There are certainly perks to living in a big city like Cleveland, but it’s easy to miss the intimacy of life in a smaller community. In less populated cities and neighborhoods, you will encounter fewer crowds, more personalized service, and, often, a decent number of parks and attractions. Summit County hides one of the very best places to visit near Cleveland, and it’s no secret why so many have fallen in love with its downtown district. It has food, shopping, local events, and everything you need to have a great time!

Welcome to Hudson, Ohio!

Zach Vesoulis/Wikimedia Commons Hudson was first settled in 1799 by David Hudson. David was one of a handful to help establish Western Reserve College and Preparatory School in the community, though the school eventually moved up to Cleveland.

This quaint Summit County community is home to more than 20,000 residents, but it comes with an unshakable small-town atmosphere.

City of Hudson, Ohio - Government/Facebook This community has remained tightly knit since it was established. Its founding settler and many others were abolitionists, and so the town often served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Additionally, the stories and names of many locals continue to thrive in the area. Ellsworth is a name locals know well, and it was James Ellsworth that helped to rebuild Main Street and the clock tower after a fire raged through town in 1903.

This town features all sorts of historic architecture clustered around an enchanting downtown district.

City of Hudson, Ohio - Government/Facebook in Downtown Hudson, you will find shopping, dining, and all sorts of irresistible fun. The town is crisscrossed with greenery, and it is not uncommon to spot families attending special events on these soft patches of grass.

In addition to the greenery at the center of Downtown Hudson, you’ll also find a number of parks hiding in this community.

City of Hudson, Ohio - Government/Facebook Pictured here is Hudson Springs Park, and it’s an absolute paradise in the warmer months. Cascade Park, Wood Hollow Metro Park, and Boston Mills Park are just a few additional enchanting outdoor destinations in this pretty community. In fact, there are over 1,000 acres of parkland in this community.

And in the warmer months, locals are absolutely glued to the great outdoors.

City of Hudson, Ohio - Government/Facebook Ellsworth Meadows Golf Club is one of many places locals love to spend their time. Of course, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park also draws people from near and far… even in the colder months.

The local dining scene is absolutely over-the-top.

One Red Door/Facebook There are all sorts of incredible places to eat in Hudson. This community is a great place to go when you and your spouse can’t agree on a dinner spot. Pictured here is One Red Door, and its upscale new American menu is an absolute delight to diners.

The restaurants and stores alike delight visitors with a flair for the dramatic.

3 Palms Pizzeria / Hudson/Facebook 3 Palms Pizzeria is another incredible place to dine. However, before the food even touches your lip, you will be delighted by its atmosphere. There’s so much to love about their upcycled chic atmosphere!

All in all, Hudson is a charming little day trip destination that you’re sure to fall in love with.

City of Hudson, Ohio - Government/Facebook

This vibrant little paradise is an incredible day trip destination. There’s just so much to do! Which local attraction or restaurant is your favorite?

Zach Vesoulis/Wikimedia Commons

Hudson was first settled in 1799 by David Hudson. David was one of a handful to help establish Western Reserve College and Preparatory School in the community, though the school eventually moved up to Cleveland.

City of Hudson, Ohio - Government/Facebook

This community has remained tightly knit since it was established. Its founding settler and many others were abolitionists, and so the town often served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Additionally, the stories and names of many locals continue to thrive in the area. Ellsworth is a name locals know well, and it was James Ellsworth that helped to rebuild Main Street and the clock tower after a fire raged through town in 1903.

in Downtown Hudson, you will find shopping, dining, and all sorts of irresistible fun. The town is crisscrossed with greenery, and it is not uncommon to spot families attending special events on these soft patches of grass.

Pictured here is Hudson Springs Park, and it’s an absolute paradise in the warmer months. Cascade Park, Wood Hollow Metro Park, and Boston Mills Park are just a few additional enchanting outdoor destinations in this pretty community. In fact, there are over 1,000 acres of parkland in this community.

Ellsworth Meadows Golf Club is one of many places locals love to spend their time. Of course, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park also draws people from near and far… even in the colder months.

One Red Door/Facebook

There are all sorts of incredible places to eat in Hudson. This community is a great place to go when you and your spouse can’t agree on a dinner spot. Pictured here is One Red Door, and its upscale new American menu is an absolute delight to diners.

3 Palms Pizzeria / Hudson/Facebook

3 Palms Pizzeria is another incredible place to dine. However, before the food even touches your lip, you will be delighted by its atmosphere. There’s so much to love about their upcycled chic atmosphere!

If you enjoyed this virtual visit, you’ll love a trip to Medina, Ohio!

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Address: Hudson, OH, USA