
The earliest water-powered mills date back to the Roman Empire. As farming became an increasingly important part of Ohio's economy, mills were so vital to the industry that communities frequently grew around them.
In the 21st century, several mills remain as monuments to the development of agriculture around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Step back in time for a fascinating look at our state's past with a trip to these picturesque historic mills.
75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316
With its red-sided building, giant wheel, and cascading water, picture-perfect Historic Clifton Mill could have been pulled from a movie set. In reality, the authentic 19th-century grist mill is the only one of six mills in the immediate area that remains standing. After touring the mill, stroll across the adjacent 90-foot covered wooden bridge for some spectacular views of the grounds and stop in at the 1940s Gas Station Museum next door. Complete your day with a fresh-cooked meal at the onsite restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week. During spring and summer, the mill itself is open weekdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission is $3. Call ahead to confirm.
St. Rt. 3 South, Loudonville, OH 44842
View this post on Instagram
Just over 20 years ago, Mark Smith and his family were camping in nearby Mohican State Park when they discovered Wolf Creek Mill. Sadly, this once-impressive grist mill had fallen into severe disrepair after years of neglect. As a historic restoration contractor, Mark was inspired to form the non-profit Friends of the Mill Group to restore the site's original glory. The mill itself is now back in operating condition, and the group's ultimate goal is to create a historic village, preserving tradition for future generations. Visit the website for hours as well as the schedule of fundraisers, trade fairs, and other events.
6450 Arcanum-Bears Mill Rd., Greenville, OH 45331
While the name may sound like a wildlife sanctuary, Bear's Mill is named for Gabriel Baer, the man who constructed the building in 1849. Incredibly, the framework consists of hand-hewn timber beams that are close to 50 feet long without a single splice. But this still-functioning grist mill is about more than commerce. It also houses the Clark Gallery, a space devoted to showcasing a rotating selection of works from local artists, including pottery made by Bear's Mill potters. Admission is free. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 1 – 5 p.m. Sunday.
12021 Echo Dell Rd., East Liverpool, OH 43920
View this post on Instagram
Travel back in time with a visit to Pioneer Village at Beaver Creek State Park. In addition to Gaston's Mill, a fully restored grist mill dating back to 1837, the village is home to a blacksmith shop, chapel, schoolhouse, and a canal-era lock, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beaver Creek State Park and Pioneer Village are open to the public daily at no charge, while Gaston's Mill may be viewed in operation on select weekends during the summer.
4919 Chapman Rd., #4801, Delaware, OH 43015
Tucked away on the banks of the Olentangy River, the ruins of the Bieber Mill might resemble one of the castles from Game of Thrones. In 1848, only a few years after its construction, George Bieber and his son James purchased the original wooden grist mill. James later built a towering stone mill, but lost ownership when he couldn't afford to run the business. Sadly, a fire in the early 1900s destroyed the frame mill and part of the stone mill. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources currently owns the property. They have stabilized the remains and hope to obtain financing for a complete restoration. In the meantime, Bieber Mill's beauty still shines through, making it a popular spot for sightseers and photographers.
1429 Rockmill Pl. NW, Lancaster, OH 43130
View this post on Instagram
The current Rock Mill, which is the stunning centerpiece of Stebelton Park, is actually the third structure to bear the name. In the mid-2000s, the building underwent a major restoration, including the creation of a 26-foot all-wood waterwheel, which is the largest one in the state. Across from the waterwheel is a breathtaking 14-foot waterfall, where the Hocking River flows through the gorge. A quaint white covered bridge completes the nostalgic scene. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk, while tours of the mill are offered from noon - 4 p.m. each weekend from May through October.
22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH 43502
If a history book came to life, it would be Sauder Village. Back in 1976, Erie Sauder built his namesake village as a living tribute to the pioneering spirit that shaped Ohio. Among the 75 historic structures and 50,000 artifacts is a working grist mill, which is used to grind corn into meal for their cooking demonstrations. Visitors also get a chance to try their hand at grinding corn with stones and replicate the method used by Native Americans. Other points of interest include Erie's Farm Shop and the Cabinet Shop, where you can learn more about Erie's other legacy, Sauder Woodworking. Sauder Village opens for the season on May 6. Visit the website for information about hours and admission prices.
8148 Main St., Garrettsville, OH 44231
View this post on Instagram
"Reuse, repurpose, recycle" is today's mantra of environmental awareness, and it's clearly what owners Shelli and Brian Buchanan had in mind when they founded Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company. When it was constructed in 1804, Garrett's Mill served a radius of 20 miles, leading to the development of the town that bears the same name. Shelli and John kept the essence of the mill in creating their brewery and gastropub. In addition to inventive house brews such as Garrett's Gold and Ma Barker Birch Beer, the restaurant serves elevated pub fare. Signature dishes include the "Brewben," with bratwurst subbing for corned beef, and BBQ chicken gouda mac. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 7 p.m. Sunday.
