Painesville

Painesville is a city in Lake County, Ohio, that sits along the Grand River with residential neighborhoods surrounding a central business district. The streetscape shows a mix of older buildings and modern structures, reflecting how the community has grown and changed over time.

The city was founded in 1800 by General Edward Paine, a Revolutionary War veteran, along with John Walworth and settlers from Connecticut. These beginnings established what would become an important settlement in northeastern Ohio.

The city hosts several galleries and local shops where visitors can see work from regional artists and learn about Lake Erie College's role in the community today.

The downtown area is walkable with shops and dining spread along the main streets for easy exploration. A car helps for visiting nearby attractions, though the city center itself is easy to navigate on foot.

Rider's Inn, a 19th-century hotel, played a hidden role in helping enslaved people escape to the North through secret spaces in its basement. Today visitors can see these rooms and learn how private citizens actively supported this dangerous journey.

Location: Lake County

Inception: 1800

Elevation above the sea: 206 m

Website: http://painesville.com

GPS coordinates: 41.72278,-81.24972

Latest update: December 17, 2025 05:43