This Road Trip To The Most Majestic Castles Around Greater Cleveland Is Like Something From A Fairy Tale
By Nikki Rhoades|Published June 27, 2018
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Sometimes it’s honestly difficult to tell if you’re still in Northeast Ohio or accidentally stumbled into Narnia. Our landscape goes from urban to wild in an instant, and one may find themselves immersed in a countryside that is straight out of a storybook. Perhaps it is the multitude of castles that accent our skyline like jewels, standing out with undeniable splendor and majesty. That’s right; we’re about to take a road trip to some of the region’s loveliest structures. For an interactive map, click here.
Get ready for an epic road trip, because you're about to see some of Greater Cleveland's loveliest castles.
This gem was constructed by Feargus B. Squire in the 1890s, but he only ever completed the shell. The unfinished castle was actually meant to be a gatekeepers home for the estate he intended to build. Squire eventually sold the property, and the Cleveland Metroparks acquired it in 1925. Now a part of North Chagrin Reservation, this gorgeous destination wows visitors in every season.
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2. Franklin Castle, 4308 Franklin Blvd., Cleveland
Tucked away in Ohio City on one of Cleveland's loveliest streets is a Queen Anne-style castle that towers four stories over the street. It was constructed for Hannes Tiedemann and his family, and a great deal of intrigue and lore surround the prestigious German immigrant. The castle was recently purchased by formerly New York-based Norton Records, and owner Miriam Linna hopes to host parties there.
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3. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 71 North Portage Path, Akron
Akron is very close to Cleveland, but the area surrounding the city has developed its own personality and flair. This gorgeous estate is one of its crown jewels, a gorgeous escape that has attracted visitors since its construction. Not only did it host the co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, but it was also the site of the first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. As if that history is not unique enough, the 70-acre estate is a story to behold. In fact, its architect visited and drew inspiration from 20 English manors. You can find the full story here.
Tucked between Cleveland and Columbus is a gem of a location that you must see to believe. This dreamy destination is actually a modern hotel, but it looks like a scene from the 12th-century English countryside. And though it is a modern creation, the land has quite a bit of history and boasts several ghostly residents... if you're looking to add a bit of drama to your story. You can find more information on this location here.
This massive castle could easily be imagined with a moat and an army or two, but it is fairly modern, despite its regal and antique appearance. Construction began in 1904, shaping and creating a home for a businessman and his family. Today, however, it is owned and utilized by the Alliance City School District. Guided tours are provided on Fridays at 1 and 2 p.m., and for admission, they ask only for a donation of $5.
These pretty places prove that Northeast Ohio is straight out of a storybook. Our landscape perfectly complements these dreamy destinations, but you’ll have to experience them in person to fully understand. Who are you taking on your castle road trip? Tag them in the comments, and let’s start planning!
