
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?

When you were a kid, did stories of hidden treasure capture your imagination? While you may not find jewels and gold coins, geocaching is a fascinating way for kids of all ages to enjoy the thrill of discovering secret treats.
New and experienced geocachers will get hours of entertainment exploring these popular trails around Northeast Ohio.
18753 Egbert Rd., Bedford, OH 44146
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Located fewer than 20 miles from Cleveland, Bedford Reservation is a perfect spot for a quick getaway. The 7.6-mile all-purpose trail winds through the wooded 2,200-acre grounds, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding as well as geocaching. Don't miss scenic Bridal Veil Falls or the Tinkers Creek Gorge Overlook. Sheltered picnic areas are available. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
Summersweet TR, Walton Hills, OH 44146
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If you're looking for a more vigorous outing, the simply-named Bike and Hike Trail is accessible just across the street from the Alexander Road trailhead of Bedford Reservation's APT. The 34.2-mile trail spans Cuyahoga, Portage, and Summit counties, passing through both rural and suburban territory. Converted from two former railway lines, the route features some gently rolling terrain to add interest without being too strenuous.
When it opened in 2011, Berlin Lake Trail revealed some stunning waterfront views that were previously unavailable to the public. At a length of 2.25 miles, the crushed-limestone trail provides a satisfying hike for any level of experience. Visual highlights include the renovated train trestle bridge and frequent appearances of herons, eagles, and ospreys. Leashed dogs are welcome, so Fido can join in the hunt.
2720 E. 31st St., Lorain, OH 44055
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It's wheels down on Bridgeway Trail, where inline skaters and bikers join hikers and runners. Located in Black River Reservation, the 4.5-mile path extends from Day's Dam to the High Meadows picnic area. The trail passes through peaceful meadows and wooded areas, as well as across a 1,000-foot bridge spanning the Black River. Look for interpretive signs along the way with fascinating information about the area's natural history. The Black River Reservation is open 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.
610 S.O.M. Center Rd., Mayfield, OH 44143
The charming Mayfield Village setting of Bruce G. Rinker Greenway gives the trail a neighborhood feel. Known simply as the Greenway upon its opening in 2014, the site was later renamed after a former mayor of the village. The route passes community landmarks such as the fire station, elementary school, and library, along with a wetland preserve.
850 Euclid Creek Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44121
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Euclid Creek Reservation is situated on the site of the once-thriving ghost town of Bluestone. The village name was taken from the substance excavated at the nearby quarry, the remains of which can still be seen from the All-Purpose Trail and the picnic area. While the APT runs a total of 3.5 miles, the two segments are currently disconnected, with the longer section reaching 2.75 miles. The trail parallels Euclid Creek, with a dense line of trees offering welcome shade. Euclid Creek Reservation hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
11350 Broadway Ave., Garfield Heights, OH 44125
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Since 1895, Garfield Park Reservation has been a popular spot for residents and visitors of Northeast Ohio. The All-Purpose Trail's main attraction is Mill Creek Falls, but hikers also enjoy spotting pieces of historical stonework that date back to the 1930s. Spacious woodlands and wetlands hold the perpetual promise of exciting wildlife sightings. Garfield Park Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.
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The self-descriptive Lake to Lake Trail is a 2.4-mile, universally accessible all-purpose trail stretching from Lake Abram to Lake Isaac. At 175 acres, these two form the largest glacial wetlands in Cuyahoga County and vital homes for local wildlife. Most of the trail is paved or boardwalk, although there is a small section on pavement alongside Hepburn Road. Lake to Lake Trail is part of Big Creek Reservation, which is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Each year, more than 2.5 million visitors get a glimpse of Northeast Ohio's past at the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Already numbering an ambitious 81 miles, the trail will eventually come in at a total of 110 miles, extending from Cleveland to New Philadelphia. As denoted by "Towpath" in the name, the trail is intended to trace the route of a historical canal where mules pulled boats. The current trail runs through Cuyahoga, Stark, and Summit counties and passes through Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
1557 Lake Rockwell Rd., Kent, OH 44240
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Between the urban areas of Kent and Ravenna lie 10 miles of woods and meadows forming the Portage Hike and Bike Trail. One of the more picturesque sections of the trail borders the southern edge of Towner's Woods Park in Franklin Township. In addition to its natural beauty, the park features an ancient Native American burial ground on the shores of Lake Pippen.
What item would you put in a geocache container to best represent Northeast Ohio?

