Steve Burgess
Posts with tag 'Cleveland OH'
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April
13
13
The 12 Best Summer Getaways in Ohio
When summer rolls around, travel becomes a much higher priority for many Ohioans. The long days and warm sunshine tempt us all to escape somewhere to soak it all in — but believe it or not, you don't have to book a flight to enjoy a fun-filled summer vacation. There are plenty of getaway destinations right here in Ohio that are worthy of a romantic excursion with your sweetheart or a family adventure.
Pack those bags and put in your time-off notice, because we rounded up some of the most summer-worthy escapes in the state, ranging from sunny beachside lodges to bustling city getaways. Have fun!
Hocking Hills State Park
Photo courtesy of the Hocking Hills Tourism Association
What to Do: Spanning 2,356 acres, Hocking Hills State Park is a premier destination for outdoor adventurers. Here, you'll find an abundance of hiking and biking trails, a large lake for water sports, breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls, and forestland as far as the eye can see. The natural beauty of the park is accented by the unique wildlife and historical remnants of Ohio's ice age, and visitors from all over Ohio come to experience it all. Admission to the park is free, but we highly recommend extending your stay! There is far too much to see in just one day. Where to Stay: The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls allows its guests to fully immerse themselves in their natural surroundings, providing yurts, cabins, and cottages for rent — all with stunning views. After a long day of hiking, retreat to the full-service spa, or cozy up next to the fire with your sweetheart. This spot landed on our list of the best romantic winter getaways in Ohio — but it's perfect for summer, too!Lakeside Chautauqua
Photo courtesy of Lakeside Chautauqua
What to Do: Lakeside Chautauqua welcomes visitors from all over the region to take part in the summertime, waterside experience. During the summer, the town hosts a 10-week programming session complete with concerts, art displays, recreational activities and more — which makes it a popular time frame for tourists. The gorgeous 19th-century summer cottages, colorful gardens and friendly atmosphere of the town landed it on Coastal Living's list of the 10 best beach towns on the Great Lakes. Where to Stay: Built in 1875, the Historic Hotel Lakeside is not just a lovely place to rest your head at night — it's also a notable National Historic Landmark. The hotel is filled with gorgeous Victorian-era decor and includes 79 unique rooms. The hotel is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, so summer is the perfect time to visit! Make a reservation here.Marietta
What to Do: The town of Marietta is built around Ohio's riverboat heritage, so it's a dream getaway for history buffs. The best time to visit is during the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival, an annual event held the weekend after Labor Day, that features plenty of riverboats and fun, family-friendly activities. But regardless of when you visit, you can always take a sightseeing cruise on board the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, peruse the Ohio River Museum, explore the local shops and restaurants, or walk the trail on the riverfront. Where to Stay: The Lafayette Hotel sits in the heart of Marietta and definitely captures the soul of the town. Each room is decorated in a charming, antique fashion (complete with artifacts and historic photos), and guests will enjoy exquisite food and service.Mohican
Photo courtesy of the Mohicans
What to Do: This area is known as the Camp and Canoe Capital of Ohio, and definitely lives up to its name. We listed it as one of the best places to go camping in the state, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit — including two state parks, scenic lakes, historic landmarks and the charming shops in downtown Loudonville. You can experience the area through one of the summer festivals or concerts, or a fun-filled vacation with the whole family. While you're here, don't miss a three-hour zip line adventure with Tree Frog Canopy Tours. Where to Stay: If you're lucky enough to snag a reservation at the the Treehouses at the Mohicans, you will remember the experience for the rest of your life. The property houses six incredible, custom-built accommodations that will put the treehouses of your childhood to shame. Take the Little Red Treehouse for instance — which features stained glass windows and a rustic chic vibe. Or maybe consider the luxurious Nest Treehouse, which is straight out of a fairytale.The venue is typically booked for weddings on most weekends throughout the summer, but it does open the schedule for visitors on select dates! Call for availability.Gervasi Vineyard
