Alas, summer is with us but a short time each year. Fortunately, Cutler Real Estate and LoLo share the gifts that keep on giving. Each month we team up to feature a selection of free offers spotlighting the wonderful assortment of goods and services available from local vendors in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Grab lunch or satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious treats on the list for August. Each offer is good for 60 days, so have fun exploring the great small businesses in our area.
708 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
3769 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319
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Is there ever a bad time for ice cream? Indulge in your favorite flavor or sample a new one with a free scoop from Pav's Creamery.
Yes, there really was a "Pav." When Bill and Claire Micochero bought the business from founder Robert Pavlik, customers flocked to Pav's for the signature fried chicken and homemade custard. Bill and Claire later sold the business to their daughter Michelle, who remade Pav's into the Cadillac of ice cream shops. Specialties include ice cream sandwiches, custard cakes, and "adult" milkshakes. Visit the website to place carry-out orders for pints, cakes, ice cream sandwiches, and Pav's DIY Sundae Survival Pack.
North Canton: 330.472.3348
Daily Noon - 9 p.m.
Akron: 330.644.8524
Daily Noon - 9 p.m. (February through November)
4773 Glendale Milford Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242
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Writer Marie Williams Johnstone once said, "Cupcakes are sweet, and even sweeter when shared." Treat a friend or family member with two free cupcakes from Abby Girl Sweets.
Little girls and cupcakes are made from "sugar and spice and everything nice." Just ask Nathan and Andrea Thompson, who named their cupcake shop after their daughter, affectionately known as "Abby Girl." Every cupcake and cheesecake is made fresh from scratch, using high-quality ingredients such as pure cane sugar, sweet cream butter, and cocoa. Each week there is a new featured cupcake flavor to go along with the 18 daily options, including Carrot Spice and Cinnamon Bun. Four cheesecake flavors are offered in convenient cupcake-sized portions. Abby Girl has two other locations in downtown Cincinnati and Eastgate.
513.335.0898
Weekdays 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
3296 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
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Whether you're working, running errands, or wrangling kids, your days are spent on the go. Pick up a free sandwich or wrap from Corner Stone Deli & Cafe for a portable lunch that goes wherever you do.
"Fast food, but not junk food." That's the slogan of Corner Stone Deli & Cafe, a casual restaurant just minutes from the OSU campus serving food that's made-to-order from fresh ingredients. Corner Stone's truly eclectic menu includes an extensive selection of hot and cold sandwiches and wraps along with breakfast items, sushi, rice bowls, and seafood entrées. Vegetarians will appreciate options such as the Portobello melt and the Herbivore, a sandwich with tofu, sunflower seeds, onions, banana peppers, mixed greens, and hot sauce served on your choice of bread or bagel. Bubble tea with a cookie or brownie makes a nice mid-afternoon snack. Order online or use the handy app for carry-out or delivery.
614.267.3354
Daily 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (Delivery 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.)
How do you get to participate in our LoLo Gifts program? Ask and you shall receive! Yes, it's just that easy. Simply contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to sign up, and each month you'll receive notification of the current offerings.
There's no charge to join the program, so what are you waiting for? Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent now!
Evidence shows beer dates back to prehistoric times. While America has embraced this popular beverage since colonial days, beer has come a long way since then, and Cleveland is regularly named on lists of the country's top cities for brew.
Monday, September 7 is both Labor Day and National Beer Lover's Day. Could there be a more appropriate time to visit one of these great breweries around Northeast Ohio?
17450 Engle Lake Dr., Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
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While Fat Head's was founded in Pittsburgh, its flagship location is now in Middleburg Heights, where they opened a full-scale production brewery in 2012. The Cleveland area was so welcoming and supportive that Fat Head's added a beer hall and restaurant six years later. A menu of upscale bar food favorites such as Wagyu beef chili dogs goes well with dozens of Fat Head's craft beers on tap. Patio seating is available for those beautiful summer days in Northeast Ohio.
1707 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
After learning the brewing business in Denver, one of the hubs of the craft beer explosion, Ali and Jon Hovan returned to their home town to open HiHO Brewing Co. The brand name is a tip of the hat to the mountain region where the idea was born, along with a shout-out to Ohio pride. The taproom features 11 HiHO beers on tap as well as a menu of pizza, charcuterie, and snacks. Place your order at the bar and seat yourself inside or on the pet-friendly patio.