Grist mills produce flour, which is the foundation for many of our favorite foods. Donuts, cakes, bread, pie ... what's number one on your list of baked goods?

Spring is in the air, and now is the perfect time to enjoy a little bit of tranquility. There are few things more relaxing than taking a walk through lush gardens and beautiful landscapes. While there's no shortage of places to enjoy the outdoors in Ohio, visiting a professionally-cared-for arboretum is a different kind of experience.
It might surprise you to learn that there are many great arboretums in Northeast Ohio and the surrounding area. Here are a few of our favorites.
9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
Spanning more than 3,600 acres, the Holden Arboretum is one of the largest botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States. It features 600 acres that are exclusively dedicated to gardens and collections. This stunning arboretum truly is a"living museum."
When you visit, you'll have the chance to walk through over 20 miles of trails and explore multiple themed public gardens. They also offer tours and guided hikes. Even better, it's dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend on your adventure with you.
2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
View this post on Instagram
The Seacrest Arboretum is a free attraction that draws over 10,000 visitors each year. It's located on the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center campus and is open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. This attraction features themed gardens with over 2,500 varieties of plants. You'll love strolling along their paved walkways that run through the over 110 acres of forest, meadows, and gardens.
This space is perfect for taking a walk or even bringing a picnic lunch. Well-behaved pets on leashes are also welcome. Take a look at their website to learn about their guided walks, plant sales, and other community events.
16711 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136
A nonprofit arboretum and botanical garden, Gardenview Horticultural Park is open to non-member visitors on weekend afternoons. It features 6 acres of rare plants and flowers displayed in a natural, cottage-style landscape. Since this is a lesser-known garden, it's a great place to enjoy some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle.
This oasis of lush plants, trees, and unusual flowers is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing walk and the ideal setting for amateur photographers to practice their skills. The $5 admission fee is well worth the cost.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
View this post on Instagram
There's never a shortage of things to explore at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens! Start your adventure at the Conservatory's biodomes, where you'll find over 400 species of plants. These indoor glass greenhouses allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature in any kind of weather.
The John F. Wolfe Palm House is one of the oldest portions of the conservatory. It features 43 different species of palm trees from around the world, many of which are considered endangered in the wild. There are also a variety of outdoor gardens, collections of artwork, and more. The cost of an adult ticket is $19 and includes access to all of the gardens and displays. We're sure you'll find that it's worth every penny!
E. Weber Rd., Columbus, OH 43202
Located in the historic Clintonville area of Colombus, the Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum is home to hundreds of native trees and shrubs. There are markers identifying some of the trees, and you can print out maps that will guide you to interesting flora in the neighborhood. When you're done checking out the various plant species, make sure to visit the nearby ravines. They're a sight to behold!
152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210
View this post on Instagram
Chadwick Arboretum is located on the campus of Ohio State University in Columbus. It spans an impressive 62 acres and features various gardens that include native and non-native annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. While there, you can relax and reflect at The Learning Gardens, explore the Lane Avenue Gardens, and enjoy some time at The Arboretum North. The last is a hidden gem that features over 1,000 native trees, a 3.5-acre research lake stocked with several fish species, and a picnic area.
5100 Arboretum Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45223
The 30-acre Mt. Airy Arboretum is a public park that's set within Mt. Airy Forest. It features hundreds of different types of trees as well as garden areas and hiking paths. We recommend walking the 1.4-mile trail, where you'll have a good chance to see wildlife in addition to a wide variety of trees, plants, and flowers. We also recommend packing a picnic lunch so you can enjoy one of their secluded picnic areas while you're there.
4521 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
View this post on Instagram
You might not think of a cemetery as the best place to spend your free time, but the Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum is an exception! This 1840s cemetery is the third-largest in the United States. It's also an arboretum, offering an expansive collection of both native and exotic plants.
When you visit, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy approximately 450 acres of beautifully landscaped and maintained land. This makes it a "must-see" attraction whether you live in the Cincinnati area or are here visiting. It truly is both a local and a national treasure.
4600 Muchmore Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
The Stanley Rowe Arboretum is a public space in Cincinnati that is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. It spans 8.9 acres and features approximately 1,800 different species of trees and plants. There are also several well-kept winding trails and open green spaces where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.
Each tree and shrub on the grounds is labeled with a small sign that tells you its species and native origin. This makes it a dream come true for those who are into botany and want to learn more about plant classifications. From taking a leisurely walk to settling down with a good book, this arboretum is the perfect place to get away from it all.
Celebrate the change of season among the area's most beautiful flowers and trees.

Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.
But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way.View this post on Instagram
Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?

