Posts with tag 'Things to do in Northeast Ohio'

The Ohio state flower is the carnation, but there are plenty of other beautiful flowers adding their colors to life throughout the state. One of them is the daffodil. Also known as the narcissus, the daffodil has been a symbol of rebirth for thousands of years because it's one of the first flowers seen every spring.

Realtor Jim Camp of Cutler Real Estate wanted to find a way to honor the nearly 800,000 Americans who have perished due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That figure includes nearly 27,000 Ohioans

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Trains, both toy and real, conjure up pleasant memories of days gone by. Bring a welcome touch of nostalgia to this year's holidays with a visit to these Christmas train rides and displays around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

The Polar Express™ Train Ride

Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621

You and your family have loved the book and the movie. Now experience the magic in real life on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Storytellers are on board to read the book as elves lead everyone in games, songs, and other activities. Refreshments include beverages and cookies made by Mrs. Claus. The train makes a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, who will visit with the kids during the return trip. Trains run Friday through Sunday on the first two weekends in December. Visit the website for times. Tickets range from $45-$80. 

North Pole Adventure™

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131

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Take in the winter beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley on your own North Pole Adventure™. Everyone can enjoy cookies and cocoa as kids write letters to Santa and take part in singing and dancing with elves. When the train stops at the North Pole to hand-deliver the letters, there's a good chance that a special guest will come on board. The train leaves the station at 7:30 p.m. daily through December 19. Tickets are $45-$92.

Christmas at the Junction

EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069

Remember the joy you felt watching your new model train circle the Christmas tree? Share that delight with your own kids at Christmas at the Junction. In addition to being the home of the world's largest indoor train display, EnterTRAINment Junction is a family fun center revolving around a railroad theme. Christmas at the Junction features a number of holiday train displays along with dazzling decorations, lively activities, and a visit with Santa. Festivities take place through January 2. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors open at noon. Admission is $15.95 per person when purchased in advance on the website.

Santa Train

Zanesville & Scenic Western Railroad, 5705 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760

During the holidays, the Mt. Perry Scenic Train transforms into the Santa Train. The 40-minute ride follows the historic Glass Rock Spur, named for the days when the line transported silica sand from Central Silica Company in nearby Glenford. Santa, assisted by the conductor, will be handing out gifts and treats along the way. The Santa Train departs each hour between 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the second and third weekends of December. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for ages 3-13. Receive a discount with a donation of food or a new, unwrapped toy.

Puritas Nursery Holiday Trains

19201 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, OH 44135

For the 18th year, Puritas Nursery is treating the West Park community to their delightful holiday train display. Three separate train sets, each in a different size, are fascinating to watch for "kids" of all ages. As if that wasn't reason enough to visit Puritas Nursery, you can shop their great selection of mistletoe, wreaths, and holiday greenery, as well as a wide variety of gift items and stocking stuffers. View the trains during store hours, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through December 31.

Santa Christmas Train 

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764

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Over three decades, generations of families have made the Santa Christmas Train a part of their holiday tradition. Historic Hocking Valley makes a perfect seasonal backdrop for the two-hour trip to East Logan and back. Santa will be along for the ride to visit with each child and collect their wish lists. At the end of the journey, they will also receive a special candy cane treat. Trains run each weekend through December 19. Visit the website for departure times. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for ages 3-12. 

Youngstown Model Railroad Association Open House

751 N. Four Mile Run Rd., Austintown, OH 44515

Members of the Youngstown Model Railroad Association love to share their enthusiasm for their favorite hobby with others. One of their more popular activities is their holiday open house, which they have been conducting for more than 65 years. Held at the group's headquarters, the open house features one layout upstairs and another downstairs, with surrounding "towns" that include carnivals and other life-like details. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the first two weekends of December. A $5 donation is requested from all visitors over the age of 11.

North Pole Express

Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay, OH 45840 

Real trains? Toy trains? No need to choose at North Pole Express. Quarter-scale trains are ready to take you through a glittering wonderland of trees and lights. Meanwhile, toy train displays await in the festively decorated museum and train barn. You never know when Santa and Mrs. Claus may pop in for a visit! Activities take place 5:30  - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 5:30  - 8:30 p.m. Sunday through January 2. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under. 

Express Train

Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145

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Are your little ones a bit young for an actual train ride? Crocker Park's Express Train provides a healthy dose of excitement for kids who might not be ready for a longer trip. The whole family will enjoy the sight of Crocker Park done up in all its holiday finery. Before or after, kids can visit with Santa and get their picture taken at Santa's Village. The Express Train runs daily through Christmas Eve. Visit the website for hours. Tickets are $4 per person. 

Get On the Right Track

In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?

