Willoughby, Ohio is a quaint suburb east of Cleveland that has a little something for everyone. Often described as a friendly city with Midwestern values, it is known for being the “Courtesy City.” If you have had the chance to live or visit, it is evident there is no shortage kindness stemming from the local community. The city got its nickname by picking a day once a year to pull motorists over, not to ticket them, but to treat them to lunch or dinner. Although this isn’t an activity that still takes place, the mindset has continued to live on in the community.
The epicenter for Willoughby is the Historic Downtown Willoughby which provides family fun, shopping, dining, nightlife, and a vibrant and active atmosphere. There is always something to do in the downtown area whether it is grabbing dinner with friends, taking a walk around town and down by the Chagrin River at Todd Field, shopping at trendy and vintage stores, attending a community event, or just relaxing in Wes Point Park. Not only is downtown Willoughby full of activities it is a great place to live, work, and even start your own business.
To the north Willoughby borders beautiful Lake Erie with two parks, Sunset and Osborne. Sunset Park is great to sit and relax to take in the view of the lake. Osborne has playgrounds, ball fields, picnic areas, walking paths, pool, and many more activities. Additionally, in the lakefront area, there is Lost Nation Airport, Golf Course and Sports Park all located within a mile of one another.
Running through the entire city and connecting many parks is the Chagrin River. Along the river are the Chagrin River Park, Todd Field, and Daniel’s Park. The Chagrin is known for its incredible steelhead fishing as it draws fishers from all over the country.
Willoughby as a whole offers a great place for people to live. You can get a taste of the lakefront, a downtown lifestyle, the suburbs, or even find a place with a little bit of land and privacy. If you are raising a family, the school systems in the area are ranked highly, and over the next few years new schools will be built or renovated to improve the learning atmosphere for students. Andrews-Osborne Academy offers a different option if you are looking for a private school, and the Fine Arts Association offers ways for kids to expand upon their artistic abilities. For those that have retired or had the kids fly the nest, there are many new homes and living spaces that allow you to downsize. If you are a young millennial or young professional looking to live near a downtown community Willoughby offers one of the most unique downtowns in Northeast Ohio.