Mentor City is located in Lake County, northeastern Ohio, right on Lake Erie shores, United States. Mentor is the County’s largest city.
The city was founded in 1815 and was named in honor of Hiram Mentor, one of the earliest settlers.
This historical city is the home of the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield. It also houses the longest public swimming beach in the state, which is located in Headlands Beach State Park.
Mentor is one of the most vibrant and eclectic cities in the state. You can never run out of what to do in Mentor, Ohio. You can start by exploring the city’s amusement parks, preserves, cinemas, malls, etc.
Here are the best and fun things to do in Mentor, Ohio.
Things to Do in Mentor, Ohio
1. Mentor Civic Ice Arena
Mentor Civic Ice Arena is said to be the most exciting location in the city. Skating here is one of the fun things to do in Mentor, Ohio, especially if you love skating.
The arena is air-conditioned and features three different rooms: the Woods Room, the Community Room, and the Meeting Room.
Mentor Civic Ice Arena is open for hosting parties, hangouts, or friendly tournaments for loved ones to compete against each other.
Visitors can hire each of the rooms for a minimum of four hours, and the rooms are priced per hour.
Address: 8600 Munson Rd, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
2. Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve
If you’re a bird enthusiast, one of the best things to do in Mentor, Ohio, is exploring Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve.
Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve, covering 25 acres, is pretty popular for its collection of rare and unique migrants.
There is an estimated list of more than three hundred thousand species on this attraction, which is exactly 75% of the total bird of Ohio. During your time here, it is highly advised you remain on the marked route.
During the fall and spring migration, there is usually a diverse collection of songbirds. You will likely find more than one hundred species on a very nice day in September or May.
Address: 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
3. Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve & Marina
If you’re searching for a perfect escape from all the noise in the world, with a beauty that connects to the soul and mind, Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve & Marina is your go-to place.
Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve & Marina offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the magnificence of a crystal clear beach, including the water and hiking trails.
During your time here, you will find numerous wildlife along the way, including a variety of birds. Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve & Marina is a property of 450 acres nestled on Lake Erie’s shoreline.
This nature preserve was acquired in 1997 by Mentor City in a bid to protect the land from suggested private evolution.
There is a nature preserve of 230 acres with the Lagoons Marina, which can comfortably accommodate 500 boats.
Address: 8500 Civic Center Blvrd, Mentor, OH 44060 United States
4. Veterans Park
Veterans Park, encompassing the County’s biggest inland pond, safeguards the actual remnant of the swamp forest of Ohio.
Veterans Park features four fishing ports accessible with a loop trail of 1.78 miles going by native wetlands.
You will also find the nice boardwalk of 830 feet with a wildlife or wetland viewing region. The Granger family formerly owned the Park before Mentor City took ownership in 1970.
This Park is known as the city’s first neighborhood Park, featuring many amenities and a home to various fun activities.
Visiting Veterans Park is one of the best things to do in Mentor, Ohio. You will get the opportunity to go biking, fishing, hiking, and birding.
Don’t forget to check out the Granger Pond, which contains bluegill, bass, catfish, and rainbow trout. There is a picnic area featuring a picnic shelter where friends can meet and have fun.
Address: 5730 Hopkins Rd. Mentor, Ohio 44060, United States
5. Great Lakes Mall
Great Lakes Mall, a popular shopping center in Mentor, is an indoor mall that also serves other surrounding regions, such as Chardon, Cleveland, Kirtland, and Willoughby.
Great Lakes Mall comprises over one hundred and twenty retailers, such as Dillard’s, JCPenny, and Planet Fitness.
There are other specialty shops, such as Pandora, Victoria’s Secret, Dick’s sporting goods, and Bath & Body.
There is something for everyone that walks in. The mall has dining spots, including Fuji Japan Steakhouse, outback, the Brew Kettle Mentor, and more.
Great Lakes Mall consists of a Bowling center, which usually attracts numerous families, plus a theater for movie lovers.
This mall offers you nearly everything, from quality goods and foods to quality time. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Mentor, Ohio.
Address: 7850 Mentor Ave #250, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
6. Mentor Civic Amphitheater
Mentor Civic Amphitheater was officially opened in 2017 with one goal: serving the people.
