to keep an eye out on your visit for the other fish!

Recognize that sail boat? I think it's the same one we saw pass under the bridge!

Kaitlin and I ended our day with a pit stop at K-Cream Korner on our way to Lakeview Beach. It was too nice of a day not to stop and small the roses, literally, at the rose garden. It was so tempting to go wade in that beautiful blue water, but we did have to get back to the office. I guess that's an experience for another day!

~Melody

Christmas in July!

Merry Christmas in July! Celebrate with some special holiday themed outings in the area. All the festive specials and none of the holiday stress, sounds like a plan to me.

Don Mould's Plantation, which has stores in North Ridgeville and Amherst, is having their annual Christmas in July sale! It's your chance to get a gift and treat yourself to something from their beautiful selection of plants and flowers that are buy one get one free.

For the kids, or inner children at least, Sundaes in the Park at Columbia Reservation will be serving up snacks, mini golf and sponsoring movies in the outdoor theater! For this weekend's picture the park will show "The Grinch" featuring Jim Carrey Friday, July 27th.  The show starts at 9pm so bring your chairs and take advantage of the kitchen, which will  be open til 9:30!

Tree House Gallery and Tea Room,
Olde Avon Village

An area really getting in the spirit is Olde Avon Village. The shoppes include Sassy's, an amazing chick boutique with all kinds of great gifts. They are always updating their merch so check their facebook for pictures and sales! Also there's the Tree House Gallery and Tea Room where you can enjoy sales on their unique items, see all their fun antique displays and have meal that's got taste and class. If you are more of an afternoon shopper there's always happy hour/dinner at Strip Steakhouse, definitely one of the area's premiere spots known for their quality ingredients.

Owner Tim Kiedrowski with Snoogles

You can also find some great eats at Kiedrowski's Bakery on Cooper Foster in Amherst where they are rolling out the Christmas cookies. Their cutouts with homemade frosting are definitely crave-able but I don't think anyone would tell if you picked up a signature Snoogle or two while you're at it.

Also your favorite pubs and restaurants kept back some holiday ale with your name on it like Quaker Steak and Lube in Sheffield. You can get the seasonal brew by the pint, tall or tanker today. If you're looking for some other options Moss' Prime Rib and Buffalo Wild Wings have Christmas Ale on tap too!

Jet Express at Black River
Landing by Lorain Port Authority

If you're feeling an adventurous night out you have to go with a cruise on the Jet Express from Black River Landing. This Friday will be a special Christmas in July Cruise to Put-in-Bay. This trip departs at 4:00pm and returns at 12:00am and if your schedule isn't open this week there are plenty of cruise options through October.

Get the details and buy tickets online through the Lorain Port Authority.

Merry Christmas and a happy New...school year?

Lighting Up Lorain County: Fireworks 2012

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and that means festivals, fireworks and family fun.

Wellington Town Hall

First up is the Wellington Celebration in the Park, be entertained the evening of July 3rd on Wellington's Town Hall lawn with the Patriots Community Band Concert and Ice Cream Social. Then, get over to the Lorain County Fairgrounds at dusk for some can't-miss fireworks!


Wellington keeps the party going Wednesday with festivities at Howk Park including games, food, music and a parade at 3pm.

Also July 3rd Avon Lake celebrates at Weiss Field on Webber Rd. with music and festivities at 6:30 and fireworks at dusk.

Another option for the 3rd is North Ridgeville's Party in the Park hosted by Victory Park. Admission is free! Gates open at 5pm with music, dancing and kid's bounce houses at 7pm, then some fantastic fireworks at dusk.

 View of Lorain Port Authority's
Lady Charleston from Black River Landing

The 4th is of course Port Fest at Black River Landing in Lorain from 2-11pm. Look forward to celebrating with food, music and activities for kids. Featured artist, Rare Earth, will play at 8:30pm and fireworks start at 10pm but check the full schedule for all the entertainment details.

You can also head out to All Pro Freight Stadium in Avon on the 4th of July and see the Lake Erie Crushers take on the London Rippers at 7:05pm. Then stay after the game for a special Fireworks Spectacular!

A community with a great history celebrating Independence Day is Rochester with their 93rd annual Homecoming Festival at Eagle St Park and fire station. Food tents open bright and early at 8am. The only parade you can see twice starts at 10:30! The parade goes through town and turns around for another pass. Stick around the rest of the day for contests, rides, the Firefighter games and more all leading up to fireworks at the end of the evening.