1844 Columbus Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113
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When you visit Brick and Barrel Brewing, don't be surprised if you find yourself chatting with owner Karl Spiesman. After several years serving in the Coast Guard, Karl decided to pursue his passion for good beer and wine by opening the type of brewpub where he would want to hang out. Karl's sense of humor shows in draft names such as Billy Kristalweizen and Rally Possum. Raise a glass while watching the Indians or Browns, or bring Fido and sit outside at one of the shaded picnic tables.
1947 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
Conveniently located next door to Cleveland's legendary West Side Market, Market Garden Brewery can be spotted easily by the flashing BEER! sign. The 35,000-square-foot facility houses a production brewery, gastropub, and retail store. With a dog-friendly beer garden and three spacious bars, there's plenty of room to relax and sip on award-winning beers such as Prosperity Wheat and Citramax IPA. Pair your brew with a fried bologna sandwich, Polish Boy pizza with smoked kielbasa, or one of the other favorite Midwest dishes on the menu.
8377 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136
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Have you ever dreamed of being your own brewmaster? At The Brew Kettle, all you need to bring is your enthusiasm. Choose from more than 70 beer and wine recipes, and The Brew Kettle provides ingredients and instructions. They'll even personalize your beverage with a custom label. Not into DIY? Enjoy one of The Brew Kettle's year-round, seasonal, or one-off brews on tap. Since they're not satisfied with excelling at beer and wine, The Brew Kettle also makes their own Southern-style smoked pulled pork and wings.
777 E. 185th St., Cleveland, OH 44119
The idea began in Munich, but The Cleveland Brewery itself embodies the heart and soul of Northeast Ohio. Owners John and Mary pay tribute to Cleveland's history with brews such as Browns Town, Muellerfest, and 185th St. Wheat. In another nice touch, tap handles are shaped like the iconic Terminal Tower. Brews rotate, so check the Facebook page to see what's current.
7524 Father Frascati Dr., Cleveland, OH 44102
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If you like your brew with a view, check out Terrestrial Brewing Co. and their pub overlooking Lake Erie. Terrestrial's infusion tower adds notes of peach, jalapeno, grapefruit, and other fresh fruits to their beers. Authentic tacos and burritos from La Plaza make a great accompaniment to any brew. The outdoor patio features an adjacent off-leash play area, so bring your four-legged friend along, and you may find his picture posted as one of the "Dogs of Terrestrial."
2717 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
Northeast Ohio was shaped in large part by European immigrants, and Hansa Brewery honors their influence with authentic food and drink. For more than 40 years, Hansa Import House sold an extensive variety of imported meats, cheeses, and beers. In 2013, work began on Boris Music's dream project of upgrading the shop while adding a brewery and restaurant. A visit to Hansa might include a pint of whimsically named Bye Felicia! with potato pancakes and Wiener Schnitzel.
1836 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Who is Bad Tom Smith, and why is a brewery named after him? His story of redemption resonated with owners Sheryl and John Vojtush and their head brewer, Sean Smith, a distant relative of the outlaw. Bad Tom's name also adorns the brewery's barrel-strength bourbon. The taproom serves a light menu of snacks, salads, and pizzas.
1361 E. 55th St., Cleveland, OH 44103
Goldhorn Brewery, named for a mountain goat in Slovenian folklore, imbues that same love of tradition in everything they do. Rustic decor, long dining tables, and a cozy lounge area create a warm sense of community. The city's roots inspire beer names such as Polka City Pilsner and Kleveland Kölsch. Be sure to try their signature chicken sandwich, smothered in their namesake hot sauce.
When it comes to food and beer, are you Team Pizza or Team Burgers?
Grab a fork and pass the syrup – National Waffle Day is Monday, August 24th. While waffles date back to at least the 14th Century, National Waffle Day celebrates the 1869 patent for the first-ever waffle iron. Over 150 years later, many kitchens across Cleveland use a waffle-maker every morning to start their day on the right foot! Instead of preparing your normal waffle breakfast, we encourage you to treat yourself to a giant, fresh waffle at one of these restaurants around Northeast Ohio.
2999 Payne Ave. Suite 126, Cleveland, OH 44114
Let's kick our list off inside Asia Plaza at Ball Ball Waffle. This street food shop serving up traditional Hong Kong eats is ready to treat you to one of their delicious waffles. These tasty waffles, which look like bubble wrap, come in sweet and savory options. Top yours with chocolate chips, salty egg, or even seaweed. Grab a cup of Hong Kong milk tea, and you'll celebrate National Waffle Day in a way you won't forget.