Can you believe that the holiday season is already around the corner? Now is the perfect time to start planning for some holiday family fun, and there are plenty of great events all around Ohio to help every member of the family get in the holiday spirit. Catch a fantastic holiday concert in Northeast Ohio, shop for unique, handcrafted gifts in Columbus, or learn to create your own Christmas ornaments in Cincinnati. You'll find all that and more in our list of 9 Ohio events that will get you in the holiday spirit.

Lightwire: A Very Electric Christmas

182 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308

Searching for a holiday performance that both kids and adults will love? A Very Electric Christmas from Lightwire Theater is one of the most unique holiday performances that you'll find anywhere, and this year's show takes place on December 19. The story of A Very Electric Christmas follows a bird named Max, who stops at the North Pole with his family and winds up on a grand holiday adventure. After the show, VIP ticket holders can even meet the cast, ask questions, and learn more about how they create their spectacularly distinctive performances.

Cleveland Orchestra Holiday Concerts

11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106

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The Cleveland Orchestra is renowned for its enchanting holiday performances, and the Holiday Concerts series is sure to be a hit this year. The series is set for December 9 through 19 this year, with one performance each Thursday and Friday, followed by two performances on Saturday and Sunday. Performances take place at the gorgeous Severance Hall performance venue, with conductor Brett Mitchell leading the orchestra as they play all of your holiday favorites. Reserve your tickets online to ensure that you get a seat at one of Cleveland's most popular holiday shows.

Frosty Frolic 5k

1615 Stadium Park Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718

Whether you're looking for a great workout before you enjoy your holiday meals or you simply want to support a good cause while seeing the sights, the Frosty Frolic 5k on December 11 offers something for everyone. The course for the 5k will take you through the scenic Stadium Park Holiday Light Display, and you can enjoy some special holiday treats when you cross the finish line. There will also be appearances from Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Frosty, so this is a fun event for the whole family.

Columbus Winterfair

717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211

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Shop for the perfect handcrafted gifts or find one-of-a-kind items to decorate your home at the Columbus Winterfair, which takes place from December 3 through 5 at the Ohio Expo Center. The event brings together artists and artisans from across Ohio who have been working all year to create unique crafts for the holidays. It's a great place to find items for the people on your list who are hard to shop for, and there will also be crafting demonstrations so that you can get tips from the experts on how to create your own holiday crafts.

The Nutcracker at Ohio Theatre

39 E. State St., Columbus, OH 43215

From December 10 to 26, the BalletMet performance group will be putting on the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, at the beautiful Ohio Theatre. Backed by orchestral performances of Tchaikovsky's classic score, the dancers of BalletMet bring the story of The Nutcracker to life on stage. Stop by for a matinee performance on the weekend, or enjoy an evening show any night of the week throughout the show's run this year.

A Magical Cirque Christmas

34 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Looking for a fresh, new spin on the classic holiday performance and something that will appeal to family members of all ages? A Magical Cirque Christmas is just the thing, and this year's show will be taking place on December 11 at the Palace Theatre. The show combines breathtaking acrobatics from Cirque performers with all of your favorite holiday music under the direction of Magical Hostess Lucy Darling. It's a live holiday performance unlike any other, and you can only find it in Columbus.

Holiday Pops

1241 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

The Holiday Pops at the Cincinnati Music Hall is one of the city's longest-running and most popular holiday performances, so this is one show that you won't want to miss. This year's performances will take place across two weekends, December 3–5 and 10–12. Performances are led by conductor John Morris Russell, with a talented cast of vocalists, musicians, and dancers. Hear some of your favorite classic holiday tunes, with both traditional and contemporary songs that your family is sure to love.

Glass Holiday Ornaments Workshop

4426 Brazee St., Cincinnati, OH 45209

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Create memories that will last a lifetime as you make your own unique glass Christmas ornament at Brazee Studios in Cincinnati on December 11. During this workshop, you will learn how to create a layered glass ornament with expert instruction and all of the supplies that you'll need provided by the studio. The workshop is hosted by the Taft Museum of Art and is open to everyone age 15+ with special discounts available for museum members.

Anderson Township Tree Lighting Ceremony

7578 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45255

Get ready for a day filled with family fun at the Anderson Township Tree Lighting Ceremony, which takes place on December 4 at Anderson Towne Center. The fun starts in the afternoon with free holiday-themed food and drink, followed by a visit from Santa. There will also be some great live performances, with your favorite holiday music ringing out through the air. Top it all off with the tree lighting ceremony, when the beautifully decorated Christmas tree is lit up for the first time. After the ceremony, enjoy some special deals and events from businesses at Anderson Towne Center.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

How will you celebrate the season in Ohio this year?

Whether you're sick, chilly, or just feeling down, there's nothing like chicken noodle soup to get you feeling like yourself again. It's a specialty of moms and grandmas everywhere, and no other version will ever quite measure up to the one that was always served to you as a child. 

