
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.
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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?

The Northeast Ohio area is known for its vast number of recreational opportunities that make it a great place to live or visit. There's plenty to do outdoors throughout the year, but when the snow starts to accumulate, the real fun begins. Sledding is a popular activity for all ages, and you'll see young kids, as well as adults, zipping down local hills with abandon all winter long.
Fortunately, you can find many sledding hills to visit throughout the area, so you probably won't have to visit the same place twice in a season – unless you want to, of course! From the tamer hills that are appropriate for kids or beginners to steeper ones that will appeal to the more adventurous, Northeast Ohio has sledding hills to suit every age and comfort level.
Grab your sled, bundle up, and check out the following 10 sled riding spots in Northeast Ohio that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping:
2077 Newton St., Akron, OH 44305
Goodyear Heights Metro Park's sledding hill is extremely popular, so you may want to try it during off-peak (early morning) hours to get the best experience. The hill is large and steep and has a rope along the side to help you get back up to the top, and you'll also find fire barrels along the way to help you warm up. And if you'd like to sled in the dark, Goodyear Heights has lights for nighttime sledding.
11755 Kinsman Rd., Newbury, OH 44065
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One of northeast Ohio's premier winter sports parks, Punderson has not only sledding but also cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails. There's even a cabin to warm up in and a lighted hill if you want to sled under the stars. And if you'd like to stay the night, family cabins, as well as a resort manor house, are available.
9938 Chillicothe Rd. (Rt. 306), Kirtland, OH 44094
If you have young kids, they may not be ready for some of the area's larger sledding hills. But the small hill at Chapin Forest Reservation is perfect for young sledders. It's frequented by cross-country skiers to practice their control skills, but it's also used for sledding. You'll find the hill off the Hobart Road entrance to the park.
4895 Bailey Rd., Madison, OH 44057
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You'll find Riverview Park Sled Riding Hill conveniently located next to the parking lot, so you'll have an easy trip from your car before you can enjoy some fun sledding. This is the park district's steepest hill, and you can whiz down it until 11 p.m. If you need to warm up, there's a fire ring with firewood near the picnic shelter.
387 Furnace St., Elyria, OH 44035
You'll find one of Lorain County's most popular sledding hills at Cascade Park in Elyria. The large hill is visible from the main entrance, and you'll also find a small playground and restrooms conveniently located at the bottom of the hill – two things that will come in handy if you're bringing the kids along.
55 E. Warner Rd., Akron, OH 4431
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Firestone Metropark is great for all ages and for those who are thrill-seekers as well as those who would rather sled on a smaller hill. That's because it has a large hill that has steep sections as well as those with a slower incline. The hill isn't lighted, so come earlier in the day if you're ready to make your way down.
5300 Massilon Rd., North Canton, OH 44720
Summit County's Boettler Park Sled Riding Hill is large and is appropriate for a wide range of ages since the hill has varying inclines. There's also a 30,000-square-foot playground located nearby on Heritage Hill, as well as places to snowboard and cross-country ski. You'll also find heated restrooms conveniently located near the riding hill.
800 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, OH 44313
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North Hawkins Area Sled Riding Hill has been popular for generations of sledders and is still a go-to destination for those who are looking for a large sled-riding hill. Go after dark if you'd like since the hill is lighted. You can also cross-country ski on trails or ice skate on a pond once it's frozen over.
51211 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089
Zooming down a large sled riding hill at Vermilion River Reservation has been a popular activity for many years, and that remains true. The large hill is on your right as you enter the Bacon Woods area of Vermilion River Reservation, and when you get too cold, you can warm up in a nearby shelter that's partially enclosed.
5465 Quick Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
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You'll find several hills of varying inclines to slide down at Cuyahoga Valley National Park once you go deep into the park (about a mile east of Akron Peninsula Road). There's a separate area for sleds and toboggans, and you'll find a burn barrel to help you warm up at the top.
Which hills will you be zooming down this season? Bundle up and get ready to have some fun!

While breakfast is considered by many to be the most important meal of the day, no rule specifies that it has to be consumed before noon. Take a break during a busy day or wind down into a relaxing evening with a comforting lunch or dinner of breakfast favorites at one of these great restaurants around Northeast Ohio.
777 Starkweather Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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When you visit Lucky's Cafe, you'll definitely feel like you've hit the breakfast jackpot. Lucky's farm-to-table menu features delicious dishes made from scratch with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Celebrity chef and Cleveland native Michael Symon sang the praises of Lucky's cheddar-scallion biscuits and gravy on The Best Thing I Ever Ate. Other popular items include Lucky's signature pecan bacon and gingerbread waffles topped with maple-roasted apples. Lucky's is open daily from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
4116 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
From the minute you spot the retro '50s-style sign outside Nick's Diner, you'll understand why it's been an iconic Ohio City destination for more than 30 years. Portions are huge, service is friendly, and the decor includes comic book-style paintings and other classic diner touches. Nick's is known for its hearty cast-iron skillet breakfast dishes, which start with a base of hash browns and add grilled onions, green pepper, mushrooms, and eggs. Options include the Leprechaun with corned beef and Swiss cheese and Southern Belle with fried chicken, cheddar cheese, and sausage gravy. Hours are 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays except Tuesday and 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. weekends.