What to Do: Gervasi Vineyard is (first and foremost) a highly acclaimed winery near Akron, so you can count on wine tasting to be a main item on the itinerary. In fact, we named it as one of the absolute best wineries in the region! When you're not sipping vino or touring the vineyard, Gervasi Vineyard offers a bounty of other activities to fill the weekend. Enjoy romantic horse-drawn carriage rides, cooking classes, in-room yoga, golf and so much more! Where to Stay: While Gervasi Vineyard is an excellent spot for a drop-in or a romantic dinner, we would also recommend staying onsite at the vineyard. The owners have designed it to be a full weekend getaway experience, and that includes its luxury accommodations!Amish Country
Photo courtesy of Amish Country, Ohio
What to Do: There's a little slice of heaven in the heart of Ohio called Amish Country. Tucked between Cleveland and Columbus, this region boasts gently rolling hills, colorful sunsets, charming farms, friendly people, farm-to-table restaurants and so much more. With so much to do, see and eat, it's the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Where to Stay: The Inn at Honey Run offers a romantic escape in the heart of Amish Country complete with fireplaces, jacuzzis, and spectacular views of the lush scenery. If you choose one of the two private cottages onsite (which we highly recommend), you can snuggle up next to your sweetheart by your in-room fireplace, or look up at the stars in the private outdoor hot tub.Columbus
Photo courtesy of Zoey Duan via the Short North Alliance
What to Do: Columbus is Ohio's largest city, and the perfect summer getaway for those who prefer a quicker pace and a high level of excitement. Spend your days watching sporting events in the arena district, indulging in an Instagram-worthy meal, escaping to German Village, shopping at the best boutiques, meandering down the Scioto Mile, or exploring the immensely popular Short North Arts District. Here are the six best neighborhoods to explore while you're there. Where to Stay: Hotel LeVeque is an iconic piece of the Columbus skyline, but also one of the best places to stay in the city. Feel like you're gazing up at the stars from the comfort of your own room, which features light projections and art deco-styled furnishings.Kelleys Island
What to Do: This relaxing oasis offers a little something for everyone — beautiful, crystal-clear waters, excellent restaurants, and opportunities for endless outdoor adventuring. No wonder it's at the top of our list for summer getaways! To get there, you'll have to take the Kelleys Island ferry from Marblehead (which departs every hour) or the Jet Express from Sandusky. Once you arrive, popular activities include boating and water sports, fishing, hiking, biking and kayaking, and there are 127 gorgeous camping sites available on the island for those who enjoy sleeping under the stars. In fact, it's one of 15 best camping destinations in Ohio! Where to Stay: A Water's Edge Retreat boasts stunning views of Lake Erie and a private beach, and has been featured on NBC TODAY for its charming ambience and luxury accommodations. Lounge lazily on the veranda, walk on the beach, enjoy breakfast in the parlor, or borrow a bike to explore the island.The Wilds
Photo courtesy of Grahm S. Jones via the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
What to Do: The Wilds, owned and operated by the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, is a fantastic safari-like getaway that allows you to see animals in a much more natural environment. Embark on a specialty tour, which could include wine and rhinos, a comprehensive fishing experience, or a horseback sunset safari. And don't miss out on the zipline tour, which allows you to see it all from the canopy! Where to Stay: Book one of the private Yurts at Nomad Ridge in order to get the full Wilds experience. This is one of the most unique and luxe getaways an adventurous couple could ask for, located directly on the grounds of the safari park. And though it feels like you've escaped to the middle of nowhere, the yurts are actually quite lavish, complete with bamboo floors and a spa-like bathroom. After exploring the park, retreat to your yurt and relax on the private porch, catching views of the wildlife off in the distance.Put-in-Bay
What to Do: Located on South Bass Island just off the coast of northern Ohio, Put-in-Bay is a beloved summer getaway for people from all over the state! The town draws nearly two million visitors every year, all of whom enjoy shopping in the charming stores, fishing for perch and walleye, dining at the excellent restaurants, and dancing the night away in local dive bars. To get there, grab the Jet Express from Sandusky or Port Clinton. Bonus: Amusement park enthusiasts should make sure to check out Cedar Point before or after their trip. This park is consistently ranked among the best in America. Where to Stay: The Island Club provides rental properties for couples, families and friend groups alike. Choose between a charming cottage or a waterfront condo depending on your preference.Salt Fork State Park
