Sawmill closing for renovations

HURON TWP. — Sawmill Creek Resort will close for the winter as new owners, Cedar Fair, conduct renovations.The Sandusky entertainment company purchased Sawmill Creek in July for $13.5 million, according to the Erie County Auditor's website, to strengthen the appeal and hotel offerings of its flagship park, Cedar Point.When it purchased the resort, Cedar Fair executives were clear that investments would need to be made to improve and modernize the resort, which was built more than 40 years ago.Sawmill Creek was added to Cedar Point's portfolio of hotels. The company announced the resort would close on Nov. 4 to begin those renovations and wouldn't open again until next summer.Tony Clark, a spokesman for Cedar Point, said the company is working with groups on an individual basis to help find alternative venues for events or meetings that were already scheduled at the resort during the period it will be closed.The renovation is a significant investment into the property and will include updates to the resort's guest rooms, meeting spaces and common areas, according to a Cedar Point news release."The renovation will ensure that Sawmill Creek Resort remains a premier choice for visitors to the Sandusky area, whether they're coming for rides and roller coasters at Cedar Point, a round of golf on a world-class course, playing in sports tournaments at Cedar Point Sports Center and Sports Force Parks, or even special events and meetings," Clark said.Cedar Point will release more details on the Sawmill Creek Resort renovations at a later date. The marina, golf course and The Shops at Sawmill Creek will operate under their normal hours while the resort is closed.The Festival of Lights, however, will not take place in 2019 but will be evaluated for a future return. The popular event where local organizations and businesses put up holiday light displays to raise money has taken place at Sawmill Creek for the past 20 years.Sawmill Creek HistorySawmill Creek Lodge opened in September 1972 on Cleveland Road (U.S. 6) following the investment of $4.25 million — more than $26 million today when adjusted for inflation.It boasts 236-guest room hotel, a marina, beach, conference centers, restaurants, golf course, shops and 50 acres of undeveloped land.Cedar Fair was familiar with the resort and its good reputation because of its placement on a major path to Cedar Point and its proximity to the Sports Force Park at Cedar Point Sports Center.After almost two years of speculation that the resort was up for sale, Cedar Fair purchased the property as it continues to invest in the development of the entryway into Cedar Point. Reach reporter Michael Harrington at michaelharrington@sanduskyregister.com, follow the Register at Facebook.com/SanduskyRegisterCedar Fair announced Sawmill Creek Resort will close in November as it undergoes renovations.