
Oh, cheesecake. It's hard to imagine any dessert more rich and delicious. Whether you prefer yours topped with strawberries, drizzled with chocolate, or layered with caramel sauce, you deserve to indulge every now and then. Here are some of the top places to enjoy cheesecake in Northeast Ohio.
4339 Dressler Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Studio Bakery creates beautiful, artistic baked goods. Everything is made from scratch, using high-quality ingredients. Their cookies are meticulously decorated and creatively designed, and their cheesecake is some of the best around. Guests love their chocolate crinkle and bananas foster, made with fresh bananas and rum.
This artistic bakeshop is always adding new options to the menu, so you never know which decadent cheesecake they'll have when you stop by. They serve coffee and have a few tables in the shop, so you can easily enjoy your dessert on-site.
706 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
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Sprinkle City is a cheerful little bakery on North Canton. They're widely known for their wedding cakes and special occasion cakes, but their cheesecake is incredible, too. There's an entire section of their menu dedicated to it, and they offer a variety of flavors, including classic, strawberry, chocolate, lemon, and pumpkin swirl.
Sprinkle City also sells miniature cheesecakes, which are the perfect weeknight treat. The shop is only open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, so be sure to plan your visit.
Sweet Sadie's Desserts was founded in 2015 and quickly became a favorite in Northeast Ohio. The owner, Sade, does all of the baking herself. The shop's motto is Real Flavors, Real Love, and the love comes through as you taste the cheesecake.
The best way to enjoy cheesecake from Sweet Sadie's is to order online via their website. Sade's menu changes regularly, with new items being added often. Past customers have loved the cherry cheesecake, which is smooth and creamy with a sweet cherry topping.
76 E. Mill St., Akron, OH 44308
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Sweet Mary's Bakery is a woman-owned business and an Akron staple. They recently expanded their kitchen and menu, making this the perfect time to stop by. Sweet Mary's does not have a dining room, so plan on taking your cheesecake to-go. Order a whole one and bring it home to share with your family for dessert, or just order a slice for yourself.
Raspberry cheesecake is a favorite here. It's topped with a house-made raspberry glaze and fresh berries. Other options include lemon meringue and turtle. Some of the cheesecakes are even gluten-free!
BB's Sweet Treats is an Akron-based online bakery that will deliver tasty cheesecake straight to your home. Browse their selection on their website, then contact them for a quote when you're ready to order.
While BB's does sell a lot of traditional cakes, their selection of cheesecakes is nothing short of incredible. The butter pecan is so buttery and creamy it melts in your mouth. They also have a tasty white chocolate raspberry cheesecake, along with a key lime cheesecake that will knock your socks off. Other flavors include blueberry, cherry, and strawberry. Add a few cheesecake-stuffed chocolate strawberries to your order for a special touch.
21 Furnace St., Akron, OH 44308
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Chef Gina's Bakeshop is the creation of Gina Giampietro, a professional pastry chef who studied at the Culinary Institute of America. She creates a variety of sweets, including eclairs, sugar cookies, and macarons. If you're looking for something unique to try, cheesecake macarons are a great choice.
Gina's menu also includes mini cheesecakes, which are lovely for serving at parties. Order them ahead on the bakery's website to ensure you have enough.
1455 W. 29th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113
Larder Delicatessen has quite the reputation in Cleveland. They were even nominated for the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2019. With an emphasis on Eastern European baked goods and ingredients, they create all sorts of treats, ranging from babka to knish.
While you're at Larder, it only makes sense to enjoy a full meal. Complete that meal with an order of cheesecake, which is classic and creamy. They'll wrap it up for you to take home if you're too full to enjoy it on-site.
13204 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
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Chanelle's Treatz is a popular, modern bakery in Cleveland. They make all sorts of creative cakes and cupcakes, and they have a whole menu of specialty cheesecakes. Chocolate peanut butter, cherry cobbler, strawberry crunch supreme, Oreo dream, and red velvet are all popular choices.
All of Chanelle's cheesecakes come in either regular size or "triple" size, which is great for a larger party. In addition to being delicious, these cheesecakes are beautifully decorated and look incredible on a table. Stop by their shop, or place an online order on their website.