5354 Lee Rd., Maple Heights, OH 44137
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Spoiler alert: Mr. Wonderful's Chicken & Waffles is, in fact, absolutely wonderful. They might not have invented the waffle, but they did make it wonderful. Order up a single, giant waffle with your choice of chicken wings, tenders, thighs, or breasts. You can swap it out for shrimp or fish if you'd like, as long as you make sure it's smothered in Sweet Jesus glaze.
777 Starkweather Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
Grab a taste of Northeast Ohio at Lucky's Café on National Waffle Day. This award-winning café supports Ohio farmers by including their fresh ingredients in as many menu items as possible. Whether you visit for breakfast or weekend brunch, their vanilla bean waffles will make your day amazing. These vegan items are topped with a strawberry-rhubarb compote, a dash of tubanado, given a dollop of honey-infused whipped cream, and drizzled with a homemade caramel sauce. No, you're not dreaming – these heavenly waffles will remind you how lucky you are to live in Cleveland.
845 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44303
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For nearly 50 years, Wally Waffle has been one of the best places in Akron to grab breakfast. It should come as no surprise that they're pretty darn good at whipping up their namesake dish. They have not one, not two, but 17 different waffles to sample. Go the healthy route with a Better Day, The Patriot, or Strawberry waffle, all topped with fresh fruit. Or you can sweeten up your morning with the Elvis, Funnel Cake, or Buckeye waffle, each topped with sweet ingredients like peanut butter, cinnamon sugar, and whipped cream. Better yet, invite 16 of your closest friends so you can sample each one…purely for National Waffle Day research purposes, of course.
1688 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44313
Few places feel more homey and comfortable than the classic American diner, and Eye Opener is Akron is the perfect place to meet, eat, and enjoy National Waffle Day. This wonderful gourmet breakfast joint aims to please with their Flat Iron Waffle. This Belgian waffle is topped with whipped cream and confectioners sugar. No crazy toppings, just a classic Belgian waffle the way it's meant to be made. They will, however, let you get a little creative with your order if you'd like to add peanut butter and River Herb Farm Dazzleberry Jelly to make it a PB&J Waffle.
4401 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Believe it or not, one of the sweetest ways to celebrate National Waffle Day is with a cold cup of ice cream! Mason's Creamery creates handmade small batches of ice cream in classic and unique varieties. They'll serve it to you in a waffle cone, but seeing as it's National Waffle Day, they'll even put it atop a fresh egg waffle. Since it's on an actual waffle, we're pretty sure that we can count this ice cream dish as breakfast.
11817 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
Cleveland's premier soul food destination naturally has some of the best Southern-style waffles in the city. Southern Café takes classic soul food dishes straight from grandma's kitchen and gives them a unique spin that makes them irresistible. Don't believe us? Then order up their Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Red Velvet Waffles. One leg, one thigh, four waffles, and a cup of low country grits. We can see your mouth watering already. Keep in mind that Southern Café doesn't open until 11 AM, so we suggest skipping breakfast and saving your appetite for a soulful lunch.
2927 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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The minute you set your eyes on the 18th-century townhouse that Heck's Café calls home, you'll know that you're in for a fantastic gourmet American meal. Original recipes and local ingredients combine to create a uniquely delicious menu that includes one amazing Nutella Waffle. Topped with whipped cream, Nutella, strawberries, bananas, and toasted hazelnuts, the Nutella Waffle is absolutely perfect. Add an order of Bacon Mac n Cheese or home fries to your plate to complement the sweetness with a little savory crunch. How can you make it better? Pair it with a handspun Nutella milkshake, and let your taste buds swim in a sea of Nutella goodness.
No matter what you put atop your waffle, you'll love National Waffle Day in Akron. Which waffle spot in Northeast Ohio is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Who's ready to get out of the house and get away for a weekend? These last few months have brought our families together closer than ever. Unfortunately, that also meant pretty close quarters at home. While many of our summer vacation plans may be postponed until next year, there's still plenty of time to make the most of a quick trip around the state. Load up the kids, pack a handful of snacks, and head to one of these destinations that are perfect for a family weekend getaway.
Distance From: Cleveland (85 miles) | Columbus (130 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)
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Looking to get away only to kick back and relax? Then stay put in Put-in-Bay! This island in Lake Erie is a fantastic play to have an enjoyable yet relaxed family vaca. You can either stay on the island itself or take the ferry back and forth to the mainland. Perry's Cave Family Fun Center is a must-do as it has everything imaginable: mini golf, rock climbing, a maze, and even gemstone mining. There are also tons of hiking trails, nature walks, and on-water activities to fill your getaway!
