Cleveland has a lengthy and fascinating history. It's not as far-reaching as many American cities, but Cleveland was founded in 1796 and has thrived ever since. Our now-bustling city was once rural and quaint, and many of the area's earliest buildings managed to survive the encroachment of urbanization. Nearby in Lake County, historic structures still sit along the route of a forgotten stagecoach trail that linked Cleveland to New York. One such stagecoach stop is said to be haunted, and you can spend the night... if you dare.
Cleveland became a city in 1836. Nearly a quarter of a century earlier, Rider's Inn was established.
This stagecoach stop was one of the most hospitable in the Western Reserve. It thrived as such for over a century before it grew to accommodate a dining room and speakeasy in 1922. Now a quaint country inn, this historic B&B is a gorgeous little getaway.
From the cozy pub to the lovely guest rooms, the atmosphere of this destination is endlessly warm and friendly.
Located at 792 Mentor Ave., Painesville, Rider's Inn is just far enough from Cleveland to offer a haven from city life. Visitors stop by for a bite to eat in the pub and some even choose to spend the night.
Though the building is full of warmth, visitors can't help but take note of the occasional cold spot and chill down their spine.
This inn was originally owned and managed by Joe Rider and his family, and it was also used as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Its 200 years of history allow the mind to run wild, but many insist that the inn is actually haunted.
Unseen energies seem to pass through rooms, stopping to move objects or flicker the lights.
Perhaps the most famous ghost here is Suzanne - a name as sweet as her tale is tragic. Her story is largely legend at this point, but Suzanne was Joe Rider's third wife and a hostess at the inn… though not for long; she died unexpectedly just six weeks after their wedding.
Some believe Suzanne died of natural causes, but legend maintains that foul play was to blame.
Suzanne was a very wealthy woman, and some say her fortune may have made her a targeted victim of nefarious actions. Whether or not that’s true will remain unsolved, and regardless of the circumstances, her sudden death was devastating… however, it seems that even death hasn’t stopped Suzanne from her hostessing duties at Rider’s Inn. She continues to tend to the many guest rooms, checking in on visitors to ensure that they're enjoying their stay.
Some visitors to Rider’s Inn also claim to see a soldier on the premises, though this apparition is a bit of a mystery.
Reports of this spirit vary, with some visitors vowing to have encountered a Civil War soldier, while others liken the ghost’s attire to a Revolutionary War-era uniform. Perhaps the soldier was drawn here by Joe Rider himself, who served in the Revolutionary War before settling in Painesville.
Whether or not you believe in the purported hauntings of Rider's Inn, you're sure to have a memorable visit.
Even with its resident spirit or two, this enchanting inn is a delight to dine and stay in. Whether you're in the pub enjoying spirits or cuddled up under a blanket when a ghostly hostess checks in on you, you're sure to have an experience unlike any other.
History is alive at this 200-year-old stagecoach stop.
Rooms begin at $90 a night and range to about $125, so you can enjoy an unforgettable night without breaking the bank. Plan your trip on the Rider’s Inn website here.
This spooky inn has had two centuries to accumulate spirits. Do you believe in ghosts? Have you had your own experiences?
If you enjoyed this haunted destination, you'll surely love this haunted road trip through Greater Cleveland.
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