The ultimate Lake County getaway

It’s spring, also known as the “let’s get away for the weekend” time of year. If you’re looking for a relaxed vibe, great food, wineries and breweries, stunning natural beauty and activities, all in a destination close to home, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Lake County.

Mimi Magazine has curated two weekend trips that take advantage of what Lake County has to offer. We’re sure one will be exactly what you’re looking for. 

Grand River Valley Winery Region

Places to Stay

• Standing Rock Farms: Mike and Chelsea Palubiak restored this property to its original glory, providing the perfect weekend escape. “We repurposed the existing buildings and provide overnight luxury accommodations,” Chelsea says. “Across the street there’s a 21-horse boarding facility, working farm, fresh-cut flower farm and event space. Chickens and honeybees supply fresh eggs and honey.” StandingRockFarms.com
• Hampton Inn Madison: In the heart of Ohio’s wine country, Hampton Inn Madison offers winery shuttles. Enjoy the hotel’s fitness center, pool, free breakfast and Bistro 212 lobby bistro, which features a full bar and light bites. Hilton.com
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison: The Grand River Valley Holiday Inn Express is just minutes from award-winning wineries, distilleries and breweries. Book a wine tour, explore local beaches, museums and shops, or enjoy the indoor pool, fitness center and new 2500-square-foot outdoor patio with fireplace. IHG.com

Dine and Visit

• Baci Winery: “Our award-winning wines are just one of the many things you’ll experience when visiting Baci Winery,” general manager and vineyard manager Candace DiGirolamo says. “We’ve combined our passion for winemaking with upscale Italian cuisine and live music to entertain guests in our little corner of the world, where the grape-growing and wine-making tradition continues and grows.” BaciWinery.com
• M Cellars: A family-owned-and-operated boutique winery, M Cellars is committed to producing world-class estate-grown wines. The climate of the Grand River Valley allows M Cellars to produce a vast variety of wines. MCellars.com
• Grand River Cellars: Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant features award-winning wines and local fare in a rustic setting. The winery offers a large variety of appetizers, sandwiches and a dinner menu. Craft beers, specialty cocktails, NA beer and mocktails are also available. GrandRiverCellars.com
• Fossil Creek Winery: Family-owned-and-operated, Fossil Creek offers custom wines made with grapes grown on the property. Indoor and outdoor seating includes views of one of the vineyards as well as a patio and deck. Sample estate Rieslings, a variety of local wines, beers and NA options. Charcuterie, hummus boards and fresh pizza complement your wine. FossilCreekWine.com

Willoughby

Places to Stay

• Willoughby House: This 20,000 square-foot historic facility underwent a complete renovation and offers seven suites in the Main House and three suites in the Carriage House, all unique and elegantly decorated with antiques including modern amenities. “We offer a unique lodging experience, fine dining and an event venue,” co-owner Mike Nuendorfer says. WilloughbyHouse.com

Dine and Visit

• Julia’s 1902: Onsite at Willoughby House, Julia’s 1902 offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience of locally sourced ingredients with global flavors. Julias1902.com'
• Lake Erie Distillery: Fred Wisen and his wife Cathy offer all small-batch, gluten-free products created with an attention to detail that ensures every barrel meets the couple’s high standards. LakeErieDistillery.com
• Tricky Tortoise Brewing Company: Formerly Willoughby Brewing, Tricky Tortoise offers great food, live music and, of course, beer. This 120-year-old building is an iconic place where the community gathers. TrickyTortoiseBrewingCompany.com
• Taco Trail: Taco lovers, check out Lake County Taco Trail for authentic Mexican cuisine. El Palenque and Don Tequila in Eastlake, Cocos Locos and Barrio in Willoughby.

For more information on Lake County getaways, visit TourLakeCounty.com.