An Underrated Ohio Town Along The Chagrin River Delivers Art, Food, And Scenic Strolls

Ohio's Chagrin River wends its way to Lake Erie from high up, stemming from a headwater at 1,335 feet near Bass Lake. Meandering southwest, the flow descends through a series of waterfalls before switching back towards the Great Lake. It is at this U-turn in the tributary that you will find the appropriately named Chagrin Falls, one of the state's best small towns. Steeped in history and typical Midwest charm, the village of around 4,000 people isn't as sad as its name suggests. Sources claim that "Chagrin" is either a corruption of "Shaguin" after a French trader who was one of the first European settlers in these parts, or "Shagarin," from the Indigenous American term for "clear water." Either way, modern Chagrin Falls is one of Ohio's must-see small towns for a day trip or short stay, offering scenic walks, a lively art scene, and plenty of great places to eat.

Situated around a 30-minute drive from downtown Cleveland, Chagrin Falls is the perfect contrast to the "mistake on the lake." Dating back to the 1830s, the tumbling falls provided power for settlers to establish a thriving mill town, and it retains a strong connection with its heritage today. There are three historic districts and some of its most well-known stores have a venerable place in the community, such as 160-year-old Chagrin Hardware Company and the ever-popular Popcorn Shop, which has been serving the snack for over seven decades. Let's take a look at some of the highlights.

Many people come to Chagrin Falls just to stroll around and it is a very walkable town. The focal point is Triangle Park, a pretty village square with a charming bandstand. It is particularly picturesque during the festive season, earning it a reputation as a Hallmark-movie town. The Popcorn Shop provides a giant popcorn ball that drops Times Square-style on New Year's Eve.

The main attraction is the falls, which are right in the heart of the village. Nearby, Riverside Park is a popular place to walk with the roar of the falls never far away. The park hosts many events throughout the year including Art by the Falls, where artists from all over the country come to display and sell their creations. For more visual stimulation, head over to Valley Art Center, or blow your own glass sculptures at the Glass Asylum. If you prefer your arts of the performance variety, Chagrin Valley Little Theater is one of the oldest community theaters in the United States.

The town looks glorious in fall colors and autumn is a wonderful time to visit. There are several scenic parks nearby with miles of trails, meadows, and picnic areas – check out Ruffing Meadow, Beartown, and South Chagrin Reservation. The town itself is bustling around Halloween and the spookiest time of year culminates in the controversial Annual Pumpkin Roll, when students lob pilfered pumpkins down a hill and sled through the gooey remains.

For a relatively small place, Chagrin Falls has a great selection of food options to choose from. Yours Truly is a popular spot with locals, beloved for its all-day breakfasts and very munchable American menu. Another favorite is Dave's Cosmic Subs, notable for its hippy decor and rock 'n' roll memorabilia. The sandwich shop now has branches all over Ohio but this is the original, and the Cosmic Sauce is so good that regulars drink it on its own.

For a view of the Falls while you dine, book a prime window table at 17 River Grille and enjoy smart modern dishes such as firecracker shrimp, Lemon Parmesan Chicken, and Rainbow Trout. Definitely don't sleep on the Heavenly Biscuits to start. Served in a skillet with lashings of honey butter, the restaurant sells around 800 a day on a first come, first served basis.

 Several other spots earned Cleveland Magazine's Best of the East Awards in 2024: Head to Etalian for wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas; M Italian for cocktails, wines, and chef's specials; Pub Frato for hunky burgers and classic pub grub; and Hunan by the Falls for authentic Chinese cuisine. Once you're done eating your way around town, head over to the award-winning Crooked Pecker Brewing Company for a fine selection of ales — time your visit right and you can dine here too, with regular pop-up food events ranging from taco nights to clam bake dinners.