6595 Brecksville Rd., Independence, OH 44131
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Nick and Brad, owners of Scratch, set out to create a menu revolving around the traditional breakfast staple of bacon. After experimenting with ways to cure and smoke pork from scratch, the pair recognized the value of applying their creative approach to the rest of their offerings, which is how the restaurant's name was born. Hence, pancakes were transformed into tiramisu pancakes with coffee liqueur reduction, maple whipped cream, and chocolate ganache, while French toast is made from bread pudding and offered in flavors of blueberry or banana and bourbon caramel. Scratch is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
2621 W. 14th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
Don't be fooled by the name. Grumpy's Cafe serves "Cleveland Feel-Good Food." With nine types of omelets and four varieties of Benedicts, you'll find yourself coming back to try them all. Want a little south-of-the-border kick to your meal? Try the popular breakfast tacos, filled with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheddar cheese, or the zesty huevos rancheros. Top it off with a yummy cinnamon bun iced coffee finished with pumpkin spice whipped cream. Hours are 7 a.m. - 2 p.m., seven days a week.
799 N. Court St. #17, Medina, OH 44256
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You might think a restaurant specializing in only one item would grow old fast, but Waffle O Waffle will give you a new perspective. Their Belgian waffles made Euro-style with beet sugar, come in mouthwatering flavors such as P.B.J., Cinnabon Cheesecake, and Bacon Maple Glazed. If you prefer a savory breakfast, Waffle O Waffle has that covered too. The whimsical and unexpected options include "pizzas" with pepperoni, bacon pickle, or BBQ chicken. If it's not breakfast without hash browns, try the tater waffles. Check out their Facebook page for news about specials along with alerts about being sold out for the day. Waffle O Waffle is open for carryout only from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. weekends.
597 Main St., Grafton, OH 44044
"Have It Your Way" is a slogan made famous by a certain fast-food chain, but it truly applies at Check Please Cafe. Don't see just what you want on the regular menu? Design your own meal by checking the appropriate boxes on the customizable menu sheet. Check Please also dials up the creativity factor with specials such as chicken breasts fried in waffle batter for a unique take on a classic breakfast dish. Many dishes are available gluten-free or keto-friendly for those following special diets. Hours are 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily.
11801 Clifton Blvd., Lakewood, OH 44107
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Happy hour and breakfast? Yes, please! The sleek and shiny Dinerbar on Clifton has a menu of classic breakfast dishes that are served all day, including during weekday happy hour between 4 - 7 p.m. Choices include 10 varieties of omelets as well as corned beef hash, steak and eggs, and a traditional plate of meat, potatoes, eggs, and toast. The expanded breakfast menu, served weekdays until 11 a.m. and weekends until 2 p.m., features additional items such as pancakes, French toast, Benedicts, burritos, and scrambles. If you want a lighter option, try the egg white scramble with turkey, spinach, onions, mushrooms, and feta cheese. Dinerbar is open 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. seven days a week.
1515 W. Pleasant Valley Rd., Parma, OH 44134
How "down home" is Tony's Family Restaurant? On Halloween, the servers dressed up as pancakes, bacon, and eggs breakfast. Tony's offers the unbeatable draw of good food at reasonable prices in a comfortable setting. Omelets, skillets, and tortilla roll-ups are available in a number of specialty combinations, or you can create your own, so there's something for everyone. Other favorites include country fried steak, corned beef hash, and potato pancakes. Hours are 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Sunday when closing time is 8 p.m.
1215 W. 10th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Would you expect some run-of-the-mill coffee shop from local rapper Machine Gun Kelly? 27 Club Coffee, which opened just this year, is a new venture for Kelly, but the edgy, Instagram-ready aesthetic draws heavily on his artistic sensibilities. The all-day breakfast menu features the house waffle, made with Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, along with chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and pecan cinnamon rolls. The signature Pink Latte, with pink milk and a pink sugar rim, coordinates nicely with the decor. If you're in the mood for adult beverages, the bar serves a nice selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. Hours are 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The kitchen closes two hours early each day.
When it comes to breakfast, there are really no foods that are off-limits. Do you prefer the sweet or the savory side of the spectrum?