Hartville is a historic village that's home to approximately 3,000 people, and each year this charming spot draws upwards of two million visitors. Explore the delights Hartville has to offer with this look at how to spend a fun 24 hours in this popular community.
3631 Swamp St. NE, Hartville, OH 44832
View this post on Instagram
Visit Quail's Covey Bed & Breakfast and you'll truly enjoy the comforts of home. The stunning Tudor-style house features a comfy great room and cozy sunroom where you can read, play games or simply relax. Stroll the peaceful grounds and view the gardens, waterfall, koi pond, and bass-filled lake with swans Gracie and George. Fall asleep to the sounds of waterfalls and wildlife, then wake to the scent of Charlotte's homemade apple dumplings. Call 330.312.0083 for reservations.
953 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
Visiting Hartville became even more convenient with the opening of Comfort Suites Hartville-North Canton, the first hotel of any kind in the area. Pet-friendly Comfort Suites is within walking distance of the famous Marketplace & Flea Market, hardware store, and other Hartville attractions. Hotel amenities include free WiFi and hot breakfast, flat-screen TVs, fitness center, heated pool, and hot tub. Call 330.587.4347 for reservations.
1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
Recognized as one of the top 20 flea markets in the United States, family-owned Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2019. The 12-acre grounds, largest in the country, accommodate 1,000 vendors displaying everything from antiques to collectibles to fresh produce. There's also a full calendar of events such as specialty markets, craft workshops, and movie nights. Weather isn't cooperating? No problem! Spend the day browsing the three-acre indoor marketplace, which includes dozens of vendors along with Sarah's Market Fresh Grill and The Coffee Mill. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
From jewelry by Alex and Ani and Pandora, to bags from Vera Bradley and Brighton, The Shops at Hartville Kitchen have something for everyone. Shop for gifts or treat yourself to figurines by Swarovski, shoes by Crocs, or apparel from Life is Good. Don't forget to browse the Children's Shoppe for toys, clothing, and other essentials. The Shops at Hartville Kitchen is open 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday through Saturday.
1315 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH, 44632
View this post on Instagram
Hardware stores may not be on the must-see list in other cities, but Hartville Hardware & Lumber is on a level of its own. Founded in 1947 as a general farm store, Hartville Hardware has grown to become the largest independent hardware store in the country. With nearly seven acres under its roof, the store includes unique features such as Idea House, a complete 1,850-square-foot showcase home, and the Row House, a facade of various architectural styles. Check out the Farm and Pet area, which features a section of the original livestock auction barn from Hartville Hardware's humble beginnings. Hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday.
127 Mill St. SE, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
Tired of looking at the same things in national clothing store chains? It's easy to put together a one-of-a-kind wardrobe at Best Bib and Tucker. Mother-and-daughter team Barb and Megan Wise's stylish boutique combines high-fashion consignment items with a carefully curated selection of jewelry, handbags, and accessories from their buying trips to Chicago. Sign up for the BBT newsletter and get birthday discounts, secret sales, and other perks. Hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
115 S. Prospect Ave., Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
Peace, Love & Little Donuts is the result of a fortunate mistake made by founders Ron and Marci when their used fryer produced tennis ball-sized cakes. By the time the couple realized they had simply assembled the machine incorrectly, they had a hit on their hands. The range of creative flavors, including salted caramel macchiato, Fruity Pebbles, and Robert Brulee, is enough to make Homer Simpson's head spin. Phone ahead and your order will be ready for pickup when you arrive. Hours are 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, and 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sunday.
1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery is part of the same family-owned group operating Hartville Hardware, Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market and Hartville Collectibles. After more than 50 years, Hartville Kitchen is still serving tasty homemade meals created from the recipes handed down by grandma Soloma Miller. The menu features comfort food classics such as hot roast beef sandwiches, chicken noodle soup, and breaded pork chops. Don't leave without pastries, pie, or breads from the onsite bakery. Plan a special night out at one of Hartville Kitchen's dinner shows featuring comedians, musical actsm and tribute bands. Hartville Kitchen is open 11 p.m. - 8 p.m. every day but Wednesday and Sunday.
733 W. Maple St., Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
Italian restaurants are appropriate for every occasion from a family dinner to a romantic date night for two. In fact, true love led to the opening of Carlo's Trattoria when the restaurant's namesake met his future wife on a cruise ship and followed her back to her hometown of Hartville. Carlo's signature dish is the plate-sized stromboli, a turnover-style sandwich loaded with cheese, sauce, and fillings. Other customer favorites include chicken Parmigiano and lasagna. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.
13480 Congress Lake Ave. NE, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
When you want to spend some quiet time away from it all, you're just minutes from scenic Quail Hollow Park. Explore the 700 acres of meadows, marshes, and woods on foot, horseback, or mountain bike or try your luck fishing in Shady Lane Pond. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. The nature center is open weekends for live animal exhibits and interactive educational programs. Cross-country skiing, skating, and sledding are available Saturdays and Sundays during winter for a minimal fee. Quail Hollow Park is open sunrise to sunset seven days a week.
