Four pylons bearing eight Art Deco-style statues, formally known as the Guardians of Transportation, mark the entrances to the Lorain-Carnegie Bridge that links Cleveland to Lorain. Approximately 43 feet tall and bearing a slight resemblance to the winged Mercury of Roman mythology, each muscular sandstone figure holds a different form of transportation in his gigantic hands. A stagecoach, hay wagon, covered wagon, four different trucks and a 1930s automobile represent advances in travel conveyances. The Lorain side of the bridge ends at the sprawling indoor West Side Market, where food and produce vendors have been hawking their wares since 1912. Be sure to grab a bite before continuing on to Lorain.
The Lorain Lighthouse began operations in 1837, serving to warn freighters plying Lake Erie's shipping lanes. Over the years it was rebuilt several times, and by 1917 it had undergone a transformation to the concrete structure of today. The light no longer shines and the foghorn blows no more, but you can still book a boat tour -- the lighthouse is only accessible by boat -- through the Lorain Port Authority during the spring and summer months. The tour provides an opportunity to climb to the top of the 58-foot structure and enjoy the panoramic view. For a permanent reminder of your visit to this historic Lorain monument, stop in at the museum and gift shop.
On opening night in 1928, the Lorain Palace Theatre treated a packed house to the first talking motion picture seen in Ohio. The theater has been in continuous operation ever since. You can step back in time as you gape at the theater's 26-foot chandelier and its 50,000 Czechoslovakian crystals. The theater has been fully restored and its majestic Wurlitzer organ still plays on, although now it can be heard through a 16-speaker sound system. As the Lorain Palace Theatre is not open for tours, the only way to check out the decor is to take in a movie.
The Historic Rose Garden in Lakeview Park was established in 1932 on the shores of Lake Erie. In a nod to the Rotary Club, one of the garden's original sponsors, approximately 2,500 roses are arranged in the shape of a wheel and spokes. After you've strolled through the fragrant and colorful garden, visit the adjoining Rose Cafe for a spot of lunch or dinner. The cafe is closed during January and February, however. The park and garden remain open year-round from sunrise to sunset and admission is free.
