Lakeside, Ohio
Lakeside , Ohio is located on Ohio’s Marblehead Peninsula, in the heart of the Lake Erie vacation area. The 132-year-old Methodist community was created by a group of preachers in 1873. Their purpose was to build a camp for meetings and revivals, renew Sunday school teachers from around the area and provide social opportunities for the rural families from the area.
In the early years of Lakeside, visitors camped at sites overlooking Lake Erie and cooking was done outdoors. Then in 1874, the first dormitory-style building was constructed with men living on the first floor and women on the second. But as the crowds grew larger, it was clear more buildings would be needed, so the first unit of Hotel Lakeside was built in 1875.
As the years passed, Lakeside became known as a chautauqua resort, blending secular summer recreation with religious education, culture, music and observances.
Over the years, Lakeside has been host to many of the world’s most popular musicians on several stages throughout the community. Marian Anderson, Lionel Hampton, Ray Charles and many more have graced the 3,000-seat Hoover Auditorium. Today, Lakeside has its own symphony orchestra, made up of musicians from 15 states, that offers several concerts during the month of August.
Lectures are another important part of the summer at Lakeside and over the years such speakers as Amelia Earhart, Eleanor Roosevelt, J.C. Penney and Lowell Thomas have entertained audiences. Programs for adult and youth education have expanded over the years as well. Courses in painting, science, bookkeeping, and foreign languages are available as well as Sunday school training sessions.
Lakeside’s thriving business district includes everything from craft and antique shops to men’s and women’s clothing stores. There are also several gift shops, restaurants and a bookstore for visitors to peruse.
Because of its centralized location, there are many things to see and do within minutes of the community including Cedar Point Amusement Park and the Lake Erie islands.
Lakeside is a gated community and requires an admission fee to enter. One day fees for adults are $12.75 and $8.75 for youth 10-18. Children under 10 are free. There are also partial day passes, week-long passes and season passes available. For more information, go to www.lakesideohio.com
