Posts with tag 'Things to Do'

No time for an extended getaway? Ohio is full of schedule- and budget-friendly places you can visit in a day. Whether you're in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati, hop in the car with the family and head out to these wonderful attractions. 

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

The "Roller Coaster Capital of the World" is right here in Ohio on the shores of Lake Erie. But even if you're not a thrill-seeker, there's plenty to enjoy at Cedar Point, voted "Best Amusement Park in America" by readers of USA Today. In addition to more than 70 rides, the park features live entertainment, games, shops and restaurants, a water park, and a mile-long beach. It's a lot to cover in one day, so Hotel Breakers was also voted "Best Amusement Park Hotel." Get unlimited visits and free parking for only $99. Visit the website for schedule and pricing.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303

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Unlike many historic homes, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens isn't named after a former owner. The estate was built in the early 1910s for Goodyear co-founder F.A. Seiberling and his family. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term for "stone quarry," which was the most prominent natural feature of the grounds. Today, visitors can tour the stunning 65-room Tudor Revival Manor House along with the Gate Lodge, Corbin Conservatory, and the series of colorful gardens on the property. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Visit the website for pricing.

Put-in-Bay

Put-in-Bay, OH 43456

Put-in-Bay measures a scant 12.5 square miles in size, but it packs in more to do than many cities more than twice its size. The crown jewel of Lake Erie's Bass Islands is often referred to as the "Key West of the North." With a great mix of historic, cultural, and entertainment attractions, Put-in-Bay offers something for everyone. The island's most popular site is Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, with its towering observation deck providing views of Lake Erie, Cleveland, Toledo, and Detroit. Put-in-Bay is accessible by ferry for vehicles and pedestrians.

The Wilds

14000 International Rd., Cumberland, OH 43732

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Have you ever dreamed of taking an African safari? You won't need a passport to enjoy the experience at The Wilds. Jack Hanna, former director of the Columbus Zoo who gained fame from multiple appearances on The Tonight Show, was the guiding force behind development of this incredible attraction. View Bactrian camels and deer, cheetahs, giraffes, Southern white rhinos, and other exotic wildlife in natural surroundings. Get a different perspective from ziplines that soar above the park, or take a behind-the-scenes tour with Animal Management specialists. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily through October, and reservations are required. Visit the website for schedule and pricing.

Cedar Bog Nature Preserve

980 Woodburn Rd., Urbana, OH 43078

Thousands of years went into the creation of Cedar Bog Nature Preserve. The 45 acres formed by retreating glaciers actually constitute a fen, which is a wetland that drains water, as opposed to a bog, which retains water. In addition to being designated as a National Natural Landmark, Cedar Bog has the highest ranking of any site in Ohio on the Floristic Diversity Index for its wide range of plants. Cedar Bog is also home to more than 40 endangered, threatened, and rare plants and animals. Nature Center hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday until October 31, but the boardwalk is open daily during daylight hours. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for ages 6-17.

Malabar Farm State Park

4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, OH 44843

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Louis Bromfield was the classic local-boy-makes-good, becoming a Pulitzer Prize-winning author moving in the same circles as Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein. When Bromfield decided to reinvent himself as a farmer, he came home to create the eponymous estate that is now Malabar Farm State Park, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Tour the "Big House," which once hosted the wedding of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, and visit the adorable animals that live in the Main Barn. Other activities include hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily and admission is free.

Historic Loveland Castle & Museum

12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140

Travel back in time to medieval Europe with a visit to Historic Loveland Castle & Museum. This faithful replica of a 10th-century castle was intended to be the base of a group of Sunday school students taught by WWI vet Harry Delos Andrews. As a medieval warrior buff, Andrews dubbed the group, "Knights of the Golden Trail," and began construction on the castle for its 100+ members. After touring Loveland Castle and its display of medieval weapons, stroll the surrounding gardens and have a picnic lunch overlooking the Little Miami River. Hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through October 31. Admission is $5 with no charge for ages 5 and under.