12101 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Located in Cleveland's Little Italy, Presti's Bakery first opened in 1903. They still use traditional Italian recipes and ingredients to create their baked goods, including cheesecake. Should you want a meal before your cheesecake, their cafe serves pizza, stromboli, deli sandwiches, and other favorites.
As Presti's cheesecake is Italian cheesecake, it has a lighter texture and less-sweet flavor than you may be used to. It's a nice change of pace and well worth ordering. Presti's serves a turtle version of their cheesecake, too. Pair your slice with a cup of espresso or a delicious cappuccino for an indulgent experience.
What's your favorite style of cheesecake?

New Year's resolutions like losing weight are so last century. In 2022, why not resolve to learn more about your community with the help of Cutler Homes and LoLo Gifts?
We've teamed up to provide a monthly series of free gifts spotlighting local small businesses. Whether you pick up croissants in Northeast Ohio, appetizers in Columbus, or coffee in Cincinnati, make a resolution to check out these fabulous merchants.
Akron: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites
Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites
Wooster: A Pulled Pork Sandwich
Cincinnati: A Sandwich or Bagel, and a Coffee
4866 Everhard Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Who says you can't improve on perfection? Cupcakes are heavenly, but the gourmet flavors at Nom Nom Cupcake Factory will take your appreciation to a whole new level.
About Nom Nom Cupcake Factory
The baked treats at Nom Nom Cupcake Factory are so amazing that delighted customers use them as wedding cakes. Each week features a rotating selection of flavors such as Salted Caramel and Cinnamon Toast. As if that weren't enough, the bakery has upped their game by offering gourmet flavored popcorn.
Contact and Hours
330.705.2560
Monday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.
3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333
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Yes, the blue-box mac 'n' cheese is classic comfort food. But get ready to enjoy the blissful sensation of biting into the smoked Gouda mac 'n' cheese bites from The Rail.
About The Rail
As a spinoff of Mike Mariola's City Square Steakhouse, it's no surprise that The Rail serves first-class burgers. Beef is 100 percent locally sourced, with several specialty burgers as well as extensive build-your-own options. The Rail is also known for their delicious four-cheese scratch-made mac 'n' cheese.
Contact and Hours
330.864.7245
Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
109 W. Washington St., Medina, OH 44256
Candy apples aren't just for fall. Bite into one of these delicious sweet treats with your gift from Candyapple & Co.
About Candyapple & Co.
Appropriately, Candyapple & Co. is an "offshoot" of a landscaping company specializing in orchards. Their dipped apples go far beyond caramel and candy to encompass more than 100 flavors, including root beer float, carrot cake, and sparkling wine. Be sure to check out their boutique with jewelry, skincare products, and other great gift items.
Contact and Hours
330.635.0132
Tuesday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
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Bread is sometimes referred to as "the staff of life." You're sure to agree after you use your $10 to try one of the tasty loaves from Brimfield Bread Oven.
About Brimfield Bread Oven
Technology may be king, but Brimfield Bread Oven still believes in old-school techniques. At this European-style bakery, all products are made from scratch with top-quality ingredients and baked in a wood-fired oven. Stop by on Saturday between 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. and take home a traditional wood-fired pizza for dinner.
Contact and Hours
330.474.7800
Thursday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
5839 Frantz Rd., Dublin, OH 43016
Even chefs at five-star restaurants agree that everything tastes better fried. That goes for mac 'n' cheese, the granddaddy of comfort foods, especially when they're made with gourmet cheese like the smoked Gouda mac 'n' cheese bites at The Rail.
About The Rail
Over the past few years, the gourmet Angus beef burgers at The Rail have earned awards and recognition from local and national publications. One of the favorites is the Mojo, made with a blend of beef and andouille sausage and getting some added kick from a topping of jalapeño slaw. Cool things down with one of two dozen brands of Ohio craft beer on hand.
Contact and Hours
614.725.3200
Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
128 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691
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Sample some legendary Southern BBQ without leaving town. Make sure you have plenty of napkins ready when you get your pulled pork sandwich at Omahoma Bob's BBQ.
