There’s nothing more magnificent than the landscape in Northeast Ohio. In and around Greater Cleveland, locals enjoy all sorts of natural masterpieces carved by the hands of Mother Nature herself. The most impressive local attractions are doubtlessly the number of caves and waterfalls near Cleveland. Both largely owe their existence to Ohio’s history as an ancient ocean during the Cambrian Period, and both are coveted by locals and visitors alike. Prepare to be amazed, because these stunning places are awaiting your visit. Read on to learn more about the adventure you’ll have when you take the following road trip.

Are you ready to explore Northern Ohio like never before?
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This interactive road trip map will take you in and around Greater Cleveland to some of the finest natural attractions in the area.
1. Paine Falls
Nicholas A. Tonelli/Flickr
Paine Falls is one of the prettiest Cleveland waterfalls that you can drive up to. Located in a surprisingly urban milieu, this waterfall and the surrounding acreage are under the careful management of the Lake Metroparks.
2. Stoneybrook Falls
Christine Arason/Google Images
Stoneybrook Falls is a waterfall that many locals tend to overlook in their time spent in Northeast Ohio. This charming cascade is hiding in Penitentiary Glen Reservation, and though it is less than 10 feet in height, it's overflowing with beauty.
3. High Falls of Chagrin
Sam Howzit/Flickr
At the center of the town of Chagrin Falls is an incredibly beautiful Cleveland waterfalls. This urban beauty is located right off of the main street, and it's hiding behind the iconic Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop. The powerful waters of the Chagrin River once fueled the community as the early industry was taking root.
4. Mill Creek Falls
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
Amazingly, these Cleveland waterfalls are man-made thanks to an old railroad company that redirected the creek once upon a time. Today, Mill Creek Falls is 48 feet tall... and the biggest waterfall in Cuyahoga County. You'll find it in Garfield Park Reservation, surrounded by stonework from New Deal-era projects.

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5. Brandywine Falls
Fizgig46/TripAdvisor
Brandywine Falls is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls that you'll get to see when you explore caves and waterfalls near Cleveland. At 65 feet in height and featuring a crest that varies between 20 to 50 feet, this spectacular waterfall is big, bold, and gorgeous. It's tucked away in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and can be accessed via a long staircase hike.
6. Blue Hen Falls
Carl Shepard/Flickr
Blue Hen Falls is beautiful all year long, but it's particularly striking to visit these Cleveland waterfalls in winter. Though only 15 feet in height, this modest trickle is coveted by local hikers and photographers alike.
7. Mary Campbell Cave
The Angry Ginger/Google Images
Mary Campbell Cave is 130 feet wide and 12 feet deep, but it's full of legend. The story tells that the cave was once a campsite for Mary Campbell and her Lenape captors amidst the tensions of the French and Indian War. Whether or not this cave made Mary the first child of European descent in the Western Reserve, it's long been a topic of interest amidst the local community. In any case, these are fascinating caves to explore during your epic road trip adventure!
8. Seneca Caverns
Jason Haas/Google Images
As one of Ohio's best "caves to explore," Seneca Caverns is too cool to pass up. This spectacular subterranean world was discovered in 1872, yet it continues to amaze visitors to this very day.
9. Perry's Cave
Nikki Rhoades
In the isle of South Bass Island, visitors are amazed by Perry's Cave. Discovered by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry just 52 feet beneath the ground and now residing under a Butterfly House in Ohio and gift shop, this cool cave certainly has a story to tell.
10. Crystal Cave
Jennifer Joseph/Google Images
Located right across the road from Perry's Cave and hiding under a winery, Crystal Cave is the largest geode in the world. Located at a depth of about 30 feet below ground, this surprising subterranean world is covered in celestine. Unfortunately, much of this crystalline rock was harvested from the cave for firework production. This stop is sure to be one of your highlights on this caves and waterfalls near Cleveland road trip.

As you can see, there are a number of caves and waterfalls near Cleveland, but these spots are some of the best. Which of these beautiful spots is your favorite? Tell us in the following comments section!

While these pretty places are among the most beautiful spots in Cleveland, take a look at other stunning locations near Cleveland, like the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, for more adventure.

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More to Explore

Caves and Waterfalls Near Cleveland

Marla S. | February 02, 2023

What are some of the best waterfall hikes near Cleveland?

Aside from the Cleveland waterfalls highlighted on the above road trip, here are some of the best waterfall hikes in the area too.

  • Olmsted Falls: This waterfall hike spans five acres and is rated easy.
  • Cataract Falls: You'll find this scenic waterfall hike in Garfield Park Reservation.
  • Chair Factory Falls: You'll find this 30-foot waterfall along a scenic pedestrian trail in Concord Township.
  • Berea Falls: This dramatic waterfall is located in the Rocky River Reservation.
  • Chippewa Creek Gorge: This understated and pretty waterfall is located in Brecksville Reservation

 

You'll find more information about these and other hikes in this piece about Cleveland waterfalls.

What are some of the top natural wonders in Ohio? 

Along with the caves and waterfalls near Cleveland, take a look at some of the top natural wonders in Ohio.

 

For more ideas of where to visit, take a look at these natural wonders in Ohio too.

What are some of the best caves to explore in Ohio?

In addition to the caves mentioned in the Cleveland road trip, here are some of the best caves to explore in Ohio.

  • Olentangy Indian Caverns in Delaware
  • Old Man's Cave in Hocking Hills State Park
  • Ohio Caverns in West Liberty
  • Ash Cave in Hocking Hills State Park

 

You'll find more information about the above Ohio caves to explore in this piece!

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Featured Addresses
5570 Paine Rd, Painesville, OH 44077, USA
9668 Glenstone Dr, Kirtland, OH 44094, USA
North Main Street, N Main St, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022, USA
Mill Creek Trail, Garfield Heights, OH 44105, USA
8176 Brandywine Rd, Northfield, OH 44067, USA
2001 Boston Mills Rd, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
1160 Front St, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223, USA
15248 E Township Rd 178, Bellevue, OH 44811, USA
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978 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA