Enjoying the Explorer

SANDUSKY — On Thursday, many people — friends, family, supporters as well as local officials — attended a grand opening ceremony for Explorer Rest & Recreation at the site, 2227 Cleveland Road (U.S. 6), Sandusky, near the Cedar Point Sports Center. Spouses Justin and Lisa Brady debuted the lodge-like business for guests in 2023. Formerly the Mecca Motel, they spent much of the past year transforming this property into a state-of-the-art spot for guests. They hired local contractors to: • Rebuild all the guest rooms; The property features 25 rooms in five different styles with each space accommodating multiple guests. The 25 rooms break up into five different styles. For larger groups and families, rooms feature bunk beds. Some even offer a living room and kitchenette space. • Refresh the backyard area, which included removing a dilapidated pool, so guests can convene in common spaces • Construct new outdoor amenities, which consist of a forthcoming food truck park; The idea revolves around bringing in mobile food operators to serve both guests and locals. • Spruce up street-side spaces with landscaping and other visual enhancements The end product resembles a modern take on a vintage motel concept. For instance, each room comes equipped with a retro-style-looking refrigerator, decked out in sky-blue paint, and vibrant plaid-style headboards. "It's a true throwback to the roadside motels you would see in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s but with our own twist on it," Lisa said. Justin and Lisa, of Huron, who debuted the lodge without much fanfare or advertisement, thoroughly understand the industry. They're both former longtime employees of Cedar Fair. They eagerly await what's to come, serving tourists while also creating a family business and establishing a legacy with their three young daughters: Bailey, Ellie and Willow. "This is something we hope people like, and we hope it will get them outside and explore our great area," Lisa said. As its name implies, Justin and Lisa encourage people to explore the greater Sandusky area. "We live in the ultimate adventure destination," said Lisa, noting other nearby hotels and lodges have taken on renovation work. "Our area, especially Lake Erie, is an underutilized asset, and we want people to get out there and check what we have to offer." People can learn more about The Explorer, including booking information, by visiting explorerlodge.com.