Eastlake-Willowick - Eastlake, OH

Eastlake-Willowick has a rich Native American history. The area once belonged to the Erie Indians, who were part of the Iroquois nation. Many streets, bodies of water and places in and around the neighborhood bear names commemorating the Erie people and their culture. Today, Eastlake-Willowick thrives as a moderately diverse suburb with a service economy that provides many of the residents with close to home work, as well as play. To explore the local history, stop by Cleveland's famous Museum of History located just 20 minutes to the east via Route 2. While there, visit the Great Lakes Science Center, or enjoy free admission at The Cleveland Museum of Art, all within close proximity to each other.

Restaurants are plentiful in Eastlake-Willowick, so whether you have a taste for spicy ethnic food or some good, down-home cooking, your taste buds are sure to be delighted.

The Cabin, located at 28810 Lakeshore Boulevard, provides all of the elegance of a French bistro at a reasonable cost. The filet mignon topped with The Cabin's own delectable mushroom sauce can put smiles on the faces of steak lovers everywhere. The lobster ravioli or bisque are sure favorites among seafood fans. The calamari, always fried to perfection by the friendly, accommodating staff, makes a tasty addition to the numerous appetizer options here.

Another local favorite, Trader Jack's Riverside Grille, is located near the marina and provides a cozy patio setting with a scenic view of the river. Patrons should come hungry and thirsty, as Trader Jack's specializes in both food and drinks. You will want to enjoy the full bar amenities and the funky, upscale roadhouse atmosphere. The barbecue chicken melt will keep you coming back for more when those cravings hit.

Eastlake-Willowick's nightlife will meet your needs if you are in the mood for some local excitement. No matter what type of bar you feel like raising a glass in, you won't have to look long. Vine Street and Lakeshore Boulevard, travelled almost daily by the locals, supply close to home entertainment for a variety of tastes. The Rumpus Room and The Captain's Club pair sporty atmospheres and great fun. Lakeshore Boulevard is home to the Hideaway Bar and Grill, delivering all the staples of a classic bar, from pool to darts to some of the best wings you will ever taste.

With such close access to State Route 2, I-90, and I-271, automobile travel remains the most popular choice among residents. Public transportation provided by the Regional Transit Authority gives citizens another way to get around town. Fares usually cost between $1.00 and $3.50 per ride, depending on age and destination. Just dial 411 from your home phone to get instant access to bus times or pick up locations, along with other pertinent city information.

Taxis are only a phone call away, and an Uber car can be summoned from your smartphone. Willoughby Taxi Service has discounted rates for trips into downtown Cleveland, with no extra charges for up to four people – a great way to enjoy the nightlife while safely avoiding drinking and driving. More elegant options are always available if you crave the glamorous life. Vitalone's Limo Service is the local, family-owned favorite, sure to make any evening a special one.

Many of the neighborhoods are in walking distance to local shops. Sidewalks or bike lanes, if you prefer a more economical form of travel, are plentiful, although not present in every area. Luckily, public parking is free.

Parks in the Eastlake-Willowick area are not as plentiful as those in surrounding towns, but locals cherish those that do exist. With only a short amount of travel, access to a large variety of Metroparks is available in Willoughby and the nearby Kirtland area.

Osborne Park, home to The Osborne Park Pool, is a local favorite for families and children who make good use of the massive water slide that has become a staple of summer fun in Lake County. Visited by families in the neighborhood who enjoy the expansive playground and basketball court, this park provides great exercise for the little ones. Dudley Park in Willowick also holds a community pool, which is frequented by Willowick locals and has a history as the local summer hangout.

Get your fill of the great outdoors by taking a walk or bike ride at nearby Chagrin River Park. Scenic paths twist through a heavily forested area, and signs posted along the way provide instructions for suggested exercises and activities. Travelled frequently by locals and loved by pets, this is a sure escape from busy city life.

Annual events include the Chagrin River Festival held in the warm summer months near the marina in Eastlake. This carnival, complete with the most thrilling rides, brings everyone's favorite fair food right to the heart of the city. Highly anticipated by the locals, this summer favorite presents a variety of unique vendors the opportunity to show off their one-of-a-kind crafts. Stop by to get your fill of fun, or contact City Hall to join the local vendors to be a part of the action.

Eastlake-Willowick's cost of living is low to moderate, with some options to splurge. Apartment options are abundant, ranging from townhouses to economical yet charming one-bedroom units. A one-bedroom apartment rents for an average of $610.00 per month.

Gas sits below city averages by about 1.09 percent. Beer prices range from $2.50 to $6.00 a pint. If you are planning a night out on the town in Cleveland and need a cab, expect to pay around $50.00 for a one-way trip. Many locals choose this option and bring a few friends to split the fare.

The Vineyards Plaza prevails as the hub of the diverse set of shops you will find along Vine Street. Pick up a variety of housewares or groceries from Walmart Supercenter at a great price, then stroll across the parking lot to Harbor Freight for a bargain on tools. The Vineyards, known as the place to shop if you are on a budget, houses many discount stores, such as Value King for low-priced groceries and a variety of dollar stores that will help you get more bang for your buck.

Don't stop there. Travel a little further toward the lake, where Vine Street meets Lakeshore Boulevard, to find Willowick's most popular shopping plaza, The Shoregate Mall. Here you can find Alesci's Italian Deli, a local favorite that sells the finest fresh meats and authentic Italian imports. Specialty shops are plentiful in this favored plaza, presenting such treasures as Eve Loren Wigs or Sally Beauty Supply. Giant Eagle, the county's most popular grocery store, stocks the highest quality meats and produce, and you will find a variety of delightful stops to make along the way. During the warmer months, be sure to check out the farmers markets brimming with the finest fresh fruits and vegetables that pop up in the area.

A mere 15-minute drive brings you to the mall in neighboring Mentor, which will provide access to all the upscale stores and latest fashions. Great Lakes Mall was voted one of the best in the state, featuring more than 120 specialty shops, along with exquisite dining and entertainment options. Anchored by such favorites as Dillard's and J.C. Penney, this well-kept shopping center allows you to shop like a fashionista.