Distance from: Cleveland (20 miles) | Columbus (129 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)
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Super close to Akron, your visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park will make you feel worlds away from the city. This wonderful natural space is a great place to camp and get your family in touch with nature. Hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, canoeing, kayaking, and stargazing are just the tip of the iceberg! Bring a few coolers of food for unforgettable picnics or eat one of the restaurants just outside of the park. You can stay in lodging within the park or camp at a nearby campground just outside of the park's limits.
Distance From: Cleveland (53 miles) | Columbus (190 miles) | Cincinnati (296 miles)
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Whether you're looking for indoor or outdoor family fun, Geneva-on-the-Lake is the place to be! Charter a fishing boat or play mini-golf. Take a zipline canopy tour or go canoeing down the Grand River. If the weather isn't cooperating, a roller rink and multiple arcades will deliver indoor fun. Just be sure to hit the beach when you can as no trip to Geneva-on-the-Lake is complete without actually being on the Lake.
Distance From: Cleveland (197 miles) | Columbus (57 miles) | Cincinnati (135 miles)
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If your family can't spend enough time outdoors then set a course for Hocking Hills! Southeastern Ohio's scenic wonderland has two nature preserves, five state parks/forests, and six natural attractions. Hike to the Old Man's Cave or Cedar Falls. Camp in a tent or stay in a cabin. Plus, there are plenty of other family-friendly attractions like High Rock Adventures, Skyview Drive-In, Rollerball Lanes, and R Adventure Park.
Distance From: Cleveland (63 miles)Columbus (112 miles) | | Cincinnati (225 miles)
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Have an adventure on the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky. This town is home to adrenaline-pumping action including Cedar Point amusement park, Ghostly Manor Thrill Center, Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark, Castaway Bay Waterpark, and Kalahari Resort. Add a new interesting museums and lovely state parks into the mix, and you've got an active weekend that your kids will love!
Distance From: Cleveland (227 miles) | Columbus (85 miles) | Cincinnati (24 miles)
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Travelers to the Cincinnati area know that there are hours of fun to be had just a few miles north in Mason. Home to King's Island, the largest amusement park and waterpark in the Midwest. In fact, there are so many great family-friendly attractions around Warren County that Mason is a great home base. Jump & Jack's playground, the WEB Extreme Entertainment, and EnterTRAINment Junction are a few miles east.
Distance From: Cleveland (136 miles) | Columbus (77 miles) | Cincinnati (185 miles)
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Looking to get a little wild on your family getaway? Then head to Cumberland and visit The Wilds. This unique zoo features animals from around the world and you can go on your own safari through the park. You can take a zipline tour, learn about animals in the nature center, and even spend the night on the property and let the sounds of wildlife rock you to sleep.
Distance From: Cleveland (195 miles) | Columbus (56 miles) | Cincinnati (70 miles)
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There's a reason Yellow Springs is known as "Everyone's Favorite Place." Arts, culture, local cuisine, and outdoor recreation all combine to give you an awesome weekend trip. Take a family bike ride through the trails within John Bryan State Park or hike around Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve. Grab fresh food from Flying Mouse Farms then dust off your new favorite book at one of the two Yellow Springs independent bookstores. With events nearly every weekend in downtown, there's always something fun to see and do for the whole family in Yellow Springs.
Distance From: Cleveland (78 miles) | Columbus (84 miles) | Cincinnati (200 miles)
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If you've never visited Ohio's Amish Country, then you're in for a yesteryear treat! Amish Country is full of unique little towns that give you a sample of true Amish life. Take an Amish Heartland Tour in Millersburg, eat at the Amish Door Restaurant in Wilmot, and visit the "Little Switzerland of Ohio" in Sugarcreek. Whichever towns you stop in, be sure to sample the fresh cheese and pick up a few handcrafted souvenirs around Berlin.
Distance From: Cleveland (114 miles) | Columbus (146 miles) | Cincinnati (202 miles)
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Instead of heading to the three Big C cities, head to Toledo and experience a different side of Ohio. The Toledo Zoo, Imagination Station, National Museum of the Great Lakes, and Wildwood Park are just a few of the great destinations inside Toledo. With dozens upon dozens of indoor and outdoor attractions that are ideal for all ages, Toldeo may just become your new favorite urban getaway in Ohio!
Where is your favorite place to take the family for a weekend getaway? Tell us where we should plan our next family staycation in the comments!
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?