Steve Burgess Blog

Touring Lake Erie's many lighthouses Erie is a great way to spend a weekend if you're interested in Ohio's history. These structures might be relatively far from major cities like Columbus and Cincinnati, but they offer an intimate look into the state's maritime history that you won't get anywhere else. Check out the following stops on your lighthouse tour to make sure you see all of the best towers around Lake Erie. 

Vermillion Lighthouse

480 Main Street, Vermilion, OH 44089

The Vermilion Lighthouse that currently sits on the city's Main Street Beach is a replica of the original lighthouse from the 1850s. The original was badly damaged by an ice storm in 1929 and could not be repaired, so it was replaced with a newer reconstruction. 

The lighthouse stands 16 feet tall on the edge of a scenic embankment near where the Vermilion River empties into Lake Erie. Visitors cannot tour the inside of the tower, but you can spend as much time on the grounds as you please. This area has been a popular spot for marriage proposals among the locals for decades!

Port Clinton Lighthouse

West State Route 163, Port Clinton, OH 43452

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The Port Clinton Lighthouse was built in 1896 and is actually the second lighthouse erected at this location. After serving for over 50 years, the tower was moved to private property in 1952 before eventually being restored and placed back on the city shoreline in 2014. 

The area around the Lighthouse tower is now known as Waterworks Park, a publicly accessible park with many amenities in addition to the tower. Both are maintained by the Port Clinton Lighthouse Conservancy, or PCLC. The group offers public tours of the tower at certain times of the year, but visitors are always allowed to tour the grounds and spend time around the tower's base.

Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier

End of North Main Street, Huron, OH 44839

The Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier is one of the newer lighthouses on Lake Erie, built less than 100 years ago in the 1930s. It is currently maintained by the US Coast Guard as a working lighthouse on Huron's coastline.

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the pier that leads up to it is. It's a favorite local fishing spot and one of the best spots in Ohio for birdwatching, so you might want to reserve some extra time during your trip if you enjoy either of these activities.

Marblehead Lighthouse

110 Lighthouse Drive, Marblehead, OH 43440

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The Marblehead Lighthouse was built in 1822 and is still in use today, making it the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on Lake Erie. The land it sits on is now known as Marblehead Lighthouse State Park and holds picnic areas, a gift shop, and a replica lifesaving station in addition to the tower.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse in the summer months and enjoy its upper deck's incredible view. The building's tall white base and bright red roof and railings make it a striking sight with great photo opportunities all year round. 

Ashtabula Harbor Lighthouse

End of Ashtabula Harbor Break Wall, Ashtabula, OH 44004

The Ashtabula Harbor Lighthouse was built in 1905 when the Ashtabula River breakwater was first constructed. When it was finally automated in 1973, it was the last manned lighthouse on the Great Lakes. 

Today, the tower is cared for by the Ashtabula Lighthouse Restoration Society. This group runs the Ashtabula Marine Museum next door, which houses the lighthouse's old Fresnel lens and other equipment and memorabilia. Tours of the lighthouse are available as weather permits, and visitors are always welcome to walk around the grounds.

Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse

2800 Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, OH 44102

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The Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse is just one of several Northeast Ohio lighthouses that were once used to illuminate the port of Cleveland. Built in 1911 and in use up until 2021, this lighthouse is best known for its tendency to become coated with ice during the area's frequent winter ice storms. When this happens, the tower takes on a charming fairytale-like appearance, making it a favorite photo subject at that time of year.

The sturdy-looking stone tower and adjacent keeper's house sit at the end of a long pier that isn't accessible to the public, meaning that it can only be observed on boat tours or from the mainland. Even at a distance, however, its eye-catching shape and intriguing history make it well worth a visit.

South Bass Island Lighthouse

2368 Langram Road, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456

Completed in 1897 after several years of construction, the South Bass Island Lighthouse is noteworthy for a few reasons. It's only accessible by ferry, making a trip to see it into an adventure in its own right. Unlike most lighthouses, its 60-foot tower is attached to a two-and-a-half-story brick house where the lighthouse keeper and his family would live.

Today, the lighthouse is owned by Ohio State University, and its attached building is used for academic research. It's the only known lighthouse in the country to be owned by an academic institution, and its unique shape makes it a must-see for anyone interested in Lake Erie's many lighthouses.

