Wickliffe blends early 1800s homes with modern updates
When you’re looking for a city with a well-established history and suburban feel, you might consider Wickliffe, known as the gateway to Lake County. What once was a part of the Western Reservation in the early 1800s, with the aid of the early developers, blossomed into a community with a foundation as strong as the local homes in the area. “It’s a well-built older community that’s starting to get revitalized,” says Kay Zabivnik, Realtor with McDowell Homes Real Estate Service.
Well-built older homes and city upkeep reflect community pride
An abundance of straight-bar ranch-style homes cropped up in 1957, which according to Zabivnik, are the cornerstone of Wickliffe. “The homes are so well built. They have the best bones, even if you get an older home,” she says. “Some simple renovations could make it last another sixty to a hundred years.” For those interested, you’ll be able to relax in your new residence for the median price of $168,750. Homes here are set back off of residential streets and have well-manicured, modest lawns, highlighting the community’s pride. The city’s government aids in curbside Lead Pick-Up between October and November. “The city is very attentive to maintaining the outside of the property. So, you’re not going to see a mowed lawn next to high grass to ensure that when you’re driving through, it looks nice,” Zabivnik says.
The Campus of Wickliffe and the public library support students
Education in Wickliffe City School District has gone through a change. As of 2023, kids are no longer divided into three separate buildings between elementary, middle and high school. Instead, they are all housed in the Campus of Wickliffe, one complete structure that serves all public school children in the community. The district has received an overall Niche grade of a B, and if that’s any indicator of how this new school will be conducted, then students can expect a great start, middle and end of their primary education.
When school lets out for the summer, students don’t have to stop their quest for knowledge. The community children can spend their time with their noses in a book from the Wickliffe Public Library on Lincoln Road, a short distance from the school’s campus. Kids aren’t the only ones that utilize the space. In fact, there are adult summer reading programs, book clubs and even a coloring group.
Orlando and Coulby parks provide active play areas and relaxing views
Orlando Park on Twin Lakes Drive is the perfect place to catch a breeze underneath the shade of mature trees along the perimeter. Here, kids can take turns dashing in between the sprinkle of water at the splash pad. Those more interested in athletics can bring a basketball to the court for a game of one versus one or pack a bat for a play on the ballfield. On the south side, Coulby Park’s pool provides a place to cool down. When you’re feeling adventurous, climb up to the top of the slide and rush into the awaiting water below. For a casual afternoon, relax on a bench nearby the park’s pond, which features a cascading fountain.
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Nelson