Date Archives: May 2021
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28
7 LoLo Gifts Offers Are in Bloom for May
So you made it through another Midwest winter, and summer is on the horizon. What better way to reward yourself than with a fun freebie from one of the great small businesses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati?
Cutler Real Estate has partnered with LoLo Gifts to provide a monthly lineup of treats at no cost or obligation to you. May's offers are sure to brighten your day!
May Gifts:
Cincinnati: A Flight or a Pint
Canton: $10 Certificate
Ohio Tea Company
5569 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
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Could tea be the perfect beverage? It's versatile enough to serve hot or cold, and many of the varieties sold at Ohio Tea Company fight disease, boost weight loss, and reduce cholesterol. You can't go wrong, no matter which one you choose with your $10 certificate toward any products in the shop.
About Ohio Tea Company
The owners of Ohio Tea Company can always spot the look of surprise on the face of a first-time visitor. Instead of a few boxes of bagged tea, you'll find more than 400 varieties of loose-leaf tea sourced from all over the world. Some flavors are blended in-house, and many customers enjoy creating their own individual blend.
Contact and Hours
330.333.9454
Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Akron: Coffee and a Pastry
Compass Coffee
647 E. Market St., Akron, OH 44304
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Much like milk and cookies, coffee and a pastry is a classic, comforting food and beverage combo. Treat yourself to a relaxing break any time of day at Compass Coffee.
About Compass Coffee
Compass Coffee does more than brew a great cup of joe. The shop is part of The Well CDC, a community development corporation with a mission to promote revitalization of the Middlebury neighborhood. Their initiatives include offering opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, leading to increased prosperity and stability.
Contact and Hours
330.815.1285
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Columbus: Ice Cream
Johnson's Real Ice Cream
2728 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43209
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Nothing says summer like tasty and refreshing ice cream. You're never too old to enjoy an ice cream cone, especially when they come in the delicious flavors and premium quality found at Johnson's Real Ice Cream.
About Johnson's Real Ice Cream
Founded in 1950, Johnson's Real Ice Cream is still a popular family-run shop, now led by members of the third generation. They continue to be inspired by their grandfather, offering flavors such as Lemon Cha Cha and Columbus Crunch as a tribute to his creativity and whimsical nature.
Contact and Hours
614.231.0014
Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 10 p.m.
Wooster: Certificate
LifeStyle Nutrition
838 E. Milltown Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
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If you think healthy eating has to be boring, you've never been to Lifestyle Nutrition. Use your certificate toward one of their protein shakes that are under 300 calories and come in more than 100 amazing flavors. Peanut Butter Oreo? Yes, please!
About LifeStyle Nutrition
At LifeStyle Nutrition, good health isn't just tasty, it's also fun. Their herbal teas and meal replacement shakes are so good, you'll have a hard time believing they're also good for you. On Thursdays, get your groove on with their free cardio drumming class. Call or text ahead for convenient pickup or curbside delivery.
Contact and Hours
330.473.0603
Monday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Tuesday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Medina: Popcorn or Chocolate
Something's Popping
47 Public Square, Medina, OH 44256
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When the choice is between popcorn and chocolate, how can you go wrong? Whether you prefer old-school treats or you have more adventurous taste buds, there's Something's Popping for you.
About Something's Popping
Something's Popping is a nostalgic throwback to an old-fashioned candy shop that's a delight for both kids and grown-ups. In addition to 40 flavors of popcorn, display cases are filled with gourmet chocolates, homemade fudge, classic candy, and bottled sodas. Surprise family or friends with one of their sample boxes or gift tins.
Contact and Hours
330.722.3088
Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 5 p.m.
Kent/Stow: Certificate
Red Letter Days of Kent
144 E. Main St., Kent, OH 44240
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Every day's a special occasion at Red Letter Days of Kent. Your certificate can be applied toward stationery, journals and writing tools, books, puzzles, and other clever gift items for friends, family, or yourself.
About Red Letter Days of Kent
Red Letter Days of Kent calls themselves "the store for writers, readers, artists, and givers," which covers pretty much everyone. If you're tired of the generic gifts found in the national chain stores, you'll love the assortment at Red Letter Days. Their sassy sense of humor comes through on items like men's socks that say, "Coolest Guy on the Conference Call."
Contact and Hours
330.474.1330
Sunday - Tuesday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Wednesday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Cincinnati: A Flight or a Pint
Streetside Brewery
4003 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
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Find out why the craft beer at Streetside Brewery has been racking up awards in competitions across the country. Try a pint of a flavor that captures your fancy, or sample a flight.