Rabbit Hash General Store

10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash, KY 41005

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Rabbit Hash is one of those classic slices of Americana where you might expect to see Sheriff Andy Taylor and his son Opie heading to the local fishing hole. The unincorporated community, which takes its name from a beloved local dish, has a population of just over 300 and the mayor is a French bulldog named Wilbur Beast. Visitors are drawn by Rabbit Hash's quirky charm and quaint downtown, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Rabbit Hash General Store, with its eclectic mix of merchandise and nostalgic feel, is the heart and soul of the community. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Caesar Creek State Park

8570 E. State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068

With its scenic setting, numerous amenities, and variety of activities, Caesar Creek State Park is like a giant summer camp for all ages. The main attraction is a large lake that features a marina, launch ramps, and dock rentals for boating, along with opportunities for swimming and fishing. Other outdoor activities include hiking, horseback riding, and archery. Pioneer Village is a unique living history museum consisting of a blacksmith shop, pioneer schoolhouse, and other buildings depicting life in the early 1800s. Caesar Creek State Park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. and admission is free.

What a Difference a Day Makes

What is the most memorable trip you've made in a single day?

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.

Aufdenkampe Family Farm

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.

Fitch's Farm Market

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.

Maurer Farms 

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.

Mitchell's Berries & Blooms 

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.

Folck Family Farm

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.

Doran's Farm Market

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.

Irons Fruit Farm

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.

Stokes Berry Farm

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.

McGlasson Farms

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.

Strawberry Fields Forever

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.

Green Rooster Farms

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.

TownHall

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.

REBoL

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.

NOMZ

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.

Niko's Sandwich Board

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.

BAM! Healthy Cuisine

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.

Gianni's Italian Oven

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.

North Canton Grinders Above & Beyond

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.

Winking Lizard

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.

Turn Over a New Leaf

Where will you grab a fresh salad around Northeast Ohio this month?

Mother's Day is fast approaching: it's time to start thinking about what you'll get your mom. Why not help her relax and get away from it all by taking her for a day at the spa?

There are countless luxury spas with excellent reputations scattered around Columbus, Cincinnati, and Northeast Ohio. Check out the ones listed below and see if any of them are the right choice for your mom's special day.

PENZONE Salons + Spa

2260 W. Henderson Rd., Columbus, OH 43220

With three locations in Columbus and several more in other parts of Ohio, PENZONE has built a reputation for excellence in its local community. The spa offers massages ranging from light contact to deep tissue treatments and even a foot massage. Luxury facials are also available. 

For beauty treatments, your mom can choose from body hair removal, lashes and brow sculpting, full makeup applications, and hairstyling. The spa also offers packages called "experiences" that you can purchase if you want to make your mom's trip into a full-day event.

Paloma

1197 W. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

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Paloma is a top-ranked luxury spa in Columbus, offering a subdued yet sumptuous experience your mom will love. The spa is well-known for its special massages, including The Paloma (an adapted Swedish massage that uses long stroked of light to medium pressure to produce a relaxing effect) and The Power (a deep pressure massage focused on the knots in your muscles). Their infrared sauna helps guests sweat out toxins without the discomfort of steam. 

Paloma also offers custom spa journeys for guests who want to try out a few different services in one day. These packages are the perfect gift to show your mom how much you love her. 

Lacquer Gallery HAIR + NAILS

448 W. 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43201

Does your mom like to stray from the beaten path? She'll love The Lacquer Gallery. This Columbus salon and spa is known for its avant-garde style and rebellious approach. 

In addition to hairstyling and nail manicuring services, this spa offers a selection of luxury facials, massages, and other spa experiences. Some of the most popular include the Migraine Miracle Massage and Crystal Healing Massage. Their Luxe Body Polish treatment provides potent skin rejuvenation that will have your mom feeling vibrant from head to toe. They also offer additional treatment facials, scrubs, and cosmetic treatments like eyelash extensions, tinting, and waxing.

Charles Scott Salons and Spas

19025 Old Lake Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116

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Does your mom have trouble disconnecting from her devices? Charles Scott Salons and Spas are phone-free spaces where patrons are encouraged to leave the outside world behind. 

This spa is all about taking the time you need to really decompress. They offer spa packages that last much longer than your typical treatment, starting at 2 hours and a half hours in length and going up to 6 and a half hours. These packages include facials, massages, manicures, makeup application, and more. They also offer a variety of specialty treatments, including hydrafacials, spray tans, and face and body waxing.

