Posts with tag 'Family-Friendly Activities'

Ever since the first fossils were discovered, they have fascinated people around the world by providing a glimpse into what life so many years ago. Our knowledge of the past has been shaped by the many fossils discovered around the world. With National Fossil Day coming up on the second Wednesday of October, now is the perfect time to discover the amazing world of fossils. Whether you're in Columbus, Northeast Ohio, or Cincinnati, there are tons of great places to explore fossils around Ohio.

Cincinnati Museum Center Dinosaur Hall

1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203

Do your kids love dinosaurs? Trick question – of course, they do! The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to a variety of fascinating, family-friendly museums, including the Dinosaur Hall, where kids can learn all about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed Ohio. The Dinosaur Hall exhibit is home to 6 massive, nearly complete dinosaur skeletons, displayed in all of their glory. There are a variety of interactive elements that make it easy to learn more, and the museum showcases mostly specimens from the late Jurassic period. Many of the fossils on display here are part of ongoing scientific research, with new discoveries being made regularly.

Trammel Fossil Park

11935 Tramway Dr., Sharonville, OH 45241

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Located just outside of Cincinnati, Trammel Fossil Park is one of the few places in Ohio where you can dig for your own fossils and take them home. The park is located in 10 acres of land, which has never been disturbed by development, and was donated by a local family. It's one of the safest, most accessible places in Ohio to dig for fossils, and there are tons of specimens in excellent condition to be found here. Trammel Fossil Park is a popular place for school field trips and a great place for families to visit anytime.

Oakes Quarry Park

1267 E. Xenia Dr., Fairborn, OH 45234

With a central location between Columbus and Cincinnati, Oakes Quarry Park surrounds a historic limestone mine filled with natural beauty. The mining activities here helped expose many of the fossils that were once buried deep underground, and the entire park is filled with trails that make it easy to explore every corner. While you're searching for fossils, you're also likely to see a variety of birds and other wildlife in a thriving natural habitat. Just be sure to collect only fossils from designated fossil collection piles, which can be found throughout the park.

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

1 Wade Oval Dr., Cleveland, OH 44106

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For kids and adults alike, there are few better places to learn about ancient animals than the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. The museum has been celebrating historic finds for more than 100 years, with an extensive selection of exhibits on creatures from Ohio and points far beyond. Families with kids will love exploring the Smead Discovery Center, which has a variety of exhibits geared toward kids age 10 and under. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is currently undergoing a large renovation, which will add new exhibits and re-imagine existing ones. But don't worry, the museum will be open throughout the construction project, and there's plenty to see no matter when you visit.

Akron Fossils & Science Center

2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Copley, OH 44321

Just outside of Akron, you will find the Akron Fossils & Science Center, which was recently voted as the top children's museum in all of Northeast Ohio. There are two separate branches of the facility, one dedicated to hands-on science experiences for all ages and one focused on the creation of the universe. There's also an outdoor park with even more learning opportunities. Your admission grants access to all three areas, along with guided tours for each area. There are tons of opportunities to get hands-on with fossils while learning from a talented team of educators with a variety of backgrounds.

American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery at COSI

333 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Ever wonder what it would be like to see a young T. rex walking across the plains of Ohio? The Dinosaur Gallery at the Center of Science & Industry features a six-foot-long model of a T. rex that walks in place, and that's just the start of what you'll find here. There are exhibits on a wide variety of dinosaurs, featuring fossils that have been beautifully preserved and plenty of educational information on each fossil. There's also a full-size, climbable model of an ancient Oviraptor nest and a 100-million-year-old piece of fossilized amber, which has an ancient feather preserved inside.

Caesar Creek State Park Spillway

8570 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068

One of the best places to dig for your own fossils in Ohio, the Caesar Creek State Park Spillway is home to a vast collection of fossils from the Ordovician period hundreds of millions of years ago. At that time, the entire area was covered by a large inland waterway and was home to a thriving coral reef filled with aquatic species. While the inland sea and reef are long gone, many of the fossils from that time period are still around to be discovered in the present day. Before you start hunting for fossils, make sure that you stop by the visitor's center to get a permit, which is available free of charge and comes with some handy guides for collecting and identifying fossils.

