🐦 Headlands Beach Birding Festival – September 19–21, 2025
📍 Location: Headlands Beach State Park & Mentor Marsh Region
What to Expect
A three-day celebration of fall bird migration—field trips led by experts to top hotspots.
Inside sessions covering bird ID, migration trends, and conservation.
Special keynote talks (e.g., by Jim McCormac & Greg Miller) held at Springbrook Gardenhouse.
Boat-based “pelagic” excursions on Lake Erie for waterbird spotting.
Why A Must for Travelers
Experience one of North America’s richest migratory corridors—352 species recorded.
Ideal for birders of all levels; bring binoculars (loaners often available).
Extend your trip with shoreline dining, Mentor Marsh views, and park trails.
Follow the Migration Magic on Lake Erie
Spread your wings at Lake County’s signature fall nature event! The Headlands Beach Birding Festival returns to Mentor, Ohio, for a spectacular three-day weekend, celebrating the fall migration through the Headlands–Mentor Marsh corridor, home to over 350 bird species.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, this event offers guided field walks, Lake Erie pelagic boat tours, speaker sessions, and family-friendly activities along the scenic lakeshore.
🕊️ Festival Highlights
Guided field trips to hotspots like Headlands Dunes and Mentor Marsh—perfect for watching warblers, shorebirds, and raptors.
Keynote presentations by Julie Zickefoose, renowned naturalist, artist & author (noted for Saving Jemima and long-time contributor to Bird Watcher's Digest)
Pelagic boat tours on Lake Erie to spot waterfowl, gulls, and rare species.
Food trucks & artisan vendors, plus beginner-friendly birding options to welcome families and new birders.
📸 Pro tip: Bring binoculars or rent them on site—fall is peak migration season!
🧭 Why It’s Worth the Trip
This festival combines extraordinary birding with beautiful coastal scenery, making it an ideal fall weekend getaway. With easy access to Mentor’s lakefront restaurants, breweries, and cozy lodging, it’s a great excuse to unwind after a day of bird adventures.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Headlands Beach Birding Festival
Extend your Birding Weekend with comfortable and convenient stays just minutes from Headlands Beach State Park:
🏨 Residence Inn by Marriott Cleveland–Mentor
Distance: ~4.5 mi (10-minute drive)
Amenities: Suites with kitchens, free breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center—ideal for travelers attending festival hikes or boat tours
👉 Book Your Suite
🏨 Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland–Mentor
Distance: ~3 mi (8-minute drive)
Pluses: Free hot breakfast, parking, Wi‑Fi, and convenient access to Lake Erie attractions
👉 View Deals
🏨 Best Western Plus Mentor–Cleveland Northeast
Distance: ~5 miles (12-minute drive)
Perks: Quality suites, complimentary breakfast, parking—great base near Mentor's parks and eateries reddit.com+13expedia-aarp.com+13expedia.com+13
👉 Reserve Room
🧳 Lodging Tips
Book early – Birding Festival draws attendees from across the region.
Want amenities and comfort? – Marriott and Hampton offer suites and pools.
Keeping it simple? – Best Western provides solid value and service.
📍 Event Details
Dates: Friday–Sunday, September 19–21, 2025
Location: Headlands Beach State Park & Mentor Marsh, Mentor, OH
Registration: Opens summer 2025 – watch Friends of Headlands Beach for updates
Admission: Guided walks & boat tours require registration; general attendance free