
As the days grow shorter, how do you keep your home light and full of cheer? Candles are a perfect solution to stave off winter gloom. With a seemingly endless variety of styles, colors and scents, you can use a different candle each day to suit the occasion, holiday, or mood. Start building your collection at these delightful specialty shops around Northeast Ohio.
9516 Diamond Centre Dr., Mentor, OH 44060
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Brighten your home while showing off your local pride with a purchase from Cleveland Candle Co. Their Cleveland Collection pays tribute to Great Lakes sunsets, Edgewater Park, snow, and other instantly identifiable features of the city. Buy them individually or get all seven in a pre-packaged assortment. Each month, a featured candle is offered at a 20 percent discount. Create your own one-of-a-kind scented candle in-store at the candle bar or via online instruction. All three locations of Cleveland Candle Co., including Coventry and Ohio City, open at 11 a.m. daily.
22935 Lorain Rd., Fairview Park, OH 44126
Josh Ruminski, the college student and entrepreneur who founded Happy Thoughts Candles, considers his company to be a social movement. While fighting his own mental health battles, Josh wanted to find a way to help others with their personal struggles. Each product is labeled with a positive saying to generate encouragement and conversation, while 20 percent of the company's proceeds are donated to support suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Candles come in dozens of refreshing scents, including rainwater, freshly-mown grass, and coffee, that are chosen for their relaxing, therapeutic qualities. Place orders online for pickup or delivery.
100 Park Ave., Suite 122, Beachwood, OH 44122
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Want to boost your green living points? Head to The Candle Studio to make or buy their eco-friendly soy candles. As a source of light that uses no energy, candles are naturally green, but soy burns much cleaner than traditional paraffin. The candle bar is stocked with more than 90 essential oils you can mix and match to create your own personalized scent. You can also use your choice to customize room sprays, body lotions, and other home and body products. If you prefer, shop the extensive inventory of pre-made scented items. The Studio is open Thursday through Sunday and reservations are required. Follow their Facebook page for information about events with their mobile candle pour bar.
533 Trelake Dr., Canal Fulton, OH 44614
Kim Galley, founder of Kinfolk Candles, proudly invites you to "Come Stick Your Nose in Our Business!" After spending years perfecting the optimum natural soy vegetable wax for container candles, Kim started her at-home business in 1998. The thriving business outgrew the family basement, and Kim moved Kinfolk Manufacturing to a roomier facility in Canal Fulton. Kinfolk's best-selling eight-ounce jar candle comes in 100 scents, with unique and whimsical options such as Chocolate Orchid, Fruit Loops, and Santa's Whiskers. A handy glossary provides helpful definitions of each scent. Follow their Facebook page for information about shops carrying Kinfolk Candles or place an order on their website.
1001 W. Main St., Sugarcreek, OH 44681
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Candles, vases, and other decor items let you give your home a seasonal facelift quickly and inexpensively. Located in the heart of Amish country, R Classic Elements makes it easy by changing their own inventory to correspond with the seasons. In 2010, owner Renee Miller decided to expand the shop's offering by making hand-poured soy candles in her home. Production eventually moved to the shop, and the line was named Shanesville Candles. The jar candles, which come in 8-ounce and 12-ounce sizes, feature homey scents such as Lush Linen, Zucchini Bread, and Mint Tea. Store hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. every day but Sunday.
1345 W. 78th St., #2048, Cleveland, OH 44102
In 2009, recent college graduate Sarah Sampsell went to work in her sister's eco-friendly skincare salon. When they couldn't find just the right candles to carry in the salon, Sarah decided to make them herself, and Sweet Dish & Darling was born. The quirky name refers to the original candles, which included a recipe for a "sweet dish." While the recipes are gone, the candles and their trademark burlap packages are still handmade. Candle styles include screw-top jars, enamelware mugs and tumblers, and travel tins. Try the best-selling Sea Salt & Amber or one of the other appealing scents such as Sunday Brunch, with notes of cinnamon, French toast, vanilla bean, and maple syrup. Order online for delivery (free shipping on orders of $75 or more) or select local pickup at their Cleveland workshop.