Orton Geological Museum at Ohio State University

155 S. Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210

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The Orton Geological Museum is located on the historic Ohio State University campus, filled with fossils and other incredibly interesting exhibits. There are frequent talks from fossil experts from the Ohio State University faculty and other experts from around the world. If you can't make it to the museum in person, there are also some great digital programs available for free. This year, there's a unique digital exhibit on Ohio fossils, put together in honor of National Fossil Day. Best of all, the digital exhibits are free to view whenever you want to see them.

Can You Dig It?

Ohio is one of the best states for fossil hunting. Which destination will you investigate first?

Fall has arrived, which means it's time for pumpkins, apples, and corn mazes. Getting lost in a corn maze can make for some great fall fun. Wondering whether you've turned the right way, feeling like you're going in circles, singing songs about the corn — it's all a part of the process. There are lots of great corn mazes in Ohio. Here are some of the mazes most worth visiting as the autumn leaves start to fall.

Derthicks Corn Maze

5182 Twinsburg Warren Rd., Mantua, OH 44255

Derthick's Corn Maze is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through October 31, 2021. There are actually two mazes on-site. One is a bit shorter, and one is a bit longer. You can work your way through one or both, using clues found along the way to guide you.

In addition to a corn maze, this farm offers other fun activities like sunflower picking, a cow train, a petting zoo, and a zip line. There are often food trucks on-site so you can enjoy snacks or a tasty drink.

Maze Craze

14070 Woodworth Rd., New Springfield, OH 44443

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If you're in the Northeast Ohio area, this is definitely one of the top corn mazes to visit. In 2018, it was voted the Best Corn Maze in the Nation by USA Today. Each year, the maze has a different theme. For 2021, the theme is Snow White.

Maze Craze will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. There are a few special events throughout the season, including a Wine and Cider Adventure on October 7 and 14th. In addition to the corn maze, Maze Craze offers a hayride, corn hole games, a straw maze for little ones, and a tractor playground. 

Regal Vineyards

2678 County Line Rd., S. Geneva, OH 44041

Regal Vineyards is primarily a winery, but each year, they also organize a top-notch corn maze. The maze stretches over 8 acres and is open Saturdays and Sundays through October 31. On Friday and Saturday nights from 7 - 10 pm, the corn maze becomes haunted for an even more intense experience!

In addition to the corn maze, Regal Vineyards offers lots of other fun family activities like duck races, hayrides, pumpkin bowling, and a jumping pillow. Concessions are available on-site, and there's a gift shop where you can buy various farm souvenirs.

Lynd Fruit Farm Giant Corn Maze

9851 Morse Rd. SW, Pataskala, OH 43062

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Lynd Fruit Farm offers one of the biggest corn mazes near Columbus. The theme this year is the 7 Seas. As you navigate the maze, you can pretend you are a pirate sailing on waves of corn and fighting off sea monsters. The maze is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the maze.

After navigating the maze, you can play Giant Jenga, take a wagon ride, or pick some apples. There's also a climbing wall for kids.

The Maize at Little Darby Creek

8657 Axe Handle Rd., Milford Center, OH 43045

The Maize at Little Darby Creek is entering its 20th year, and it's shaping up to be a nice one. This year's 8-acre corn maze design honors Jack Nicklaus, an internationally renowned golfer from Ohio. It will be open to visitors Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31st.

Along with the price of admission, you also get to enjoy a petting zoo, laser tag, a low ropes course, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, and tetherball, along with other family-friendly activities.

Hendren Farm Market

14595 Johnstown Utica Rd., Johnstown, OH 43031

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If you're looking for a quieter experience, then Hendren Farm Market is a great place to visit. They have an 8-acre corn maze behind the farm market. There are clues hidden throughout the maze to help you solve a mystery as you find your way through. 

After going through the maze, you can shop for farm-grown goodies in the market. Along with pumpkins, apples, and other fall produce, you'll find cinnamon rolls, honey, syrup, and beef jerky.

Tom's Maze

4881 Germantown Liberty Rd., Germantown, OH 45327

Tom's Maze is open Thursday-Sunday through October 30. This is their 24th year of running the maze, and it's shaping up to be a good one. The maze stretches over 8 acres of cornfields. There are 12 different puzzles to solve along the way, each of which is found inside a colorful mailbox.