If your family's cooking is not an option right now, though, there are plenty of places to get a comforting cup of soup in Northeast Ohio. With National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day coming up on November 12th, now is the perfect time to check one or two of the popular soup spots listed below.

Pallotta's Pastries and Gift

2120 Byrd Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223

Pallotta's Pastries might not sound like a place where soup would be served, but this establishment is much more than just a bakery. They also sell a variety of fresh-cooked meals, including sandwiches, pastas, and omelets. Their excellent chicken soup is a local favorite and is available all week in addition to a rotating soup of the day.

If you have a sweet tooth, they also sell an assortment of baked goods, including breads, muffins, cookies, and cakes. All their food is homemade and as gorgeous to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Plain and Simple Diner

4774 US-62, Berlin, OH 44610

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Berlin's Plain and Simple Diner lives up to its name in the best possible way. Run by a pair of home cooks who had a reputation for delicious barbecue in their community, this restaurant uses nothing but fresh ingredients in all of their dishes. 

This diner serves hot dogs, hamburgers, wraps, fried fish, chicken wings, and all kinds of other comfort foods – including, of course, chicken noodle soup. It's available in a bowl or a cup and tastes very similar to the home-cooked recipes you remember from childhood.

Primo's Deli

1707 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, OH 44320

Primo's Deli has been named Akron's #1 Deli by the Akron Beacon Journal three times in its 35-year history, so you know they're worth a visit! Many locals love coming here for hot dogs, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and beer. 

Their chicken soup is especially well-loved, featuring a rich broth, savory chunks of chicken, and distinctive shell noodles. It's only available on an occasional basis as part of their soup of the day specials, though, so be sure to call and ask when it will be available next before you head out to give this place a try.

Hello Bistro

3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333

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Located inside Fairlawn's Summit Mall, Hello Bistro has become a popular dining and takeout spot in their local community. You can get their delectable chicken noodle soup by the cup or the quart, depending on your needs. Still hungry? They also serve fresh-cut French fries, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, salad bowls, and more.

The nice thing about this place is that there are many healthy options to pair with your soup, allowing you to round out your meal with some extra nutrition. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options if you are dining with others with specific dietary needs.

PLX Deli

5187 Manchester Rd., New Franklin, OH 44319

A favorite lunch destination for New Franklin residents, PLX Deli serves soups, salads, sandwiches, and everything else you need for a hearty midday meal. Their homemade chicken soup is available every Saturday and Sunday and is one of their most popular menu items among regulars.

If you need a little more to fill you up, the shop also serves a selection of signature entrees like Country Fried Steak and Bourbon Chicken. These dishes stick to the deli's general comfort food angle while also giving you something a bit more substantial to chew on.

The SouperMarket

7501 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103

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The aptly named SouperMarket is a specialty restaurant that serves nothing but – you guessed it – soup. Their Pulled Chicken Noodle soup is one of their staple offerings and is available all week long. All of their soups are served with a sizable chunk of bread and butter. If you're still hungry, you can round out your meal with a grilled cheese sandwich or a box of chicken wings fried in duck fat. 

The shop also offers chicken stock by the quart or gallon, which can serve as a delicious savory base for your own soups at home. Neither the stock nor the soup contain any additives or preservatives. Both are also low in sodium, making them great options for people following a heart-healthy diet. 

Joe's Deli and Restaurant

11750 Madison Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107

Joe's Deli and Restaurant is one of many establishments run by the Abdallahs, a Lebanese family who immigrated to America in the 1950s and 60s. This shop serves a variety of specialty sandwiches alongside traditional Lebanese dishes, including dawali, kibbee, and baba ganooj. 

Their esteemed chicken soup can be purchased in cups, bowls, or to-go quart containers. All of their soups are only available as part of a rotating selection, but no single type of soup is ever unavailable for more than a few days. If the chicken soup isn't on the menu when you first visit, come back a little later — it's worth it!

Local West

7402 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44102

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Local West describes themselves as a craft sandwich and beer bistro, but like any great sandwich shop, they also offer a selection of soups on the side. Their chicken soup is just one of the many soup varieties that they cycle through daily.

Their dishes are made with local meats and cheeses for maximum freshness and a uniquely Midwestern flavor. Stop by for lunch today and see what keeps people coming back again and again!

Soup to Warm You Up Inside and Out

We all know chicken soup doesn't really cure colds or stop the sniffles, but it still has an undeniable healing power all its own. What's your best chicken soup story? 

Everyone loves a bargain, which is one of the reasons flea markets are such a cherished part of Americana. Add artisan craft items, live entertainment, and food vendors and you have family-friendly entertainment that fits any budget. 

