Lorry Perkins
Writer, Travel Blogger
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Getaway Weekend in Ashtabula Historic Harbor on Lake Erie | Things To Do
If you are looking for a getaway weekend, look no further. We recently discovered the Ashtabula Historic Harbor, OH, located on The Ashtabula River, which flows into Lake Erie. For years, we passed through this town, admiring the main street and remarking that we should stop and check it out one day. Finally, we decided to stay at The Michael Cahill Bed and Breakfast, in town and fell in love with everything they had to offer. We’ve been to Ashtabula more than a dozen times, and every time we discover something new.
Dreamcatcher Inn, Ashtabula, OH
We recently stayed at the Dreamcatcher Inn located in Ashtabula, OH, and were amazed at the exquisite attention to detail in this newly renovated 1890s home. Once we met the Innkeeper, Lorrie Lloyd, we began to understand the intricacies woven into the spectacular design and purposeful placements of cherished furnishings from years of living in exotic places around the world, extensive travel, and pieces preserved from familial treasures. Her passion for this renovation is unmistakable when you listen to her story of how this came to be.
Award Winning Historical Renovation
According to owner Lorrie Lloyd, this home won a historical renovation award a couple of years ago. To protect the handmade carpets and for health and cleanliness, no shoes are allowed inside and this is a no smoking property. For your comfort, there is central heating and air conditioning. Every room is well appointed with vintage furniture, comfortable mattresses, beautiful art and décor, and rugs from various countries. It has five bedrooms and four full bathrooms. Currently three rooms and two baths are used for the B&B.
Gourmet Breakfast and Treats
Did I mention that Lorrie is a fabulous cook? From her homemade apple cinnamon muffins to her delicious gourmet breakfast, you will not go home hungry.
Michael Cahill Bed and Breakfast (temporarily closed)
The first time we stayed at the Michel Cahill Bed and Breakfast in Ashtabula, OH, we knew we would be back. In fact, on our way home, we made reservations to stay the following month. Before the end of the summer, we visited again. Read more about this B&B and our visit on my blog, No Shoes Just Travel. We can’t seem to get enough of this wonderful historic harbor area, and here’s why.
First of all, Joann and Bob Surbella are exceptional hosts. They are welcoming and genuinely interested in making their guests feel at home. They are knowledgeable about the surrounding area and suggest where to eat, shop and play. Read more about their B&B here.
Shopping, Restaurants, Museums
But it doesn’t stop there. We have found that shopkeepers, restaurant owners, and people we meet are friendly and want to share their town with you. In addition, there is something for everyone. Boating, hiking, fishing, shopping, and more are just steps away from the harbor district. Historians will enjoy the Maritime Museum, The Hubbard House Underground Railroad Museum, and the unique covered bridges. Ashtabula County is home to 19 covered bridges, including the longest in the US, the Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge. Wine connoisseurs will enjoy the 30 wineries throughout the area, each with its own personality. And if you are a foodie, Ashtabula has you covered with a variety of restaurants in the Historic Harbor District alone.
Restaurants in Ashtabula, Historic Harbor
Rennick Meat Market, located on Bridge Street, was originally opened by TJ Rennick in the late 1800s. The new owner has embraced the historical décor and not only caters to carnivores but also serves fresh, healthy local fare. Best kept secret… they make the best black bean and cashew burger. Meat eaters have remarked that Rennick’s steaks are the best. Note that they are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Check their website for the exact lunch and dinner hours for the rest of the week. You won’t want to miss eating here.
Nights and Weekends is the place to be for mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas. Three Ohio natives joined together to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza to the Historic Harbor District. And their salads are remarkable too. In addition to regular fresh dough pizzas, they offer a gluten-free alternative.
Halcyon, the Harbor District Speakeasy, strives to create a happy and peaceful establishment. They are open every day for both lunch and dinner. Stop by for their live entertainment on the weekends.
Just a few steps away is Fitzgerald’s Wine Bar, Restaurant & Wine Shoppe Is one of our favorite places for dinner. But if you are a wine connoisseur, you may enjoy the tasting area located on the lower level. Here, you can sample local wines and wine from around the world while shopping for a few gift items. In addition to indoor seating, terrace and patio seating is available. Reservations are suggested.
Shopping in Ashtabula
Fat Sally’s Warehouse
A visit to Ashtabula is incomplete without a visit to Fat Sally’s Warehouse. Named after the owners’ dog, Fat Sally’s is where antique store meets flea market and then invites Etsy to join them. It’s a combination of antiques and local artisan finds. Owners Amy and Cory Nagle bring the community together in this one-of-a-kind venue full of activity and good old-fashioned fun. Keep an eye on them on their Facebook Page.