In addition to the typical corn maze experience, Tom's Maze offers private campfire packages. You can pay ahead to rent a campfire site for you and your family to enjoy. This can be a fun way to spend more time together after playing in the corn maze.

Burwinkel Farms

4359 Hamilton Cleves Rd, Ross, OH 45013

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Burwinkle Farms has been a staple in the Cincinnati area for 100 years. They operate several farm properties in the area, growing everything from strawberries to apples. In the fall, they transform their Ross farm into a Fall Extravaganza. The corn maze is a key attraction, but there is also a corn pool, haunted hayrides, and a Halloween scavenger hunt. There are lots of fun fall scenes where you can snap memorable photos of yourself and your family.

Burwinkle Farms also has a farm stand on-site. You can purchase sweet corn, melons, potatoes, and other locally grown goods to cook at home.

Brown's Family Farm Market

11620 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

If you have kids, then Brown's Family Farm Market is a great place to enjoy a corn maze.  The atmosphere is very relaxed, and you can go through the maze at your own pace. In addition to the maze, there's a miniature town where the kids can play. There's also a smaller straw maze that makes for a shorter maze experience.

The farm stand also sells pumpkins and Amish fry pies, which are a delicious fall treat. There's also a picnic area that you can reserve ahead of time if desired. You could go through the maze and then enjoy a picnic lunch together.

Where Will You Get Lost?

Which one of these corn mazes will you get lost in this fall? Let us know when you find your way out.

Sweater weather is here, and that means it's time to enjoy all the fun fall-themed activities that come along with it. There are many fun things to do in Northeast Ohio this time of year, and heading out to an orchard to pick your own apples is one of the best.

Not only will you be able to enjoy your delicious haul of apples for weeks, but many local apple orchards also host fall festivals and other fun events. Here's a round-up of some of our favorite local spots to go apple picking. 

Arrowhead Orchard

11724 Lisbon St. SE, Paris, OH 44669

A visit to Arrowhead Orchard is always a good time! You can enjoy a hayride through the farm with special stops so you can hop off and pick your own apples. They also have a pumpkin patch, a stunning you-cut sunflower field, and fresh-pressed apple cider. 

Bring the kids — they'll love the two-acre corn maze. There's also a huge outdoor play area with a children's zip-line, a pedal car track, lots of slides, a corn pit, an obstacle course, and more! You can also try your hand at the apple cannons, where you can take aim and shoot at your favorite targets. 

Arrowhead Orchard is open Friday through Monday until October 25th. Admission ranges from $5 to $10, and they also offer free parking. 

Patterson Fruit Farm

11414 Caves Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

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Patterson Fruit Farm offers something for everyone. They provide wagon rides through the orchard and have a wide variety of apples available. If you can, plan to visit during their Family Fun Fest, which runs through October 31st. 

During the festival, they'll have tons of things for kids to do, including a 50-foot racing slide, a corn maze, pedal tractors, tire swings, push carts, and more. They'll also have face painting and pumpkin painting, pony rides, and horse-drawn wagon rides on designated days. 

Patterson Fruit Farm is open Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm with a $6 per person admission cost, and Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm with a $10 per person admission cost. Kids under 2 are free, and seniors are $6 every day. 

Hillside Orchard and Farm Market

2397 Center Rd., Hinckley, OH 44233

If you want a great selection of tasty treats to enjoy at home, you'll definitely want to pay a visit to Hillside Orchard. Not only can you pick delicious, juicy apples right off the tree, but you can also visit their farm market for fresh-baked bread and bagels, jams, jellies, preserves, special canned items like marinades and sauces, locally famous fruit pies, and more!

Many of the items you'll find here are from the nearby Amish community. You also won't want to miss out on their almost-famous frozen apple cider. They sell it by both the gallon and half-gallon. 

Apple picking will be available for four weeks beginning October 6th. The orchard is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm. In October, they're open on Mondays as well.

Hillcrest Orchards

50336 Telegraph Rd., Amherst, OH 44001

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You'll find a nice selection of pick-your-own apple varieties at Hillcrest Orchards. Through October, you can also visit their pumpkin patch to pick your own pumpkin. In addition, the orchard hosts lots of fun fall activities like a corn maze, hayrides, pedal karts, a playground and swing set, and more. 