8125 Columbia Rd., Olmsted Falls, OH 44138
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Wildcrafted Aromatics has a goal to ensure all its products as eco-friendly as possible, even after they've been used. Candles are made with eco-soy and beeswax, eco-cotton, hemp wicks, and natural herbal dyes. Many come in reusable jars, tins, and upcycled glasses that may be reused after the candle has burned. Products come with minimal packaging that is 100-percent recyclable. One of their more popular products is the citronella lavender ceramic lamp, handcrafted from Lake Erie clay. Wildcrafted Aromatics is one of the vendors on display at The RIFT, a Cleveland shop showcasing local craftspeople selling homemade and repurposed items. "RIFT" stands for "Repurposed and Intended for Today." Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily except Sunday, when closing time is 5 p.m.
Cleveland is not generally considered a tropical location, but thanks to Tim & Laura Thornton, you can "bring home the beach." Inspired by sights on a trip to the Panama Canal, the couple came up with the concept for Cleveland Coconut Candles. Their signature product is candles poured into half or whole coconut shells sourced from a supplier in Florida. A wide ribbon-style wick creates a tiki-torch effect as the candle burns. The tropical theme is enhanced with scents such as Jamaica Me Crazy, a blend of pineapple, orange, honeydew melon, coconut, jasmine, rum, and vanilla. Many scents are also available as classic jar candles. Order on the website or follow them on Facebook for information about appearances at festivals and other local events.
Scientists tell us smell is our sense most closely linked to memory. What scent takes you back to a special time or event in your life?

You've probably used the expression "bird's-eye view" dozens of times, thinking it's just a metaphor. But thanks to the thrills of ziplining, you can gain a new appreciation of the landscape around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati as you "fly" high above it. Get your "bird's-eye view" of Ohio's colorful fall scenery with one of these popular ziplining tours.
Distance From: Cleveland (182 miles) | Columbus (43 miles) | Cincinnati (136 miles)
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Highly acclaimed by sources such as USA Today, Discovery Channel, and the New York Times, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours proudly bills itself as Ohio's first "world-class" zipline adventure. The attraction gets high marks for innovation and a commitment to safety while maintaining respect for the environment. In addition to the popular Original Tour, HHCT offers several specialty options, including night ziplining and kid-friendly adventures. Get a different perspective with one of the guided Segway® off-road nature tours. HHCT is open seven days a week.
Distance From: Cleveland (90 miles) | Columbus (68 miles) | Cincinnati (175 miles)
Located in Ohio's spectacular Mohican region, Tree Frog Canopy Tours recently made the top ten in USA Today's list of Best Aerial Adventure Parks. Tree Frog's 2.5-hour course is the only one in the state using a dual-cable system to provide a faster and smoother ride. Travel across more than 4,000 feet of cable as you ride seven ziplines and cross two skybridges. Each tour is led by two guides who create a safe environment and share fascinating information about the different sights. Tours are scheduled daily, with Mondays and Thursdays designated as "Kids' Days."
Distance From: Cleveland (19 miles) | Columbus (127 miles) | Cincinnati (233 miles)
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As the name implies, Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park recreates the storybook exploits of Tarzan and his faithful companion, Cheetah. Frolic through the forest at a height of 50 feet with their popular Treetop Adventure, which begins with a climb up a rope ladder and progresses through 40 exciting obstacles, including bridges, ziplines, and breathtaking Tarzan swings. Indulge your competitive spirit by combining your treetop tour with a ground-level session of axe throwing. Three-hour Treetop Adventure sessions are available Friday through Sunday, while hour-long axe-throwing sessions may be booked for Saturday and Sunday.