Who's ready to explore a world of art? November 9th is National Go to an Art Museum Day, and art museums all around Ohio are calling your name! Whether you're close to Columbus, nearby Northeast Ohio, or living in Cincinnati, we encourage you to head to these fascinating art museums in Ohio.
11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106
The ever-changing Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland has a history of developing the city's cultural landscape. It was one of the first museums in the area to display works from artists like Andy Warhol, and they continue to feature innovative works from emerging artists. MoCa Cleveland reopened in October and invites visitors to gaze at their current exhibits from artists Nina Katchadourian, Paul Ramirez Jonas, Martin Creed, and Margaret Kilgallen.
11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The Cleveland Museum of Art was founded over a century ago for the "benefit of all the people forever." Since then, it's been renovated and expanded to enhance and engage the Northeast Ohio art community. Today, you can view their current exhibitions dedicated to Korean, Chinese, and Latin American artists. Music lovers will enjoy the special Behind the Beat series, which celebrates the legacy of music at the museum, which can be viewed and heard online.
1305 W. 80th St. Suite 016, Cleveland, OH 44102
Those who love art but wish to appreciate regional work rather than globally curated collections should head to ARTneo, the Museum of Northeast Ohio Art. Located in Gordon Square, this unique museum showcases artists from past and present who called Northeast Ohio home. Plan your visit ahead of time, as they're currently open by appointment only. If you can't find an appointment that works for you, consider heading to their free open house event at 78th Street Studios on Friday, November 20th. These Third Friday events have been voted the Best Arts Event in Cleveland.
480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The Columbus Museum of Art is open and ready to welcome art lovers back. Among their many wonderful pieces, they host the world's largest collection of artworks from local artists, including George Bellows and Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson. Spend hours browsing their permanent collection and latest exhibitions or take part in one of their creative events in-person or online. Although the Columbus Museum of Art is closed on Mondays, which is National Go to An Art Museum Day, you can browse their collections online from home to help plan your visit.
1871 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
The Ohio State University is home to acclaimed athletics and academics, but many don't know that they also house a fantastic art center. The Wexner Center for the Arts is an on-campus laboratory for advancing contemporary art. As one of the most dynamic contemporary art programs in the country, it showcases its students' works throughout exhibition space. These exhibits feature art in every medium, with many showcased indoors and outdoors. There are five interesting exhibits on display during National Go to an Art Museum Day to provide you with a memorable visit to OSU that requires no tailgating.
5819 Chantry Dr., Columbus, OH 43232
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If you're looking for one of the most unique art experiences in Columbus, head to Otherworld. This 32,000 square-foot immersive art experience in Chantry Square takes you through dozens of rooms. Some display large-scale artworks while others offer mixed-reality playgrounds or secret passageways. Over 40 artists have contributed to this tech-infused space, creating a truly other-worldly experience for art lovers and anyone who loves an immersive experience. Note that tickets can only be purchased online in advance.
953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
There are few better ways to spend the day in Cincinnati than in Eden Park. It's home to some of the city's best attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum, which boasts nearly 70,000 pieces from across 6,000 years. Their collection includes stunning African, Islamic, Asian, and Native American artwork. One of November's featured exhibits is Women Breaking Boundaries, which showcases works from the museum's permanent collection completed by female artists. Another interesting exhibit is Do It (Home), an interactive exhibit that you can also download and create at home.
316 Pike St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Fine art has lived at the Taft Museum of Art in downtown Cincinnati for the last 200 years. Art and history come alive in ways unlike any other museum in the state. Though one of the finest small art museums in the country, there are countless hidden gems throughout the historic building. Eleven different period-inspired rooms display masterpieces from the 17th to 19th centuries. Current exhibits available for viewing during Go to an Art Museum Day include galleries celebrating local Cincinnati art over the history of the Taft Museum.
44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Enjoy free admission to the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center and view their current exhibits, including works from Marjolijn Dijkman, Vhils, Kader Attia, and Tania Candiani. One of the reasons why we love the Contemporary Arts Center is because it also hosts the UnMuseum. This innovative area allows adults and children alike to get hands-on with art and unleash their creativity. If you're unable to go to CAC on Go to an Art Museum Day, you can view their collection virtually online for free.
Let us know which destinations we should head to on National Go to an Art Museum Day in the comments!

This year seems to have flown by! Before you know it, the leaves will start to change and there will be a chill in the air. That means it's almost time for some of our favorite activities — roasting s'mores over the fire pit, sipping pumpkin spice lattes, and, of course, apple picking!
There are so many great orchards in Northeast Ohio, it's hard to choose which one we love best. Before you plan your next fall adventure, take a look at this round-up of our top recommendations for fresh-picked apples!
