Great Lakes Fish and Coral

Tucked into Macedonia, Ohio, Great Lakes Fish and Coral has quietly built a reputation as one of northeast Ohio's premier destinations for saltwater and freshwater aquarists alike. Owner Andrew and his team—including staff members like Juliana and Sean—have cultivated a store that punches well above its modest footprint, packing an impressive density of healthy livestock and coral into meticulously maintained display tanks. The coral selection is the clear showstopper.

Multiple reviewers describe it as one of the best they've encountered, with vibrant, healthy specimens that convinced at least one self-described freshwater-only hobbyist to seriously consider making the saltwater leap. But the freshwater side holds its own, with rare species that customers say they simply can't find elsewhere within a 50-mile radius. The store also stocks axolotls, invertebrates like crabs and snails, and a solid range of equipment and supplies from beginner setups to professional-grade systems.

What sets Great Lakes apart is the consultative approach. Andrew has a knack for remembering customers by name and meeting them where they are in the hobby. One family described how staff spent time teaching their son about fish keeping on his 25th day with his first tank, walking him through upgrade options without pressure.

Another customer credited the team with guiding them through a complete aquarium setup—from tank installation to filtration—after they rescued a red-eared slider, a species the store doesn't even specialize in. Customers regularly mention bringing in water for testing and receiving honest, tailored recommendations. The tanks are consistently described as spotless, the fish healthy, and the atmosphere welcoming.

Several three-year customers still express genuine excitement about the diversity and rarity of new livestock arrivals. For reef keepers across northeast Ohio, this Macedonia shop has become the definitive home store—the kind of place where passion for the hobby is evident in every tank, every conversation, and every coral frag that goes home thriving.