U-pick is available through October 23rd on weekends only from 10 am to 6 pm. The admission cost to visit the farm is $12 per person. Kids 3 and under and seniors 73 and older get in for free. 

Stahl's Farm Market

10680 N. Johnson Rd., North Benton, OH 44449

Through October, you can visit Stahl's Farm Market to pick your own apples. They'll give you a container to use, and you can either drive or walk out to the orchard. This is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and take in the sights of the country. During October, you can pick your own pumpkins there too. 

When you're done with your apple picking, don't forget to visit the store, where you can buy non-pasteurized cider, assorted jams and jellies, fresh-baked bread, and more. They're open 7 days a week from 10 am to 6 pm.

Bauman Orchards

161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, OH 44270

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You'll love the easy-to-reach dwarf apple trees at Bauman Orchards! Even better, they constantly have fun and interesting events happening onsite. If you can, plan to visit them for their final Fall Festival date on October 2nd from 8 am to 5 pm.

During the festival, you'll be able to pick your own apples and enjoy both apple cider and cider donuts that are made fresh while you watch. There will also be a food truck, live music, pony rides, and a chance to visit with their farm animals.  

Miller Orchards

8690 Vermilion Rd., Amherst, OH 44001

If you want to take a step back in time, pay a visit to Miller Orchards. This family-owned farm has been around since the mid-1800s! They have a huge variety of u-pick apples available throughout the season. They also carry many other items like local maple syrup, local raw honey, squash, pumpkins, and more.

Miller Orchards is open from 9 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday and is closed on Sundays.

Richardson Farms

6984 Lafayette Rd., Medina, OH 44256

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There's plenty to explore at Richardson Farms! They have a variety of pick-your-own apples available and a pumpkin patch where you can pick your own pumpkin. You can also stock up your kitchen at their farm stand, where you'll find a nice selection of fresh-grown vegetables, herbs, and fruit. 

A farm isn't a farm without animals! They welcome visitors to spend some time with their cows, pigs, chickens, and turkeys. You can also take a hayride around the farm. The hours here vary, so you'll want to give them a call at 330-722-4029 before you head out. 

Fall in Love with Apple Picking! 

Now that you have all the in-cider information, which of these awesome apple orchards will you visit first?  

Lazy rivers, coursing streams, meandering creeks – Ohio has a lot to offer when it comes to great paddling water. If you're in search of a place for your next kayak adventure in the Buckeye State, then you're in luck! These nine Ohio rivers flow through landscapes ranging from remote countryside to urban centers, but they all have one thing in common: they're great places to explore by kayak.

Little Miami River

320 Victor Stier Dr., Milford, OH 45150

One of Ohio's best paddling streams flows right through Cincinnati and its outlying suburbs. The Little Miami River is a picturesque, meandering stream that traverses an ever-changing landscape ranging from open countryside and secluded forests to small towns and urban communities. It also has some of the cleanest water in the state, and in 1973 was designated Ohio's first National Scenic River. There are dozens of great access points along the way, but the Little Miami River Access site in Milford, OH is a great place to start. Scenic River Canoe Excursions also offers guided trips in the area.

Cuyahoga River

300 Stow St., Kent, OH 44240

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The Cuyahoga River winds through the heart of Northeast Ohio. It begins as barely a trickle but grows steadily until it becomes a broad, mighty watercourse when it enters Lake Erie in Cleveland. One of the best places to explore the Cuyahoga by kayak is the Kent, OH area, where the river tumbles between rock walls and is shaded by a canopy of trees that hide it from the suburbs beyond. John Brown Tannery Park is a great launch site in Kent and also serves as a hub for Crooked River Adventures, which offers guided river trips. This section of the Cuyahoga River can be challenging during full spring flow, but by summer, the waters are typically slow and easily navigable.

Scioto River

5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123

The Scioto River is the longest river that lies entirely within the state of Ohio. It traverses 231 miles through the heart of the state, passing through Columbus on its way to meet the Ohio River at the state line. There are a lot of great kayaking opportunities along the Scioto's course. Paddlers in the Columbus area are fond of Scioto Grove Metro Park, a beautiful 620-acre urban oasis in the city that offers two launch sites – one at either end of the park – for easy put-in and take-out. The Scioto River is also known for great catfish and smallmouth bass fishing, so you might want to pack a rod and reel. 