The amphitheater hosts numerous events, such as theatrical renditions, concerts, dance shows, poems, and more.
A stage of 3,000 square feet is housed in this state-of-the-art Center with several video screens, digital sound equipment, and more.
Mentor Civic Amphitheater does not have a permanent seating area, so make sure you bring your lawn chairs, blankets, or anything else to help you stay comfortable.
The Center only permits canopies and tents at the back of the grounds so as not to obstruct other guests’ views.
You and your loved ones could pack up some foods and refreshments just as you would do during picnics, with the exception of alcohol.
Address: 8600 Munson Rd, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
7. Overlook Beach Park
Overlook Beach Park is a 3-acre park at Salida Road and Thunderbird Drive at Reynolds Road right at the end.
This Park consists of a wooden observation outlet, which is divided into three different tiers at the cliff.
There is a collection of staircases linking the platform points and leading to the swimming beach, which is 370 feet long.
Overlook Beach Park features exciting amenities, such as a basketball court, a gazebo, grills, a playground, and picnic tables.
The beach can be easily accessed through a dirt walking route on the park’s east side. Fishing is also allowed here.
Address: Mentor-On-The-Lake, OH 44060, United States
8. Mentor Marsh & Carol H. Sweet Nature Center
Mentor Marsh & Carol H. Sweet Nature Center is one of the remaining gigantic natural marshes found along the shoreline of Lake Erie. It is one of the perfect locations to watch the migration of birds during spring in Ohio.
During annual migrations, you may also find several waterfowl when they visit the marsh, including hooded merganser, American wigeon, blue-winged teal, northern shoveler, black duck, and gadwall.
The trails found here are open throughout the year, both night and day, so you can visit whenever you want to.
Carol H. Sweet Nature Center is open to everyone on Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm, usually from April to October.
You can visit the Nature Center only from November to March from 11 am to 4 pm on the first Sunday of each month. Guided hikes with unique nature programs at the nature center are available each Sunday at 2 pm.
Address: 5185 Corduroy Rd, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
9. Fitness Center at University Hospitals Brunner Sanden Deitrick Wellness Center
Of course, your list of what to do in Mentor, Ohio, isn’t complete without a visit to the Fitness Center at University Hospitals Brunner Sanden Deitrick Wellness Center.
The Fitness Center at University Hospitals Brunner Sanden Deitrick Wellness Center offers a variety of training and programming opportunities for people of various ages and abilities.
The Center combines medically founded activities and traditional fitness, including weight-loss schemes and wellness services.
Visitors are invited to join the free fitness program led by certified health practitioners to create an exercise scheme that caters to their goals and needs.
Address: 8655 Market St Ste 100, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
10. Wildwood Cultural Center
Wildwood Cultural Center
Wildwood Cultural Center is a popular tourist destination. It is considered the best cultural treasure in Mentor.
The structure was constructed in 1908 by the family of John G. Oliver before it was later acquired in 1980 by Mentor City.
In 1981, the Cultural Center was added to the National Register of Historic Homes. It houses the cultural arts division, which offers courses, programs, special events, and live theatrical and musical performances all year round.
Wildwood Cultural Center is a 34-acre property consisting of lovely gardens and trees, including picnic spots, hiking trails, a wildlife area, and restrooms.
This estate can serve as the Center for business meetings, weddings, showers, seminars, and parties.
Address: 7645 Little Mountain Rd., Mentor, United States
11. Himalayan Cave
After spending so many months working and taking care of the family, why not take time to enjoy a period of calmness and relaxation? A visit to this Cave should be on your itinerary of the top things to do in Mentor, Ohio.
Himalayan Cave offers visitors a 45-minute session filled with beauty, relaxation, and peace.
Two double seats are available to make your stay comfortable, with zero gravity chairs of about eight.
You will be wowed once you visit the Cave, as everything in it is made of Himalayan salt. A machine is used to grind the Himalayan salt into a smooth, powdery form, which would be goofed up in the room while your session is still on.
Himalayan Cave’s massage machine will make you feel better and lighter with the salt that also performs its magic.
Address: 9130 Tyler Blvd, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
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12. Eleanor B. Garfield Park
Eleanor B. Garfield Park is a 65-acre playground. It is known as one of the biggest parks and best places to visit in Mentor, Ohio.