You can see fireworks in Grafton's Willow Park on Main St. on the 4th too beginning at dusk.

And lets not forget to say congrats to all the donors who made fireworks in Oberlin happen. Come out and see them at dusk on the 4th at the Hamilton Recreation Complex.

Have a safe holiday and enjoy!

Get Hooked on Lorain County

Lake Erie is known to some as the “Walleye Capital of the World,” to others as the “Smallmouth Capital of the World,” and to many more the surrounding area is simply called “home." With titles like these, it should come as no surprise that Lorain County has a wealth of public fishing opportunities, including some that aren’t called “Lake Erie.”

If you do plan on fishing Lake Erie, there are a number of public accesses and boat launches, including three in Lorain, one in Sheffield Lake, and another in Avon Lake. Once on the water, drifting or trolling is usually a surefire way to catch walleye. For perch, just anchor down. Many anglers anchor down and jig by the artificial reefs to catch smallmouth bass. For crappie, bluegill, perch, and bass, a favorite fishing method is to fish off of the rocks. You can also catch steelhead, northern pike, and carp on the lake.

If you don’t have a boat, or if you just want a guide who knows the Lake well, there are plenty of fishing charters available as well, including two in Vermilion, four in Lorain, and one in Huron. There are also a few marinas around, such as Beaver Park North in Lorain, Copper Kettle Marina in Lorain, and Romp’s Marina in Vermilion. Looking for gear, need some bait, or just trying to find someone knowledgeable to talk to about how the fishing is for a particular day? Check out some of the local bait shops, such as Bad Boy Bait, Tackle, & More, Erie Outfitters, Grumpy’s Bait Bucket, or Molnar Outdoor.

Don’t forget about the AIM Pro Walleye Series, which takes place from June 28th through June 30th of this year. You can sign up as a pro and take your shot against the biggest names in pro walleye fishing or sign up as a co-angler and have the big-water fishing experience of a lifetime, fishing alongside a pro! It is a Catch-Record-Release (CRR) tournament, wherein the anglers competing will photograph a caught fish on an official ruler, record that length on an official scorecard, and immediately release the fish safely back to the water. The seven longest fish for each day will be the ones “turned in” for the competition. Check out their website for more information and to register!

Now for places that aren’t Lake Erie. First up is Findley Lake, in Findley State Park. Spend the day fishing for bass, bluegill, crappie, and northern pike. If you want to use a boat at Findley, keep in mind that only electric motors are allowed. Next on the list of places to check out is the  
Duck Pond, at Carlisle Reservation of the Metro Parks. Here you can find smallmouth bass, catfish, carp, and sometimes some northern pike. The Duck Pond also has a Raptor Center if you want to check out some birds of prey. You’ve also got the Vermilion River in Mill Hollow, with excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and occasionally steelhead. Keep an eye out for the bald eagles that nest there!

Elyria, too, gets in on the public fishing action. One popular place for carp, smallmouth, and catfish is the Black River, often via Cascade Park. One very important thing to keep in mind with fishing from the Black River is the Fish Consumption Warnings that the EPA has put out for the main stem of the river, both the East and West Branches, and Findley Lake.

Oberlin Reservoir is another public fishing area in the county. Catch bluegill, crappie, catfish, walleye, perch, and bass there, just by fishing off of the shore, as long as you don’t mind navigating the rocks. You can use a boat here as well, but only if you have an electric motor. Also keep in mind their special rules and regulations, some of which--not all--can be found here. 


The Grafton area has a few areas to publicly fish as well. One is the Grafton Reservoir, across the street from Willow Park. While there are special regulations there, it is also home to many bluegill, bass, perch, and crappie. The Black River also runs near Grafton, by Parsons Road. It can be fished for smallmouth bass, catfish, and the occasional northern pike.

Lastly, Wellington has both an Upground and a South Reservoir. Catch bluegill, crappie, catfish, and bass in abundance here, either from the shores or from a boat with an electric motor. One difference is that the Upground Reservoir is more likely to have walleye and perch as well. The Upground Reservoir also has a rockier coast to fish off while the South Reservoir is much greener and has a lot of brush. Again, keep in mind that there are often special regulations for the reservoirs regarding what you can and can’t keep.