16393 State Rd., North Royalton, OH 44133
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Family-owned and operated since 1982, Royalton Farms has 7 acres of trees producing 15 different varieties of apples. They also have a landscaping nursery, an apple-processing barn with a cider mill, and a market barn. It's also home to Cuyahoga County's only working cider press. In addition to fresh-picked apples, you can get a variety of produce in their market including peaches, tomatoes, zucchini, and pumpkins. You'll also find local honey, fruit butters, baking mixes, cookbooks, and more! Royalton Farms is open through November on Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am until 6 pm. They're closed on Mondays.
8690 Vermillion Rd., Amherst, OH 44001
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If you're looking for variety, you'll find it at Miller Orchards. They grow 23 different varieties of apples as well as cherries and peaches. Depending on weather conditions, in season they also carry plums, nectarines, cantaloupe, pears, and watermelon. This family-owned farm has been in business for more than four generations. Locals and visitors enjoy this orchard's quality products, honest prices, and family-friendly atmosphere. Miller Orchards is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am until 6 pm. They're closed on Sundays.
2397 Center Rd., Hinckley, OH 44233
There's so much to do at Hillside Orchard and Farm Market, you can easily spend a whole day here. Whether you want to pick up your apples from their store or head out to the orchard to pick your own, you'll love their delicious crops. If you have a sweet tooth, you're in luck! They carry 11 flavors of Hershey's brand hard-dipped ice cream, famous fruit pies, and frozen apple cider. They also have jams, jellies, preserves, salad dressings, marinades, bbq sauces, dips, and fresh-baked breads. Mark your calendar for the second weekend in October so you don't miss their Annual Harvest Festival. The kids will love the horse-drawn hayride, playground, and challenging pumpkin maze. Hillside Orchard is open until December 23rd. Their hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from noon until 5 pm. They're closed on Mondays, except for the Monday before Halloween.
50336 Telegraphy Rd., Amherst, OH 44001
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Hillcrest Orchard offers pick-your-own sunflowers, pumpkins, and 14 different varieties of apples. But that's not all! There are plenty of family-friendly fall activities that everyone is sure to love. You won't want to miss the Space Exploration Corn Maze, complete with seven different puzzle stations! The kids will also love the barrel train, corn box, hay tunnel, hayride, pedal karts, sandbox, and the playground, swing set, and spider webs. Best of all, each of these activities is included in the price of admission. The farm market is open daily from 10 am until 6 pm September 1st through November 8th. The U-pick, maze, and activities are open weekends only from 10 am until 6 pm from September 7th through October 27th.
17909 Rapids Rd., Hiram, OH 44234
The oldest pick-your-own apple orchard in Geauga County, Blue Jay Orchard has been a family tradition for generations. They grow 27 varieties of apples as well as peaches and blueberries. Head out to pick your own, or get some from their market. You'll also find local Ohio food products, assorted gifts, and all things fall-related. Blue Jay Orchard's opening hours vary. You'll want to give them a call at 440.834.4318 for more information.
11724 Lisbon St. SE, Paris, OH 44669
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When you head to Arrowhead Orchard, make sure you leave plenty of time to enjoy all the great things this farm has to offer. You can choose to pick your own apples or get them from the onsite farm market. You can also pick your own sunflowers and pumpkins. The entry price includes unlimited hayrides, a corn maze, and a sunflower walk. The kids will also love the hay mountain, tire climb, hamster run, train cart ride, obstacle course, and more. There's also a zip line ride! You'll want to visit the market, where you'll find cider, peaches, nectarines, honey, and a variety of other food and gift items. The farm market is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am until 6 pm and Sunday from noon until 6 pm. Fall activities and U-pick run through September 4th until October 26th, Monday, Friday, and Saturday from noon until 6 pm. They're closed on Labor Day.
5424 S. Arlington Rd., Clinton, OH 44216
Kuner's Fruit Farm offers pick-your-own apples and also sells award-winning cider, honey, plums, and apple butter. If you want to get away from the commercialism and spend some quality time with your family, this is the place to do it. Kuner's fruit farm is open daily from 9 am until 7 pm until the end of Thanksgiving weekend.
161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, OH 44270
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A staple of Rittman since 1929, Bauman Orchards is a 260-acre orchard with 48,500 apple trees and 9,200 peach trees. They offer 25 different varieties of apples and 15 varieties of peaches. They also press their own cider, which you can find in their farm market along with homemade pies, cookies, produce, and gift baskets. You'll want to check out the orchard's website every once in a while because they host several exciting festivals throughout the year. Mark your calendar for September 19th so you can visit the Harvest Days festival. In addition to U-pick apples, you'll also enjoy homemade cider donuts, a food truck, live music, and pony rides. The kids will also love painting their own pumpkins and meeting the farm animals! Bauman Orchards is open year-round Monday through Friday from 8 am until 6 pm and Saturday from 8 am until 5 pm. They're closed on Sundays and all major holidays.
Which orchard will you pick?