This beautiful park features an outdoor pool, which is open only during the summer season. There is a playground for adults and children with various play equipment.
For sports fans, there are softball/baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and tennis courts, along with a basketball court for everyone.
Eleanor B. Garfield Park features a gorgeous wildlife region, including a fish pond of five acres and a picnic pavilion. There is also a multi-purpose center known as Garfield Recreation Building, which consists of a region available for rental.
Address: 7967 Mentor Avenue, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
13. The Indian Museum of Lake County
Indian Museum Of Lake County
The Indian Museum of Lake County was founded in 1980 by the Archaeological Society of Ohio (ASO) of Lake County Quarter.
The Museum is owned and operated by Ohio State as a non-profit organization with a mission to find, organize, and keep archaeological materials and sites.
Its utmost goal is to preserve the antiquities and history of Native Americans relating to Lake County.
The Ohio State and North America joined to maintain the library and Museum in order to broaden knowledge through antiques, publications, educational meetings, and so on.
The Indian Museum of Lake County consists of a good number of volunteers who assist in keeping the Museum active throughout the week. The Museum is majorly funded by donations from businesses, families, corporations, organizations, and foundations, including memberships.
Address: 7519 Mentor Ave a112, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
14. Mentor Mini Golf Course
Mentor Mini Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course that is open to everyone: adults and kids. The golf course is perfect for players of all skill levels, featuring various types of tracks plus a ticket booth not too far from the entrance.
This is a family-friendly location where you and your loved ones can book a tee time and have a great experience.
Mentor Mini Golf Course is well-maintained and always clean. You are advised not to book a tee time if it’s likely to rain. You will be asked to wait for about 30 minutes after every thunder to play.
This is the most affordable golf center in the city. The staff members are nice and welcoming. There is a dairy shop where you can get delicious ice cream after playing.
Address: 7695 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
15. Cleveland Candle Company
Cleveland Candle Company began as just an idea from a fun date night leading go parties before the opening of the first store.
The first was established in 2014. The second shop opened in less than 22 months, and the third was founded in Ohio after two years.
The Company allows walk-ins for groups of six or fewer. If your group is bigger than six, you will have to reserve a spot.
The Company adores every moment spent with fans making candles at the candle bar. Another satisfaction for them is watching their clients smell their large collection of scents.
Address: 9516 Diamond Centre Dr, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
16. Black Brook Golf Course & Practice Center
Black Brook Golf Course & Practice Center is a combination of a golf course and a practice center. It also has a snack bar.
You are highly encouraged to stop by, but to guarantee yourself a tee time, it is recommended you book online.
This is a gorgeous public course of 18-hole founded in 1929. It has been owned and managed by the city since 2005.
Black Brook Golf Course & Practice Center offers private lessons and golf schools, including organizing a junior golf league.
Among the fun things to do in Mentor, Ohio, especially if you’re a golf lover, is to go golfing at the Black Brook Golf Course & Practice Center.
Address: 8900 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
17. Round1 Bowling & Amusement
If you haven’t visited Round1 Bowling & Amusement, you’re still dulling, as that’s one of the best things to do in Mentor, Ohio.
Round1 Bowling & Amusement is a large entertainment center originally founded in Japan by Masahiko Sugino in 1980.
The company was then known as Sugino Kosan, being a roller skate center with arcade games, but as it became famous, the facility expanded and included a bowling alley.
By 1993, this establishment became the first and most popular Round1 facility. The company currently operates about 100 stores in Japan alone.
Round1 Bowling & Amusement features exciting arcade games that are highly competitive. Visitors also get to enjoy food and refreshments.
Address: 7850 Mentor Ave Suite 200A, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
18. Chuck E. Cheese
Chuck E. Cheese was established in the late 70s by Nolan Bushnell as a creative and outstanding idea to offer entertainment, games, and pizza in one place.
The establishment was formerly known as Chuck E. Cheese Pizza Time Theatre, which was the first entertainment eatery for families.
Until now, Chuck E. Cheese has continued offering arcade games, premium entertainment, and food.
Chuck E. Cheese is recognized as a place that offers kids the opportunity to be kids. It is where you can share unforgettable memories with family and host birthday parties.