A White Pond Paradise Salon and Day Spa

566 White Pond Dr., Suite D, Akron, OH 44320

A White Pond Paradise Salon and Day Spa has been operating in Akron for over 20 years and has won several awards for its excellent service. Customers can enjoy massages, facials, and manicure and pedicure treatments in a tranquil and relaxing setting. 

If your mom is interested in switching up her style, you could also get her an appointment at their salon for a professional cut and color after her spa treatments. The salon's talented stylists are sure to help her find a new look she'll love.  

The Spa at Yellow Creek

3636 Yellow Creek Rd., Akron, OH  44333

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Located inside a beautiful building that once served as a local church, The Spa at Yellow Creek's serene environment sets the stage perfectly for a day of rest and relaxation. Some of the services offered here include massages, facials, dermaplaning, and CBD treatments. Their Signature Yellow Creek Massage combines traditional Swedish massage techniques with temperature therapy, while their Tranquility Escape Sleep Massage is gentle, soothing, and intended to promote rejuvenation through rest. 

The staff has also created ritual treatments with multiple steps designed to help your whole body relax. These treatments take a little longer than your standard massage or facial, giving your mom more time to enjoy her outing. 

Face It Spa

229 W. 9th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

As the name suggests, the Face It Spa is all about luxury face treatments that relax, hydrate, and rejuvenate your skin. Your mom can choose from facials, peels, masks, and microdermabrasion treatments to improve her skin's color, smoothness, and elasticity. 

If she enjoys her time here, you can also purchase some of the luxury beauty products used by the staff. These masks, creams, and other facial treatments from PCA Skin and DMK Skincare are perfect for replicating the spa experience in the comfort of home.

The Spa at 21c

609 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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The Spa at 21c is located inside the 21c Hotel in downtown Cincinnati. At this luxury spa, your mom can enjoy Swedish and Himalayan salt stone massages, peels, and facials. The spa even offers treatments using the SWiCH dermal rejuvenation system, an advanced anti-aging device that triggers the skin's natural healing response without damaging it. 

Most treatments last about an hour, and treatment enhancements like The Wrinkle Reducer and The Eye Lift can be added to facial treatments to target specific areas for an additional boost. The Spa at 21c is currently closed Monday through Wednesday, and certain treatments are only offered on specific days, so be sure to call ahead or check their online menu to see what is available on the day you plan to take your mom out. 

Inner Peace Organic Spa

811 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

The Inner Peace Organic Spa is well-named: Its calm atmosphere is perfect for soothing stressed nerves. Some of the services guests can enjoy include foot baths, sauna sessions, and Shirodhara oil treatments. All of the products used are made from the finest organic, natural ingredients for gentle yet effective results. 

The spa also offers alternative services like hypnosis, spirit card readings, and chakra balancing to complete the experience. Your mom is sure to walk away from this spa relaxed, refreshed, and brimming with life. 

Dream Spa Day

Which of these enchanting establishments will you be sending your mom to this Mother's Day?

Tired of the cookie-cutter big-box stores with limited selections, inflated prices, and impersonal service? Combine sightseeing and shopping with day trips to the wonderful small towns of Ohio, from Northeast Ohio to Columbus and Cincinnati, where the character and appeal of a traditional "downtown" is alive and well. 

NORTHEAST OHIO

Medina

Founded in 1818, Medina was originally named "Mecca," which means, "a place to which many people are attracted." Residents and visitors agree that the town's friendly atmosphere and "Norman Rockwell" appearance make that an apt description. The charming town square, presided over by the beautiful brick courthouse, is surrounded by Victorian-style buildings that house a number of wonderful shops and restaurants. Support local causes by shopping at The Bookshelf, a used bookstore where all proceeds go to Project Learn, an adult literacy organization. You don't have to have a green thumb to visit the Gardener's Cottage, which offers a full assortment of furnishings, home accessories, seasonal decor, and gifts. Miss Molly's Tea Room and A Cupcake a Day have great treats to sit and enjoy or grab and go. The square, also known as Uptown Park, hosts regular community events such as Art in the Park and International Fest.