Who needs an expensive trip to the East or West Coast for a beach vacation? Northeast Ohio is home to a number of scenic beaches that rival those in any other state. Thanks to their convenient location, you can even head out for a day-long getaway.
Get your summertime sand-and-water fix at these fun-filled beaches near Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and other Northeast Ohio cities.
8777 Manchester Ave. SW, Navarre, OH 44662
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Ohio's beautiful countryside is the setting for Baylor Beach Park, just 30 minutes from Akron and an hour's drive from Cleveland. Named after its founding family, Baylor Beach Park has been a popular Northeast Ohio getaway since 1955. The two-acre lake includes diving boards and water slides, while a nearby one-acre lake is available for paddleboats, aquabikes, and "funyaks." If you want to stay on dry land, enjoy a friendly game of miniature golf, volleyball, basketball, or cornhole. Admission is $8-$10 for guests aged 3 and up. Park hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Baylor Beach Park is maintaining social distancing rules by limiting daily guests, so arrive early.
12001 Route 282, Garrettsville, OH 44231
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Have you ever marveled at pictures of daring swimmers leaping off a cliff into the water below? Indulge your adventurous spirit at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park. Grown-ups can get the thrill of jumping off centuries-old 50- to 60-foot cliffs, while kiddies splash around in their own shallow roped-off area in the clear, spring-fed water. With other activities such as scuba and snorkeling, fishing, and hiking, the whole family will find endless entertainment. Admission is $10-$12, with reduced rates for kids aged 4-14. Nelson Ledges is open daily, with day passes good until 8 p.m. Swimming is allowed 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. while lifeguards are on duty.
1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain, OH 44052
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Ironically, although Lorain is situated on Lake Erie, there was originally no lakefront recreation available to city residents. That changed in 1917 when city officials purchased 42 acres of land that later became Lakeview Park. The spacious beach provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Take a break for a stroll through the historic Rose Garden, shaped like a wheel with eight spokes to honor the local Rotary Club. Lunch is served with a lakeside view at the Sunset Café, which also offers a limited concession menu throughout the afternoon. Lakeview Park is open seven days a week from sunrise - 11 p.m., with lifeguards on duty between noon - 6 p.m.
13190 Patterson St. NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666
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2020 marks the 72nd year Clay's Park Resort has been serving as a favorite summer retreat in Northeast Ohio. Founder Otis Clay's descendants carry on his tradition at the 10-acre, sandy-bottom lake that features dueling water slides and zip lines along with a barrel roll, inflatables, and a kids' splash pad. Unlimited use of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards is included with park admission. There's plenty of fun to be had on the ground with miniature golf, sand volleyball, basketball, and life-sized foosball. Admission fees are $20-$30 and $6 for kids ages 3-5. Park hours are noon - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Clay's Park is adhering to a specific number of guests daily, so follow their Facebook and Twitter pages for updates.
6500 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway, Cleveland, OH 44102
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In 2013, Cleveland Metroparks assumed operational control of six lakefront parks formerly run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. A subsequent multi-million dollar upgrade included formation of Lakefront Reservation, an outdoor oasis in the heart of downtown Cleveland and site of Edgewater Park Beach. With 9,000 feet of shoreline, there's lots of room for swimming, sunbathing, and yes, surfing when the wind is right. Bring Fido along to play and swim in the roped-off, leash-free area at the western end of the beach. Landlubbers can hang out at the pier and fish or just take in the views. Adjacent Perkins Beach isn't open for swimming, but it's a great spot to look for beach glass, shells, or driftwood. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily, with lifeguards on duty from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
920 Division St., Kelleys Island, OH 43438
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The short ferry ride to Kelleys Island State Park enhances the sense of "getting away from it all." Along the north side of the island, you'll find a pristine 100-foot beach with stunning views. Water depth changes gradually, so there's a generous shallow area for kids. If you'd rather be on water than in it, a public boat launch and kayak rentals are available. Explore the six miles of hiking trails that include scenic vistas and historic sites. Leashed dogs are welcome in specific beach areas, so bring the whole family along. Kelleys Island State Park is open 24/7.
1169 N. Buck Rd., Marblehead, OH 43440
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Situated on a peninsula that extends into Lake Erie, East Harbor State Park Beach is surrounded by wetlands that offer sightings of Ohio birds and wildlife. The two-mile lakefront stretch includes a 1,500-foot beach with plentiful shade trees. While pets are not allowed on the beach, leashed dogs are permitted in other areas of the park such as the picnic area, where you and Fido can enjoy views of the shoreline. East Harbor State Park is open around the clock, year-round.
