🏖️ Wine & Sunshine Along the Lake Erie Shore
☀️ Discover Summer in Lake County!
Planning the perfect summer weekend getaway should feel relaxing from the start. Whether you’re craving sunshine on the beach, lakeside dining, or a laid back afternoon sipping wine, Lake County, Ohio offers the perfect mix of scenic views and delightful dining.
From Lake Erie beaches and picturesque sunsets to wineries tucked throughout Ohio’s Grand River Valley Wine Country, this weekend itinerary is designed to help you experience the very best of summer in Lake County.
☀️Day 1: Sunshine Along the Shore
Start your weekend right with a day filled with sunny spots. Enjoy the views of our lakefront beaches and stop by amazing restaurants to fuel up.
Start your morning at Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park, where you can watch the sunrise over Lake Erie, stroll the sandy shoreline, and enjoy the refreshing lake breeze.
Local’s Tip: While you’re there, explore the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse for waterfront views and a glimpse into the area’s history.
Recharge with lunch at Hometown Slice, a local favorite known for handcrafted pizza, casual comfort food, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for a summer afternoon. It’s the perfect mid-day stop to recharge before continuing your Lake County adventure.
Slow down and relax with an afternoon visit to Doc Howard’s Distillery. Sip on a signature cocktail, sample locally made spirits, and relax with friends after a morning on the lake.
As the day winds down, head to the Lake Erie Bluffs, one of the most scenic natural areas in Lake County. Unwind while exploring beautiful hiking trails and lakefront overlooks.
Local’s Tip: Don’t forget your camera. The sunset views from the top of the 50-foot observation tower are unforgettable.
Finish the day with dinner at Silvestro's Depot Cafe, a family-owned Italian restaurant serving homemade pasta dishes and classic comfort meals. This dinner stop is the perfect end to a relaxing summer day.
Wind down for the evening at one of the many comfortable lodging options throughout Lake County. Staying at the Painesville Comfort Inn makes it easy to explore the Lake Erie shoreline and Ohio wine country throughout the weekend.
🍷 Day 2: Wine Trail & Relaxing Summer Views
Spend your second day discovering the heart of Lake County wine country. This relaxing route takes you through rolling vineyards that showcase the best of summer in Northeast Ohio.
Start your morning at Sunny Street Cafe with a fresh breakfast and hot coffee before heading out for a relaxing day of winery hopping.
Begin your wine trail at Laurentia Vineyard and Winery, where world-class estate wines are paired with locally-inspired foods. The log cabin-style tasting room offers a rustic atmosphere and tasting experience.
Locals Tip: Catch one of the live music events at Laurentia on their outdoor patio!
Continue the afternoon at Silver Crest Cellars, a charming boutique winery known for its locally crafted wines and intimate tasting experience.
Take a relaxing mid-route stop at Stonegait Winery. It’s the ideal place to sit back and sample a variety of wines. While sipping, enjoy one of their flavorful wood fired pizzas.
End your winery tour at Fossil Creek Winery and Vineyard, where peaceful countryside scenery and rolling vineyards capture the beauty of summer. Sip one final glass of wine and unwind before heading to dinner for the evening.
Local’s Tip: Fossil Creek is especially known for their exceptional dry Rieslings. Try a wine flight to sample a few of their signature varieties and find your favorite!
Wrap up the day with dinner at Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, one of Northeast Ohio’s favorite winery destinations. Enjoy Italian-inspired dishes, handcrafted local wines, and beautiful sunset views that create the perfect ending to a summer evening.
Local’s Tip: Be sure to try one of their America 250 celebration wines, and save room for dessert — the cannoli’s and tiramisu are customer favorites.
After a full weekend of beaches, wineries, and scenic Lake Erie views, relax for one final evening at the Painesville-Concord Holiday Inn Express before heading home refreshed and relaxed.
Are you interested in joining our list? Email elyse@tourlakecounty.com to learn more about how to partner with us!