Kirtland Hills OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kirtland Hills, Ohio.
1. Kirtland Temple
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The Kirtland Temple is a magnificent historic landmark that served as the first temple of the Latter-day Saint movement. Built between 1833 and 1836, this stunning structure features unique architectural elements and continues to draw over 50,000 visitors annually. The temple was a sacred place of worship and learning for Latter-day Saints during the late 1830s and represents a significant chapter in American religious history.
2. The Holden Arboretum
NATURAL BOTANICAL PARADISE
The Holden Arboretum spans over 3,500 acres and features extensive gardens, trails, and diverse natural areas. Visitors can explore the impressive Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower offering breathtaking views of miles of treetops. This expansive botanical paradise houses a remarkable collection of trees, shrubs, and plants, making it one of the largest arboreta in the United States.
3. Historic Kirtland
1830S HERITAGE VILLAGE
Historic Kirtland features a collection of original and reconstructed buildings from the 1830s that showcase early American pioneer life. Visitors can tour the N.K. Whitney & Co. Store, the Whitney Home, a reconstructed ashery, and several other historic structures. This heritage village offers a glimpse into the experiences of early settlers who established the community in Ohio.
4. Lake Metroparks Farmpark
AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CENTER
Lake Metroparks Farmpark is a family-oriented science and cultural center devoted to agriculture and farming heritage. The park offers hands-on experiences with farm animals, demonstrations of traditional farming techniques, and interactive exhibits about food production. Visitors can enjoy seasonal activities, including harvest festivals, maple sugaring demonstrations, and sheep shearing events throughout the year.
5. Penitentiary Glen Wildlife Center
NATURE AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Penitentiary Glen Wildlife Center is a 424-acre park featuring over 8.5 miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats including forests, fields, and wetlands. The center includes interactive exhibits, wildlife programs, and nature education opportunities for visitors of all ages. Its scenic picnic areas and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a peaceful retreat.
6. Chapin Forest Reservation
OUTDOOR RECREATION DESTINATION
Chapin Forest Reservation provides over 6 miles of trails through mature oak and maple forests, offering some of the best scenic views in Lake County. During winter, the reservation transforms into a popular destination for cross-country skiing and other snow activities. The forest features unique sandstone ledges and quarries that reflect the area's geological history and natural beauty.
7. Squire's Castle
HISTORIC CASTLE GATEHOUSE
Squire's Castle is a picturesque gatehouse built in the 1890s for a former Cleveland oil company executive. The manor is modeled after German and English style castles of the time, featuring distinctive stone architecture and a romantic silhouette against the surrounding landscape. Although the main manor was never completed, the gatehouse remains as a popular hiking destination and photographic landmark in the Cleveland Metroparks.
8. Chagrin River Park
RIVERSIDE NATURAL RETREAT
Chagrin River Park offers scenic hiking trails along the beautiful Chagrin River with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The park features fishing access, picnic areas, and well-maintained paths that wind through diverse natural habitats. Visitors can enjoy seasonal changes in the landscape, from spring wildflowers to vibrant fall foliage, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers.
9. N.K. Whitney & Co. Store
HISTORIC MERCANTILE BUILDING
The N.K. Whitney & Co. Store is a beautifully preserved 19th-century mercantile building that played a significant role in Kirtland's early development. This historic structure served as both a business center and gathering place for the community during the 1830s. Today, visitors can tour the restored building to experience the atmosphere of a typical general store from the early American frontier period.
10. Veteran's Park
COMMUNITY HONOR GROUND
Veteran's Park serves as a dedicated space honoring those who served in the United States armed forces. The park features memorial monuments, commemorative displays, and peaceful landscape design for reflection. Community events and patriotic ceremonies are regularly held at this meaningful location throughout the year.
11. Kirtland Country Club
PREMIER GOLF EXPERIENCE
Kirtland Country Club features a meticulously maintained championship golf course designed with challenging fairways and pristine greens. The club offers exceptional dining facilities in an elegant clubhouse setting with panoramic views of the course. Beyond golf, members enjoy tennis courts, swimming facilities, and a robust calendar of social events throughout the year.
12. Kirtland Creamery
LOCAL ICE CREAM HAVEN
Kirtland Creamery delights visitors with handcrafted ice cream made from locally sourced ingredients in a variety of creative flavors. The charming shop offers a nostalgic atmosphere where families and friends gather to enjoy sweet treats year-round. Beyond traditional ice cream, the creamery serves specialty sundaes, milkshakes, and seasonal dessert offerings that have made it a beloved local institution.
13. John Johnson Inn
HISTORIC FRONTIER LODGING
The John Johnson Inn represents a fascinating piece of frontier hospitality history in Historic Kirtland. This reconstructed inn demonstrates the accommodations and social gathering spaces available to travelers in the 1830s. Visitors can explore the carefully furnished rooms that reflect the period's style and learn about the important role such establishments played in early American community development.
14. Kirtland Tavern
RUSTIC DINING EXPERIENCE
Kirtland Tavern offers hearty American cuisine in a warm, rustic atmosphere that celebrates the town's rich history. The restaurant features locally sourced ingredients in their signature dishes, with a menu that changes seasonally to highlight the best regional flavors. Its welcoming ambiance makes it a favorite gathering place for both locals and visitors seeking authentic dining in a historic setting.
15. Old Village Shoppes
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
The Old Village Shoppes comprise a charming collection of boutique stores housed in historic buildings along Kirtland's main street. Visitors can browse through unique gift shops, antique stores, and specialty retailers offering handcrafted goods and local products. The district's preserved architecture creates an inviting atmosphere for shoppers looking to discover one-of-a-kind treasures while experiencing the town's historic character.