About Geneva on the lake, village of
Geneva-on-the-Lake, Village of: Ohio's First Summer Resort
Nestled in the heart of Ashtabula County, Ohio lies a charming village that has been attracting visitors for over a century. Geneva-on-the-Lake is known as Ohio's first summer resort and is a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With its picturesque location on the shores of Lake Erie and its abundance of recreational activities, it's no wonder why this village has become such a beloved vacation spot.
History
Geneva-on-the-Lake was founded in 1869 by Edwin Pratt and his wife Harriet. They purchased land along the lakefront with the intention of creating a summer resort that would attract visitors from nearby cities like Cleveland and Pittsburgh. The Pratts built several cottages on their property and began advertising their new resort to potential guests.
The first few years were slow for Geneva-on-the-Lake as it struggled to gain recognition among other established resorts in the area. However, things began to change in 1873 when Pratt opened his own hotel called The Cottage House. This hotel quickly became popular among tourists who were drawn to its beautiful location on Lake Erie.
Over time, more hotels were built in Geneva-on-the-Lake including The Hotel Breakers which was constructed by the Cleveland & Buffalo Transit Company in 1905. This grand hotel boasted over 600 rooms and was one of the largest hotels on Lake Erie at that time.
Recreation
One of the main draws to Geneva-on-the-Lake is its abundance of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming at Township Park Beach or fishing off one of several piers located along the lakefront. Boating enthusiasts can rent boats or jet skis from local marinas while golfers can hit up one of several nearby courses.
For those who prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of options available as well. The Adventure Zone Family Fun Center offers mini-golf, go-karts, and an arcade while the Geneva-on-the-Lake Golf Course has an indoor simulator for golfers to practice their swing.
Events
Geneva-on-the-Lake is also known for its many events that take place throughout the year. The village hosts several festivals including the annual Wine & Walleye Festival which celebrates local wineries and fishing traditions. Other popular events include the Thunder on the Strip motorcycle rally and the Geneva Area Grape Jamboree which features grape stomping contests and live music.
Accommodations
There are plenty of accommodations available in Geneva-on-the-Lake ranging from cozy cottages to luxurious hotels. The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake is a popular choice among visitors as it offers stunning views of Lake Erie along with upscale amenities like a full-service spa and multiple dining options.
For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are several campgrounds located in or near Geneva-on-the-Lake including Indian Creek RV & Camping Resort and Willow Lake Campground.
Conclusion
Geneva-on-the-Lake, Village of is Ohio's first summer resort for good reason. With its beautiful location on Lake Erie, abundance of recreational activities, and numerous events throughout the year, it's no wonder why this charming village has become such a beloved vacation spot. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, there's something for everyone in Geneva-on-the-Lake.