What to Do: Salt Fork State Park Lodge is tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, just a short drive from Cambridge. And once kids (or kids at heart) experience it, they will ask to come back every summer. This is Ohio's ultimate summer destination, offering a crystal-clear lake for water skiing, swimming and inner tubing, an abundance of horseback riding trails, a gigantic swimming pool, and lit campfires by night. After all, what kind of summer getaway would it be without s'mores for dessert? Where to Stay: Salt Fork Lodge offers a wide variety of guest rooms and two-bedroom cabins to house you during your stay, each equipped with exceptional views, upscale amenities, and easy access to the lake and pool. Plus, there are several pet-friendly options available so your four-legged friend doesn't get left behind!Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Photo courtesy of Cuyahoga Valley National Park
What do Do: Cuyahoga Valley National Park has long been lauded as a bucket-list destination not just for Ohioans, but for people from all over the country. The park boasts lush foliage, cascading waterfalls, interesting rock formations, bountiful wildlife, and plenty of hiking and biking trails to experience it all. In fact, a segment of the trail within the park is part of the National B&B Bike Trail, which connects small B&Bs across the country. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad allows you to enjoy views of the breathtaking scenery from a train car, and there are even a few themed excursions throughout the year if you're looking for something non-traditional. Where to Stay: The charming town of Peninsula, located within the park, is a worthy destination on its own. There are a variety of unique accommodations in the area (including camping), but we recommend the Inn at Brandywine Falls. Overlooking the Brandywine Waterfall, the inn was built in 1848 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Though it has been fully renovated, it hasn't lost an ounce of its historic charm.Enjoy your summer vacation!
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out these 11 incredible road trip destinations within a six-hour drive of Columbus.
March
29
29
Ohio-Based 16-Bit Bar + Arcade is a Dream Destination for Any Kid at Heart
Fun and silliness don't have to end after childhood — and 16-Bit proves that 100 times over. The bar, currently located in Columbus, Cleveland and Cincinnati, caters to all children at heart, gamers and science fiction fanatics with its immersive arcade experience. It goes above and beyond your typical themed bar, inviting locals and visitors alike to escape into a new world.
Every weekend, the team celebrates something different in pop culture, whether it's something special that happened historically on a certain day or something happening currently, and molds the entire bar around that event. For instance, on Winona Ryder's...
Every weekend, the team celebrates something different in pop culture, whether it's something special that happened historically on a certain day or something happening currently, and molds the entire bar around that event. For instance, on Winona Ryder's...
March
23
23
The 10 Best Family Photographers in Cleveland
Time flies by so quickly. In the blink of an eye, your little ones will be grown up, pursuing their careers and building families of their own. By capturing your family in a photo, you can stop time and relive some of these beautiful moments as often as you wish. But first, you'll need an incredible family photographer.
We rounded up the best family photographers in Cleveland — each with a different personality, artistic style and story to tell. Whether you're looking to capture a romantic moment between you and your sweetheart, a photo of your newborn child, graduation images, or even portraits of your family pet, these talented artists are here to help!
March
2
2
14 Incredible Cleveland-Based Businesses Worth Supporting
Here in Cleveland, we have a strong sense of pride. We are grounded in life's most important treasures — family, good food and sports (go Cavs!) — and we know that our little slice of heaven on Lake Erie is something truly special. Our town is filled with makers and innovators that are putting us on the map as one of the best craft beer cities in the country, as well as a mecca for artists, foodies and adventurers.