About Omahoma Bob's BBQ
Omahoma Bob's BBQ achieves their authentic Texas-style taste with a dry rub of spices and classic low-and-slow cooking in the smoker. Hot Italian sausages and German brats are also created in-house. Complete your meal with turnip greens, red beans and rice, hush puppies, and other traditional sides.
Contact and Hours
330.262.9871
Tuesday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
9701 Kenwood Rd., Blue Ash, KY 45242
Marx Hot Bagels has been a Cincinnati favorite since 1969. With the first bite of your sandwich or bagel, you'll understand why.
About Marx Hot Bagels
Don't settle for those frozen grocery store bagels. Marx Hot Bagels serves more than 30 varieties, all baked fresh daily. They make a perfect canvas for egg salad, lox, hummus, or just a simple schmear of cream cheese. Change things up with some bagel bread, bagel pretzels, or bagel thins.
Contact and Hours
513.891.5542
Monday - Sunday: 6 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
3471 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44118
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Croissants are the superstars of baked goods, serving equally well as breakfast pastry and base for a savory sandwich. How will you enjoy your two croissants from On the Rise Artisan Breads?
About On the Rise Artisan Breads
At On the Rise Artisan Breads, baking is truly an art. The bakers start work each day before the sun rises, using simple but high-quality ingredients to create breads, rolls, pastries, cookies, and quiches. For a real treat, don't miss the daily specialty flavors such as raisin challah, eclairs, and chocolate cherry batard.
Contact and Hours
216.320.9923
Tuesday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Resolve to keep the fun going all year long. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get our monthly offering of freebies.

So have you been naughty or nice this year? The good news is that it doesn't matter! When it comes to our monthly gifts from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, everyone can get in on the fun.
Some great local businesses in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati are out there waiting to be discovered by you. Enjoy some holiday cheer, courtesy of your friends at Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Cincinnati: A Breakfast Sandwich and a Coffee
425 Tuscarawas St. E., Canton, OH 44702
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Sandwiches are portable and come in various options, making them a perfect meal. Satisfy your hunger with one of the tasty sandwiches from Salumeria di Torre.
Nothing beats a hearty deli sandwich, especially when it's made with the fresh Italian meats and artisan cheeses found at Salumeria di Torre. Pair your sandwich with a side of pasta salad, chickpea salad, or cup of soup. Hosting a special event? Salumeria di Torre offers convenient catering with pastas, entrées, sandwiches, and dessert trays.
330.488.5763
Tuesday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
811 W. Liberty St., Medina, OH 44256
Appetizers have come a long way since cheese and crackers. Choose from creative starters such as duck bacon wontons, potato and cheese pierogies, and toasted mussels from Corkscrew Saloon.
The Corkscrew Saloon, located in a beautiful 1850s Victorian mansion, is "where the foodie comes to relax." Whether it's produce from local farms or seafood from the Pacific Ocean, Chef Ryan Marino takes pride in sourcing the freshest ingredients for their menu of new American cuisine.
330.725.0220
Tuesday - Thursday 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 2 p.m. - 9 p.m.
135 W. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691
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Need a morning starter or afternoon pick-me-up? Stop at Whippt Dalgona Coffee for your free drink and find out why people call Whippt coffee, "Heaven in a Cup."
While searching for a caffeinated drink to help her through her studies at the University of Akron, Nicole Norris discovered Dalgona coffee. Six months after earning her degree, Nicole opened Whippt Dalgona Coffee in downtown Wooster. The vegan frozen concentrate is used to make hot and cold coffee drinks, steamers, hot chocolate, and shakes.
330.439.0084
Tuesday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
1500 Polaris Pkwy., Polaris Fashion Place, Ground Floor, Columbus, OH 43240
Candy may not fit your conventional definition of art. Chances are you'll change your mind after you try the visual and edible delights of the sweet treats at MMELO Boutique Confections.
As the name implies, MMELO (pronounced "mellow") Boutique Confections has a mission to elevate candy above its junk food status. Their tea cakes, chocolate buttons, and other Instagram-ready treats are made with all-natural, quality ingredients. Following a special diet? MMELO offers a number of vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
614.822.9530
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 6 p.m.
