Those that don’t call Greater Cleveland home simply cannot understand the splendor of Lake Erie. Sure, the lake has earned itself a shaky reputation over the years, but there’s nothing quite like its sunrises and sunsets. In fact, the splendor of these lakefront views is so remarkable that one local park has adapted in an incredible way to accommodate it. If you’re looking for a romantic and memorable evening, there’s nothing like a sunset picnic at this lakefront park near Cleveland.
Welcome to Lakewood Park!
Encompassing 31 acres, its truly no wonder locals have cherished this park for so many years. Its campus includes a great deal of fun in the sun—pools, tennis courts, softball fields, a museum, and even a skatepark are just some of its many features.
Over the years, the park’s landscape has changed significantly.
Amazingly, this park was once a landfill for construction and demolition debris. Before that, it was a garbage dump that predated environmental regulations. Fortunately, the park has transformed into a safe, beautiful place and its days as a dump have faded into mere memory.
Now, it has come to include the lovely Solstice Steps.
These steps overlook the shoreline, wrapping along 480 feet of its loveliest embankments. Facing north and curving to the northwest, this site offers stunning views of Lake Erie’s sunsets.
Its name is derived from its placement; the steps face the point on the horizon where the setting sun reaches its northernmost point on the Summer Solstice.
Of course, the northwestern-facing orientation of these steps offers year-round opportunities for spectacular sunset viewing. They bring to mind visions of natural terraces, managing to feel organic despite their man-made design.
Each block on the Solstice Steps is 21 inches high and the steps reach a total height of 36 feet.
Whether you’re perched at the very top or at its base, you’ll feel one with the natural landscape of Lakewood Park. The shape of the terrace hugs the shoreline, bringing the park one step closer to full unity with the lakeshore.
The Solstice Steps, as well as the promenade walkway, have helped to make Lakewood Park one of the loveliest in Greater Cleveland.
There’s nothing like picnics spent on the lakeshore, watching the sun dip down below the horizon. It’s worth lingering for a few moments to watch the city lights come to life and reflect brilliantly on the water.
And, of course, the park also offers one of the best views of the Cleveland skyline.
Art is meant to be admired from both near and far—it’s all about the overall impression that a piece leaves you with. It’s worth viewing the Cleveland skyline as a work of art, as it’s impressive while you’re in the heart of the city and absolutely jaw-dropping when viewed from afar.
No matter the season, you’ll find that beauty abounds at Lakewood Park.
Address: 14532 Lake Avenue, Lakewood, OH, 44107
There's nothing quite as mystifying as the beauty of a Lake Erie sunset. Which local park is your favorite for sunset watching?
Love the lakeshore? Just wait until you embark on a lakefront road trip along Lake Erie's coast.
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