
One of the many advantages of living in Ohio is the abundant natural resources and recreational opportunities available throughout the state. You'll find plenty of sparkling lakes where you can go boating, fishing, or swimming, and each has its own uniquely beautiful setting.
If you're looking to spend the day on the water near Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati, the following eight lakes are great destinations.
5031 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319
Instead of representing just one lake, Portage Lakes is a system of eight lakes that encompass over 2,000 acres. They're very popular destinations throughout the year, with bass fishing in season and ice fishing in the winter. Two of the Portage Lakes, Rex Lake and Cottage Grove Lake, have a swimming area for boaters, and you can relax on a 900-foot public beach and swim at Turkeyfoot Lake. And when you're ready to take a break from your time out on the water and try some different activities, you'll find hiking trails and picnic areas surrounding the lakes.
6100 Pymatuning Lake Rd., Andover, OH 44003
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Pymatuning Lake is Ohio's largest inland lake, covering just over 17,000 acres. Located on the Ohio/Pennsylvania state line, it's a popular destination for boaters, swimmers, and campers. And if you'd like to fish for walleye, this lake is the perfect destination. Near the causeway, you can enjoy a public swimming beach with amenities like changing facilities, showers, and restaurants, so it's a great place to go with the kids.
2961 Warren Meadville Rd., Cortland, OH 44410
A visit to Mosquito Creek Lake, located near Youngstown, offers plenty of water-based activities like boating and fishing. Crappie, walleye, bluegill, perch, bass, and flathead/channel catfish are abundant. Five launch ramps and boat rentals make fishing on the lake convenient. When you're ready to swim, head to the lake's public swimming beach, complete with a dog swimming area and roomy dog park attached.
27331 OH-278, McArthur, OH 45651
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About an hour's drive from Columbus, Lake Hope is situated in one of the state's most historic and scenic state parks. The area is rugged and beautiful, filled with steep gorges and narrow ridges. The lake is relatively small compared to some others in the state, but it's still ideal for boats, canoes, and rowboats. Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are offered on the lake, so you can learn a new skill as you take in the beautiful natural setting. If you'd like to swim, head toward the dam to locate a beach complete with a bathhouse with restrooms, showers, and changing booths, as well as a concession building.
22172 Park Rd., Senecaville, OH 43780
Ohio's third-largest inland lake, Seneca Lake is an extremely popular destination for boaters. You'll find ski boats, sailboats, pontoons, canoes, kayaks, jet skis, and other watercraft sharing the lake's 3,550 acres of water. You can even dock your watercraft at The Dockside Restaurant and enjoy a meal before heading back on the water. If you'd like to haul in some fish from the lake, you'll find many species in abundant supply, including crappie, bluegill, bullheads, and largemouth bass. A sandy swimming beach is also available, with a full concession stand on-site.
84000 Mallarnee Rd., Deersville, OH 44693
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Fishermen and recreational boaters often flock to Tappan Lake's 2,131 acres. It's easily accessible from Stock and Franklin townships, with their roads bordering three long bays on the north side. If you like to fish from the shore, the lake is the perfect spot since it has 47 miles of shoreline, which is the most of any lake in the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District.
8570 E. State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068
This large lake is just about an hour north of downtown Cincinnati, and it's the perfect spot to spend a day on the water. You'll find plenty of places to go boating, kayaking, and fishing, along with plenty of amenities like a marina, launch ramps, and dock rentals. Fishing for muskellunge draws many visitors to the lake, and it's known to offer some of the best crappie fishing in the state.
3294 Elklick Rd., Bethel, OH 45106
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Located about 25 miles from Cincinnati, Harsha Lake is often called East Fork Lake due to its location in East Fork State Park. Seven boating launch ramps are available, and plenty of fishermen head to the lake for crappie, bass, and bluegill. The large lake also has a 1,200-foot public beach and swimming area where you can go when you're ready to relax. If you'd like to enjoy a picnic, you'll also find plenty of areas around the lake where you have a bite to eat before heading back out on the boat.
Mount Hope Road, Harrison, OH 45030
Located only about 30 miles from downtown Cincinnati, Miami Whitewater Forest Lake has a wide variety of watercraft to rent, so you can easily get out on the water. Choose from rowboats, pedal boats, kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and motor and pontoon boats; pick up some fishing gear; and head out on the water. Several perfect picnic spots are situated around the lake when you're ready to take a break.
Which Ohio lakes top the list of the ones you'd most like to visit this season?

If you're looking for a unique way to spend an evening this summer, dinner and the theater might be just the outing for you. Ohio is home to an impressive array of performing artists, including actors, comedians, and musicians. Take some time to get out there and see them at any of the exciting venues listed below.