Fairport Harbor Lighthouse

129 2nd Street, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077

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The Fairport Harbor Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouse towers in the area around Lake Erie. This 60-foot stone tower was in use from 1825 to 1925. After this, it was finally replaced by a new tower on the pierhead of the west breakwater. 

Now, the lighthouse is carefully maintained by the Fairport Harbor Historical Society, a local group dedicated to preserving this piece of the town's past. The former lighthouse keeper's house right next to the tower now holds the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and its many artifacts. Be sure to stop by during your visit to the lighthouse to get a better appreciation of the building's historical context and purpose.

Light Up Your Life

Which of these lighthouses will you visit during your time around Lake Erie? 

Pierogi are delicious dumplings originating in Poland but also popular in Germany and Eastern Europe. They're stuffed with a range of fillings such as potatoes and cheese, sauerkraut, and ground meat. You don't have to be Polish to enjoy pierogi — especially on October 8th! It's National Pierogi Day, the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to this satisfying comfort food. You could buy some pierogi and prepare them at home or visit a Northeast Ohio restaurant in celebration.

Pierogi Palace of Cleveland

1979 West 25th Street #E5, Cleveland, OH 44113

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Pierogi Palace is a vendor inside West Side Market in Cleveland. It's a great place to get your pierogi fix after doing your weekly produce shopping. The pierogi here are huge; two or three could make a complete meal. Choose from multiple fillings such as mushroom and artichoke hearts, classic potato, and crab meat. 

Pierogi Palace sells their pierogi individually, so you can purchase as many as you like. They're all on display in a glass case, and the employees pack them to order. If you need suggestions for cooking and preparing them, just ask.

Mom's Pierogies

8467 Memphis Avenue, Brooklyn, OH 44144

Mom's Pierogies is a takeout restaurant known for traditional Polish pierogi. You can order your pierogi either boiled or fried. Their takeout menu includes a Pierogi Meal with four potato cheddar pierogi, caramelized onions, sour cream, and two sides. The cucumber salad and potato salad are both delicious side options.

Mom's Pierogies also sells frozen pierogi. In addition to their classic potato cheddar variety, they have mushroom and cheese, potato cheddar jalapeno, sauerkraut, and breakfast pierogi. The breakfast pierogi are stuffed with sausage, cheese, and scrambled eggs, and they're a crowd-pleaser.

Der Braumeister Restaurant

13046 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44111

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Beer and pierogi pair together so well, which is probably why Der Braumeister serves both. This German restaurant has a great selection of German and Eastern European beers you can't find anywhere else in Cleveland. Grab a pint, then order a round of pierogi. Here, they are made with ricotta cheese and served with applesauce and sour cream.

The pierogi here are a starter, so you may want to order an entree too. The chicken paprikash is a tried and true favorite, as is the potato pancake Reuben.

Dick & Alice Sausage and Pierogi Haus

12859 Brookpark Road, Parma, OH 44130

If you want to go out to eat for National Pierogi Day, then Dick & Alice Sausage and Pierogi Haus is a great choice. This casual, welcoming restaurant serves all of the polish favorites, plus a few unique twists. Guests love Moons Over Parma, a pierogi dish consisting of beer braised pierogi, pepperkraut, crispy pork belly, and Flaming Cheeto dust.

The Polish sausage at Dick & Alice is incredible and the perfect pairing for pierogi. Try the Buffalo chicken, Asian Persuasion, or Cleveland Standard sausage, and add on two pierogi for an extra $3.

The South Side

2207 West 11th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113

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For a gastropub-like atmosphere, head to The South Side for your pierogi fix. This American restaurant has an awesome patio, great service, and a varied menu. Their pierogi are on the "Sharable" menu, and indeed, they are a great dish to share with friends at the bar. Served with rosemary garlic butter, they're a bit unique but not too far a departure from traditional pierogi.

You can order a larger portion of pierogi as an entree, too. Or, start with the pierogi and follow up with some tacos, chicken and waffles, or shrimp and grits. Pierogi heat up well, so having leftovers is never a bad thing.

Das Schnitzel Haus

5728 Pearl Road, Parma, OH 44129

If you're in the Parma area, stop by Das Schnitzel Haus for your pierogi meal. This festive German restaurant serves classic, house-made potato-and-cheese pierogi with grilled onions and sour cream. They also have other German favorites like sauerkraut balls and potato pancakes.

