Cedar Point Named Ohio’s Most Nostalgic Summer Destination

The first glimpse of the roller coasters rising above Lake Erie apparently still hits Ohioans right in the childhood memories.

A new poll has named Cedar Point the summer destination that inspires the most nostalgia in Ohio, beating out two longtime ice cream shops for the top spot.

Advance Funds Network surveyed more than 3,000 adults ages 45 and older, asking them to name the local businesses and attractions most closely connected to their favorite summer memories.

These were not necessarily the biggest or fanciest tourist destinations. Respondents were asked to think about places tied to family road trips, arcade tokens, dripping ice cream cones, souvenir shopping and those long, sleepy drives home.

Cedar Point in Sandusky finished first.

The Lake Erie amusement park began as a bathing beach in 1870 and has grown into a summer tradition for generations of Ohio families. Between the roller coasters, beach, boardwalk, arcades and amusement park food, many visitors say just driving across the causeway feels like the official beginning of summer.

Aglamesis Brothers in Cincinnati came in second. The old-fashioned ice cream and candy shop has been serving customers since 1908 and is known for its marble-topped tables, handmade chocolates, milkshakes and classic ice cream parlor atmosphere.

Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory in Millersport ranked third. The family-owned shop opened in 1930 and remains a popular stop for families, boaters and visitors spending summer days around Buckeye Lake.

The survey also asked Ohioans which once-common summer businesses they wish were still around in greater numbers.

Drive-in movie theaters topped the list, followed closely by old-school arcades. Family-owned ice cream parlors, small amusement parks, family diners and drive-in restaurants were also among the most-missed summer traditions.

Nearly 78% of Ohio respondents said they have felt genuinely sad when a nostalgic local summer business closed.

People may also be willing to pay to keep those memories alive. Respondents said they would spend an average of $41 more at a nostalgic, long-running summer business than they would at a national chain.

Survey participants said the businesses matter because they preserve local character, give families traditions to return to, support tourism and help keep money in the community.