The Fascinating Town Near Cleveland That Is Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale
Native Clevelanders know how truly magical their city can be. Sparkling lights, the dreamy echoes of live music, and festive decorations greet guests wherever they turn in Cleveland. Yet, the region surrounding the city has its own charm, from the rolling fields of the countryside to the sleepy atmospheres of small Midwestern towns. One small town stands out for its surreal beauty, and it is located only about 45 minutes outside of Cleveland’s borders. Looking for the perfect fairy tale town? Look no further than this small town on a Great Lake.
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This "Harbour Town" is a fantastic place to drop anchor and stay a while. This city was once known as the Village of Lake Captains, and it has flawlessly maintained sailor homes of yore. Vermilion's historic streets are sure to enchant visitors with their unbeatable atmosphere.
The historic district of this cozy community is straight out of a New England painting.
Small, intimate shops, an ornate blend of architectural influences, and bright bursts of color provide a cheery environment that sets the scene for an unforgettable day. An incredible 16 block historic district greets the eye upon your arrival, and you will fall in love with this community, whether it is for a day or for a lifetime.
Sandy beaches, cultural celebrations, and amazing parks entertain locals and visitors alike.
Get outdoors and start exploring! Vermilion is overflowing with adventure, as any respectable fairy tale town should be, and you simply must explore the city to understand what makes it so magical.
The coastal culture of this community is enchanting.
Tucked at the mouth of the Vermilion River and Lake Erie, this coastal town is filled to the brim with culture. After all, it is the "Largest Small Boat Harbor on the Great Lakes." Admire the nautical nature of this incredible community on the public docks, at the lighthouse, or before the home of a captain. If you are lucky, you may even encounter a pirate or two.
In Vermilion, vintage and modern mix with an elegant flair.
The influence of the pioneers that settled this land and the early sailors that called it home is still evident, preserved in museums and historic structures. Yet modern luxuries, like shopping and fine dining, have effortlessly blended into the antique community.
Like any fairy tale town, locals whisper of something sinister lurking beyond civilization.
Young people tell the tales of Gore Orphanage like an old nursery rhyme: it's fantastical, kind of creepy, and honestly unbelievable. The city houses the site of "Gore Orphanage," which was actually an orphanage known as the "Light of Hope." Conditions were dreadfully cruel and unclean, and many of the children that lived at the orphanage ran away in the dead of night. When the orphanage finally closed its doors, tales of abuse and even torture could not be forgotten. Legend hunters began exploring the area, as well as that of Swift's Hollow, and have insisted for decades that the region is haunted.
This quaint town can transport you back to a simpler time.
Enjoy handmade ice cream, watch the sunset at the beach, or hang out at the old fashioned soda fountain. Life in Vermilion is laid back and relaxed, a dreamy destination in an alluring natural setting.
Take an evening stroll and see the city come alive by star light.
There is always something to do or see in Vermilion, and that remains true as night descends over the community. Catch a musical performance, attend an event, or grab a bite to eat. There is no shortage of festivities in this amazing town. And, if all else fails, the scenery is stupendous.
Cleveland’s neighboring communities remind us that there is something magical about our region. America’s North Coast is a chic, historic, and friendly place to be, and that attitude is flawlessly captured in Vermilion.
Looking to visit another incredible beach town? Consider Huron, which offers enchanting views of Lake Erie and a multitude of family-friendly activities.
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.
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