If you’re looking for a day trip that doesn’t involve rushing from place to place or checking off a long list of attractions, Ashtabula and Conneaut make the perfect pair. These two small Lake Erie towns sit just far enough apart to feel distinct, yet close enough to explore together in one relaxed day.
This is the kind of trip where the lake sets the pace—and you follow along.
Morning in Ashtabula: Harbor Views & History
Ashtabula’s waterfront tells its story openly. While watching the bridge and harbor activity, I learned about the Ashtabula Bridge Disaster of 1876, one of the most publicized bridge failures in American history. I really enjoy learning about the history of the towns I visit because I find that each one has at least one, if not more, unique stories to tell.
I climbed the stairs to visit the Ashtabula Maritime & Surface Transportation Museum, which offers an elevated view of the harbor, bridges and lighthouse and a deeper understanding of how shipping, railroads, and industry shaped this town.
Ashtabula feels reflective and relaxed—shaped by water, work, and time—and it rewards anyone willing to slow down and listen.
Midday: Walnut Beach Park
Just a short drive from the harbor is Walnut Beach Park, one of Lake Erie’s most peaceful and photogenic spots. This is a great place to pause the day—walk the shoreline, sit near the breakwalls, or enjoy a simple picnic with wide-open lake views.
Lake Erie beaches have a different feel than ocean beaches. The waves are gentler, the air feels calmer, and the horizon stretches quietly instead of dramatically.
This is the “do nothing” part of the day—and that’s exactly the point.
Afternoon Drive: Covered Bridges
I didn’t make time to visit all of the covered bridges this trip, but they should not be missed if you’re planning your own day here. Ashtabula County is known for having more covered bridges than any other county in Ohio, and driving between them is a scenic, photo-worthy experience.
For a day trip, this makes the perfect midday transition—quiet roads, historic bridges, and a chance to explore beyond the harbor.
Evening in Conneaut: Dinner, Dogs & Lake Erie Sunsets
As the day winds down, Conneaut is the perfect place to end your loop. Conneaut feels softer, smaller, and more distinctly maritime.
We had dinner at Smoke on the Water, a relaxed, outdoor spot right along the lake with live music, a laid-back atmosphere, and dog-friendly seating. Mom’s dog, Ben, joined us for the evening, which made it feel even more special.
After dinner, we walked down to watch the sunset over Lake Erie, the sky softening as the light faded over the water. Conneaut has a calm, unpretentious charm—it doesn’t try to impress, it just lets the lake do the work.
What makes Conneaut unique:
Conneaut feels like a pause. It’s a place for quiet observation, open skies, and letting the lake speak louder than the town itself.
You don’t need a full weekend or a packed itinerary to feel like you’ve gone somewhere meaningful. Sometimes, one lake, two small towns, and a willingness to wander are enough.
Download the Daytrip Itinerary HERE.
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