1260 Euclid Ave. Inside Crown Plaza at Playhouse Square, Cleveland, OH 44115
At The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show, you get to play the part of a detective in a gripping theatrical murder plot. As you eat your four-course dinner and enjoy access to a cash bar, you will watch the murder scene unfold before your eyes. Each event features plainclothes actors sprinkled throughout the audience, giving the proceedings a more unpredictable and dramatic flair. It's an interactive experience where anyone in the room could be a part of the mystery. At the end of the night, the person who figures out the identity of the murderer first will win a small prize for their efforts.
4365 OH-39, Millersburg, OH 44654
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Hoping to bring your kids on your night out? The Amish Country Theater is one of the few fully family-friendly theater establishments in Ohio. This local theater features a full complement of nightly variety shows that evoke the popular vaudeville shows of the early 20th century. Special guests appear periodically to shake up the venue's usual farm-themed routines. The performances are diverse, surprising, and always entertaining, giving you something new to look forward to each time you visit.
5475 Lake Rd., Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH 44041
The Noble Art Entertainment dinner theater experience is always a fun option for a night out in Northeast Ohio. Some of their shows, such as murder mystery dinners, are interactive. Others are more traditional theater experiences. Each is performed during a three- to six-course dinner with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available. Vegan dishes may also be provided with advance notice and a small surcharge. Check out the list of upcoming shows and show menus on their website to see which types of events are available this summer.
765 W. Central Ave., Springboro, OH 45066
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La Comedia is a popular live dinner theatre in the Cincinnati area. When you attend, you'll be invited to eat your fill from a massive buffet filled with delicious options like fried chicken and fish, homemade cornbread, sauerkraut, and potato soufflé. This company is best known for its musical performances, but you can catch all kinds of shows here at different points in their rotation. This summer, they will be performing Beauty and the Beast starting on June 2nd, followed by The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee starting July 28th.
4990 Glenway Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45238
Cincinnati Landmark Productions has been operating under different names for nearly 36 years. In that time, they have become one of Ohio's premier entertainment destinations. Some of the shows they have lined up for the summer months of 2022 include Newsies, Jerry's Girls, and Carousel. CLP also hosts the Cincinnati Young People's Theater at their Covedale building. This summer, this group will be putting on an all-teen performance of the beloved high school musical Grease.
2172 E. Seymour Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45237
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Experience a whole new meaning of "meals on wheels" on the Cincinnati Dinner Train. Buying a ticket on this vintage train entitles you to a four-course dinner served while rolling through the most scenic spots around the outskirts of Cincinnati. The train itself is themed around the 1940s and includes several carefully restored cars to accommodate guests. The highlight of these is the Albee Car, an impressive space featuring a full musical stage. This spot is home to the Queen City Sisters, a retro musical group singing songs from the period to complete the mood. By the time you step off the train at the end of the night, you'll feel as if you've gone back in time.
Inside Hilton, 401 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
The Columbus version of The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show offers the same thrilling experience as the company's Cleveland location. Remember that there is a lot of frightening imagery involved at these dinners, including simulated gunshots and sudden blackouts—all guests must be over 15 to attend. Adults can look forward to a thrilling night of puzzle-solving, intrigue, deception, and eventual triumph. Even if you are not the person to eventually catch the killer, you're sure to leave feeling pleased to have had the chance to exercise your detective skills.
2101 Noe Bixby Rd., Columbus, OH 43232
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Over the course of just two hours, The Murder Mystery Company offers a three-course dinner and a Clue-style murder mystery performance. This company themes each of their performances to enhance the experience and provide something different for repeat guests. Some recent themes include Midnight at the Masquerade, Death of a Gangster, and Totally 80s, Totally Murder. Guests are encouraged to dress up to match the theme of the night. Adult guests can also purchase alcohol at any point during the show.
1625 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220
At Columbus' A Murder Mystery Dinner, you'll experience more than just a show. Guests at this dinner theater are taken through an engaging murder mystery through step-by-step interactive dramatizations of events. In between these dramatizations, guests are invited to solve escape room-style puzzles together as a team. This format is a great way to see how well your companions work together as well as how well each of you works with other people. Some of these events are adult-only, while others accommodate teenage guests as well. Check out your options in advance if you plan to bring younger people to the show.
There's nothing like a night on the town to get you feeling on top of the world. Which of these entertainment experiences will you be attending this summer?

Working with a Cutler Realtor means so much more than just buying or selling a home. It's about professionalism, integrity, and going the extra mile for clients in Northeast Ohio, Columbus & Central Ohio, and Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. It's what our Realtors do every day to assist clients in achieving their real estate goals.
We congratulate the following Realtors and groups for providing the superior customer service people have come to expect from Cutler Real Estate. Join us in celebrating the top producers, production leaders, and listing leaders for April 2022.