Distance From: Cleveland (141 miles) | Columbus (75 miles) | Cincinnati (178 miles)
If a ziplining safari isn't on your bucket list, it should be. The Wilds is an impressive and innovative conservation center dedicated to finding solutions for problems impacting wildlife and the environment. Part of their mission is educating the public with activities such as Wild Zipline Safari. A series of 10 ziplines provide incredible opportunities to view giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and other endangered species rarely seen in the United States. If you don't have the time for the full 2-1/2 hour tour, check out the Overlook version. This modified tour lasts 1-1/2 hours and doesn't actually enter the pastures, but still offers unparalleled views.
Distance From: Cleveland (134 miles) | Columbus (16 miles) | Cincinnati (120 miles)
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Urban ziplining? Yes, it's true. ZipZone Outdoor Adventures is an oasis of nature in the heart of Columbus. Situated on the grounds of Camp Mary Orton, ZipZone offers a two-hour tour over 20 acres of forest. The Adventure Park, opened in 2017, adds a new dimension to your ziplining experience. Choose from five different climbing courses, ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert, and make your way through the challenging elements. Guides provide 30-40 minutes of instruction beforehand, and all participants are locked to a lifeline cable with double-connected safety clips. Wee ones can join in the fun at the Kids Park, a modified version of the Adventure Park. Courses are only a few feet off the ground to make it easy for kids between aged 4 to 7. Canopy tours are offered Friday through Sunday, while Adventure Park and Kids Park are open Saturday and Sunday.
Distance From: Cleveland (191 miles) | Columbus (52 miles) | Cincinnati (152 miles)
As a kid, did you ever dream of joining the circus to perform on the high wire? The full course at Ultimate Zipline Adventures is even more satisfying than your childhood fantasy. After a training session, you'll head up into the trees to tackle 16 ziplines and 23 high rope activities, completing many of the obstacles while suspended in the air. Zipline purists may prefer the Apex course, which skips the first half of the full course. You'll still get a lot of action packed into seven zip lines, including a set of dual racing lines. Kids under the age of 10 have their own fully supervised course, which features three ziplines and 12 rope activities. Ultimate Zipline Adventures is open Wednesday through Sunday for all courses.
Distance From: Cleveland (176 miles) | Columbus (37 miles) | Cincinnati (137 miles)
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Regular ziplining not exciting enough for you? Valley Zipline Tours has the answer. Their course starts with five fairly conventional lines, ranging from 15 to 40 feet above ground. Then you move to the 1,000-foot-long "monster" line, which hovers 120 feet in the air. Speeds can reach up to 40 MPH. The next leg pits you head-to-head against another member of your group on side-by-side 700-foot racing lines. Finish your tour gliding at upwards of 50 MPH on the signature 1,400-foot line spanning the entire course. Newbies can opt for the Tree Top Tour, consisting of the first six lines of the main tour. Having too much fun to stop? Upgrade to the main tour on the spot. Mini Zip tours are available for kids aged 5-7.
Distance From: Cleveland (237 miles) | Columbus (95 miles) | Cincinnati (17 miles)
Feel the adrenaline rush of ziplining during any season of the year at Sports Plus Zipline Park. The family-friendly indoor facility houses three state-of-the-art ziplines that cover more than 200 feet. With ten 30-foot rock-climbing walls and 10,000 square feet of trampolines as well, you may never come back down to earth! Sports Plus is open Friday through Sunday with three available time slots each day.
From Superman to Captain Marvel, flying is the iconic superpower. If you could fly, where's the first place you would go?

Are your weekends sometimes so activity-packed that you welcome Monday's return to work just to catch your breath? As Mother Nature shows off her splendor one last time before winter sets in, fall is a great time to plan a restful weekend getaway far from the bright lights of the big city. Recharge your batteries at one of these delightful cabins within convenient distance from your home in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Distance From: Cleveland (198 miles) | Columbus (58 miles) | Cincinnati (138 miles)
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Getting back to nature doesn't have to mean giving up your favorite leisure-time amenities. The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls features charming 1840s cabins nestled deep in a natural setting that includes trees, caves, rock formations, and waterfalls. A log cabin also houses Kindred Spirits, the Inn's casual fine-dining restaurant with an open kitchen layout and seasonally enclosed patio. Enhance your feeling of serenity with a massage, body wrap, and other pampering treatments at the onsite spa. Visit the website for information on special packages and promotions.