Big Darby Creek

1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH 43119

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The charming Big Darby Creek is like a magnet to canoe and kayak enthusiasts in the Columbus area. The creek flows 84 miles through Union and Madison Counties, eventually feeding the Scioto River. Along the way are numerous places to launch a kayak, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park being a local favorite. Darby Creek is surprisingly wild considering its proximity to the city. It's not uncommon to see beaver cuttings along the shoreline and turtles sunning themselves on rocks and trees near the bank. The park's official put-in site is just off Alkire Road, near the confluence of Big Darby Creek and Little Darby Creek.

Mohican River

3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842

The Mohican River flows through a landscape of secluded forests that looks as though it has been virtually unchanged since the first pioneers settled Ohio. Located about halfway between Columbus and Cleveland, Mohican State Park is a great place to explore the river. The park marks the spot where the Clear Fork Mohican River and the Black Fork Mohican River meet to form the river's main stem, and there are abundant kayaking opportunities in the area. It's a truly charming corner of the state. In addition to the state park, nearby Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery and River Zen Campground & Launch offer launch sites and camping.

Grand River

1122 Harpersfield Rd., Geneva, OH 44041

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The Grand River meanders through 102 miles of Northeast Ohio's Trumbull, Ashtabula, and Lake counties, passing through mostly picturesque rural communities on its way toward Lake Erie. It's a broad and tranquil river in summer and fall, perfect for paddling. Harpersfield Covered Bridge Metro Park is a popular place to put in, and launching here provides an opportunity to paddle under one of Ohio's oldest and longest covered bridges. From here, it's about 8 miles downriver to Hidden Valley Metro Park, and this section includes a scenic river gorge. Guided trips are available through Grand River Canoe Livery.

Mill Creek

316 W. North Bend Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45216

Offering a great stretch of urban paddling, Mill Creek flows through the heart of Cincinnati and is accessible at several spots along the way. It's a beautiful stream that offers a unique perspective of the city that few ever see. A local organization of paddling enthusiasts known as the Mill Creek Yacht Club helps maintain the stream and organizes group kayaking events. Put-in at the Playground at Caldwell Nature Center for a float trip through the city down to the next take-out at Millcreek Road, or continue down to Evans Recreation Area, the last stop before the Mill Creek Barrier Dam.

Mahoning River

75 N. Leavitt Rd. NW, Leavittsburg, OH 44430

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Drifting lazily through Northeast Ohio (and a bit of Western Pennsylvania), the Mahoning River snakes through tranquil forests, open farmland, quiet communities, and industrial landscapes alike. It's become an increasingly popular paddling stream in recent years, and the aptly named Canoe City Metro Park in Leavittsburg is an ideal place to get on the water. The park includes an easily accessible public launch and is a starting point for guided trips through Mahoning River Adventures. Wetlands along the river are popular for bird watching as well. 

Great Miami River

2000 US-40, Vandalia, OH 45377

Crisscrossing Southwestern Ohio for 160 miles before emptying into the Ohio River west of Cincinnati, the Great Miami River offers some of the best kayak water in the Cincy area. The river offers an established paddling route, known as the Great Miami River Water Trail, including numerous parks, access areas, and various put-ins and take-out spots along this beautiful, slow-rolling river. Taylorsville Metro Park and Island Metro Park – both in the Dayton area – offer excellent kayak launch sites that are part of the water trail, as well as riverside campsites that are open to paddlers.

Ride the River

Ohio has a lot of great paddling spots, including some we may have missed. Let us know your favorites in the comments section below!

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

9424 Shelly Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45242

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.

Tickled Sweet

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.

Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe

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.

Anthony Thomas

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.

Chocolate Cafe

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.

Schmidt's Fudge Haus

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 at Grandpa's Cheesebarn

668 US-250, Ashland, OH 44805

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.

Honadle's Fine Chocolates

1138 W. Maple St., Hartville, OH 44632

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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.

Butter Maid Bakery

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. 

Taste Ohio's Best

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?