Don't leave Das Schnitzel Haus without ordering dessert. Even though it's National Pierogi Day, you have to try their handmade strudels. The cheese is incredible, as are the apple and cherry options. The German chocolate cake is delicious too.

Jukebox

1404 West 29th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113

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What do you get when you combine good music and pierogi? You get Jukebox, a unique Cleveland restaurant. Guests can select songs to play on the jukebox and enjoy their meal on a spacious patio, weather permitting. They have several options for vegans and those following gluten-free diets.

Jukebox has a whole menu section dedicated to pierogi. Fillings include potato and cheese, potato and bacon, sweet potato black bean, and Buffalo chickpea. You can also choose your dipping sauces, with options including creamy dill, stadium mustard, and house ranch. Add a side of kraut for good measure, and dig in while listening to your favorite band. 

Lena's Pierogi House

20 North Main Street, Hubbard, OH 44425

With a name like Lena's Pierogi House, you can bet this place serves some incredible pierogi. They serve the classic options daily but have specialty "Daily Pierogies." On Fridays, try the Sweet Cottage Cheese pierogi. The Buffalo Chicken variety is also incredible whenever it's featured.

In addition to pierogi, Lena's sells some other delicious German and Hungarian fare. Guests love the Hungarian Platter, which comes with cheddar pierogi, cabbage rolls, mashed potato, chicken paprikash, and slaw. The Kielbasa and Kraut Hoagie is also great and served with a cheddar pierogi on the side. Lena's sells frozen pierogi you can prepare at home too.

Get Your Pierogi Fix

Where will you celebrate National Pierogi Day in Northeast Ohio?

From haunted houses to immersive experiences to real sites with a ghostly history, October has a plethora of fun and spooky things to see and do. But it's hard to know where all the best Halloween events are if you've just moved to a new area. Ohio is full of spooky destinations you won't want to miss. Here are some of our favorite haunts, tours, and other Halloween events near Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

The Spirits of the Palace Ghost Investigation

605 Market Ave. N, Canton, OH, 44702

This one-day event runs Friday, October 28th, from 10:30 pm to 2 am and is limited to just 30 people, so get your tickets as soon as possible. Taking place at the historic Canton Palace Theatre, this is not a show or a haunt, but a real investigation into possible mysterious and paranormal goings on there, led by paranormal investigators Team S.P.E.C.T.R.E. Photographs and videos are encouraged, and attendees are welcome to bring their own ghost hunting tools, such as temperature and EMF meters, motion detectors, etc.

The Haunted House Restaurant

13463 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

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While this one isn't a scary experience, if you're a fan of horror movies, you'll want to check out this restaurant. With posters and memorabilia on the walls, they serve up dishes inspired by all your favorite scary movies, from the Birdbox Sandwich (fried chicken breast with Cajun mayo, cheese, and maple sauce) to the Pennywise (red waffle sandwich with pepper jack and candied bacon) to Silence of the Lamb Chops, and more. And, of course, there's plenty of "creepy pasta" as well. They also have vegan options like the Ecto Burger, which pairs an Impossible patty with vegan pulled pork, and Children of the Street Corn. Come in for brunch or dinner to get into the Halloween spirit.

Ghost Walk

256 Mahoning Ave., Warren, OH 44483

Sponsored by the Trumbull County Historical Society, this ghost walk begins at the First Presbyterian Church and guides you through a one-mile walking tour of the historic Perkins neighborhood. Actors portray various members of the Perkins family and relate a variety of fun and chilling tales of the area. Now in its 34th year, the Ghost Walk is a favorite for children and adults alike.

Ghost Tours of the Reeves Museum

325 E. Iron Ave., Dover, Ohio 44622

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The Reeves Victorian Home and Carriage House Museum has a variety of tours and events throughout the year, from tea parties to murder mystery dinners, which allow guests to explore this beautiful and historic 19th-century property. But if you're a fan of the paranormal, the one you'll most want to check out is the Ghost Tour. Happening October 14th and 15th, this guided tour will relate stories of the strange and unexplained things that have happened in the Reeves Museum, along with some old Victorian superstitions. Tours regularly from 7 pm to 10 pm, but if you're really brave, you can take the Midnight Tour!