Distance From: Cleveland (174 miles) | Columbus (92 miles) | Cincinnati (193 miles)
Get up close and personal with nature at the appropriately-named Antler Ridge Cabin. Sightings of deer, turkey, foxes, and other wildlife let you know you're miles away from the city. At night, sit on the deck and relax to the ambient sounds of owls, frogs, and crickets. Semi-guided deer and turkey hunting tours are offered in season. Antler Ridge has three luxury cabins, the newest of which sleeps up to 12 people. Amenities in all three include air conditioning, washer/dryer, TVs and DVD players, outdoor gas grills, and fully-equipped kitchens.
Distance From: Cleveland (190 miles) | Columbus (48 miles) | Cincinnati (127 miles)
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Looking for some quality time with your significant other? With four cabins built for two, Ash Ridge Cabins is designed with couples in mind. Located minutes from Hocking Hills State Park but far from urban life, Ash Ridge is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities by day followed by a quiet evening indoors. Furniture in all four cabins is custom-built by local Amish craftsmen. Maple Lane, Lovers Loft, and Sweetheart Cabins are equipped with brand-new game rooms and indoor hot tubs, while Cuddle Bug Cottage has a game room and open-air hot tub. Spacious windows in all units allow plenty of natural light along with spectacular views.
Distance From: Cleveland (78 miles) | Columbus (87 miles) | Cincinnati (194 miles)
Do you feel like it's impossible to truly get away in our wired world? With no TVs or WiFi service, Tranquil Acres Cabins lets you go off the grid and tune in to nature. The five cabins are situated at least 350 feet apart for a welcome sense of solitude. For larger groups, Sleepy Bear Cabin has a new basement suite that includes a second bathroom and kitchenette. Another recent addition is a pavilion overlooking the catch-and-release fishing pond. Spend the day exploring the nature trails on the grounds, then unwind in your private hot tub or sitting in front of your remote-controlled gas fireplace.
Distance From: Cleveland (83 miles) | Columbus (72 miles) | Cincinnati (179 miles)
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Like many areas in Northeast Ohio, Mohican State Park owes its spectacular scenery to the Ice Age. More than 14,000 years ago, glaciers traveled across the landscape, carving gorges and creating mineral and rock deposits. Mohican's centerpiece, Clear Fork Gorge, plummets 300 feet deep and measures more than 1,000 feet across at its top. The park has several recently remodeled two-bedroom cabins along the Clear Fork River, some where pets are permitted, that sleep up to six guests. Anglers flock to Mohican for largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, white crappie, and brown trout. If you want more active pursuits, check out the park's numerous hiking and biking trails, some of which pass the Gorge as well as two waterfalls and a covered bridge.
Distance From: Cleveland (33 miles) | Columbus (157 miles) | Cincinnati (265 miles)
Anchored by a stunning 150-acre natural "kettle" lake, Punderson State Park offers a wide range of activities to satisfy all ages. Rent a boat at the marina for a day of fishing or sightseeing out on the water. If you want more lively pursuits, challenge family and friends to traditional golf, disc golf, volleyball, basketball, or horseshoes. Lace up your walking shoes or rent a bike and hit the 11 miles of trails, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife or bird sightings. Each of the park's 26 cabins sleeps up to six guests and pets are allowed at some.
