With the onset of fall and leaves turn into a riot of colors, many of Cleveland’s well-loved attractions look even better than they already do. Here are the most beautiful spots in Cleveland, Ohio in the fall:
A backdrop of autumn leaf colors enhances the beauty of Brandywine Falls in Cleveland’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park
North Chagrin Reservation
Nature trails, wildlife sanctuaries, historical sites, and more can be found in North Chagrin Reservation. You’ll never run out of amazing shots to take when fall colors take over this 2,140-acre nature preserve. One of the main attractions here is A.B. Memorial Woods, a National Natural Landmark where you can walk among 300- to 400-year-old trees. There’s also Buttermilk Falls, whose uniquely layered geologic formation is a sight to behold. North Chagrin is also home to the 18-hole Manakiki Golf Course and the spectacular Squire’s Castle.
University Circle
“Ohio’s most spectacular square mile,” University Circle houses one of the densest concentrations of arts and culture in the US. Walk around and you will come across several universities, art galleries, museums, parks, and historic landmarks. This stylish neighborhood is beautiful year-round but it’s particularly stunning when fall colors complement the exquisite architectural structures.
Some of the best spots to visit during fall here include Wade Park and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.
Hinckley Lake
Clear waters, stunning greenery, and tall sandstone ledges make Hinckley Lake an amazing place to explore. This already gorgeous 87-acre lake becomes even more mesmerizing during the fall when vibrant red and yellow foliage blankets the area surrounding it. It is also a popular place to catch fish in Cleveland Metroparks as thousands of rainbow trout and largemouth bass swim in its waters.
Chagrin Falls
While autumn begins in late September in Ohio, the best time to experience the peak of autumn is mid to late October. The village of Chagrin Falls in northeast Ohio is especially picturesque during this time of the year. Imagine the epitome of small-town America surrounded by the foliage of season, with the historic Chagrin River cascading into falls smack in the middle of the village. An elevated boardwalk with a smattering of tables and chairs encourages passersby to stop and admire the tumbling waters amid autumnal colors.
Brandywine Falls
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ohio, the 65-foot-high Brandywine Falls is one of the main attractions of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The tumbling waters are a beautiful contrast to the surrounding fall colors, creating a dramatic landscape. The falls can be accessed by walking along the 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge Trail, which is a scenic route in itself.
Lake View Cemetery
A cemetery isn’t where most people would think to go during fall, but few places have the historic charm of Lake View Cemetery. Set your sights on the stunning fall colors of the trees and shrubbery that call it home, including the weeping Canadian hemlock and Japanese maple. Locals also call this Victorian cemetery “Cleveland’s Outdoor Museum” for its remarkable memorials of famous figures like the James A. Garfield Memorial and the Wade Memorial Chapel.
Rocky River Reservation
This 3.8-acre reservation is known for towering shale cliffs, thickly forested areas, and a picturesque gorge. Come fall, Rocky River is covered by a multitude of colors that range from red to magenta. Its scenic setting makes it a popular spot for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and boating. You can also catch steelhead fish at their marina, view beautiful exhibits at the Nature Center, and tee off at one of three golf courses.
Need ideas for home decorations for fall? Check out these 10 DIY projects to get your home ready for the season.
Work with top Cleveland Realtor Michelle McQuade to get the right home at the right price. Call her at 440.823.2448 or send her an email at michellemcquade(at)howardhanna(dotted)com.