What's not to love about strawberries? They taste delicious, look good on a plate, and are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants. Add some color and sweetness to your summer eating with strawberries you pick yourself at these wonderful farms around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
3275 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089
The property where Aufdenkampe Family Farm now sits dates back to the Western Reserve. After the Aufdenkampes purchased the farm from its original owners, they became a fixture at the Cleveland Produce Terminal, selling their fresh fruits and vegetables. In 2018, the family decided to focus on strawberries, their most popular crop. The 2022 picking season starts around June 1. Follow them on Facebook for updates.
4413 Center Rd., Avon, OH 44011
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Three generations of family work side-by-side at Fitch's Farm Market, founded in 1983 by Richard and wife Rita. Sons Adam and Daniel and grandfather Robert handle everything from field management and harvesting to mechanic duties. In addition to strawberries, visitors can pick their own beans, peppers, and tomatoes in season. Stop by the on-site market for other fruits and vegetables as well as flowers in flats and hanging baskets. Follow them on Facebook for information about u-pick availability. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
2901 Batdorf Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
From its humble beginnings in 1950 on a small patch of land along Highland Avenue, Maurer Farms grew into its current location in 1961. Strawberries have been the primary crop since day one, with peaches, sweet corn, and other fruits and vegetables added over the years. Maurer Farms offers u-pick strawberries and raspberries, and their on-site market sells their own produce along with products from other local farmers. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday between late May and mid-October. Watch their website and Facebook page for updates.
9331 Mitchell-Dewitt Rd., Plain City, OH 43064
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Farmer Paul and wife Shelly, aka Berrygirl, are a match made at OSU. Together they run Mitchell's Berries & Blooms on a farm that's been in the family for more than two centuries. After son Jake doubled their raspberry production, Paul and Shelly took his advice and added strawberries to their crops. With events like Sunrise and Sunset Yoga, Dairy Day, and the Berry Fairy Summer Tea Party, Mitchell's Berries & Blooms offers fun for the whole family. Follow them on Facebook for current information on hours and availability.
6843 State Route 54, Mechanicsburg, OH 43044
Can't get enough fresh berries? You'll be in seventh heaven with a visit to Folck Family Farm. Berry picking season kicks off in late spring with strawberries, followed by raspberries in June and blackberries in July. After growing up on dairy and cattle farms, owner Bob Folck had a successful career in sales, but he couldn't resist the call of the farming life. Bob and wife Cindy began growing berries in 2003, and in 2018 they opened a winery and tasting room selling wine made from the fruits of their fields. Visit their website and Facebook page for updates.
5462 Babbitt Rd., New Albany, OH 43054
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In the 1970s, Farmer Jim Doran sold his produce right out in the front yard from one of the wagons that are such a nostalgic part of Americana. Fast forward to 2022, and Doran's Farm Market is a popular destination filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, jams and jellies, baked goods, and beverages. Customers also have the opportunity to pick their own strawberries and other select produce. Doran's Farm Market opens with the strawberry season in late May and runs through pumpkin season in early November. Check their website and Facebook page for information.
1640 Stubbs Mill Rd., Lebanon, OH 45036
A trip to Irons Fruit Farm is truly an event. Since its beginning in the early 1900s, the farm has expanded to include pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, apples, and pumpkins. The on-site market and bakery is known for the signature cinnamon cider donuts and apple fritters. They also carry jam, jellies, and other specialty products made from produce grown on the farm. Follow them on Facebook for information about the vendor fair, which features local craft artisans as well as food trucks and live entertainment. Summer hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
2822 Center Rd., Wilmington, OH 45177
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For more than four generations, Stokes Berry Farm has been a fixture in the Cincinnati area. Visitors can pick strawberries and black raspberries from the lush fields or preorder white Georgia peaches, tart Michigan cherries, and other fruits for convenient pickup. The whole family can enjoy a stroll along the creek or catch-and-release fishing in the six-acre lake. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch! There is a $25 fee for a three-hour fishing pass. In-season hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. Watch their Facebook page for posts about the current schedule.
5832 River Rd., Hebron, KY 41048
Located in a scenic rural area, McGlasson Farms is rich with family history. After moving west from Virginia in the 1860s, the McGlassons built a log cabin and began farming the land. While the family had success selling to various markets, they discovered there was even more potential in creating a produce stand on their own property. Today, McGlasson Farms even has a devoted following of customers from all around the region. Visitors can join in the fun picking their own strawberries, blackberries, and other fresh produce. In-season hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekends. Watch the website and Facebook page for schedule information.
Strawberries and cream has been a tradition at the classic Wimbledon tennis tournament since it began in 1877. What's your favorite way to eat strawberries?

With hot summer weather just around the corner, a cool salad makes for a light, refreshing meal. Salads are a great way to eat healthier while dining out. They're satisfying, customizable, and loaded with essential nutrients. It's much easier to resist the temptation to indulge when you visit a restaurant that makes a great salad.