Escape from Blood Prison

100 Reformatory Rd., Mansfield, OH 44905

The Ohio State Reformatory is best known as the filming location for the 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption. In October, however, they use the facility in a very different way. Escape from Blood Prison is an intense haunt experience that turns the walls of the reformatory into a waking nightmare. Guests find themselves surrounded by the ghosts of some of the prison's more violent offenders and witness to the horrors that occurred there. Recommended for ages 10 and up, this is a wild ride you won't soon forget.

Anchorage Mansion Tours

424 George St., Marietta, OH 45750

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Dating back to 1859, this 23-room mansion is filled with history, including connections to the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It also has a history of haunted occurrences and spooky happenings. On Saturdays in October, you can take a guided tour of the history and hauntings in this mansion. Or, if you're brave, you can take a flashlight ghost tour on Friday nights beginning at 10 pm.

The Ridges, Athens Asylum

118 Ridges Circle, Athens, OH 45701

What better way to celebrate spooky season than with a trip to a mental asylum? The Ridges (formerly the Athens Lunatic Asylum) treated patients for over 100 years. In addition to the facilities, there are also three cemeteries, with nearly 2,000 graves of the patients who died there over the years. Tours of the asylum are full of history, mystery, and just a bit of spine-tingling creepiness. The Halloween season isn't complete without a visit.

Moonville Tunnel

Hope-Moonville Road, McArthur, OH 45651

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Not a house, not a haunt, just a cool place with a spooky vibe. Formerly a railroad line leading to the town of Moonville, the line no longer runs, and Moonville is a ghost town. The tunnel is one of the only things still remaining. You can hike to it across the remains of the railroad line, and it's a great place to explore and take photos. And legend has it, the tunnel is haunted by the ghosts of railroad workers who died there. If you look closely, you can still see them waving their lanterns.

Garrison Ghost Walk

29100 W. River Rd. (OH-65), Perrysburg, OH 43551

Fort Meigs was a military base during the War of 1812. Now, you can take immersive history tours there and experience the era for yourself. But the last two weekends in October, they have a different sort of tour. Guides will take you back in time to experience a variety of unexplained occurrences that have been reported over the years. Tours are conducted entirely by lantern light, with stories told around campfires. Tours begin at 7 pm, but if you want the full experience, take the 18+ night tour at 8:45 or 9 pm.

You Look Like You've Seen a Ghost!

What spooky goings-on are you looking forward to experiencing this Halloween season?

As if the beautiful colors of autumn leaves weren't enough reason to get outdoors, how about some great freebies? Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts bring you free gifts to introduce the wonderful range of small businesses in our communities.

This month, treat yourself to a latte and pastry in Northeast Ohio, a made-to-order lunch in Columbus, and cookies or focaccia in Cincinnati.

September Gifts:

Columbus: Salad or a Lunch Box

Medina: Coffee and Donuts

Akron: Latte and a Pastry

Wooster: Latte and a Cretzel

Canton: $10 Certificate

Cleveland: A Plant

Kent/Stow: A Wrap

Cincinnati: Cookies or Foccacia

Columbus: Salad or a Lunch Box

The Garden Bar Cafe

3989 Broadway, Suite 100, Grove City, OH 43123

No time to pack a healthy lunch? The Garden Bar Cafe has you covered. Use your free gift to pick up a fresh salad or a tasty lunch box that will keep you energized for the rest of the day.

About The Garden Bar Cafe

The Garden Bar Cafe is a convenient and healthy alternative to fast-food dining. Sandwiches and salads are made to order with high-quality ingredients to ensure freshness. Solve those mid-afternoon cravings with a snack pack featuring tasty items such as fruit, veggies, hummus, hard-boiled eggs, and cheese.

Contact and Hours

614.594.3989

Monday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Medina: Coffee and Donuts

Circles on the Square

28 Public Square, Medina, OH 44256

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Whether you're on the go or want to relax, start your day at Circles on the Square. Enjoy your coffee and donuts on site or pick up an easy carryout order.

About Circles on the Square

Named for its location in Medina's historic town center, Circles on the Square offers a delightful blend of classic and contemporary. Traditional donut flavors include plain, honey-glazed, and their signature cinnamon sugar. Gourmet options are a mash-up of donuts and popular tasty treats such as mint Oreo, caramel apple pie, and the best-selling maple bacon. 

Contact and Hours

330.952.2728

Tuesday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Akron: Latte and a Pastry

Akron Coffee Roasters

30 N. High St., Akron, OH 44308

When a satisfied customer declares a cup of coffee "a work of art and science," that's high praise. How will you describe your latte and pastry from Akron Coffee Roasters?