We like to support these entrepreneurs whenever we get the chance, so we rounded up our favorite local businesses in Cleveland. On this list, you'll find everything from charming boutiques to organic pet stores, and creative jewelers to expert pizza slingers. Their products are 100% Ohio, and 100% worth supporting.
Geiger's
Outdoor equipment and apparel Facebook | InstagramSince 1932, Clevelanders have been coming to Geiger's for all of their outdoor apparel needs. Geiger's sells men's and women's clothing as well as footwear, gear for snow sports, cycling, hiking and more, and each store has a unique selection! The brand has now expanded to three locations in the Cleveland area, but continues to stick to its original business mantra — high quality, exceptional service and highly functional apparel. Perhaps that's why the company serves several generations of loyal customers!
Room Service
Housewares, apparel, gifts and artwork Facebook | Instagram Room Service, a charming independent boutique located in Ohio City, has everything that you could possibly need and more. You'll find exceptional gifts, homewares, trendy apparel, artwork, jewelry and more in an environment that truly stands apart from the rest! The shop is owned by artist and designer, Jennie Doran, who uses the space as an outlet for her creativity, and runs it alongside her husband, Andrew Worm.Lake Erie Pet Food Co.
Pet supplies Facebook You do your best to eat healthy and take care of yourself, so why wouldn't you do the same for your pet? Lake Erie Pet Food Co. specializes in high-quality, locally made pet food that is delivered straight to your door. There is no corn, wheat, gluten or soy, no animal by-products, no GMOs, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. It's the freshest, healthiest and highest quality dry food you can get — and it's all made right here in Northeast Ohio!Cleveland Street Glass
Jewelry Facebook | Instagram
Photo courtesy of Cleveland Street Glass
Who knew that something beautiful could come from a car break in? This local jeweler creates gorgeous pieces from auto glass swept right off the streets. Each piece is completely unique, and showcases the natural breaks and flaws in the glass. Automotive glass is a beautiful color all on its own, but when accented by gorgeous silver and gold settings, it takes on a completely new look. See our interview with owner, Deanna Dionne, here.LOCLE Box
Locally made gifts Facebook | Instagram Clevelanders have a lot of pride for our hometown, and we love sharing that enthusiasm whenever we get the chance! LOCLE Box makes it easy to spread the local love with people all over the country (and even the world). The gift boxes are filled with Ohio-made, artisan products, including treats, apparel, candles and more. Contact the owner (Deby) to customize your box to your preferences, and then send it off to a faraway family member as a reminder of home.Cuyahoga Collective
Home goods and creative services Facebook | Instagram
Photo courtesy of Cuyahoga Collective
To create the best living space, you need to surround yourself with things you love. Cuyahoga Collective embraces this mantra, offering home goods, apparel and artwork inspired by the Lake Erie coast. Many of the products sold in the store are created right here in Ohio, and the company also collaborates with local brands, offering copywriting, interior design, strategic services and more.Old City Soda
Soda Facebook | InstagramSoda doesn't have to be packed with artificial flavors and preservatives, but unfortunately, that's what you'll typically find at the grocery store. At Old City Soda, however, they're doing things differently. These handcrafted sodas feature fresh-from-market produce and all-natural ingredients that are pressed by hand, carefully mixed, carbonated and bottled in small batches. Enjoy straight from the bottle, or incorporate into your favorite cocktail.
