A Perfect Summer Day in Fairport Harbor, OH
🌊 Lake Erie Love!🌊
Looking for the perfect summer day trip along Lake Erie? Fairport Harbor, Ohio offers everything you need for a relaxing and memorable getaway — from charming local shops and waterfront dining to beach views, historic attractions, and live entertainment. Whether you’re visiting for the afternoon or planning a full weekend escape, Fairport Harbor is packed with small-town charm and lakeside experiences that make it one of Northeast Ohio’s hidden gems. To take the stress of planning away, we’ve designed the perfect itinerary for spending a summer day in Fairport Harbor, Ohio.
Make it a full weekend getaway by booking a stay at The Steele Mansion or The Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Mentor—the perfect lodging for a weekend of lakeside adventures.
Start the Day with Breakfast at Julbean’s Coffee & Crepes
310 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Kick off your day with breakfast and coffee at Julbean’s Coffee & Crepes, a local favorite known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious selection of savory and sweet crepes. Fuel up before exploring town with a crepe and one of their seasonal menu drinks.
Local’s Tip: Customize and build your own sweet crepe from their large list of fillings and toppings
Stroll Down High Street and Shop Local
One of the best ways to experience Fairport Harbor is by walking through its charming downtown district and supporting the local businesses that make the village unique. High Street is filled with locally owned boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores that are perfect for browsing during a summer afternoon.
Shops to Explore
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Art created by hand including paintings, murals, custom art and apparel
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Holistic shop specializing in all-natural, certified organic, wildcrafted, handmade products. Herbal products including bulk herbs, hand-blended teas, bath & body products, and salves.
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A vibrant selection of nostalgic candies alongside new favorites that everyone will love. After you've stocked up on treats, step into our retro arcade packed with timeless games like Pac-Man, pinball, air hockey, and skee-ball.
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Custom shirts, personalized mugs, coasters, candles, tumblers, and so much more!
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High quality, locally sourced dry goods, liquid refills (soaps, oil, vinegars) and household products in bulk, zero waste format.
Putt for a Hole in One at Fairport Mini Golf
206 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Challenge your friends to a round before lunch. This is a nine hole course with the option to play a second round, making it 18 holes of fun!
Local’s Tip: Stop inside and try their fair-style shake lemonades. Enjoy one of their specials or customize your own with any Monin syrup, jam or puree, or liquor!
Grab Lunch at Fairport Family Restaurant
212 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
This local favorite is known for American classics, comfort food, and weekly specials. Sit on their covered patio and enjoy beautiful waterfront views while soaking in the sun.
Tour the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse
129 2nd St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Step into Fairport Harbor’s rich maritime history with a visit to the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum & Lighthouse. Climb the 69 spiral steps of the historic lighthouse for incredible Lake Erie views.
Local’s Tip: As you explore Fairport Harbor, keep an eye out for the iconic yellow chairs located throughout the community. These bright and relaxing seats have been saved for you to pause, reflect, and unwind this summer in Lake County.
Enjoy Dinner, Drinks, and Entertainment at Lyric Bistro
225 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Wrap up the evening with dinner and drinks at Lyric Bistro, one of Fairport Harbor’s favorite spots for live music and entertainment. Enjoy a relaxing evening atmosphere with great food, cocktails, and live entertainment.
Local’s Tip: Looking to step things up to something fancier? Try The Pompadour an intimate small plates restaurant and cocktail bar known for their dishes inspired by Spanish, Latin, and South American flavors.
End the Day with Ice Cream and a Lake Erie Sunset
202 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
No perfect summer day in Fairport Harbor is complete without ice cream and sunset views over Lake Erie. Stop by the Fairport Harbor Creamery for a sweet treat before heading to the beach to watch the sun go down.
Book Your Stay for a Summer Getaway
Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub
Luxury does not get any better than a stay in one of the sixteen lavishly decorated rooms. Surrounded by lush gardens, this genteel inn set in a restored 19th-century mansion off Highway 20 is a 3 mile drive from Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park.
Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Mentor
With a stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland Mentor in Mentor, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Lake Erie. Make yourself at home in one of the 90 guestrooms featuring free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with HD channels, work desks and coffeemakers.
Interested in joining our list? Email elyse@tourlakecounty.com to learn more about how to partner with Tour Lake County!