Plan Your visit
Plan Your Visit to Lake Erie College
A visit to Lake Erie College is more than just a campus tour—it’s a chance to explore everything our vibrant corner of Northeast Ohio has to offer. Whether you're here for an afternoon or making a full weekend of it, we encourage you to experience the best of Lake County while you're in town.
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Explore Historic Lake County
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Nestled along the southern shore of Lake Erie, our campus is surrounded by scenic beauty, charming downtowns, and unique attractions.
You’ll find everything from outdoor adventures and winery tours to family-friendly activities and cultural experiences.
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For local guides, itineraries, and seasonal events, visit Tour Lake County's Official Website.
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Where to Grab a Bite
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From quick bites between tours to sit-down dinners with the family, there’s something for everyone just minutes from campus:
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Bistro 70 – A relaxed spot offering a mix of American classics and comfort food
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Brennan's Fish House – A local favorite for fresh seafood along the river
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Compadres Mexican Restaurant – Great for flavorful, family-friendly meals
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Crowley’s Dive Bar – A laid-back local hangout with live music and a welcoming atmosphere
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Pickle Bill's Lobster House – Casual dining with a fun, waterfront atmosphere
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Looking to explore something unique?
Check out the Lake County Taco Trail, a fun way to discover some of the area’s best taco spots while earning prizes along the way.
Where to Stay
Whether you're planning a quick overnight visit or a full weekend getaway, you’ll find a variety of comfortable and convenient accommodations just minutes from Lake Erie College.
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Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub - A beautifully restored historic mansion offering a unique stay across from campus
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Painesville – Concord - A reliable, family-friendly option with modern amenities
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Comfort Inn Mentor - A convenient and affordable stay just a short drive from campus and shopping areas
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Residence Inn by Marriott Cleveland Mentor - Ideal for extended stays, with spacious suites and kitchenettes
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Getting Around
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Getting to and around Lake Erie College is simple and convenient, whether you're visiting from nearby or traveling from out of town.
By Car
Most visitors choose to drive, and campus is easily accessible from major highways including Route 2 and I-90. Parking is available on campus for guests during your visit.
Air Travel
Flying in? Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is located about 45 minutes from campus and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. Rental cars are available at the airport for easy travel to Painesville.
Public Transportation
Laketran, Lake County’s public transit system, provides bus routes throughout the area, including stops near campus and popular destinations.
Rideshare & Local Travel
Services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, making it easy to explore nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions without a car.
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Things to Do Nearby
Make the most of your visit by exploring some of the area’s top attractions:
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Fairport Harbor Lighthouse – Climb the historic lighthouse and enjoy lakefront views
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Cleveland Metroparks – Known as the “Emerald Necklace,” this award-winning park system offers miles of scenic trails, waterfront views, golf courses, and outdoor adventures throughout the Greater Cleveland area
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Downtown Willoughby – Boutique shopping, great restaurants, coffee shops, and local charm
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Looking to explore beyond Lake County? Just a short drive away, you’ll find world-class culture and entertainment in Cleveland:
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University Circle – Home to renowned museums like the Cleveland Museum of Art and Cleveland Museum
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Playhouse Square – One of the largest performing arts districts in the country, featuring Broadway shows, concerts, and live performances
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Sports fans can also catch the action year-round:
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Lake County Captains – Enjoy an affordable, family-friendly baseball game right here in Lake County
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Cleveland Guardians – Experience Major League Baseball in downtown Cleveland
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Cleveland Cavaliers – Catch basketball at Rocket Arena
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Cleveland Browns – Be part of the excitement of
Cleveland football
Depending on the season, you’ll also find festivals, farmers markets, and live entertainment throughout Lake County and the greater Cleveland area.
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