10 Things Only People from Strongsville Will Understand
Whether you grew up in Strongsville or just proudly call it home, there are certain memories and quirks that only true locals will understand. From the historic places to hangout (some new, some now gone), to traditions that have stood the test of time, Strongsville truly has a personality of its own! At Diehard Local, we love celebrating that community pride across all the cities we serve.
With that in mind, here are 10 things only people from Strongsville will understand.
1. The Original SouthPark Mall
SouthPark Mall opened its doors in 1996 and is well-known around the area, but what many people don't know (unless you're a local) is that it got a major $60 million expansion and renovation back in 2007. This expansion brought in multiple new restaurants, SouthPark's now well-known movie theater, and dozens of new stores that made it one of the largest malls in Ohio. But locals will always remember the details of the original mall, like the massive two-story glass windows at the entrance, Johnny Rockets, and the Disney Store.
2. Toboggan Chutes at Mill Stream Run Reservation
If you're a local, you've definitely heard about the toboggan chutes at Mill Stream Run Reservation. The 700-foot refrigerated chutes operate each winter and have become a seasonal tradition for the community. The reservation also features hiking and bike trails, fishing areas, and picnic areas!
3. The Never-Ending Struggle with Pearl Road
Residents of Strongsville definitely know the struggle of Pearl Road! It is the main stretch in the city, lined with a ton of restaurants and local businesses, connecting you to just about everywhere you need to go (including one of the high school entrances). The downside? It's almost always busy, especially during the holidays!
4. Calling it "The Ville"
For locals, Strongsville is often simply called "The Ville" and it's a nickname that you will see everywhere! Places like online conversations, on Zillow listings, on shirts, and even for school fundraisers people commonly use this term. If you're not from Strongsville, you might be left wondering what it means, but it is second nature to locals.
5. The Annual Rib Burnoff
Each summer, the Strongsville City Club hosts the Rib Burnoff at the Commons, joining together top rib vendors from across the entire country. Locals from this area know it as a weekend you don't miss with live music, fireworks, inflatables, large crowds, and obviously ribs!
6. "Crossroads of the Nation"
People from Strongsville know that the city earned the nickname "Crossroads of the Nation" back in the 1800s, when new toll roads and railroads made it a key stop for travel between major cities. Today, its location near I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike keeps that reputation alive!
7. The Annual Homecoming Festival
If you're from Strongsville, you know summer isn't complete without the Homecoming Festival at the Commons. There's carnival rides, a lot of different food booths, live music, fireworks, and more, hosted every July.
8. The History Behind Don's Pomeroy House
Strongsville locals know that Don's Pomeroy House is more than just a restaurant, but a place with real history. The actual building dates back to 1847 and even served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. It officially opened as a restaurant in 1980 and has served as a local favorite since.
9. The Commons is the Center of Everything
As you may have already noticed, many of Strongsville's traditions happen at the Commons, which serves as the center of town life. Along with the Rib Burnoff and Homecoming Festival, it also hosts many more events throughout the year like the annual Winter Wonderland Lighting!
10. Repping Strongsville with Pride
Being a Strongsville local isn't just about the landmarks and traditions, it's about the pride that comes with calling this city home. Locals love to show off their Strongsville roots, whether it's swapping memories with neighbors or wearing merch that reps the community wherever they go.
If you're looking for a way to celebrate that pride, explore our collection of Strongsville, Ohio, T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, and more!
Shop Your City's Merchandise Today!
Every collection at Diehard Local is designed to celebrate the community you call home. Have questions about any of our city merchandise? Contact us anytime!