🍂3 Ways to Experience Fall Foliage in Northeast Ohio
By Foot 🥾 By Car 🚗 By Glass🍷
As autumn paints Lake County in radiant shades of amber, crimson, and gold, there’s no better time to explore the region’s natural beauty. Whether you lace up your hiking boots, hit the scenic roads, or raise a glass in the Grand River Valley, here are three ways to experience the best of fall foliage in Northeast Ohio.
🍂Follow Holden Arboretum’s Fall Color Watch updates to plan the best dates to take the drive!
🍁 By Foot🥾
Step into the heart of fall by walking beneath the colorful canopy of Lake Metroparks and Holden Arboretum. With 39 parks and more than 60 miles of trails, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the outdoors.
Chapin Forest Reservation – Hike trails surrounded by glowing maples and oaks, then pause at the scenic overlook for a panoramic view of fiery treetops.
Penitentiary Glen Reservation – Wander the boardwalk trails through wooded ravines where leaves crunch underfoot and wildlife stirs among the branches.
Holden Arboretum – Take fall to new heights with the Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower, where you can experience the foliage from 120 feet above the forest floor. Holden’s Color Watch Tracker helps you time your visit perfectly for peak color.
🚗 By Car
Sometimes the best way to see Lake County’s fall colors is from the comfort of your car — and there’s no better route than the Grand River Valley Fall Foliage Self-Driving Tour.
This scenic route winds through the heart of the Grand River Valley, showcasing rolling vineyards, forested hillsides, and peaceful country roads.
Start: From I-90 at Vrooman Road, head north to OH-84 E, then follow Adams Road and River Road for miles of uninterrupted color.
Continue south on OH-528, through the vibrant heart of the valley.
Pass by (or stop for a visit) 17 vineyards along the way!
Several of Lake County’s favorite stops are located in the Grand River Valley — perfect for photos, picnics, or a glass of local wine.
🌳 Suggested Stops:
Paine Falls Park – Cascading waterfalls framed in fiery foliage.
Indian Point Park – Stunning elevation views where two rivers meet.
Baker Road Park and Blair Ridge Park – Peaceful wooded escapes ideal for short walks between drives.
👉 Download the full route and Fall Foliage Tour Pass from TourLakeCounty.com to plan your perfect day.
🍷 By Glass
Raise a glass to fall in Lake County’s Grand River Valley Wine Region, where more than a thirty wineries are tucked among golden vineyards and scenic country lanes.
Grand River Cellars – A cozy retreat offering local wines, hearty bites, and live music surrounded by color-draped hillsides.
Debonné Vineyards – One of Ohio’s largest estate wineries, with panoramic outdoor seating perfect for fall afternoons.
Cask 307 - Premium charcuterie boards, light fares and flatbreads, plus, seasonal mocktails, beers, award-winning wines, and patio vineyard views. (Open year-round, Sun.-Tues. & Thurs.-Sat., closed Wednesdays, open at 11AM, hours may vary by season.)
M Cellars, an estate winery featuring small shareable apps and desserts plus the award-winning wines, weekend live-music and patio views. (Open year-round, 7 days a week, starting at noon)
Don’t miss the Adult Trick or Treat Wine & Cocktail Trail, held throughout October, featuring themed drinks, small bites, and plenty of autumn spirit.
Cask 307 Turkey Trot Sample Tray
🦃 Event Preview: The Grand River Valley Turkey Trot
Mark your calendar for one of the region’s favorite fall celebrations — the Turkey Trot Wine & Cocktail Trail!
This annual wine and culinary adventure invites guests to visit participating wineries for festive pairings of local wines and Thanksgiving-inspired dishes.
Turkey Trot packages include tasting passes and souvenir glasses, making it a perfect pre-holiday outing with friends. Tickets are limited and sell out fast — reserve your spot now at WGGRV.com.
West Orchards Farm Market
🧡 A Final Toast to the Season
Whether you wander through the woods, cruise down leaf-lined roads, or sip wine in the Grand River Valley, every path in Lake County leads to fall magic. So pull on your sweater, grab your camera (and maybe your favorite travel buddy), and make this autumn one to remember — by foot, by car, or by glass.
Are you interested in joining our list? Email elyse@tourlakecounty.com to learn more about how to partner with Tour Lake County~