Address: 8000 Plaza Blvd J, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
19. Busy Bees® Pottery & Arts Studio
For those with an artistic mind and a spirit to unleash their passion for painting, Busy Bees® Pottery & Arts Studio is ready to welcome you.
Busy Bees® Pottery & Arts Studio offers you a good number of innovative ideas, such as canvas painting lessons or clay building classes.
You can stop by the studio when you can and bring to life one of your artistic imaginations using any method.
This is an excellent place for various special events, such as ladies’ hang out, birthday parties, scouts, family reunions, and so on.
For those not interested in making artwork, you could walk into their studio and pick any of your choices.
Address: 7850 Mentor Ave #554B, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
20. Historic Steele Mansion Inn and Gathering Hub
Historic Steele Mansion Inn and Gathering Hub is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a classic and comfortable place to stay.
George W. Steele, a rich businessman, had this beautiful inn constructed for him in the 1860s. The property was listed on the National Register for Historic Buildings.
This one-of-a-kind resort features elegantly decorated rooms that guarantee visitors a fantastic experience.
For that family get-together, business trips, a weekend gateway with your spouse, or friends reunions, Historic Steele Mansion Inn and Gathering Hub is the best place to visit.
Historic Steele Mansion Inn and Gathering Hub takes you back in time through its collection of beautiful furniture and architectural displays from the 19th century.
Address: 348 Mentor Ave, Painesville, OH 44077, United States
21. Escapology Mentor
Visiting Escapology Mentor is a great choice for those seeking a unique kind of fun that is both thrilling and exciting.
Escapology Mentor offers an exceptional escape experience, as real as it can be, to a group of any size, and you’re sure to have fun.
Each game requires six players who work together to overcome challenges by searching for clues, picking keys, and solving puzzles to help them escape.
There are different games with distinct storylines for visitors to pick from, each of which is unpredictable and fun.
Address: 7300 Palisades Pkwy, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
22. RollHouse Mentor
RollHouse Mentor acquired their number one bowling alley more than three decades ago with one goal in mind: to provide a place where individuals can come and have fun, forgetting about all their problems.
They regard Ohio as their home and consider the citizens of Ohio as friends and family. This is one of the favorite places for kids as they are offered an opportunity to have unlimited fun.
The amusement park offers a variety of party packages, including free access to games, candies, water bottles, and other goodies.
RollHouse Mentor offers you and your kids a chance to have great fun and enjoy their delicious food.
The staff is nice and friendly whether you are visiting alone or in a group, they are always there to attend to you. RollHouse Mentor offers great food, drinks, and music; what more can you ask for?
Address: 7300 Palisades Pkwy, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
23. All City Candy
All City Candy is every child’s dream, and bringing your child here is one of the most exceptional things to do in Mentor.
All City Candy is a facility of 5,000 square feet. The building is filled with countless chocolates and sweets for visitors to pick from, which is why it is regarded as the sweetest location in Mentor.
Here, you could purchase gifts and souvenirs relating to the city’s history.
All City Candy is always organized and clean. It doesn’t matter if you just want to get something and leave or if you want to spend time; this is a perfect place.
There are over 800 kinds of candy, ranging from gummies, hard candies, minis, sour candies, coated & uncoated chocolates, and much more.
Address: 7441 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
24. Judy’s Jungle
Judy’s Jungle
Judy’s Jungle is an exceptional and exciting location in Mentor where every child would love to visit and have fun.
It is a large garden featuring huge fiberglass animals; every kid visiting it will be blown away.
You can walk through the garden, check out the life-sized animal sculptures, and take cool pictures.
Judy’s Jungle is considered a precious gem and a place you should explore whenever you’re in Mentor.
The company began as a funny idea after a customer said the ceilings of MT Heat Treat could accommodate a giraffe. After that, Judy Matthews acquired three sculptures and started growing the collection.
Address: 8665 Station St, Mentor, OH 44060, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Mentor
Mentor is a city that offers tourists various opportunities to get outside and have unlimited fun. There are many exciting activities for indoor lovers as well.
The city is quite diverse, so there’s something to please every preference. Ensure to make Mentor your next vacation destination.