405 E. Main St., Kent, OH 44240
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Get a slice of the Big Apple right here in Kent. Lucci's Place is serving up a free New York-style pizza for your December gift.
Guided by more than 30 years of experience, Lucci's Place has been firing up their stone deck ovens to turn out some first-rate traditional New York-style pizza. Homemade sauce and dough provide a fresh base for pepperoni, heirloom tomatoes, black or green olives, and any combination of more than two dozen toppings.
330.673.9833
Monday - Sunday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Lucci's Place is currently open for pick-up and delivery only.
7306 Detroit Ave., Suite 101, Cleveland, OH 44102
In the new millennium, coffee is more than just a beverage; it's a lifestyle. One sip of your free drink from Ready Set Coffee, and you'll know why they've become such a valued member of the community.
You've heard of garage bands? Ready Set Coffee may be the first roaster to originate as a garage coffee. Within a year, the coffee proved to be so popular that orders were coming in from as far away as Alaska. In spring of 2021, Ready Set Coffee moved into more spacious quarters in the fashionable Gordon Square Arts District.
216.736.8601
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
421 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
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Mom always said breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Make her proud when you pick up a breakfast sandwich and coffee from Press on Monmouth.
Yes, panini sandwiches are the headliner at Press on Monmouth, but the creative menu goes above and beyond. Customers keep coming back for flavorful dishes such as quinoa and rice bowls, tater tot waffles, and their signature biscuits and gravy. Complete your meal with hot or cold spiked coffee, Bloody Mary, mimosa, or one of their other specialty beverages.
859.261.3397
Monday - Sunday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
2457 State Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223
Pizza provides common ground between vegetarian and meat lovers. Whichever you prefer, you'll find it New York-style at Lucci's Place.
When it comes to pizza, Lucci's Place is proof that you don't have to sacrifice quality for convenience. Their red and white sauces are made from scratch, while their pizza dough is made fresh daily. Pies include a luscious blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese along with your choice of meat, veggie, and herb toppings.
234.571.0053
Wednesday - Sunday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Lucci's Place is currently open for pick-up and delivery only.

Want to heat up chilly winter days with more hot freebies? Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to receive our monthly list of great special gifts.

Buckeyes are a popular treat in the state of Ohio. Who wouldn't love these balls of peanut butter coated in chocolate? Whether you're a dedicated buckeyes fan or someone hoping to experience them for the first time, you just have to take a trip along the Ohio Buckeye Candy Trail. This trail takes you to various bakeshops and candy stores, each serving its own version of buckeyes. Here are some of the top stops along the Ohio Buckeye Candy Trail.
Haute Chocolate is an incredible candy store in Cincinnati. They've been in business since 1979 and have gained quite a reputation for their buckeyes. As you step into the small, brick building, you'll be greeted by the scent of chocolate and peanut butter — and you'll know something delicious awaits.
The owner is usually in the store at Haute Chocolate, and they can tell you all about their chocolate-making process. In addition to classic chocolate buckeyes, they also make white chocolate buckeyes, which are a must for any white chocolate fan. The chocolate-covered strawberries are also incredible if you're looking for something to accompany your buckeyes. Eating the buckeyes and strawberries side by side is almost like having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
317 Main St., Milford, OH 45150
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Tickled Sweet is located in the downtown area of Milford. They were named Score Business of the Year in 2017! You can spend an hour or two walking around to nearby shops and restaurants before stopping in for some buckeyes. They're made in-house, and they're served with a smile.
In addition to buckeyes, Tickled Sweet offers an assortment of fudge and macarons. Their macarons come in fun flavors like key lime and birthday cake, and they're sold individually.
101 E. Alex Bell Rd., Centerville, OH 45459
Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe was founded in 1984 and has remained a family business ever since. The shop is housed in a small brick building. Inside, shelves of packaged chocolates draw you in with their beauty. There's also a deli-style service counter where you can have chocolate packaged individually to order.
Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe sells traditional buckeyes with a milk chocolate exterior. The peanut butter centers are especially creamy! They come in packages of 6, 12, or 24, so you can bring a few home to share. If you're looking for something to enjoy alongside your buckeyes, you can't go wrong with the shortbread. Known as "Aunt Laura's shortbread," it's incredibly delicate with a nice brown sugar flavor.
1777 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, OH 43228
If you're in or around Columbus, make sure you stop by Anthony Thomas for some buckeyes. This large candy store is family-operated, and they manage to turn out 50,000 pounds of chocolate each year.
The buckeyes here are described as "really peanut buttery" and smooth. They come individually wrapped, so you can try one here and there without worrying about the rest of the package spoiling. Buy a 12-piece or 24-piece box if you plan on sharing. Anthony Thomas also sells Ohio Baskets, which are shaped like the state of Ohio and filled with classic candies like buckeyes, chocolate-covered pretzels, and caramel corn.
1855 Northwest Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212
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If you want to eat some lunch or breakfast alongside your buckeyes, this is the place to go. Chocolate Cafe has a menu with soups, salads, sandwiches, wine, cocktails, and even omelets. But the chocolate is definitely the star of the show.
The buckeyes at Chocolate Cafe are hand-rolled, and they sell for $1 apiece. They also offer buckeye pretzels, which is a fun twist on the classic. You might be tempted to order some truffles or mini cupcakes to bring home, too.
220 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
This shop may be named after fudge, but don't let that fool you. They still have some of the best buckeyes in Columbus. The centers are incredibly smooth and creamy, and they're dipped in real Belgian chocolate. You can buy the buckeyes in boxes of 6 or 15.
Definitely take the opportunity to sample the fudge while you're at Schmidt's, too. The plain chocolate is a classic, but the butter pecan is incredible if you're a nut lover. Schmidt's Fudge Haus is located in the Historic German Village, so feel free to take a walk around as you enjoy your sweets.
Sweetie's Chocolates is an enormous candy store located directly next to Grandpa's Cheesebarn, an enormous cheese store. If you're in Northeast Ohio, you absolutely need to visit both. They offer lots of free samples and have an incredible selection of both cheeses and sweets.
Sweetie's offers buckeyes dipped in both milk and dark chocolate. They even offer miniature buckeyes, which they sell in a big tub suitable for sharing. Other tasty treats include chocolate-covered pretzels, caramels, and fudge. The licorice candy, which comes in many flavors, is also a favorite.
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Honadle's doesn't take shortcuts, sourcing as many ingredients as possible from local companies, and they always use the freshest, best-quality items possible. This really shows in the quality of their buckeyes and chocolates. Honadle's is a stop on the Ohio Buckeye Trail that you don't want to skip.
The buckeyes here come in milk and dark chocolate versions, and they're sold in a 12-count box. The sea salt caramels are a great treat to order if you're looking for something extra.
100 Victoria Rd., Youngstown, OH 44515
Everything at Butter Maid Bakery is made in small batches, using old-fashioned recipes and traditional ingredients. They've been around since 1903, so they've had plenty of time to master their craft! In addition to the buckeyes, customers love their kalochi, and it's definitely worth a try.
Butter Maid Bakery's buckeyes are larger than most. The filling is also a bit softer than you might be used to since they're made with a higher proportion of peanut butter. They're sold in 12-count boxes, so you'll have enough to share.
As you travel along the Ohio Buckeye Trail, your taste buds are sure to be pleased! Which one of these candy stores are you most excited to visit?

Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cleveland are noted for their vibrant urban settings and fast-paced lifestyles. When you want to slow down and get away from it all for a while, there's a whole new world just a short drive away. Spend a day or a weekend exploring some of these amazing small towns around Ohio.
Waterfront towns may seem like summer-only destinations, but that's not the case with Avon Lake. The city itself measures only 11 square miles, but 220 acres of that area is covered with parks and other green spaces, making Avon Lake a visual splendor in any season. With its well-maintained boat launch and a fishing pier that's open year-round, Miller Road Park is a popular family-friendly spot for water activities, picnics, and relaxation. Stop in at Klingshern Winery, a local tradition since 1935, for an informal wine-tasting.
