Ashtabula is the place that I call home; no matter how many times I move away, she’s here waiting for me when I return.
It’s funny, after living in this area for most all of my life, I never considered Ashtabula a destination. but why the heck not?! There are beautiful waterfront views + beaches; amazing restaurants; award winning wineries nearby; incredible coffee roasters; and SO much more. On Bridge St in the historic harbor, we even won “America’s Main Streets” contest! So, here is my list of spots to inspire you to check out Ashtabula Ohio.
Eat + Drink
Harbor Perk Coffeehouse & Roasting Co.
The coffee is fantastic at Perk, but the people are even better. I have been a customer of Harbor Perk for over a decade now and though the furniture has changed, the quality drinks + people sure haven’t. Without a doubt, walking into Perk, expect to strike up a conversation or two, and always leave happier than when you arrived. I’m an americano girl, but the Ryan’s Stormy Monday roast is the best coffee around, so when that’s brewing, get it! There are also tons of other options like smoothies, frappe’s, fun latte’s, and frozen lemonades. Grab your coffee to go, and walk right outside – chances are, you’ll witness the lift bridge in action.
Purola’s BSP
If you aren’t a pizza person, I don’t know how we’ve stayed friends this long. Purola’s BSP (which stands for Bridge Street Pizza) is the best pizza I’ve eaten outside of Naples. Purola’s even offers gluten free crust, and has dairy free cheese – WIN. Everything about Purola’s is total happiness for me. If you aren’t feeling pizza, they have amazing pasta entree’s that you can nom on instead!
Rennick Meat Market
Located in an original meat market, Rennick is the spot for all things brunch. Rennick serves dinner, which is also incredible, but the brunch options are far better. I bartended here – which means I know they use quality ingredients and care about the food they make. From drinks, (alcoholic and non) to apps and beyond, Rennick knows whats up. Order a bloody mary + shishito peppers + short rib hash, or get a mimosa + calamari + salmon benny. You won’t be sorry!
Ohio Wine
There are SO many wineries in northeast Ohio! If you have time, try them all, but if you can only visit a few – here are my faves. Laurentia has a gewurztraminer that will ruin all other white wine for you. It’s honestly my favorite wine. M Cellars has some of the most impressive wines in the area, with options for any type of wine lover. Wine not your thang? across from M is Red Eagle, a distillery that also offers an array of craft beer + cocktails. The oldest estate winery in Ohio is Debonne, otherwise known as the party winery. Expect bands, outdoor games, and even themed nights in the summer. Debonne is also home to Double Wing Brewing Co., so if you’d rather have a beer, stop here!
Do + See
Harbor Yak
This is the spot to rent kayaks, SUP’s, and even… hydro-bikes. Harbor Yak offers sunset tours through the harbor, as well as tours in nearby Conneaut.
Brants Apple Orchard
August – November, Brant’s opens up to serve delicious apple cider donuts for the county. Brant’s also offers hay rides through the orchard, fresh apple cider, and apples (of course).
Geneva-on-the-Lake
There are tons of bars, eateries, and shoppes at GOTL to fill up an afternoon or evening. Musts include: Eddies Grill, Madsen Donuts, and mini-golf.
Bridge St.
Most of this post contains spots on Bridge St. to eat at, but there are tons of shoppes and galleries as well! Be sure to visit Marianne’s Chocolates, Carlisle’s Home, and Walnut Beach.
Drive
Ashtabula stretches far and wide, and driving is the best way to really see + experience it all!