Vermilion Live Cam

The crowning jewel of the south shore of Lake Erie

Once a commercial fishing port, we now cater to the every need of the Sport Fisherman. Picture a walk on the beach highlighted by a brilliant sun setting slowly into the lake on a calm summers' Eve.

Vermilion provides a perfect setting for a family outing with its location along the shores of Lake Erie, the picturesque Vermilion River and historical "Harbor Town 1837".

Take a stroll through our many shops and stores or spend some time at the famed Inland Seas Maritime Museum where the history and excitement of the Great Lakes will unfold before you. When you get hungry you'll have difficulty choosing from our many fine restaurants.

You may choose to take a paddleboat ride and tour the river and our Lagoons with its Cape Cod styled homes. Any way in which you choose to spend your time you will surely agree that this community with its small New England charm and friendly people is a place so enjoyable that your visit will be an experience not easily forgotten.

Inland Seas Maritime Museum where the history and excitement of the Great Lakes will unfold before you.

In 1987 we celebrated our Sesquicentennial. Is it any wonder the Dick Goddard of Fox TV-8 (Cleveland) fame chooses Vermilion for his woollybear festival that draws 100,000 people in one day.

Located along SR-2 (I-90) we are only a short distance away, 35 miles west of Cleveland and 20 miles east of Cedar Point Amusement Park. You will agree, after just one visit that "Vermilion is a Great Place To Drop Anchor, for a day, a week, or a lifetime!".

The Vermilion Local Schools are proud of the Vermilion community, and their place in that community. The over 2,500 students who attend the Vermilion Schools and the 239 faculty and staff who serve them consider education to be the key to the future. The students in Vermilion are served by two elementary schools, one middle school, and one senior high school. High School junior and senior students may attend EHOVE Joint Vocational School near Milan, Ohio. A full range of services and programs are available to students in the Vermilion Local Schools.

Vermilion is a unique and beautiful community. The rare charm of our New England style “Historic Harbour Town 1837 District” is complemented by the many waterfront attractions along the scenic Vermilion River and the shores of Lake Erie. Visit the delightful shops. See the historic homes built during Vermilion’s shipbuilding, fishing, lumbering, and iron furnace days. Spend a day at the beach and visit the Vermilion River harbor. Watch sailing and yacht races, take a fishing charter, visit a marina, stop at a public dock, or use the public boat ramp. Visit restaurants and the maritime museum. Enjoy the beautiful parks and activities. Relax by walking, biking, boating, fishing, swimming, or just sitting back and watching Lake Erie.

Main Street Vermilion History

Main Street Vermilion is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the downtown area of Vermilion, Ohio. Vermilion is a charming city located on the shores of Lake Erie in Erie and Lorain counties. The organization's main goal is to enhance the economic, cultural, and historic value of the downtown district, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.

The history of Main Street Vermilion dates back to the 1970s when a group of concerned citizens came together to address the decline and neglect of the downtown area. Inspired by the Main Street program developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, they formed the Vermilion Historical Society. The society aimed to preserve the town's historical buildings and promote economic development.

In 1992, Vermilion became an Ohio Main Street community, joining the statewide program that focuses on revitalizing traditional downtown areas. As part of this initiative, Main Street Vermilion was established as a local non-profit organization to lead the revitalization efforts in the downtown district.

Since its inception, Main Street Vermilion has worked tirelessly to restore and promote the unique character of Vermilion's downtown. Through a combination of preservation, economic development, and community involvement, the organization has achieved significant milestones in the revitalization process.

Main Street Vermilion focuses on four main areas: organization, promotion, design, and economic vitality. The organization aspect involves building strong partnerships with local businesses, property owners, and community members to create a shared vision for downtown Vermilion. Promoting the downtown district involves marketing and branding efforts to attract visitors, residents, and potential businesses.

The design element of Main Street Vermilion's work centers on preserving and enhancing the architectural and historical character of the downtown area. The organization provides design guidance and resources to property owners and encourages sensitive renovations that respect the unique character of the buildings.

The economic vitality component of Main Street Vermilion's work revolves around supporting local businesses and attracting new ones. The organization provides assistance to existing businesses through grants, loans, and marketing support. It also actively recruits new businesses to fill vacant storefronts and diversify the downtown offerings.

Main Street Vermilion has achieved numerous successes over the years, including the restoration of several historic buildings, the establishment of popular events and festivals, and the development of a vibrant arts and culture scene. The organization continues to play a vital role in the ongoing revitalization efforts of Vermilion's downtown, ensuring its vibrancy and economic prosperity for future generations.

Overall, Main Street Vermilion has been instrumental in preserving the history and charm of Vermilion's downtown area, making it a thriving and inviting destination for residents and visitors to enjoy.