Mentor Marsh
One of the largest natural marshes remaining along the Lake Erie shoreline and one of Ohio’s first state nature preserves, Mentor Marsh is a must-see for Bird Watchers. A large number of birds live in and stop through the marsh during seasonal migration and nesting seasons, such as blue-winged teal, American wigeon, gadwall, American black duck, Northern shoveler, hooded merganser, American and Least Bitterns, Virginia, King and Sora Rails, Common Gallinules and Wilson's Snipe. Mentor Marsh trails are open for your enjoyment year-round, from dawn to dusk.
Lake Erie Bluffs
Lake Erie Bluffs provides incredibly scenic views with its 50-foot coastal observation tower along Lake Erie. The 50-foot tower is situated overlooking the lakeshore with multiple viewing platforms along a staircase that culminates in a deck featuring 360-degree-views. The height and location of the tower provide visitors with a unique view of the lake and the surrounding woods, fields and wetlands, along with a variety of wildlife–particularly a large number of bald eagles that are regularly seen at the park. Visitors can also enjoy low-impact recreational activities such as hiking and fishing at this park.
Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve
This site is known throughout the birding community and is famous for its rarities and big fallouts of migrants. The rock jetty that runs out to the lighthouse is a fantastic observation point for conducting “sea watches” as well. The total Headlands list is made up of over 300 species which accounts for approximately 75% of the entire Ohio bird list. This nature preserve has rare and sensitive flora and fauna, so please stay on marked trails. Spring and fall migrations bring a great diversity of songbirds, and often in enormous numbers. Over 100 species are possible on a good May or September day. All of the regularly occurring songbirds found in Northeast Ohio can be spotted at Headlands every year.
Chagrin River Walk Park
Chagrin River Park is a must-see for Birders and Anglers alike! Most of the park's natural areas are comprised of dense shrubs with pockets of mature forest bordering wetland areas. You can find great blue herons, kingfishers, bank swallows and sandpipers near the river. Two wetland areas support frogs, salamanders and a variety of songbirds. The seasonal wetland near the picnic shelter serves as a haven for great blue heron and ducks, such as mallards and blue-winged teal. A pedestrian bridge links the park and includes more than 2.83 miles of trails.
Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve & Marina
Escape to the tranquility of nature at its best and explore the beauty of an unspoiled beach and miles of hiking and water trails. You’ll be rewarded with countless wildlife encounters and bird sightings. Mentor’s 230-acre nature preserve includes 1-1/2 miles of shoreline with rare dune plants, a riverine marsh, and a mature oak bluff. Located on the western boundary of the 691-acre Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve, the property contains the greatest diversity of wetland communities within the marsh basin and serves as an important breeding and nursery area for fish and waterfowl and an extremely popular resting place for neo-tropical birds and butterflies as they migrate each year.
Recommended
Brennan’s Fish House
Fresh is best when it comes to seafood! One trip and you will fall in love with the freshest, most expertly prepared Walleye and Lake Erie yellow perch at Brennan's Fish House in Grand River. You can also enjoy staples like the phenomenal fresh homemade crab cakes, hand-cut French fries, and homemade soups. Not only will you enjoy great food, but you'll experience a piece of Grand River and Lake Erie history through the fascinating memorabilia in the restaurant. All of which has been donated through the years by people in the community!
Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub
Once the most exquisite home in Painesville, built for the wealthy businessman, George W. Steele, the mansion was heavily damaged by fire in January 2001 and was left to sit in ruin. After extensive renovations and meticulous attention to detail, the Steele Mansion Inn and Gathering Hub was reconstructed to its former glory. Steel Mansion offers 16 luxurious guest rooms & suites, each with a unique historical theme and private luxury bathroom. You will find your stay at the "Jewel of Painesville" and an unforgettable trip back through time.