Even for those who fell asleep during history class, there are plenty of Northeast Ohio historical destinations definitely worth your time. The following list includes castles and lighthouses and more, and they’re not just for history buffs to relish. Bring your family or a date and get out there and learn something new.
Even for those who fell asleep during history class, there are plenty of Northeast Ohio historical destinations definitely worth your time. The following list includes castles and lighthouses and more, and they’re not just for history buffs to relish. Bring your family or a date and get out there and learn something new.
Squire’s Castle
River Rd., Willoughby Hills
Squire’s Castle is one of the most popular Northeast Ohio historical destinations for weddings and other events. Built in the 1890s, Squire’s is modeled after German and English baronial castles.
Photo via Todd Kravo/Flickr Creative CommonsCleveland Masonic Temple
3615 Euclid Ave.
Completed in 1921, the Masonic Temple and Performing Arts Center, served as the home for the Cleveland Orchestra for 10 years before Severance Hall. While the center once had plans to build a high rise office building, it never became a reality. Instead, the Cleveland Masonic Temple serves as a live event venue for touring bands, comedians, and wrestling matches.
Photo via Larry_theovercomer/InstagramCozad Bates House
11508 Mayfield Rd.
This cozy red brick house is the oldest surviving pre-Civil War structure in University Circle. The house, built in a rare italianate style, has been saved from demolition on multiple occasions and has been preserved as a national historic landmark.
Photo viaInthe216/InstagramCleveland Cultural Gardens
750 E 88th St.
These picturesque landscapes make the Cultural Gardens an ideal location for an afternoon stroll. The gardens were originally created by Cleveland State University students. The project has developed to include members of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation and social studies teachers.
Photo via Scene ArchivesThe Burrell Homestead
2792 E River Rd., Sheffield
The Burrell Homestead was home to many past generations. The house was a stop along the Underground Railroad during the Civil War where slaves would hide in the grain barn on their way north. The house was also once used as a prep school for Oberlin College called Sheffield Manual Labor Institute.
Photo via Visitloraincounty/InstagramMaltz Performing Arts Center
1855 Ansel Rd.
After undergoing dazzling renovations, the 1920s Temple Tifereth Israel was revamped into a concert performance venue, thus giving birth to the Maltz Performing Arts Center. Next month, enjoy upcoming performances from the Cleveland Classic Guitar Society, Cleveland Chamber Choir next month, and an appearance from author Judy Blume.
Photo via W_lemay/InstagramFranklin Castle
4308 Franklin Blvd.
Also known as the Tiedemann House, the house was built by German immigrant, Hannes Tiedemann, who made his fortune as a wholesale grocer and banker in 1881-1883. Franklin Castle is also known as one of the most haunted places in Ohio, with so-called deaths caused by unknown circumstances. On the bright side, the castle is a perfect spot to take an artsy Instagram photo.
Photo via Scene ArchivesIndian Signal Tree
Peck Rd., Akron
No trip to Akron is complete without a stop at the signal tree. The tree was constructed by native Americans to mark the most Northeast point of Portage Path, which they used to carry their canoes between the Cuyahoga River and Summit Lake. There is also a 2 and a half mile hiking trail here, making for the ideal Sunday afternoon stroll.
Photo via Georger_bavum/InstagramI’m a lifelong Clevelander and have never been to the West Side Market.
This one doesn’t even make sense. Go already!
Photo via Scene ArchivesJames A. Garfield National Historic Site
8095 Mentor Ave., Mentor
Recognized under the National Park Service, there is plenty to do at the James Garfield Park for an afternoon Take a guided tour through President Garfield’s home and learn all about how his family lived in the 1880’s. The visitor centers offers additional exhibits and an 18 minute video to learn all about Garfield’s life.
Photo via Capricornpiclover/InstagramJohn Johnson Farm
6203 Pioneer Trail, Hiram
Situated in the scenic farmland and hills of Hiram, John Johnson Farm and Home housed Mormon leader Joseph Smith and his family in the 1830s. His family was faced with weighty opposition while living here.
Photo viaCorbin_morgan/InstagramLake View Cemetery
12316 Euclid Ave.
Lake View Cemetery is the burial site to many different historical celebrities including John D. Rockefeller, James A. Garfield, Carl B. Stokes, and Charles Chesnutt. The cemetery is also known for its exquisite architecture. It’s an obvious place to take visitors, but for good reason.
Photo via Scene ArchivesLorain Harbour Lighthouse
Lorain
The Lorain Harbour Lighthouse has become the official symbol for the city of Lorain. The “Jewel of the Port” was once a hub for Lake Erie shipping. Last summer, the city celebrated the 100th anniversary of the lighthouse. An Ohio Historical Maker was dedicated to the lighthouse to celebrate its significance. The Lighthouse now offers sunset wine boat dinners and tours.
Photo viaRaymax801/InstagramUSS Cod Submarine Memorial
1201 N Marginal Rd.
The ultimate spot to honor U.S. veterans, tourists can come aboard the World War II submarine and get a glimpse on deep water survival. This experience is very informative about how the soldiers fought during the war, and thrilling for all ages.
Photo via Jake_Sawyer/InstagramStan Hywet Hall & Gardens
714 N. Portage Path, Akron
Stan Hywet Hall is the former estate of F.A. Seiberling, founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The estate consists of a 65 room Tudor Manor House, a conservatory, a lodge, and 70 acres of beautiful gardens. The estate offers both guided and self guided tours. There are also various events that take place at Stan Hywet throughout the year.
Photo via Jauntywriter/InstagramCleveland Grays Armory
1234 Bolivar Rd.
The goal of the Armory Museum downtown is to raise public awareness of the military tradition in Cleveland and to support the armed troops. The oldest independent armory in America, other factors that make this site stand out from the crowd are the various event rooms available for rent.
Photo via chelseagerken/InstagramMoses Cleaveland Statue
Public Square
If you are going on a downtown stroll one day, be sure to check out the southwest quadrant of Public Square to pay homage to the bronze statue of Moses Cleaveland, the man who founded this beautiful town.
Photo via Scene ArchivesSpring Hill Historical Home
1401 Springhill Ln. NE, Massillon
More than 150 years of history can be observed at this special landmark. Spring Hill Home has been with Massillon throughout the growth of the town. It is thought to be the first jail in Massillon and has also served as a family home. Spring Hill Home offers tours and other upcoming events including tea, luncheons, a day for dogs, and an Underground Railroad day.
Photo via Springhillhh/InstagramThe Nicholson House
13335 Detroit Ave.
What makes the Nicholson House so unique is that it has the oldest surviving frame structure in Lakewood. Owned by the Lakewood Historical Society, the house is available for parties and events.
Photo via Batesbn/Instagram
