county highlights

Ashtabula County has an abundance of resources that are utilized not only for industry and business, but also for recreation and pleasure. Lake Erie is our biggest and best resource for all of the before mentioned activity. Ashtabula County has many ports that make the delivery of goods by boat easy and efficient. These ports also serve as homes to many recreational boats. Fishing charters, jet-skiing and seasonal fishing are just a few things that can be enjoyed on the northern shores of Ashtabula County.

Fishing is a sport that brings hundreds to the county. The Ashtabula River and Conneaut Creek hold a plethora of fish to be caught by any angler. Trout season brings fishermen from across the country to the banks of our rivers and streams.

Ashtabula County also enjoys being known for its fabulous wineries. Grapes prosper throughout the county and because of that we have over 15 locally owned and operated wineries. You can enjoy tours of most of the vineyards or just relax and have an elegant dinner while enjoying the purveyor’s finest vintage.

The Ashtabula Arts Center and Camp Whitewood provide educational entertainment to many of the county’s youth. The Ashtabula Arts Center offers classes in dance, music, pottery, painting, and many other artistic avenues. The center also produces theater all year round; the summer allows the use of their outdoor stage for musicals, and the indoor theater provides Ashtabula County with many other theatrical experiences in the colder months. The centers dancers are showcased yearly in the Nutcracker at Christmas time.

Camp Whitewood is located in the southern portion of the county and is known for its educational 4-H camp experiences. The camp offers day camp, overnight camp, and family camp. The facility is also used for many regional band camps.

The shore of Lake Erie in Geneva is home to the Lodge and Conference Center at Geneva State Park. The Lodge provides room and board for those traveling to the county for any number of reasons. The restaurant at the Lodge provides visitors and many residents with breakfast, lunch, and dinner on a daily basis. Many local businesses have found the staff ready and willing to accommodate them in one of the Lodges many conference rooms. Also available are ballrooms for those special occasions.

Ashtabula County is home to 16 Covered Bridges, the most of any county in the State of Ohio. To celebrate this there is a Covered Bridge Festival the second weekend in October, all bridges are labeled clearly and there are many opportunities to buy memorabilia, baked goods, and many other items native to Ashtabula County.

Ashtabula County is proud to have the Western Reserve Greenway running through it and joining Trumbull County to the south. The Rails to Trail program has made it possible for many outdoor enthusiasts to run, bike, walk, or roller blade across the county. In 2006 the 27-mile trail will be completely paved. To learn more about Ohio’s Corner on Fun please visit the following websites.

Ashtabula County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Ohio Wine Producers Association

Ashtabula County Metroparks

The Lodge & Conference Center at Geneva State Park