About Akron Coffee Roasters

Everything about Akron Coffee Roasters, from their name to their warm and friendly customer service, fulfills their goal of being a true partner in the community. Exhibits of local artists are frequently found adorning the walls of the shop, which is closed on Sunday so the staff can spend time hiking, biking, and enjoying the local area.

Contact and Hours

330.208.0516

Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Wooster: Latte and a Cretzel

Sure House Coffee Roasting Co.

151 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691

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Satisfy your hunger pangs and improve your vocabulary with your free gift from Sure House Coffee Roasting Co. Get acquainted with the cretzel, a delicious pastry made from croissant dough twisted into a pretzel shape. 

About Sure House Coffee Roasting Co.

For Eric and Elizabeth, founders of Sure House Coffee Roasting Co., your cup of coffee reflects their high standards in sourcing and producing it. All their coffee beans are single origin, purchased from small business owners around the world using fair trade and organic practices, and air-roasted in small batches to bring out the flavor.

Contact and Hours

330.601.0645

Monday - Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Canton: $10 Certificate

Cottage Blues

4100 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709

Find the perfect gift for your sister, co-worker, or BFF with your $10 certificate from Cottage Blues. If you decide to treat yourself instead, we won't judge!

About Cottage Blues

The eclectic assortment of gifts at Cottage Blues almost defies description, so let them sum it up. They are "a mix of country French, coastal vibes, shabby, whimsical, and cheery." At any given time, you may find goats' milk soap, live plants, and cello-wrapped theme gift baskets on their shelves. 

Contact and Hours

234.215.3119

Monday - Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Cleveland: A Plant

Urban Planting Cleveland

10908 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44102

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Houseplants serve a dual purpose of adding color and purifying the air. Brighten your home by bringing nature indoors with this month's free gift from Urban Planting Cleveland.

About Urban Planting Cleveland

Find the best selection around of tropical plants, succulents, and cacti, along with planters and accessories, at Urban Planting Cleveland. Be sure to check out their assortment of unique plants, such as Thai sunrise philodendron and variegated Hindu rope hoya.

Contact and Hours

216.952.6405

Tuesday - Thursday: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Kent/Stow: A Wrap

Kent Lanes

1524 Water St., Kent, OH 44240

Many bowling alleys are content to serve just burgers and pizza. Not Kent Lanes, where your free wrap is part of an extensive menu, including quesadillas, hot sandwiches, and wings with 14 different sauces.

About Kent Lanes

Bowling is a sport that all ages can enjoy, making Kent Lanes a perfect spot for an outing with friends or a family fun night. Instead of brunch, why not plan a Sunday Breakfast Bowl, with unlimited bowling and made-to-order breakfast for only $12? During summer, Kent Lanes hosts several coed beach volleyball leagues on their outdoor court.

Contact and Hours

330.673.1448

Monday - Tuesday: Noon - 1 a.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 1 a.m.
Thursday - Friday: Noon - 1 a.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 1 a.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Cincinnati: Cookies or Focaccia

The Wheel

3805 Brotherton Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

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Home-baked goods are even better when they come from someone else's "home." Savor some scratch-made cookies or focaccia with your September gift from The Wheel.

About The Wheel

The Wheel brings the tradition of Italian neighborhood markets to Cincinnati. Their hand-rolled pasta, breads, and pastries are made fresh with locally-sourced ingredients. Too tired to cook?

Pick up some cannelloni, stuffed peppers, or one of the other grab-and-go entrees. 

Contact and Hours

513.271.0291

Wednesday - Friday: 3 p.m. -7 p.m.
Saturday: Noon - 4 p.m.

A Season of "Giving"

The holiday season is on the way, so be sure to include yourself in the gift-giving. Contact your Cutler Realtor to sign up for our monthly list of free offers.

Helping our clients is part of our DNA at Cutler Real Estate. Our Realtors go the extra mile every month to ensure homebuyers and sellers around Northeast Ohio, Columbus & Central Ohio, and Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky meet their goals.

This month, we're shining a spotlight on the top-producing agents and groups for August 2022. Each one has gone above and beyond in an effort to facilitate the process of buying and selling homes for so many clients. Join us in celebrating our top producers, production leaders, and listing leaders.

Regions:

Northeast Ohio

Columbus & Central Ohio

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