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Founded in 1818, Medina remains a picturesque representation of small-town America. Social, entertainment, and cultural activities still revolve around Main Street, lined with stunning Victorian-style architecture and delightful mom-and-pop stores. You'll find it hard to believe the region suffered not one but two debilitating fires in the 19th century. Learn more about Medina's history at the four museums located downtown. There's even a quaint town square park, highlighted by a gazebo that serves as the centerpiece of community events.
Hinckley Township, named for original proprietor Samuel Hinckley, is home to a famed seasonal tradition that rivals Groundhog Day. Every year on March 15, as many as 50,000 people gather to observe Buzzard Day, when the birds return like clockwork. The official event began in 1957, and residents consider Buzzard Day the beginning of spring. Festivities are held at Hinckley Reservation, a worthy attraction in its own right. This southernmost Cleveland Metropark is known for Worden's Ledges, a fascinating series of sandstone ledge carvings depicting elements of local history.
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History and architecture are frequently entwined, with the town of Bexley being a prime example. The serene, tree-lined suburb of Columbus draws several visitors to view its impressive large houses and mansions. Jeffrey Park, a 40-acre natural woodland with a number of walking trails, is also the site of majestic Jeffrey Mansion, built in 1905 by a former mayor of Columbus. Northern Bexley is home to the official Governor's Mansion, a one-time private residence donated to the state in 1955. Just west of Bexley sits the Franklin Park Conservatory, a botanical garden featuring more than 400 species of plants along with a permanent collection of stunning glasswork by Dale Chihuly.
Perhaps the town's own motto sums it up best: Delaware is "Hometown Living with a Modern Spirit." The parents of Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th president of the United States, were among the city's earliest settlers. In 1912, Delaware came within one vote of becoming the new capital of Ohio. The Historic Northwest District features an eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Federal and Queen Anne to Craftsman and Gothic Revival. More than 500 homes and carriage houses in the neighborhood are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearby, the thriving downtown area includes the Strand, one of the 10 oldest movie theaters in the country.
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If Granville reminds you of a charming New England town, you wouldn't be far off. The village was settled by a group from Granville, MA, who named their new home after their original one. But indigenous people inhabited the area more than four hundred years before. One of the notable local landmarks is the Alligator Effigy Mound, used by people of the Fort Ancient culture as a ceremonial site and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Other popular sites include the Bryn Du Mansion, Dawes Arboretum, and Granville Inn. Immerse yourself in local history at the Denison Museum, Granville Historical Society, and Robbins Hunter Museum.
People often describe Yellow Springs as having a mellow, 1960s-type vibe. Fittingly, the village was founded in 1825 by a collection of 100 families hoping to create a utopian community. Yellow Springs takes its name from an actual natural spring with a yellowish tint due to high iron content. You can view this landmark at Glen Helen Nature Preserve, which features other stunning scenery such as wildflowers, 400-year-old trees, and limestone cliffs with waterfalls. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Clifton Mill, with its rustic setting that includes a classic red, covered bridge.
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In its earlier days, Lebanon was a designated stagecoach stop for north-bound travelers. With historic buildings that house businesses such as the Black Horse Tavern, it's not hard to visualize those times. Since 1803, the Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel, Ohio's oldest continuously operated business, has hosted notable figures such as Charles Dickens, Barbara Bush, Mark Twain, Charles Laughton, and Kesha. Right across the street sits a library funded by Andrew Carnegie. Lebanon has such an authentic small-town feel that it served as the filming location for Harper Valley PTA.
From the name to the setting, Rabbit Hash is as quirky and lovable as you might expect. Originally known as Carlton, the town took on the name of its signature dish to avoid confusion with nearby Carrolton. A French bulldog named Wilbur currently presides as mayor, continuing a longstanding tradition. As with many small towns, the community center of Rabbit Hash is the legendary General Store. In a concession to the digital age, the store does maintain an online shop, but the actual shelves are full of antiques, hand-woven towels, collectibles, and other fascinating items. Both the General Store and the Rabbit Hash Historic District can be found on the National Register of Historic Places.
Small towns have been a rich source of material for pop culture, from movies and books to country songs. What's your favorite story about a small town?