Where would you like to spend your summer vacation in Ohio? Let us know in the comments below.

There are few pastimes as simple, serene, and satisfying as fishing. Whether catching for sport or for feeding your friends and family, fishing is a fantastic outdoor activity that we can't get enough of. When we're looking to get in touch with nature, we grab our tackle boxes and head out to these great fishing holes around Northeast Ohio.
9601 Headlands Rd., Mentor, OH 44060
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Why not spend the afternoon fishing on the beach? As the longest natural beach in the Buckeye State, Headlands Beach State Park is a wonderful place for shore fishing. Lake Erie is full of fun fish to angle for, including coho salmon, bluegill, rock bass, sucker, and bullhead. Pack a swimsuit in your tacklebox so you can swim and sunbathe after you've reeled in a few crappie and trout.
5570 Esworthy Rd., Ravenna, OH 44266
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Located in Portage County, West Branch State Park features a 2,300-acre lake for both on- and off-water fishing. Whether you love relaxing on the boat with a line in the water or wandering a bank to find hidden fishing holes, West Branch State Park offers enough variety that you'll never tire of. With fishing gear and supplies available at the West Branch Marina, you can bring a few first-time anglers out with you and show them the ropes.
2459 Canfield Rd., Akron, OH 44312
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A hidden gem right outside of Akron, Springfield Lake Park is a gorgeous, well-maintained park that offers an abundance of shoreline. A popular park for family gatherings, we love taking the kids out to Springfield Lake for a day of fun. While you catch channel catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass, your kids can enjoy playing on the jungle gym. Keep in mind that this park can get busy throughout the summer months, so be sure to come early if you want to find a peaceful, secluded spot to cast a line.
1523 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
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Who says you can't turn a fishing trip into a vacation? When we want to get away from it all (without going too far from home, that is) we stay-put in Put-in-Bay. This lovely village on South Bass Island in Lake Erie is an exceptional place to spend a long weekend for relaxation, recreation, and reeling in a few fish. Grab your rod and stroll down to South Bass Island State Park and do a little fishing in the lake. This portion of the lake has an abundance of fish species to hook, including steelhead trout, yellow perch, walleye, and smallmouth bass.
6100 Pymatuning Lake Rd., Andover, OH 44003
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All anglers know that you don't need to rush to natural waterways to find a good fishing hole. Pymatuning State Park features the manmade Pymatuning Reservoir that offers the same level of quality fishing you'd find in other lakes around Ohio. Split across the Pennsylvania state border, fishing either side of the Pymatuning Lake will allow you to reel in bluegill, largemouth bass, black crappie, and smallmouth bass.
9500 Lakeview Rd., Mineral City, OH 44656
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If you're looking for a cozy campsite for a weekend of fishing, Atwood Lake Park is calling your name. Grab the wife, the kids, and even the family dog so that you can all enjoy the many amenities of this family-friendly park, including the beach, basketball center, hiking trails, and volleyball court. For fishing, you can launch your boat from their courtesy dock or sit and fish off the pier.
5031 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319
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A boat and a fishing pole are all you need for unlimited angling in Portage Lakes State Park. With the freedom to explore eight spectacular lakes, Portage Lakes State Park offers limitless opportunities to fish without venturing too far from downtown Akron. While you can head to any lake and cast a line, we encourage all anglers to do a little research before venturing out. For instance, Turkeyfoot Lake is a great place to snag both largemouth bass and sunfish, and while neighboring West Reservoir is also great for largemouth bass, the crappie numbers are quite low. We suggest looking at stock levels of fish in all of the lakes and planning your trip according to which fish you'd like to reel in.
18416 Steubenville Pike, Salineville, OH 43945
Hunting and fishing go together like peanut butter and jelly, and there's no better place to do both than in the Highlandtown Wildlife Area. An expanse of 2,265-acres awaits outdoor enthusiasts who help keep the great outdoors thriving by assisting with population control. The Highlandtown Wildlife Area Pond is best to fish in the late afternoon either from the banks or on the water. The bass and crappie in the pond can get quite large but do remember that this is a popular hunting area for locals and visitors alike. For a quieter trip, make sure you try to avoid the crowds by going in the off-hours.