Distance From: Cleveland (114 miles) | Columbus (107 miles) | Cincinnati (211 miles)
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Could there be a more authentic name for a rustic cabin than Possum Lodge? While the cabin itself is in a woodsy, secluded setting, the location offers easy access to a diverse assortment of activities. Nearby Salt Fork State Park, bookended by two lakes, provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating. Zipline tours, wineries, and quaint towns to explore are all within a 30-minute drive. The roomy cabin is designed to be a "home away from home" with a luxurious great-room layout that includes a floor-to-ceiling wood-burning fireplace and satellite TV. Front and rear covered porches hold a gas grill and tavern-style seating so you can enjoy the views while dining or simply lounging with a cold drink and good book.
Distance From: Cleveland (79 miles) | Columbus (123 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)
Historic Marblehead Peninsula is one of Northeast Ohio's more popular getaway spots. Kaspar's Lake Breeze Cabins, located on the shores of Lake Erie, makes a comfortable home base for exploring the many attractions of the area. Marblehead Lighthouse stands guard less than a mile away, while legendary amusement park Cedar Point is visible directly across Sandusky Bay. Kelleys Island and South Bass Island, home of Put-In-Bay, are only an hour away by ferry. All cabins are fully furnished, including color TVs and free WiFi service. Ask about nightly rentals during fall months.
Distance From: Cleveland (75 miles) | Columbus (91 miles) | Cincinnati (207 miles)
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Amish Country is an appealing blend of culture, history and scenery. Immerse yourself in the full experience with a stay at Coblentz Country Cabins. Situated on a gentle hillside overlooking a pond, the cabins are less than 1/4-mile from downtown Berlin and its collection of antique malls, craft and gift shops, and vintage clothing boutiques. There's even a classic general store where you can find anything from gourmet food products to home decor items. Seven cabins offer lodging for up to 10 guests, with amenities including hot tubs, fireplaces, TVs, and full kitchens.
What's the one must-have item you take along on a country getaway?

Fall is a wonderful time of the year in Ohio. The cool autumn breeze, the spooky arrival of Halloween festivities, and the many community festivals make this our favorite season for living in Ohio. Of course, you can't mention fall in Ohio without noting the gorgeous colors of the changing leaves.
15610 Vaughn Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141
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Residents of Akron and Cleveland will agree that a trip to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park does wonders for the soul. A great place to reconnect with nature, there's so much to see and do in this national park that it's not surprising that it draws visitors from near and far each year. During the autumn, the Cuyahoga River weaves its way through rolling hills, farmland, and forests, glistening brightly as it collects falling leaves from the changing trees. With more than 125 miles of trail to hike, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit in autumn for anyone who loves to embrace the season's beauty.
Center Rd., Garrettsville, OH 44231
A few miles southeast of Cleveland is the Eagles Creek Nature Preserve which is full of Northeast Ohio's wonderfully diverse plants and animals. The landscape varies from marshes and swamps to woodlands and forests, offering a truly exceptional view into the many habitats that house such interesting biodiversity. Manageable trails lead you into this underrated gem, providing you with privacy and peace while you gaze at mix of yellows, reds, oranges, and browns that paint a stunning portrait.
12021 Echo Dell Road, East Liverpool, OH 43920
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Do you want a little outdoor adventure to mix in with your sightseeing? Then head to Beaver Creek State Park to watch the leaves change as you cruise down the Little Beaver Creek on a canoe. If you'd rather stay on land, you can hike the many trails on foot, atop a mountain bike, or on horseback. Whichever you choose, make sure you bring your camera to photograph the dazzling colors of this rugged landscape.
16396 Tar Hollow Rd., Laurelville, OH 43135
Immerse yourself in the dense woodlands and deep ravines of Tar Hollow State Park as you get lost in the beauty of the Appalachian Plateau. A walk through Tar Hollow State Park will make you feel like you're in the wilderness worlds away from Columbus. Turkeys, turtles, skinks, snakes, and more call this area of Ohio home. A stroll through Tar Hollow's 604-acres offers a great way to see the changing of the leaves, only rivaled by the beautiful colors that spring back to life once winter ends.