About Streetside Brewery
The Hickey family, founders and owners of Streetside Brewery, are proud to be entrepreneurs and residents in Columbia-Tusculum, the oldest neighborhood in Cincinnati. Stateside Brewery makes its home on the site of the former East End Café, once one of Cincinnati's longest-running live music venues.
Contact and Hours
513.615.5877
Monday - Wednesday Noon - 10 p.m.
Thursday Noon - 11 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Summer in the City
Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts are keeping the fun going all summer long, and you can be a part of it. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to sign up for our monthly offers. Yes, it's that simple!
21
9 Ohio Caterers for Your Next Event
Summer is almost here, and for many, that means family reunions, weddings, and other special events. If you're planning an event in the coming months, you'll want to start planning right away. Many of the best venues and vendors are already booking up!
Luckily, there are many great event caterers in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Here are a few of our favorites.
Special Moments Catering
9127 OH-14, Streetsboro, OH 44241
Need to plan an event, but don't want to break the bank? Check out Northeast Ohio's premier caterer – Special Moments Catering. They've been pleasing customers in the Akron and Cleaveland area since 1993, and they offer traditional buffets for as low as $12.95 per person!
From smaller events like Mother's Day brunch or a tailgating party to fundraisers, weddings, corporate events, and more – you can trust these pros to handle every important event in your life, large or small. They pride themselves on creativity and being able to create one-of-a-kind menus to fit every budget. Don't assume you can't afford a caterer! Instead, let the experts at Special Moments Catering do what they do best.
Marigold Catering
3901 Lakeside Ave. E, Cleveland, OH 44114
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Since 1997, Marigold Catering has been exceeding customer expectations. They love handling all types of events, ranging from small, intimate dinner parties to huge galas for hundreds of guests. They have the resources to create an incredible gathering but aren't so large that you have to worry about getting lost in the shuffle.
Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, or a social event like an anniversary or birthday party, you can count on them to provide you with a truly memorable experience.
A Taste of Excellence Catering
16888 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136
If you're looking for a world-class dining experience, you can't go wrong with A Taste of Excellence Catering. Their staff has over 80 years of combined culinary and hospitality experience, and it shows in everything they do. They'll provide you with an innovative menu, stunning food displays, and the freshest local and seasonal ingredients.
This catering company handles large corporate events, weddings, and social events like pig roasts, Bar Mitzvahs, anniversary dinners, holiday events, and more.
Milo's Catering
980 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43222
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One of Columbus, Ohio's most experienced caterers, Milo's Catering has been pleasing local customers for over 20 years. Their exceptional food, professional service, and affordable prices have made them one of the area's top choices for event catering. They've also won multiple awards including the Wedding Wire Couple's Choice Award and The Knot Best of Weddings.
Some of the events they specialize in include weddings, golf outings, and corporate catering. They offer both an express catering menu and full social events and formal catering menu, giving them the flexibility to work with all types of events and budgets.
Creative Cuisine Catering
839 Busch Ct., Columbus, OH 43229
One of the best things about working with Creative Cuisine Catering is that they're available to oversee your entire event, or just focus on the catering aspect of it. This added flexibility can be a life-saver if you're busy and don't have time to manage all the details. They were also voted one of the top three caterers in Columbus by Three Best Rated.
This company has over 40 years of experience and can handle events of all sizes. They also specialize in organic catering and green entertainment. They focus on using sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients and providing the freshest possible flavors.
Together & Company
550 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The award-winning Together & Company caterers pride themselves on adding extra care into everything they do. With over 20 years of experience, these caterers won't disappoint. They handle a variety of events from weddings and sit-down dinners to tailgate parties and boxed lunches.
Many of their clients love them because they take the time to sit down and truly understand your vision before helping you to perfectly execute it. They can help with everything from creating the perfect menu to selecting your venue, decor, and design.
A Taste of Class Catering
3415 Glenmore Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45211
A Taste of Class Catering goes above and beyond to ensure every event is truly memorable. They specialize in a variety of corporate events and weddings as well as picnic grill-outs, trays and platters, and more. They're a full-service caterer with the ability to handle everything from an intimate event to a lavish banquet with up to 10,000 guests.
The combination of top-notch service and affordable pricing has made this catering company one of the top choices in the Cincinnati area.
Funky's Catering Events
1761 Tennessee Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229
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When you hire Funky's Catering Events, you'll enjoy more than a catered event; they strive to provide a true experience. They've been delivering on this promise for over 30 years and are one of the area's most popular caterers for weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, and non-profit events.