Even after all of these, this blog only scratches the surface of Lorain County's possible fishing holes. The county is a welcome place for anglers of all skill levels, and most places are very family friendly as well; fishing in Lorain County is meant to be shared and enjoyed, so get out and do it!

Summer on Lake Erie

There is still plenty of time to enjoy summer fun at Lorain County’s crowning jewel, Lake Erie!  Thanks to Lorain County’s prime location along the coast, its easy access to the lake provides many family fun activities to area visitors. Multiple fishing charters, marinas, and public boat launches are hoppin' and so are events like: kayaking, water skiing, river and lighthouse tours, Jet Express cruises, and much more. 

Limiting out with Reel Thrill Charters

Fishing: Feeling the desire to open your tackle box? Lake Erie is known strongly for its walleye, perch, steelhead and bass catches. To ensure your big catch, check out the following great charter services. Docked in the small nautical town of Vermilion are two of our popular fishing charters: Bad Boy and Lucky Duck Sport Fishing.  The “Bad Boy” is a 30-foot Sports craft with the finest equipment to help you bring in the big ones. Or take a chance with Lucky Duck’s customized trips and friendly service.  Other Charters in the area include Fishin’ Boat Charters at Beaver Park North in Lorain and Reel Thrill Sport Fishing Charters at Spitzer Lakeside Marina.  Grab your fishing pole, hang up the ‘Gone Fishin’ sign, come on out and discover beautiful Lake Erie. 

Paddle Power:  Lake Erie is the pride and joy of North Central Ohio; it is the 12^th largest freshwater lake with plenty of multi sport activity opportunities.  It’s the shallowest and warmest of all the Great Lakes which has increased its popularity and made its recreation limitless. Its large variety of water trails allows for kayaking, canoeing, and boating.  Take advantage of the well known Vermilion-Lorain Water Trail by choosing from one of nine popular access points including Mill Hollow, Lakeview Park and Beach, or French Creek. Need to rent a kayak? West River Kayak and Canoe is a great place to start, with hourly and day rates for kayaks, canoes, and bikes. Or paddle the Black River into Lake Erie with assistance from Great Lakes Kayaking.   

Tours: Lake Erie is full of recreation, energy and nature.  The Lorain Port Authority offers a detailed tour of the Lorain Lighthouse along with Black River Nature Tours. Tours are offered weekly at a variety of times to squeeze into you busy summer schedule. Explore Lake Erie by boat and experience a guided tour of its unique treasures. The Jet Express features weekly shuttles to the Lake Erie Islands as well as downtown Cleveland. The Jet Express still has sunset wine tasting cruises and more along with shuttles to upcoming Cleveland Browns games on their calendar. Ease on down the Vermilion River on the Mystic Belle, a tour designed for the whole family! This 55 minute river tour gives you a glimpse of Vermilion's history as well as a taste of the local wildlife.

Don't let summer slip by without taking in the great Lake Erie breeze! Check out great lodging options as well and spend a few days with us.  

Outdoor grilling AND walleye season are both in full swing! Walleye can be found now in the near shore waters of Lake Erie between Vermilion and Avon Point. Got a cooler full of fresh walleye? Lucky you! How about grilling up something a bit different? This recipe is not too difficult and a family favorite (even among kids who aren't known to cheer when told fish is on the menu!). If you want the freshest walleye, catch your own. You can hire a great, local charter captain who will make sure your cooler is full.

Grilled Walleye Tacos

Feeds 3–4

1lb fresh Lake Erie walleye fillet
corn or flour tortillas, or pita

Marinade
¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves
2 cloves of garlic minced
1 cup chopped white onion
dash of chili pepper
3 tbsp. lime juice
3 tbsp. orange juice
½ mango, diced
1 tsp. dried oregano
¼ cup olive oil

Combine marinade ingredients and mix

1. Combine mixed marinade ingredients into resealable plastic bag or baking dish, add walleye fillets, mix, chill and marinate for 1 hour. (while walleye is marinating, prepare Mango Salsa as directed below)

2. Place walleye on grill (in foil) with some of the marinade and cook on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side. Or, I prefer to use an indoor/George Foreman Grill and cook 7 minutes.