400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Downtown Columbus may be a bustling cityscape, but the Scioto Audubon Metro Park offers an opportunity to get back in touch with nature just a few blocks from the skyscrapers. The park covers 120-acres of previously industrial land, now refreshed as a thriving oasis where wildlife flourishes. The views along the Scioto River, chirping of the birds, and miles of multi-use trails are ideal for working professionals who only have a small period of time to escape from the daily grind. Because it's so close to home, you can visit every weekend and watch as the landscape changes from green to bright reds.
834 Edgewater Dr., St. Marys, OH 45885
Where better to see the leaves change than from the water? The popular boating destination of Grand Lake St. Marys State Park is a beachside paradise where you can relax on or offshore and watch the trees transform around you. We think that this state park is a wonderful place to take the kids for an overnight stay, as fishing, hiking, hunting, and boating opportunities sit alongside volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a playground, basketball courts, and an off-leash dog park.
4404 OH-125, West Portsmouth, OH 45663
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Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Shawnee State Forest is a breathtaking place to become one with nature. Totaling 1100-acres of the 63,000-acre forest, Shawnee State Park is a fantastic place for a weekend getaway with the family. This state park is a popular place to hunt, fish, boat, and hike, offering you the opportunity to take in the changing of the leaves on the banks of the Ohio River. The Shawnee Lodge & Conference Center is within the forest, making it a perfect location to enjoy unspoiled nature during the day before returning to cozy creature comforts at night.
5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
You don't have to leave Cincinnati's city limits to enjoy a getaway in nature. Mt. Airy Forest was one of the earliest urban reforestation projects in the country and now provides nearly 1500-acres of multi-use space for hiking, biking, picnicking, and more. Mt. Airy's accessibility isn't limited to its proximity to the city. The forest has an enclosed dog park for hikers to let their pets run free and also houses the state's sole public treehouse that is accessible for those using a wheelchair.
144 Lake Rd., Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Equal distance between Cincinnati and Columbus, Scioto Trail State Park is a fantastic destination to watch the leaves change this autumn. This park is within the 9,000-acre Scioto Trail State Forest but only encompasses 218-acres, making it an easy state park to tackle in a single trip. Bordering the Scioto River, this area offers amazing views of the Scioto River Valley. Bring a fishing rod to cast a line in the river or pack up the camping gear and spend an early-fall evening enjoying the quiet swaying of the trees.
Where is your favorite spot around Ohio to see the leaves change?

There's a reason why Food Network star Guy Fieri chose Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives as the subject of his hit show. The combination of unpretentious decor, friendly service, and delicious food gives these establishments a timeless appeal.
It's no surprise that diners are especially popular in Ohio. Head to these classic eateries around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati for tasty meals that always hit the spot.
3004 Dover Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
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Opened in 1956, Guerne Heights Drive-In is an authentic mid-20th-century diner. Throughout its history, the restaurant has been owned and operated by local families, adding to the nostalgic feel. Hot dogs and burgers are the main event on the menu, which is rounded out with classic sandwiches such as grilled cheese and BBQ pulled pork. In true '50s style, Guerne Heights Drive-In also serves an incredible variety of ice cream treats, including milkshakes, floats, flurries, and eight types of sundaes. Follow them on Facebook for updates on weekly ice cream flavors and limited-time specials. Guerne Heights Drive-In serves lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday.
4116 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
Nick's Diner takes pride in maintaining the same commitment to quality over the years, but you'd be forgiven for thinking the prices haven't changed either. A breakfast combo of three eggs any style, hash browns or grits, and toast is only $3.95. Most dishes on the menu, including the signature black cast iron skillets, come in huge portions with a price tag of $10 or less. Breakfast and lunch are served every day but Tuesday.