They can provide all of your event needs including on-site chefs, floral and decor, entertainment, and more.
Sweets & Meats BBQ
2249 Beechmont Ave. UNIT B, Cincinnati, OH 45230
If you're planning an open house event, family function, birthday party, or a short luncheon, Sweets & Meats BBQ is a great choice! They offer delivery and set-up, making this a convenient option for busy people. Their choices range from individual boxed lunches and disposable trays to full-service buffet catering and food truck and trailer catering.
The wide variety of service options and mouth-watering food make this an excellent pick for your next casual event.
Leave It to the Professionals
What event will you have catered this summer?
14
Girls' Day Out! Shop Local at These 9 Ohio Boutiques
One of the many advantages of living in Ohio is the abundance of unique shops in our area. When you're enjoying a Girls' Day Out and want to browse and buy some new clothes, or even an entire outfit, you'll have your choice of many unique boutiques, each with their own local flavor. Plan your day with a visit to some of these 9 Ohio boutiques:
Northeast Ohio
Allie M Designs Boutique
2299 W. Market St., Akron, OH 43313
Allie M Designs Boutique makes it easy to create an entire head-to-toe outfit, including chic clothing, jewelry, shoes, and accessories like handbags, scarves, and even face masks. You'll be able to find outfits perfect for a night out or comfy and casual clothes if you're staying in and relaxing. In addition to their new items, the boutique has a special section called Allie's Closet with pre-owned items. And if you're shopping for a gift, or love monogrammed items for yourself, you'll be able to find handbags, sweaters, and more that fit the bill. Hours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday.
Evie Lou
2509 Professor Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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If you like your clothes to be comfortable but don't want to sacrifice style, you'll find what you're looking for at Evie Lou. Shop for clothing, shoes, and accessories by popular designers including Cynthia Ashby, Rundholz, and My Soul. The shop can also help you select items that flatter your particular body type, whether you're long and lean, short and curvy, or somewhere in between. Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, and noon-4 p.m. Sunday.
Jacklyn Wild Boutique
5892 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Jacklyn Wild Boutique was created for modern women who prefer creating their own trends rather than following others. The shop has a curated selection of women's clothing from independent designers who combine bohemian flair with retro style. And if you're one of the many women who have been working from home, you'll find recommended items that allow you to look appropriately chic while still being comfortable. In addition to clothing items, you'll also find home goods, baby clothing, pet products, and more at Jacklyn Wild Boutique. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday.
Columbus
THREAD
1110 Chambers Rd. Suite B, Columbus, OH 43212
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THREAD brings a "big city" mindset to Columbus, and when you walk into the store, you'll see a gorgeous space that reflects the store's mission of being accessible and inviting. You're welcome to enjoy a complimentary espresso or glass of wine and relax on the back patio if you'd like to. Whether you're looking for clothing from established designers or want to check out lines from designers who may be in their first season, you'll have a wide variety of items to choose from. In addition to clothing and accessories, the boutique also carries home and gift items including candles, kitchen items, and more. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, along with private shopping appointments available from 10 a.m.-noon and 5-6 p.m.
Ladybird
716 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Located in the heart of Columbus' Short North Arts District, Ladybird aims to offer a relaxed shopping experience while you shop for pieces that combine modern elegance with casual cool. Clothing items are fashion-forward creations by emerging designers, and they can be perfectly combined with the shop's vintage accessories. Hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday, or by appointment.
Happy Go Lucky Home & Her
962 and 964 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Happy Go Lucky Home & Her is a combination of two boutiques in adjoining spaces, with one carrying women's apparel and the other offering lifestyle items. In the apparel boutique, you'll find stylish items from brands like Comfy USA and Johnny Was not usually offered in this area and in sizes ranging from 2 to 16. In the lifestyle shop, you'll be able to choose items such as custom upholstered furniture, wall art, and gifts. Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
Cincinnati
Idlewild
1230 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Located in Cincinnati's vibrant Over-the-Rhine district, Idlewood is owned by a family of three women who love art, design, and fashion. Each has her own unique perspective and talents, ranging from jewelry creation to photography to fashion design, and you'll be able to find some of their creations in the boutique. Hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.
Soho Boutique
2757 Observatory Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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Shop for contemporary clothing and accessories that are practical yet sophisticated at Soho Boutique. Most of their pieces are created by female designers, and they've been handpicked by the shop's buyers. The owner and manager are happy to discuss styles and trends and help you find the right fit for the best version of yourself. From sunglasses to dresses to swimwear, you'll be able to find a wide variety of items you'll need to create a distinctive wardrobe. Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.