Spend a beautiful Midwest fall day hunting for hidden treasures at these fascinating flea markets around Northeast Ohio.

Berea Flea Market

Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Rd., Middleburg Heights, OH 44017

Dubbed "the ultimate garage sale," Berea Flea Market hosts hundreds of vendors and thousands of shoppers every weekend. Bring plenty of cash along with your best haggling skills and you'll walk away with some great deals on incredible finds. With indoor markets on the first weekend of each month from November through March, winter weather doesn't even spoil the fun. Pick up some one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at Wonderful Winter Shops 2021, a special event market planned for December 11-12. Weekend market hours are 6 a.m. - 1 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Admission is $1 and parking is free.

720 Market

Akron-Canton Airport, 5400 Lauby Rd. NW, North Canton, OH 44720

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This unique open-air market pops up at various locations around North Canton, combining artisan booths, live music, and food and beverages for a lively local event. 720 Market has proved so popular that it spawned a satellite offshoot. Sidestreet Markets is a "mini 720" held at Oakwood Square on the first Saturday of the month from May through October. Mark your calendar for the next 720 Market, scheduled for Saturday, December 4 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Akron-Canton Airport, just in time for holiday shopping.

Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market

1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632

At more than 12 acres of outdoor space and three acres of indoor shopping, Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market is more like a small village. Founded in 1939 as a livestock auction, the country's largest outdoor flea market draws more than 1 million visitors each year with its collection of up to 1,000 vendors. Collectors flock to Hartville for its amazing selection of prized antiques, but you'll find everything from home decor and clothing to games and sports memorabilia. Save some time to check out the indoor market and get a bite to eat at Sarah's Market Fresh Grill. The flea market is open Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Flea Fest Medina

220 N. State Rd., Medina, OH 44256

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Flea Fest Medina is not your grandmother's flea market. Featuring more than 50 vendors with names like I Hate Vintage and Moonstone Coffee Works, this event is putting a contemporary spin on the traditional bargain-hunting activity. Food trucks and live bands help create the ambiance of a hip block party. The market is held every other Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and admission is free.

Medina Flea Market of Collectibles

Medina County Fairgrounds, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, OH 44256

Whether you're a veteran collector or just getting started, you're bound to make some wonderful finds at the Medina Flea Market of Collectibles. People often refer to this market as a "walk down memory lane," with its constantly changing assortment of vintage items and memorabilia. Local pottery and Fenton glass are popular purchases, along with old coins, comic books, and even vintage postcards. Medina Flea Market is held the third Sunday of each month, with inside-only displays from November through March. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. and admission is $2, with early bird entrance at 6 a.m. for $3.

Rogers Community Auction & Flea Market

45625 St. Rt., 154, Rogers, OH 44455

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Be sure to wear your running shoes when you visit Rogers Community Auction & Flea Market. With 1,600 indoor and outdoor vendors covering five miles of space, there's a lot of ground to cover. Funky finds like an authentic 1940s baseball scoreboard are side-by-side with more traditional items such as antique jewelry and vintage leather accessories. Take a leisurely lunch break at the Burkey Family Picnic Pavilion. Bring your own basket or purchase hand-cut fries, sausage sandwiches, and other tasty fair food at the on-site concessions. The market is open every Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Jamie's Flea Market

46388 Telegraph Rd., Amherst, OH 44001

In the 1960s, William and Martha Jamie (pronounced ja-may) opened an auction house and furniture store serving Northeast Ohio. Over the next decade, the business evolved into Jamie's Flea Market, which has been compared to "shopping an estate sale and dozens of garage sales" at once. Descendants of William and Martha are still involved in the market, which features inside and outside markets selling an eclectic mix of items. Categories include antiques, home furnishings, and sporting goods. Don't leave without picking up a Snoogle at Kiedrowski's Bakery. Hours are 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday. 

Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market

1900 St. Rt. 39, Sugarcreek, OH 44681

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Looking for a pet-friendly way to spend the day? Head to the "Gateway to the Amish Community" and Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market. Color-coded areas include must-see spaces such as M&G This and That, a one-stop family shop with products for she-sheds, man caves, and kid zones. Special events and giveaways add to the festive atmosphere. Stop off at Grandma Shrock's Kitchen for a meal or a snack. The market is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from March through mid-December.

Four Seasons Flea & Farm Market

3000 McCartney Rd., Youngstown, OH 44505

Drive-in theaters often provide grounds for flea markets, but Four Seasons Flea & Farm Market found a rather unusual place for its home. At one time, the space held the largest airport between Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Today, the spacious grounds host up to 600 vendors, including an 88,000-square-foot building and a 22-acre outdoor blacktop. Four Seasons also features the largest fresh farm market in the area. Hours are 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. every Wednesday and Sunday.

Antique Treasures

What's the most unusual item you've found at a flea market or garage sale?