Spending a Day in Geauga County

What do you think of when you think of Geauga County? Most people think Amish, maple syrup and snow belt. Okay, you may be right, but there is so much to do in Geauga County you can really not take it for granted.

I headed out this past month to Geauga County, of course the day after one of their famous 12 inches and counting snow storms. But what a beautiful car ride I had. The snow laid ever so beautiful on all the houses, trees and countryside. It looked truly like a winter wonderland. I was waiting to see horses pulling a sleigh to come around the bend of Burton Square. And what a cute square it is.

In the center of the square is the Burton Log Cabin. It is a working sugar house which produces wonderful maple syrup every spring and maple candy all year round. It is open 7 days a week 10 am to 4:30 pm. To order direct call 800-526-5630.

In February and March Pancake Breakfasts abound.

Around the square are specialty shops, antique merchants and galleries.

According to the Burton Chamber of Commerce website, Burton was settled in 1798 and is the oldest and first official settlement in Geauga County. Burton is also known as Pancake Town USA. With all that maple syrup being produced why wouldn't it be.

Looking for breakfast or lunch? Right on the square I spotted three (3) restaurants. I stopped for lunch at Belle's American Grill, where I had a salad which included chicken, all sorts of greens and additional assortment of toppings like strawberries and nuts. I asked many of the regulars who were there eating and they gave me thumbs up to the food. My riding companion enjoyed a delicious bowl of clam chowder.

Located just off the square is the Century Village Museum. It is open year round and is family friendly.
Throughout the year they offer special events such as Civil War re-enactments and a Apple Butter Festival.

After checking out all the shops on Burton Square I headed out to find a special treat. When I was growing up my grandfather used to give us little leaf shaped candy made from maple syrup. I remember how really sweet they tasted and since Geauga County is the maple area in Ohio I knew I would find them. It did not take me long to find Richards Maple Products located in the town of Chardon.

I was told that I could find all sorts of products made with maple syrup including a treat for my English Black Lab "Hunter". I was not let down. They had all kinds of maple treats, including my maple leaf candy and yes, dog biscuits dipped in maple syrup for Hunter who thoroughly enjoyed them and wants to include them in Hunter's favorite things. They do have a website where you can purchase online. Their address is 545 Water St., Chardon.
Toll-free 800-352-4052.

Just down the road I stopped at Fowlers Mill located at 12500 Fowlers Mill Rd, Chardon. This over 175 year old grist mill still produces many baking items such as apple crisp, various flour and of course pancake mix. The shop contains all sorts of wonderful baking items. I even found my scone mix. I had a tour of the mill which was very interesting.

The Mill is open everyday but Sundays, 10 am to 5 pm. Their contact information is 440.286.2024 or 800.321.2024. Their website is www.fowlermill.com. There is a beautiful pond which sits behind the mill and when I was there it was mostly ice covered and where there was no ice, there must of been over 50 Mallard ducks enjoying a cold swim.

The day started to get away from me and there was still so much to do. I never did make it to Middlefield where I wanted to stop at the Cheese Co-op, have lunch at Mary Yoder's Amish kitchen and buy my Amish pie. I guess I will need to make another trip.

For additional information about Geauga County: Call 1-800-775-TOUR or www.tourgeauga.com.

If you want to take a sleigh ride, may we suggest Ma & Pa's Horse drawn Sleigh Rides located at 15161 Main Market Rd. (State Route 422), Burton 440-548-5521 www.maandpas.com

And for overnight stays Punderson Manor Lodge, an Ohio State Park is within driving distance of all areas of Geauga County. Their contact numbers are 440.564.9144 or 800.282.7275. PS..some say part of the Lodge may have a spirit or two???? Also, check out the local Bed and Breakfasts, I heard there are a few wonderful ones, something I would still like to do.

FYI - May 8, 2010 is Geauga County's Annual Drive it Yourself Tour in celebration of
National Tourism Week.

Posted by
Diane Rock
Rock'in Ohio One Adventure At A Time®
NorthernOhioTourism.com