3. Warm corn or flour tortillas or pita.

4. Spoon walleye into tortilla and serve topped with mango salsa.

Mango salsa ingredients

Mango salsa

1  mango, pitted and diced
4 stem tomatoes, diced
1 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
1 serrano pepper, seeded and minced
2 tablespoons lime juice
3 cloves of garlic, minced
¼ cup red onion, chopped
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup cilantro leaves, chopped
1 tsp sea salt
3 tablespoons of olive oil

Combine ingredients into medium bowl and stir gently. Refrigerate for at least a half hour to combine flavors.

Mango salsa, mixed

Wine pairings: Serve with a local, dry white wine. Suggestions: 2008 Chardonnay from Klingshirn Winery or Viognier from Paper Moon Vineyards. Or, enjoy with a cold beer or lemonade.

Lorain County - Home to some of the best North Central Ohio Lake Erie beaches!

There is still plenty of time for summer swimming fun, and with the warmest water of any Great Lake, Lake Erie is an ideal beach location. Nestled in the north central shoreline of Ohio, Lorain County is home to some of the best beaches on Lake Erie. Whether you are interested in swimming, a family picnic, or simply sightseeing, Lorain County’s shoreline has it all. From Vermilion’s Main Street Beach in the The Harbour Town 1837 Historic District, to Veterans Memorial Park in Avon Lake, there is something for everyone. With so much to do, what are you waiting for?

Photo by Mark Teleha

Main Street Beach, located in the quaint historic downtown of Vermilion allows visitors to take advantage of the fantastic sunsets and lake views with their large observation deck located on the beach. The Vermilion Lighthouse and Inland Seas Maritime Museum provide an entire fun-filled day.

Lakeview Park stands as one of Lorain County’s most dynamic parks. With a beautiful stretch of sandy beach to go along with many amenities such as gazebos, picnic shelters, a playground, and a Bathhouse home to the popular Rose Café, this park is ideal for everyone. These 20 acres of lakeside land are also home to exciting recreation such as sand volleyball and lawn bowling. Stop by for spectacular sunsets and views of the Lorain Lighthouse or a look at the Historical Rose Garden, a landmark in Lorain County. Spend the night in Lorain and experience even more excitement. Grab dinner after a day at the beach at Jackalope Lakeside Bar and Rotisserie and depart from there on a Sunset Cruise. The opportunities are endless!

Century Park, located in Lorain is another great beach destination. Equipped with a snack bar, restrooms, showers, picnic shelters, grills, a playground as well as fishing access, you can’t go wrong!

Miller Road Park is yet another great location on Lake Erie’s Shore. This park’s 14 acres of land include a boat launch, fishing pier, gazebo, picnic pavilion, playground, restrooms, beachfront access to the lake including a handicap accessible ramp, and a ¼ mile walking path. During the summer it is also home to a summer concert series that is great for all ages. Spend the entire day and tour the historic Peter Miller House Museum located on the park premises.

Photo left: Courtesy of Holly Miller

 The Sheffield Lake Community Park and Boat Launch is one of Lorain County’s most exciting new additions. Thanks to recent renovations, a new handicap accessible fishing pier and a free two lane boat launch are available for everyone to enjoy. Complete with ample parking, a beautiful sandy beach, and tables and chairs close by; this is a park you can’t miss!

Photo courtesy of Sheffield Lake

Veterans Memorial Park is not only a beautiful beach, but it is also full of entertainment and history. With its lifeguard-staffed beach, this is an ideal swimming location. Also notable are its Veterans memorial, Lake House, historic Folger Home, and the Avon Lake Boat Club.

For those water enthusiasts who would prefer an indoor location, Splash Zone is perfect for you. This water park is complete with an indoor 8 lane pool, a tot lagoon, a 6,000 square foot outdoor pool with daring waterslides, outdoor concession stand, playground, fitness center, aerobic center, party room, and a field house with a three lane rubberized walking track and four volleyball/basketball courts. No matter the weather or time of year, Splash Zone is one of Lorain County’s most exciting and fun-filled adventure locations.

For more information on Lorain County, visit our website, email us at visitors@visitloraincounty.com, call us at (440) 984-5282, or find us on Facebook and Twitter. For more information on outdoor adventure in Lorain County, visit http://www.backroadsandbeaches.com/