To encourage more people to incorporate healthy eating into their daily diets, May was named National Salad Month in 1992 by the Association of Dressing and Sauces. In other words, it's a great time to get out and enjoy your favorite type of salad. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a healthy (yet satisfying) dinner, here are nine restaurants where you can find a spectacular salad around Northeast Ohio.
2033 E. 14th St., Cleveland, OH 44115
This downtown Cleveland cafe is a great spot to grab a custom salad for lunch. Located in the Hanna Building, Green Rooster Farms is a quick-service cafe with some healthy and delicious salad options. Try the Farmhouse Salad, which features rotisserie chicken salad, apple, sunflower kernels, and cucumbers over mixed greens, topped with a blush vinaigrette. Prices are affordable, and the service is friendly. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, and all food is served counter-style.
1909 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Located near Cleveland's West Side Market, this modern, trendy restaurant serves one of the tastiest salads around. Known as the Harvest Salad, it consists of field greens, chicken, goat cheese, bacon, berries, grain-free granola, sweet potato, and beets, and it's topped with a preserved cherry vin. You can substitute keto fried chicken, grass-fed beef, or wild salmon. Pair your salad with a delicious cup of broth. The menu also features tons of delicious Vegan and Vegetarian entrees. They also have a full-service bar, so you can pair your salad with a nice glass of wine.
101 W. Superior Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
It's not too hard to eat healthy at REBoL, as all dishes at this non-GMO cafe are made with clean ingredients, organic produce, and non-toxic oils and sauces. REBoL specializes in vegan, vegetarian, paleo, and gluten-free dining. Create your own kale salad and top it with up to three sides, one protein, one or two sauces, and your choice of garnish. Eat inside at the counter, or enjoy your cool salad outside on their outdoor patio area. Online ordering and curbside pickup are available.
21 Furnace St., Akron, OH 44308
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Located in Akron's Northside Marketplace, NOMZ is a galley-style brunch/lunch destination with various entrees, soups, sandwiches, and salads served in a trendy atmosphere. Choose from the Acorn Squash, Masala, or House Salad and top it off with your choice of Avocado, chicken, vegan chicken, or vegan veggie patty. The menu rotates with the seasons, so check back for updates. Food is served at the counter, and you can skip the wait by ordering online ahead of time.
1947 W. Market St. #104, Akron, OH 44313
The ultimate Akron lunch spot, Niko's Sandwich Board serves up classic made-to-order sandwiches and salads in an easy-going atmosphere. There are 10 salads on the menu, including great choices like the Big Fat Greek Salad, Niko's Power Salad, and the Walnut Crunch. With a wide range of toppings and dressings, you can also customize your own salad just how you like it. Niko's also has some great soups and desserts! Service is friendly, and food is made quickly. Order pickup or delivery online.
2185 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
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Eating healthy is easy if you live near Bam! Healthy Cuisine. This counter-style cafe is a great place to grab lunch, dinner, or a snack. The menu features 10 "satisfying salads," all prepared with hand-cut Ohio-grown lettuce, spinach, and arugula. Try the Goat Cheese & Almond Salad or the Hot & Spicy Pecan. If you're short on time, grab a Bam!-N-Go pre-made salad for an on-the-go lunch. You can also choose from a variety of soups, sandwiches, and wraps. Order online ordering is available if you'd like to skip the line.
1186 Canton Rd., Akron, OH 44312
Formerly known as Lembo's, Gianni's is a classic Italian neighborhood restaurant with one of the best all-you-can-eat salad bars around. It's loaded with fresh vegetables, over a dozen varieties of dressing, and tasty soups. Best of all, it's included with most entrees, so you can enjoy a delicious salad along with a fresh bowl of pasta or slice of pizza. With both healthy options and comfort foods, Gianni's is a great place to enjoy a nice meal with the family.
1671 N. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
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When a light salad just won't cut it, Grinders Above & Beyond is the place to go for jumbo-sizes salads. The menu at this friendly neighborhood restaurant features 14 options, but the Jumbo Popcorn Chicken salad is one of the most popular. It included Kentucky Bourbon Popcorn Chicken, cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese. The restaurant also features a full bar, classic American entrees, and great service. If you're eating healthy, you'll just need to resist the dessert display on your way out the door.
2175 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
For some of North Canton's best salads, swing by the Winking Lizard in Washington Square. In addition to classic pub fare, a great draft selection, and plenty of TVs, you'll also find a nice variety of salad options. One of our favorites is the Chopped Lizard Salad, which features a bed of greens, cheddar cheese, bacon, egg, tomatoes, and your choice of dressing. This neighborhood hangout is a great place to watch the game or relax after a long week. If weather permits, enjoy your salad out on the patio, where you'll often find live music on the weekends.
Where will you grab a fresh salad around Northeast Ohio this month?