Your Itinerary for Planning the Best Family Getaway in Ohio

Organizing your family vacation on the shores of Lake Erie this summer? We have everything you need to know about planning a trip to remember in Geneva-on-the-Lake. Indulge in a scoop at one of our old-fashioned ice cream shops and then burn off that energy with a game of footgolf. Ashtabula has everything you’ll need for a memorable family getaway in Ohio. For additional recommendations of Lake Erie activities and restaurants, access our exclusive Vacation Guide.

Plan Your Family Vacation    

Preparing Your Weekend Family Getaway in Ohio

Make your family memories at the lake this summer. Along with the stunning views and miles of beaches, Geneva-on-the-Lake offers some of the most nostalgic ways to spoil your family. Follow our guide for planning a summer your kids will be talking about for the rest of the year.

Day 1: Arrive in Geneva-on-the-Lake

Whether you drove south from The Empire State or crossed over the Pennsylvania state line, chances are you have cranky children and growling stomachs. Did you know Northern Ohio is renowned for the best pizza in the state? Purola’s and Salvatos are local favorites—find your pizza palace with our list of recommendations.

Where to stay: Shake off the road trip blues at The Lakehouse Inn. Relax in your spacious, two bedroom cottage suite—let the kids unpack in their own queen-size room while you unwind in your room.

Day 2: Explore the Coastal Town

A sunset on the beach at Geneva State Park, one of the parks near Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio.Wake up to a complimentary, chef-inspired breakfast at the inn to get your day started on the right foot. Beat the crowds to Geneva State Park’s sandy beach. Wake up gently with a refreshing dip in Lake Erie before embarking on the day.

Grab a scoop (or two) from Whip-N-Dip conveniently located just outside of the park. Their creamy sorbet is comparable to Disney’s magically Dole Whip—the kids are sure to be impressed. File in for lunch at Eddie’s Grill on the strip. (Yes, we said ice cream before lunch, by the way.) Put some quarters in the jukebox, split a side of fries and a few hot dogs and you’re in for a fantastic midday treat.

While you’re on the strip, spoil the kids with a trip to Adventure Zone. Let them zing across the 1,000-foot zipline, plunge the 60-foot fall from the Drop, race around the go-cart track, cool off with bumper boats, or let the littlest ones roam around the expansive indoor playground.

Crosswinds GrilleCome back for dinner at Lake Erie’s best farm-to-table restaurant, Crosswinds Grille. We recommend one of Chef Nate’s fresh catch specials or a wood-fired steak. Kick back on our wide, outdoor patio for immersive views of Lake Erie. Uncork a bottle of our house-made wine and reflect on your day at the lake.

Need to burn off the nighttime energy surge? Play a family game of footgolf at Geneva’s brand new footgolf course! What is footgolf, you ask? It’s a combination of soccer and golf and it’s all the rage. Your kids will love putting you to shame on the course!

Come back to your cottage room at The Lakehouse Inn and lounge in your enclosed porch while listening to the refreshing sounds of the Cardinals.

Day 3: Give Them Something to Remember

As if you’re not already the coolest parent out there, give them one more reason to drop jaws before you hit the road. Stop by Frank’s Toybox—your kids will love it because of the name, you’ll love it because of the treasures you’ll find. Find that special something to commemorate your trip to the lake. Then, swing by Pucker Up Candy Shoppe and enjoy a real-life game of Candy Land. Bribe them for a fight-free car ride with their choice of one or two of the classic candies.

Geneva-on-the-Lake offers the best family fun throughout all four seasons. Check out our seasonal events and all of the best things to do at the lake. We can’t wait to make this your best family getaway at The Lakehouse Inn!