Old Brooklyn Cheese Company
Cheese Facebook | Instagram From mild cheese to stinky cheese, and soft buttery cheese to hard aged cheeses, cheese aficionados will find everything they need at the Old Brooklyn Cheese Company. The cheeses are made by Cleveland's own Michael Januska, who has gained inspiration and vast knowledge of the cheesemaking industry from his travels across Europe and his experience as a head chef in London. Stop by for an in-house tasting, settle down at a table to enjoy an artisanal cheese-focused sandwich, or pick up a charcuterie platter to go for your next party!Cleveland Whiskey
Whiskey Facebook | Instagram
Photo courtesy of Cleveland Whiskey
Named "Whiskey Distillery Innovator of the Year," Cleveland Whiskey has won a total of 38 medals at competitions around the world. The distillery uses modern technology and transformative woods like sugar maple, apple, black cherry, hickory and more to completely alter the taste of it's barrel-aged bourbons. "No sugar, no syrup, no artificial flavor or color," said CEO Tom Lix. "All of the flavor comes from the wood."Brewnuts
Donuts and craft beer Facebook | Instagram
Photo courtesy of Brewnuts
Brewnuts is a collaboration between two Cleveland locals, Shelley and John Pippin, who gave up their full-time jobs to pursue their passion for beer, donuts and their hometown. The shop is a combination of a charming corner bakery and your favorite happy hour spot, offering local craft brews alongside craft-beer-based, small batch donuts. The beer creates a rich flavor and texture in the donut — flavors that are then augmented by fun additions like fruity pebbles, coffee, bacon and more.Malley's Chocolates
Chocolate Facebook | Instagram Malley's Chocolates is a family-owned and operated business now celebrating its third generation. The sweet shop is based right here in Cleveland, but has served customers both local and international for more than 80 years! Here you can find everything from chocolate covered marshmallows to hot fudge, and ice cream concoctions to brittle. All of the products are Ohio-made, and though there are now 23 storefronts across the region, Clevelanders have the opportunity to visit the charming spot on Madison Avenue where it all began.CLE Urban Winery
Wine Facebook | Instagram CLE Urban Winery is an inviting, boutique winery located in the heart of Cleveland Heights, Ohio. The shop celebrates its Cleveland roots by producing, selling and serving wines that honor our city in flavor and in brand — all made in house from high quality grapes. Settle down in the chic, cozy shop to sample a few of the whites and reds on hand, and perhaps take a bottle home with you!Great Lakes Brewing Company
Craft beer Facebook | Instagram
Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Brewing Company
Great Lakes Brewing Company beer is now sold in stores and restaurants from coast to coast, but the renowned craft beer brand got its start right here in Cleveland! Irish brothers Patrick and Daniel Conway opened their operation in the historic Ohio City neighborhood in 1986 under tricky circumstances. Cleveland had just shuttered its last production brewery in the early 80s, the neighborhood was still up-and-coming, and the brothers themselves had limited brewing experience, but they turned to experts and passionate people to help make their dream a reality. Now more than two decades later, the Ohio brewery has an impressive stack of awards under its belt, a large fan base, and incredibly flavorful brews worth savoring. Come see what all the fuss is about!Dante's Pizza
Pizza Facebook | Instagram Established in 1963, Dante's is a long-standing neighborhood favorite. Though the restaurant has switched ownership several times over the years, the pizza recipe has remained exactly the same, because, why fix something that isn't broken? Grab one of the specialty pizzas for a quick dinner or to share with friends! We are particularly fond of the White Garlic, smothered with a buttery garlic sauce, and the Pepperoni Feast, which features (you guessed it) layers and layers of pepperoni.#SupportLocal!
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March
2
2
The Story Behind Cleveland Street Glass, a Local Clevelander Turning Car Break Ins into Jewelry
A car break in is one of the most disheartening experiences someone can go through, but unfortunately, it's also one of the most common forms of burglary. In fact, hundreds of break ins are reported across the country every single day.
Although this is not something that any of us like to go through, one Cleveland resident is working to create a silver lining out of the experience. Deanna Dionne, owner of Cleveland Street Glass, creates gorgeous, statement jewelry pieces from the leftover auto glass swept off of the streets, allowing the victim of a break in to reclaim their stolen property in the form of something pretty and wearable. We spoke to Deanna to get the full story.
How Cleveland Street Glass Got Its Start
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