Touched by Color Gallery of Art features repurposed pieces of furniture, wall art, and small items that will enhance almost any décor. These are one-of-a-kind marbleized finishes in a variety of eye-catching colors. Owners Marian and Liz are passionate about their work and Ashtabula. Carlisle’s Home in the Harbor is a modern shop steeped in history, offering a wide variety of gifts, wine, home decor, and more.
Heartmade Boutique and Bitchy Bath Company is a great shop for clothing, jewelry, handcrafted body care products, and gifts or souvenir items to remember your visit. The fun thing about the store is the edgy or snarky sayings you will find on coasters and other unique items. Fun times.
The Light Emporium is a metaphysical concept and jewelry store offering a wide variety of tumbled stones, high vibe stones (moldavite) and minerals, crystals, gemstones, jewelry, healing tools, crystal singing bowls, and more! Follow The Light Emporium on Facebook for events and happenings.
These are only a small sampling of restaurants and shops to choose from. Whether you grab a coffee at Harbor Perk or Chocolate at Marianne’s Chocolates, this vibrant main street will keep you busy for hours on end. For more details about the restaurants and shops in town. Go to the website Historic Ashtabula Harbor or Visit Ashtabula County.
Harbor Yak Outfitters
Harbor Yak Outfitters is located just opposite the lift bridge, where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, boats, and hydro bikes. According to their website, From the launch, you can paddle up river 2 miles and paddle down river and out into the harbor. From there, you have about a mile east and west where you can paddle behind a break wall. Because the water is flat, with a very light current, there is no issue paddling up the river. Paddling or pedaling not your style; check out their new pontoon boat. Reservations are not required but are suggested during busy times.
Walnut Beach Located on Lake Erie
If you need time to relax, take a walk on the inspiring shoreline at Walnut Beach. Here, you can enjoy a lazy day sunning yourself by the lake, or for more activity, bring the gang for a game of volleyball or the kids to climb and run around on the playground. If you forget your lunch, then sidle up to the snack bar for delicious paninis, sandwiches, and other snacks to fill your tank.
Eerie Harbor Ghost Walk
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you won’t want to miss this hour-and-a-half walking tour of the Ashtabula Historic Harbor that starts at Harbor Perk. Guided by Chris Martello, tours cover the lifestyle of the early settlers starting in the late 1800s. Blended with the fascinating history, stories about the clash between various cultures, brothels, and 52 saloons along the harbor streets are sure to satisfy your curiosity about Ashtabula’s past with a “haunted twist.” Tours run May through October and cost $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Text or call to make reservations (440) 228-8458. Check out their website for more details and specific tour dates.
What Did I Miss?
Although I tried to include as many restaurants and shops as possible, this is only the tip of the iceberg. Once you visit, you will learn that you can’t do it all in one weekend and will most likely be like us and keep coming back for more. For more details about Ashtabula, go to the website Historic Ashtabula Harbor or Visit Ashtabula County. If you want me to add your favorite spot, please let me know in the comments below.
Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on a link to make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. By using my affiliate links, you are helping me continue to provide this content.
What a beautiful, clean and well maintained area. I love communities that celebrate their history, commerce and small businesses and Ashtabula shows how to shop, eat and stay very well in a fun getaway to this area.
I agree with you. They do a fantastic job!
We have visited the Canadian side of Lake Erie but not the U.S. Side I love the idea of staying in a quaint spot on the Ashtabula Historic Harbor. I know a spot is good when I hear people return over and over. We would definitely want to get out on the water on a paddleboard, kayak, boat or hydro bike.
How cute is this town?! It looks like from the past. Actually, so does the accommodation – very little house on the prairie – I love that. It’s amazing that the shores of those huge American lakes always look like beaches next to an ocean – just wonderful. Lake Erie would definitely be a spot to visit if I ever come back to the US.
I’ve never stayed in a bed & breakfast admittedly! I’ve always wanted to! The one you describe here seems so charming and delightful! Also loved the youtube video.
I’ve never stayed in a bed & breakfast admittedly! I’ve always wanted to! The one you describe here seems so charming and delightful! Also loved the youtube video.
So cute, took notes from this post so when we go we don’t miss anything. Looks like an adorable town and great getaway!
There’s so much to do…you’ll probably want to go back to experience everything.
missed Carlisle’s Shop
I’ll have to stop in next time. What do you like about it?