Silver Lake OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Silver Lake, Ohio.
1. Silver Lake Historical Society
PRESERVING PARK HISTORY
The Silver Lake Historical Society preserves artifacts and photographs of Silver Lake Amusement Park which closed after World War I. Originally purchased in 1874 by Ralph H. Lodge, the Park included Silver Lake and thirty acres of land at its southwest corner. In 1918, the Park was sold for residential development, marking the end of an era for this once-thriving attraction.
2. Ernest Fauser Arboretum
NATURAL URBAN OASIS
The Ernest Fauser Arboretum is one of the most popular attractions in Silver Lake, located beside the Village Hall. This 2.91-acre property features a diverse collection of trees and plants, offering visitors a peaceful retreat in the village. Visitors can enjoy walking paths and learn about various native and ornamental plant species throughout the year.
3. Silver Lake
HISTORIC SPRING-FED LAKE
Silver Lake, previously known as Wetmore's Pond, is the namesake body of water around which the village was developed. The spring-fed lake was initially part of Portage County and overlooked by Judge William Wetmore, who built a cabin there in 1808. The lake once attracted thousands of visitors daily during the amusement park era and continues to be a central natural feature of the community.
4. Ledges Overlook
SCENIC NATURAL VISTA
Ledges Overlook offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape near Silver Lake. The natural formation features massive rock ledges that were created millions of years ago through geological processes. Hikers can explore the area via well-maintained trails that wind through the impressive rock formations and lush forests.
5. Ice Box Cave
COOL NATURAL FORMATION
Ice Box Cave is a unique natural attraction that remains cool throughout the year, even during hot summer months. The cave gets its name from the historical phenomenon where ice would form inside and remain well into summer, creating a natural refrigeration system. Visitors can explore this geological wonder via short hiking trails that lead to the cave entrance.
6. Szalay's Farm & Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Szalay's Farm & Market is a popular destination for fresh, locally-grown produce near Silver Lake. The family-owned farm market offers seasonal fruits and vegetables harvested from their own fields, along with specialty food items and handcrafted goods. Visitors can enjoy corn mazes and seasonal activities during autumn while shopping for farm-fresh products throughout the growing season.
7. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
STUNNING NATURAL PRESERVE
Cuyahoga Valley National Park encompasses 33,000 acres of protected natural landscape just minutes from Silver Lake. The park features diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, and rolling hills along the Cuyahoga River valley. Visitors can explore over 125 miles of hiking trails, observe wildlife, and experience the natural beauty that has been preserved between Cleveland and Akron.
8. Brandywine Falls
MAJESTIC WATERFALL VISTA
Brandywine Falls is a spectacular 65-foot waterfall located near Silver Lake within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The natural cascade flows over layers of sandstone and shale, creating a picturesque scene that changes with the seasons. Visitors can view the falls from an accessible boardwalk or hike the surrounding trails for different perspectives of this natural wonder.
9. Blossom Music Center
OUTDOOR CONCERT VENUE
Blossom Music Center is an acclaimed outdoor amphitheater set on 800 scenic acres near Silver Lake. The venue serves as the summer home of the Cleveland Orchestra and hosts popular music acts from across the country during the concert season. With capacity for over 19,000 attendees between covered pavilion seating and the expansive lawn, Blossom offers a unique entertainment experience surrounded by natural beauty.
10. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is a magnificent country estate featuring a 65-room Tudor Revival Manor House built between 1912-1915. The former home of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, spans 70 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds. Visitors can tour the historic mansion with its original furnishings, explore the conservatory, and wander through themed gardens designed by noted landscape architect Warren Manning.
11. Akron Art Museum
CONTEMPORARY ART COLLECTION
The Akron Art Museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art in a striking architectural space combining a historic building with a dramatic glass and steel addition. The museum's collection includes significant works from 1850 to the present, with strengths in American painting, photography, and contemporary art. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and a welcoming space that connects art, people, and ideas.
12. Akron Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
The Akron Zoo is a 35-acre wildlife park featuring over 1,000 animals representing species from around the world. The zoo is organized into immersive, themed areas including Legends of the Wild, Wild Prairie, and Grizzly Ridge, providing naturalistic habitats for the animals. Visitors can enjoy up-close animal encounters, conservation education programs, and seasonal events throughout the year.
13. Stow-Monroe Falls Public Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
The Stow-Monroe Falls Public Library serves as an important cultural and educational resource near Silver Lake. The modern facility offers an extensive collection of books, digital resources, and multimedia materials for all ages. Visitors can participate in community programs, use research facilities, or simply enjoy the welcoming space designed for reading and learning.
14. Sarah's Vineyard
CHARMING LOCAL WINERY
Sarah's Vineyard is a picturesque winery and art gallery located on 15 acres of rolling countryside near Silver Lake. The family-owned establishment produces a variety of wines from locally-grown grapes in a converted 170-year-old barn that creates a rustic, charming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, view local artwork, listen to live music on the patio, and savor wood-fired pizzas while overlooking the vineyard.
15. Summit Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Summit Mall is an upscale shopping center featuring over 125 specialty stores, restaurants, and services near Silver Lake. The indoor mall is anchored by major department stores and includes a diverse mix of national retailers and local boutiques. Shoppers can enjoy a comfortable, climate-controlled environment while browsing fashion, home goods, electronics, and dining options throughout the year.