301 Huntington Beach Dr., Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
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The vast Lake Erie has too many great fishing spots to list, but we thought we'd leave you with just one more before you grab your reels and head out. Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park features the T-shaped Harbor View Boardwalk offering great views of Lake Erie and leads you to the lighthouse, which is where locals say the best fishing holes are located. Along with a fishing pier, there are also fishing charters available. If you've never fished but would love to give it a go, chartering your own private fishing boat for a few hours on Lake Erie will surely get you hooked!
Where's your favorite fishing spot around Northeast Ohio? Drop us a line in the comments and tell us which fishing holes we should check out next!

Big-screen TVs, surround sound, and streaming brought movie-watching from theaters into homes. Classic drive-in theaters combine technology and privacy to offer the best of both worlds.
As we transition to the "new normal," drive-in theaters may provide the perfect solution to safely enjoying a night out. Now that drive-ins have received the green light, check out these fun-filled theaters around Northeast Ohio and other parts of the state. Visit the website or Facebook pages for current schedules.
33395 Lorain Rd., North Ridgeville, OH 44039
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The name may have a nostalgic 1950s feel, but don't let that fool you. Thanks to modern theater enhancements, Aut-O-Rama Drive-In has remained up-to-date with the times. As the first Cleveland-area drive-in to offer two screens, Aut-O-Rama was also one of the local theaters to lead the way in transitioning from speakers to in-car audio. Outside food is not allowed, but the extensive concession stand menu includes vegan and gluten-free options for those with special dietary needs.
2736 State Route 59, Ravenna, OH 44266
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Midway Twin Drive-In has the distinction of being designed by Jack Vogel, a renowned architect whose drive-in theater drawing collection is in the Library of Congress. While the theater's original screen tower was destroyed by a storm in 2000, the new tower carries Vogel's trademark diamond-and-flags sign. Head to Midway's FunFlick page on their website to purchase admissions, reserve parking spots, and order swag such as t-shirts and keychains.
959 Broad St., Wadsworth, OH 44281
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When Blue Sky Drive-In opened in 1947, the theater featured a wooden screen with large speakers attached to either side. Legend has it the sound could be heard six miles away in neighboring Doylestown. The street side of the screen was covered with twinkling stars that drew people to drive by just to see them. Unlike Magic City Drive-In, its sister theater, Blue Sky has only one screen, but both drive-ins are run with the same focus on customer service and quality entertainment.
5602 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Barberton, OH 44203
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Kids who came to Magic City Drive-In with their families in the 1970s and 1980s are now bringing their own little ones to share one of their favorite experiences. Digital projection and FM stereo sound are modern amenities, but visitors still find the same "magic" they enjoyed when they were young. A $5 permit fee is charged for bringing in outside food, but it can be applied to a minimum $15 purchase of additional snacks and beverages at the concession stand.
9735 State Route 250 NW, Strasburg, OH 44680
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Lynn Drive-In, opened in 1937, holds the honor of being Ohio's longest-running drive-in theater. As if that weren't enough, the Lynn is also #2 among continuously operating drive-ins around the world. Throughout its history, Lynn Drive-In has been owned by a succession of families. In fact, the drive-in is named after the daughter of Ray McCombs, who partnered with his father-in-law to run the theater in the 1940s. The concession stand accepts credit and debit cards, but admissions are cash only, so don't forget to stop at the ATM on the way.
2420 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130
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In 1994, after working at the theater for 30 years, current owner Walt purchased Skyview Drive-In from founder Carlos Crum, maintaining a welcome sense of tradition. Walt's wife upgraded the concession stand to include a more extensive selection than usually found at drive-ins. Choose from treats such as pork tenderloin sandwiches, quarter-pound burgers, apple dumplings, and funnel cakes. Please note that you're free to bring in your own food except for pizza, which is available on the theater's menu.
3050 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207
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Located, appropriately enough, on the south side of town, South Drive-In is the last remaining drive-in theater in Columbus. Opened in 1950, the South is one of several regional drive-ins built by the Yassenoff family. Over the years, the theater has survived a tornado and incorporated high-tech improvements to continue serving the community. For your convenience, South Drive-In is adding online ordering for concessions, with a text alert when your order is ready for pickup.
1816 Old Oxford Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
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The website of Holiday Auto Theater proudly proclaims, "60 Years of Drive-In Fun!" In particular, their concession stand is so good that it's remained open on weekends to serve carry-out food. Tops on the list is the Family Combo, which easily feeds up to four people. The combo includes a personal pizza, burger, fries, two hot dogs, popcorn, candy and four drinks for $38.75.
What are your favorite memories of drive-in theaters?