Parma, Ohio: The Garden City

Nicknamed “The Garden City,” Parma is located in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, United States, approximately 8 miles south of Cleveland. The city is served by U.S. Route 42, Interstate 480, and State Routes 3 and 17. Parma was first settled in the early 19th century, became a township on March 7, 1826, and was incorporated as a city on January 1, 1931. It takes its name from Parma, Italy.

Parma Heights, a smaller neighboring city, borders Parma on the north, south, and east. Parma is also bordered by Cleveland and Brooklyn to the north, Broadview Heights and North Royalton to the south, Middleburg Heights, Brook Park, and Parma Heights to the west, and Seven Hills and Brooklyn Heights to the east.

Historic Sites and Architecture

Parma is home to several historic structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Phillip Henninger House, built in 1842. Another significant site is the Lyman Stearns Farm, located at 6975 Ridge Road. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1981 and built in 1855, it is the only remaining farm within Parma’s city limits.

Education and Local Institutions

Parma hosts campuses of Cuyahoga Community College and Bryant & Stratton College. The city also has two high schools that serve local students and the surrounding community.

Shopping and Commercial Centers

A major commercial destination in the city is The Shoppes at Parma, located at 8253 West Ridgewood Drive (latitude 41.3832547, longitude –81.7409745). This shopping center features numerous retail stores and restaurants, as well as major department stores such as Target and Walmart Supercenter.

Parks, Recreation, and Attractions

Notable attractions and recreational areas in Parma include Ridgewood Lake Park, Ridgewood Golf Course, Byers Field at Robert M. Boulton Stadium, West Creek Reservation, and Big Creek Parkway. These parks and facilities offer outdoor activities, sports, and natural scenery for locals and tourists.