3458 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319
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Don't let the name fool you. Singles, friends, and families will all have a great time at Honeymoon Grille. Once housed in the former Honeymoon Donuts building, the recently remodeled diner boasts a genuine '50s-style dining counter along with the addition of a modern drive-thru window. The extensive menu offers something for everyone, from omelets, French toast, and corned beef hash for breakfast to egg salad sandwiches, French dip, and pork chops for lunch and dinner. Watch their Facebook page for news about all-day fish fries, Pizza Night, and other special events. Honeymoon Grill is open seven days a week, with dinner served after 4 p.m. while breakfast and lunch are available all day.
63 E. Broad St., Pataskala, OH 43062
Nutcracker Family Restaurant is celebrating its silver anniversary in 2020, but a visit will take you back to the golden days of the 1950s. The name may have a holiday feel, but it's actually a remnant from the restaurant's original incarnation as a candy and dessert shop called Nutcracker Sweets. While the shop has expanded into a full-service diner, it still holds an incredible assortment of nutcrackers in all sizes, shapes, and styles. Play some Chuck Berry on the jukebox while you wait for your meal of meatloaf, chicken Parmigiana, open-face beef sandwich, and other comfort food favorites. Nutcracker Family Restaurant opens bright and early at 7 a.m. every day but Monday.
914 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43222
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For Tom and Kathy Pappas, Tommy's Diner is truly their American dream come to life. Tom immigrated to Columbus from Greece, while Kathy is the first-generation daughter of Greek parents. The restaurant business is definitely in the family's blood, with younger son Michael working in the diner and older son Louis owning a catering business. How outstanding is their customer service? One guest tells a story about being unable to decide between a Reuben sandwich and an omelet, so the staff made him a Reuben omelet. Visit the website or Facebook page to see the list of daily specials. Tommy's Diner is open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week.
4 S. High St., Canal Winchester, OH 43110
The sign outside the front of Canal Wigwam welcomes you to "The Gathering Place." Canal Wigwam's roots extend all the way back to 1899, when the combination restaurant, bakery, and bowling lane was the place to be for local residents. Over the years, the consistent thread has been a focus on home cooking that warms the heart and stomach. The menu features classic dishes such as chicken and waffles, BLT sandwich, and tuna salad, along with daily specials like baked pork loin and ham and bean soup. Canal Wigwam's website now allows online ordering for pickup. Breakfast and lunch are served daily.
441 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Breakfast and lunch at Hathaway's Diner has been a downtown Cincinnati tradition since 1956. The iconic checkerboard-style floor, brightly-lit red-and-aqua color scheme, and dining counter create the kitschy, comfy ambiance that's such a traditional element of diners. Goetta, the meat-and-grain sausage uniquely beloved in Cincinnati, is a staple of Hathaway's menu. Other traditional diner favorites include country fried steak, club sandwich, and patty melt. Be sure to save room for a slice of apple pie or a Creamsicle milkshake. Hathaway's is open for business seven days a week.
1437 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
While nostalgia is the name of the game at most diners, Sacred Beast takes the traditional concept and adds a contemporary twist for the 21st century. The decor is clean and elegant, with modern touches such as an open floor plan and floor-to-ceiling windows. Most importantly, the diner's slogan, "Simple Food. Taken Seriously." lets you know you're in for some good eating. The Diner Breakfast is an upscale combo of scrambled eggs, lemon ricotta pancakes, and pork belly, while the European-influenced Dirty French burger is topped with Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, au poivre sauce, and Mornay. Sacred Beast is open for dinner Thursday and Friday and all day on weekends.
4381 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45229
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In business for 79 years and counting, Sugar n' Spice Diner is clearly doing it up right. Generations of families keep coming back for the cartoon wall art, vividly colored decor, trademark rubber ducks, and quality food. Signature dishes such as Wispy Thin pancakes, Cuddlin' Puppy hot dogs, and Spanish Bull burgers remain largely unchanged since Mort Keller opened the original Reading Road location in 1941. In July, current owner Adam Myerson opened a second location in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood inside a one-time railroad dining car. Both locations are open daily for breakfast and lunch.
What comfort food classic most reminds you of Mom's home cooking?