Chagrin Falls

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From its picturesque name to the quaint, tree-lined streets, Chagrin Falls maintains a classic small-town feel in a 21st-century world. Noted cartoonist and Chagrin Falls native Bill Watterson featured a picture of his hometown on the back cover of The Essential Calvin and Hobbes Collection. With more than 75 independent shops and restaurants in the village center, you'll find anything you may need or want. The annual mid-summer Sidewalk Sale, featuring live music and kids' activities, has been a Chagrin Falls tradition for more than 70 years. Take a break from shopping to enjoy the view of the town's namesake falls from Bell Street Park, Riverside Park, or the Main Street bridge.

Berlin

Ever feel like technology is taking over your life? Step into a more relaxed way of life with a visit to Berlin. As the oldest existing village in Holmes County, Berlin is the center of the world's largest Amish community. The streets are lined with dozens of shops that carry one-of-a-kind items featuring high-quality craftsmanship. Spend an afternoon exploring Berlin Antique & Craft Malls, two side-by-side facilities where you'll also find the best fudge in the area. If that's not enough, check out Berlin Village Antique Mall, a two-story building filled with classic pieces and collectibles. Sample the cheese, produce, and all the bounty of Amish farms at German Village Market, Bunker Hill Cheese Chalet, and Troyer's Country Market. Don't miss Streb's General Store, where the third generation is running this classic shop.

COLUMBUS

Granville

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If Granville reminds you of a town in New England, that's no coincidence. Settlers from the East Coast planned the Ohio community using familiar concepts from New England villages, right down to sharing the name of their original hometown in Massachusetts. Granville's layout follows the traditional grid pattern, with two major thoroughfares meeting in the center at the town square. Several original buildings, including churches, inns, and private homes, are still standing, with more than 100 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The downtown business district, part of Granville's established historic area, includes boutiques such as Cedar and Thread, featuring clothing and home décor, and Green Velvet of Granville, a Parisian-style shop with an eclectic mix of merchandise. For a modern touch, stop for lunch or dinner at Three Tigers Brewing Company, a craft brewery and taproom that serves Vietnamese-inspired street food.

German Village

As its preservation society proudly proclaims, you don't have to live in German Village to feel like you belong. Located just south of downtown Columbus, German Village is the largest privately funded preservation district on the National Register of Historic Places. Though technically not a town, this neighborhood has gained worldwide recognition as a premier example of successful restoration, retaining much of the same character and appeal as it displayed during its origins in the mid-19th century. The Book Loft of German Village, housed in a pre-Civil War building that takes up an entire city block, is worth a visit all on its own. Other notable shops include Helen Winnemore's, a women's clothing store that originated in its namesake's home, and Vernacular, a clothing and lifestyle boutique that specializes in ethically sourced, organic, and minority-owned brands.

CINCINNATI

Yellow Springs

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Earlier this year, travel website Only in Your State proclaimed Yellow Springs to be one of the coolest small towns in America, referring to it as a "little slice of paradise" based on its charm and originality. Just how cool is it? Comedian Dave Chappelle, whose father was a professor and dean of students at Antioch College in Yellow Springs, still lives here with his wife and three children on a 65-acre farm. Who can resist shops and restaurants such as The Smoking Octopus, a tobacco store located in a uniquely designed building, and Ha Ha Pizza, with its iconic mural featuring a jackalope, gremlin, flying saucer, and the Loch Ness Monster?

Loveland

Shopping is in Loveland's DNA. The town is named for James Loveland, who ran the general store and post office near the downtown railroad tracks. In the 1980s, the railroad corridor was converted to a bike trail that became part of the Little Miami Scenic Trail, which hosts nearly 750,000 hikers and bikers each year. Not surprisingly, Loveland has several shops, such as JackRabbit, Montgomery Cyclery, and Vertical Drop, specializing in clothing and outdoor activities equipment. If indoor pursuits are more your style, make stops at Busy Bee Boutique and Bond Furniture and Design.

Waynesville

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With more than 60 shops and restaurants in a compact, five-block area, you can shop in Waynesville without fear of dropping. Want more credentials? Waynesville is known as the "Antiques Capital of the Midwest," and it has been recognized by USA Today as one of the "Most Walkable Towns in America." Waynesville Antique Mall, housed in a brick building built in 1882, includes nearly 50 vendors offering classic items, collectibles, and historical memorabilia. Don't miss Buckeye Charm, a family-owned retro boutique with an actual vintage truck as its centerpiece.

SMALLTOWN U.S.A.

Friendly residents? Fewer crowds? Good walkability? What's your favorite feature of small towns?