Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH, is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Erie. This summer town holds memories across generations and offers fun for all ages.
Summer days exploring “The Strip” create lasting memories and a good tan line! Come along with Elle, as she takes us through her day in Geneva-on-the-Lake spent with her friends.
Morning: Slow and Relaxing
8:00 AM
Madsen Donuts
Our first stop of the morning is Madsen Donuts. This prominent donut shop has become a tradition for many families visiting each summer. We got a maple stick (my favorite), a sprinkled donut, and a sour cream cake donut. Madsen never fails when it comes to fresh, warm donuts, but make sure to arrive early before these delicious treats are sold out for the day!
10:30 AM
Bula Coast Water Sports
After breakfast, we headed to the Geneva Marina to rent stand-up paddle boards. In my opinion, SUPs are one of the best ways to experience Lake Erie! We launched into Cowles Creek and eventually ventured out into the lake. Paddle boarding is one of our favorite hobbies and a great way to take advantage of having one of the Great Lakes at our fingertips.
Afternoon: Exploring the Strip
1:00 PM
Corner Coffeehouse
Geneva-on-the-Lake is famous for its mile-long “Strip” filled with dozens of shops and restaurants. To start the afternoon, we stopped for a pastry and an iced coffee from Corner Coffeehouse and walked to the Welcome Center to take a picture at the “Lake Life” mural painted by artist, Lisa Quine!
2:00 PM
Mac-An-Sals Boutique
One of our favorite places to shop in Geneva-on-the-Lake is Mac-An-Sals Boutique. We shopped for matching hats and tote bags before spending the rest of the afternoon strolling in and out of each small shop that the Strip has to offer!
Side Note
With so much fun to squeeze in, we didn’t have time to do everything in one day! There are so many things we love to do in GOTL.
Here are some ideas to add to your itinerary:
- Axe throwing at Uncle Joe’s Good Time
- Booking a smash room at Entertainment Mafia
- Zip lining at Lake Erie Canopy Tours
- Go-karting at Adventure Zone
- A massage or facial at the Spa at Lakehouse Inn
- Getting out on Lake Erie for a day of fishing with one of our local fishing charters
- Enjoying appetizers and live music on the Strip
- Playing for prizes at one of the many arcades
- Spending the day golfing at the Geneva-on-the-Lake Golf Course
Evening: Unwind and Enjoy
5:00 PM
Eddie’s Grill
It’s only right to stop at Eddie’s Grill when visiting town. Eddie’s has been open since the 1950s and has become a fan favorite for both locals and visitors. My go-to order is a cheeseburger, french fries, and a vanilla milkshake! We enjoyed our food and a perfect summer evening on their back patio.
7:00 PM
Allison’s Mini Golf
To wrap up our time on the Strip, we had a friendly competition at Allison’s Mini Golf. Another “must” when visiting, and celebrating its 100th year open this summer, Allison’s is considered the oldest miniature golf course in continuous play in the United States!
9:00 PM
Breakwater Beach
The best way to end a day in GOTL is to watch a Lake Erie sunset. We grabbed the puppy and drove the golf cart down to Breakwater Beach. If you enjoy hunting for beach glass, visiting after a storm is the best time to visit! We got very lucky with our beach glass finds and a beautiful Lake Erie sunset!
Geneva-on-the-Lake is an exciting destination for those seeking summer fun on the shoreline of Northeast Ohio! This beach town offers something for everyone and makes for an unforgettable day, weekend, or weeklong trip. Hop in your car today to visit Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH, and start checking things off your summertime bucket list!