The Place Near Cleveland That Makes You Feel Like You’ve Stepped Through A Magical Wardrobe

Locals know and love that Cleveland is overflowing with magical surprises. From a series of well-manicured cultural gardens to a museum of witchcraft, it seems that everything in Northeast Ohio is dosed with a dash of magic or pixie dust. But one place is so magical that it feels like an entirely different world, and you might actually have to convince yourself that you didn't travel through a mystical wardrobe to get there.

Congratulations, you've found paradise! Welcome to Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Nestled alongside the Cuyahoga River, smack dab between Cleveland and Akron, is an incredibly charming natural space that is unrivaled in terms of beauty.

The park is a breathtaking 51 square miles, encompassing thousands of stunning acres awaiting exploration.

While Ohio has notable National Historic Sites and National Historic Parks, the CVNP is the only National Park in the state.

In fact, the park is so marvelous that it is almost preternatural.

Brandywine Falls is one of the most phenomenal attractions in the National Park. At 65 feet tall, one must ascend to an observation deck to take in the entirety of its mass. This feature can be accessed near 8176 Brandywine Road, Sagamore Hills. If there is one attraction in the park that you must visit, this is it.

And, if you look closely enough, magical creatures hide in plain sight.

Of course it looks like a tree, but is it? Better poke it with a stick just to make sure...

Upon your first visit, you will have to convince yourself that your eyes are not deceiving you.

It may seem to be an illusion that's too good to be true, but the beauty of this incredible natural space is 100 percent real. Just take the Ritchie Ledges at Virginia Kendall Park. This portion of the CVNP is located along Truxell Road/ Kendall Park Road in Peninsula, and the size of these behemoths must be witnessed in real life to be believed.

The sights and sounds of this natural space will leave you astounded.

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a beloved part of the National Park. It preserves the essence of our local history while casting dramatic silhouettes against the backdrop of the park. By traveling along the railroad, park visitors experience the region like never before.

Over 125 miles of hiking opportunity await visitors in the CVNP.

The trails cater to all skill levels, with some nearly level and others much more challenging. A hike can take you through a variety of habitats, bringing you close to dreamy places like Armington Pond (pictured).

As is the case with most fairy tale world, ruins lie in hiding nearby.

You are looking at the ruins of the Champion Electric Company, where Willis Hale produced restaurant appliances for nearly twenty years. Sadly, lightning struck his factory in 1937, rendering the facility unusable. These ruins are a reminder of the industry that Hale brought to the area.

Once upon a time, our ancestors flocked to this stunning environment for day trips.

Beginning in the 1870s, locals stole away to this natural space for fun. There was nothing more pleasant than a carriage ride alongside the canal or river, and the sensational scenery set the dreamiest scenes. However, park development would not begin until the 1910s and 1920s, and the area would not become a national park until October 11, 2000.

It truly is no surprise that this park is so coveted... it is out of this world!

With sandstone ledges, waterfalls, and the scenery of our beloved crooked river, there is an incredible amount of beauty to take in everywhere you turn.

At your new favorite park, there are surprises around every corner.

From wildlife to unexpected features, something delights the eye at every turn. Blue Hen Falls is another must-see waterfall on the property, hidden away off Boston Mills Road, west of Riverview Road.

And the story of us is written all around the park, hidden in plain sight.

Encounter the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad's Brecksville Station and watch the train depart, or keep your eyes peeled for the remnants of the historic Ohio & Erie Canal. There is history hidden all about the CVNP, and it coexists effortlessly with wildlife. The site pictured here is near to bald eagle and blue heron nesting sites, providing incredible opportunities for avid birdwatchers.

Believe it or not, the park is in a constant state of evolution.

Pictured here is Hemlock Bridge on the Old Carriage Trail, which is scheduled to be replaced. It has been closed since 2009, but $2.2 million will go toward repairing this bridge, as well as two others on the trail, so that we may enjoy it once again.

With magical flora, fauna, and sights, there is so much to love right in Cleveland's backyard.

Adventure is just a stone's throw away! You will definitely want to plan a visit to this stunning local gem!

Who knew such majesty could be found so close to home?

Can't get enough of this magical park? Check out this charming video by GoTraveler, which flawlessly captures the beauty of Ohio foliage... even though they don't capture the local pronunciation of "Cuyahoga."

As one walks the banks of the Cuyahoga River, it is easy to imagine a mermaid splashing about, or a woodland nymph sneaking out of the forest to check her reflection in the water. This park is one of the dreamiest features Ohio has to offer and, since it is right in our backyard, every Clevelander must experience it at least once.

For more incredible majesty, check out this state nature preserve.