Which activities in Hartville will capture your fancy?

A breath of fresh air and the open road does us all good every now and then. For anyone trying to balance the need to maintain distance from others with a desire to get out and explore, a scenic drive might be just the answer.
If that sounds like you, then Northeast Ohio is a great place to be. Be sure to check out these amazing historical buildings on your driving tour in the Cleveland area!
4308 Franklin Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
Commonly known as Franklin Castle, the Tiedemann House has overlooked Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood from its perch on the north side of Franklin Boulevard for more than 125 years. This spectacular stone mansion is a prime example of Victorian architecture in the American Queen Anne Style, complete with turrets, gargoyles, and more than 80 windows. The Tiedemann House also has more than 20 rooms, including a ballroom that runs the entire length of the fourth floor. The house is rumored to be haunted and also to include as-yet-undiscovered secret rooms and passageways used by bootleggers during prohibition.
91 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
The Old Stone Church looks oddly out of place among the high rises that surround it in present-day Downtown Cleveland. It wasn't always that way. Cleveland was a very different city when this Presbyterian church was first dedicated in 1834. But even as time has moved on all around it, the Old Stone Church remains virtually unchanged. It's the oldest building on Public Square and the second-oldest church within the city limits. No visit to Cleveland is complete without taking some time to admire this incredible piece of living history.
614 W Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113
A memorable high-rise office building in Downtown Cleveland, the Rockefeller Building was built between 1903 and 1905. Seventeen stories tall and massively wide, the building was one of the city's most imposing structures at the time of its completion. The famous American business magnate John D. Rockefeller oversaw the construction of the building, which partly swallowed up the Weddell House, its historical neighbor. The Rockefeller family sold the building to Cleveland businessman Josiah Kirby in 1920, only to buy it back shortly thereafter to prevent the name "Rockefeller" from being removed.
2203 River Road #9685, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
View this post on Instagram
Nestled in the quiet Cleveland suburb of Willoughby Hills, the Louis Penfield House was built in 1955 and designed by none other than famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. With its floating staircase and several walls made entirely of windows, the house has a number of features typical of Wright's unique architectural vision. Many of those windows offer incredible views across the home's 30-acre plot to the Chagrin River. And while there are a handful of Frank Lloyd Wright homes scattered across Northeast Ohio, the Louis Penfield House is the only one where guests can spend the night.
50 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
One of Cleveland's signature landmarks, the 52-story Terminal Tower was formally dedicated in 1930, after a long process of demolition, excavation, and construction that lasted four years. Built during the peak of the "skyscraper boom" in the '20s and '30s, Terminal Tower was the second-tallest building in the world when it opened its doors. Today, it's the second-tallest building in Cleveland (after Key Tower), and it remains one of the city's most recognizable structures, with hundreds of LED lights that illuminate the building's iconic spire in different colors throughout the year.
6709 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103
View this post on Instagram
Dunham Tavern is the oldest building in Cleveland. Originally built as a private residence by the Rufus and Jane Pratt Dunham family in 1824, the structure was expanded with the addition of a taproom. It was used for many years as a tavern and stagecoach stop, gradually falling into disrepair until it was purchased and restored by landscape architect A. Donald Gray in 1932. Dunham Tavern was then re-opened as a museum, which it remains to this day. Visiting the Dunham Tavern Museum is like stepping back in time, offering an unmatched glimpse into a time when Ohio was at the very edge of the Western frontier.
331 Market Ave. S, Canton, OH 44702
View this post on Instagram
Built in 1841 by the grandfather of Ida Saxton McKinley—first lady and wife of President William McKinley—the Saxton McKinley House is a beautiful Victorian building in Canton, Ohio. With its expansive porch and irregular massing, this incredible three-story brick house was Ida's childhood home. The couple lived there for years prior to his election as president and the house served as a stage for William's campaign. Today, it's the only surviving home with direct ties to the McKinleys in their hometown of Canton. The Saxton McKinley House is managed as a First Ladies National Historic Site and is home to the National First Ladies Library.
3649 E. 65th St., Cleveland, OH 44105
View this post on Instagram
Cleveland offers no shortage of spectacular churches, but few can match the grandeur of the St. Stanislaus Church. Known by the full name Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr, the church was built in 1873 and served Cleveland's growing Polish Catholic community. Many Polish immigrants settled in the part of Cleveland known then as Warszawa—today it's called Slavic Village—and the splendid architecture of St. Stanislaus Church was as prominent then as it is today. The church itself, as well as its surrounding neighborhood, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Northeast Ohio offers a rich history of architecture dating back centuries. Did we forget to mention your favorite Cleveland area landmark? Let us know in the comments section!