Things To Do
in Ravenna
Ravenna is a small, historic city in Portage County just northeast of Cleveland. It offers a gateway feel to outdoor recreation around the Portage Lakes and nearby parks while preserving a traditional Midwest small-town charm. The downtown area features preserved 19th-century architecture, local shops, and a friendly, walkable core.
It makes for quick day trips to Cleveland, Akron, and the countryside beyond, with a relaxed pace that suits outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Ravenna Historical Museum, where you can explore local artifacts and learn about the town's rich history. After soaking in the culture, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque downtown, admiring the unique local architecture. Stop by a cozy café for a delicious breakfast featuring homemade pastries and locally roasted coffee.
In the afternoon, make your way to the scenic Ravenna Park for a refreshing walk or picnic, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil trails. You can rent a kayak to paddle on the lake or visit the enchanting butterfly garden for some enchanting views. Don’t forget to explore the local shops filled with handmade crafts and artisanal goods.
As the sun sets, head to one of Ravenna's acclaimed restaurants for a taste of the area's culinary delights, with many offering farm-to-table options. After dinner, catch a live music performance at a local venue, showcasing regional talent in a cozy atmosphere. Wind down your evening with a stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Ravenna Arts District, where local galleries and studios showcase the talents of various artists. Stop by for an art workshop that will allow you to create your own masterpiece under the guidance of a local artist. Fuel your creativity with a brunch at a trendy eatery, known for its artistic ambiance and inventive dishes.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the nearby Ravenna Reservoir, known for its stunning views and plentiful hiking trails. Spend some time hiking along the scenic routes, immersing yourself in nature and snapping photos of the breathtaking landscapes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at fishing in the reservoir.
Evening brings an opportunity to connect with the local art scene; attend an exhibit opening or gallery show in the district to mingle with artists and fellow art lovers. Afterward, enjoy dinner at an eclectic restaurant renowned for its fusion cuisine and creative cocktails. Conclude your evening at a laid-back bar, where local performers may entertain with live music or poetry readings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨1-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $100-160 |
| 🛒Grocery staples for a week | $60-100 |
| 🚗Gas for a round trip to nearby cities | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee and breakfast for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with historic charm
- Easy access to outdoor recreation around Portage Lakes and CVNP
- Affordability relative to larger nearby cities
- Friendly community feel and great local markets
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities within Ravenna itself
- Smaller selection of restaurants and specialized shops
- Weather can be variable; winter driving requires care
Places to Visit in Ravenna
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph preserved 19th-century storefronts, brick facades, and the courthouse square, best during golden hour for warm light on brick and glass.
Wide-water reflections and autumn foliage provide striking sunset silhouettes and silhouettes of boats on calm waters.
Classic civic architecture with dramatic columns and a historic streetscape ideal for architectural photography.
Riverside paths near Ravenna offer forested canopies, bridges, and misty water scenes, great for nature photography.
Food in Ravenna
Ravenna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Polish dumplings stuffed with potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, or meat. Common in local diners and ethnic eateries around Portage County.
Must-Try!
Casual, lake-area fare featuring fried or grilled fish served on a bun with fries or slaw.
Comfort-food specials featuring seasonal produce from local farms (fall squash dishes, hearty stews in spring).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and local crafts in the heart of Ravenna.
Regional market with farm-fresh goods, cheeses, and seasonal snacks; great for a quick lunch or picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and a simple thank you go a long way. Holding doors for others and saying please and thank you are appreciated.
Support local shops and markets; small-town events and farmer’s markets are social hubs. Respect quiet residential areas and park rules.
Keep noise reasonable in residential areas late at night; follow designated walking paths and park hours.
Safety
Tipping in Ravenna
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, standard tipping is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. For bar service, $1-2 per drink is common. Some venues may include service charges for larger groups.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy for markets and smaller eateries. Mobile payments are increasingly common at larger establishments and farmers markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; pack layers for cool mornings and breezy afternoons. Rain is possible, so bring a compact umbrella.
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade along Portage Lakes or in CVNP. Great for boating and outdoor markets.
Vibrant fall colors around lakes and parks; excellent for photography and outdoor festivals. Layered clothing recommended.
Cold and snowy conditions are common; plan for layering, waterproof footwear, and indoor cultural venues for a balanced itinerary.
Ravenna at Night
Hiking in Ravenna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular easy-to-moderate loop to a picturesque 65-foot waterfall; shaded forest paths and easy grade make it family-friendly.
Scenic multi-use trail sections suitable for long-distance hikes or relaxed day trips; connects to several towns and parks near Ravenna.
A lakeside trail in Wingfoot Lake State Park offering pleasant water views and a moderate circuit through mixed terrain near Akron.
Airports
How to reach Ravenna by plane.
Main international gateway about 40-75 minutes from Ravenna by car, with frequent domestic and international flights and extensive ground transportation options.
Regional airport about 25-45 minutes away by car, convenient for domestic travel with several major carriers and rental services.
Smaller regional option roughly within an hour’s drive for shorter domestic trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families drawn to the town’s safe neighborhoods and good schools.
A comfortable retirement community with access to parks, lakes, and lower housing costs relative to bigger cities.
Proximity to Cleveland/Akron leads to students and professionals who commute for work or school.
A mix of residents from various backgrounds contributing to local culture and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of local high schools and nearby colleges; game days are social events in the fall.
Common in schools and community leagues, with local rec centers hosting pickup games.
Summer leagues and school programs are popular, often played at community parks and school fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ravenna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian pasta, grilled vegetables, salads, and veggie burgers. Look for clearly labeled vegetarian mains and ask about cheese and egg-based ingredients.
Many places can accommodate and will label gluten-free options; when in doubt, ask about sauces and cross-contamination in shared prep areas.