Best of Lake Erie — A New Look for Vermilion
From a reimagined beachfront to new eateries and lodging this Ohio waterfront is undergoing a renaissance built on its strong maritime roots and community spirit.
Vermilion, Ohio, has always shared a close link with Lake Erie, built on its maritime roots, scenic beauty and the dedication of its friendly community. That connection has only deepened since the city finished improvements to Main Street Beach, adding more observation areas for viewing the lake and connecting it seamlessly to Wakefield MetroPark at its eastern boundary. In the new comfort station, a snack shop staffed by volunteers from Shore Thing Vermilion sells ice cream, drinks and handmade beach glass jewelry.
On the business front, new energy is flowing east of Vermilion’s Main Street. The Garage Bar & Grill has opened in a repurposed gas station, bringing a casual eatery to the neighborhood with flatbread pizzas and burgers served with kettle-cooked chips. Just behind it, the soon-to-be-finished Breje Inn (facebook.com/brejeinn) will offer additional lodging for those who want to spend more time in town. Meanwhile, a familiar landmark at the entrance to the Vermilion Lagoons has been reimagined: The former Huggy’s is now the Chart Room. Vermilion resident Danielle Heffernan led the transformation and is already feeling the town’s signature community spirit. “Everyone has been incredibly supportive,” she says.
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