Sloane Boutique
1216 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Sloane Boutique was the first women's clothing store in Cincinnati's OTR and mixes edgy styles with touches of modern femininity. The shop offers pieces in a range of prices, aiming to provide items that are effortlessly chic and unique yet still affordable. You'll find items that are sourced from talented designers from throughout the world as well as those who call Cincinnati home. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday, and noon-6 p.m. Thursday-Saturday.
Shop 'Til You Drop
What are some of your favorite boutiques to explore when your wardrobe needs an update?
12
These 9 Northeast Ohio Art Galleries Should Be On Your Radar
Whether you love to explore unique art, purchase art for your home, or take inspiring classes that will help you create art of your own, the art galleries of Northeast Ohio are sure to have something for you. Cleveland is filled with outstanding galleries that showcase the talents of local artists and offer one-of-a-kind items that are perfect for decorating your home or business. You'll find art in every media imaginable, from glass and paintings to art-inspired clothing, with gallery collections curated by local art experts. While there are many more to choose from in Cleveland and beyond, we narrowed the list down to 9 Northeast Ohio art galleries that you won't want to miss.
Something Different Gallery
1899 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
Art comes in many forms, and the Something Different Gallery celebrates them all. If you're shopping for a unique, artistic gift for someone special, this gallery is a great place to find it. The Something Different Gallery has been highlighting the work of local artists and artisans for more than 35 years. When you visit, you'll find artistic home décor, jewelry, and fashion items, along with framing services to keep your art looking its best.
The Bonfoey Gallery
1710 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115
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The Bonfoey Gallery has been a Cleveland staple for more than 100 years, with a focus on local artists and a wide variety of services available to keep your art collection looking its best. This gallery showcases the work of more than 100 artists, both local and international, in a wide variety of artistic styles. Be sure to check out the collection of art from students of Cleveland-area art schools for a first-hand look at the work of some of the next great local artists.
Blank Canvas CLE
2174 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
With an outstanding collection of contemporary art focused on famous figures from pop culture and so much more, Blank Canvas CLE is sure to have something fun to brighten the walls of your home or business. There are tons of portraits of famous figures from art, pop culture, and history, with prices that make it easy to add something special to your collection without breaking the bank. Paint parties at Blank Canvas are always a hit and will help you create your own unique piece of art.
Heights Arts
2175 Lee Rd., Cleveland, OH 44118
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Heights Arts is a gallery that celebrates the work of Cleveland-based and regional artists, with rotating exhibits that ensure you can always find something new on display. There are tons of great items to take home, including prints, sculptures, handmade jewelry, and ceramics. In addition to showing off the work of hundreds of talented local artists, the Heights Arts gallery is renowned for its art education programs. There are more than 50 artistic workshops to choose from, whether you're an expert, or you're just beginning your journey as an artist.
GV Art and Design
17128 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
Are you a Cleveland sports fan searching for art that showcases your favorite teams, players, and logos? GV Art and Design is a sport-focused gallery that specializes in local art and unique clothing based on that artwork. Many of the pieces here are focused on your favorite players from the Browns, Cavs, and Cleveland baseball, using unique designs that blend sports with pop culture. GV Art and Design has been voted as one of the best galleries for pop artwork in the region, with a collection that will have you coming back again and again.
Still Point Gallery and Boutique
12427 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
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If you've been searching for artistic items that add a serene touch to your home, then you will love exploring the carefully curated collection at Still Point Gallery and Boutique. This gallery features an eclectic collection of photography, paintings, and home décor, largely produced by local artists. It's also a great place to find fresh fashion items, and shop for inspired, artistic jewelry.
Coco's Chalky Paints
530 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115
Searching for a gallery that you can spend hours exploring and still not see it all? Coco's Chalky Paints has more than 20,000 square feet of space, filled with a delightful selection of art, all of the supplies that you need to create your own masterpiece, and fun classes to help you take your skills to the next level. You'll often find Coco herself among the vast collections of this art gallery, so be sure to stop and say hello. She loves to help visitors find the perfect items or simply chat about art with fellow enthusiasts.
Glass Bubble Project
2421 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Glass art is amazing for adding to the atmosphere of any room, and the Glass Bubble Project features some of the most impressive glass pieces you'll find anywhere in Cleveland. In addition to being a great place to shop, the Glass Bubble Project also offers fun classes that allow you to make your own glass art with the help of experienced, friendly experts. There are classes for all experience levels, so don't be shy about signing up even if this is your first time. You can also commission glass and metal artwork created to your specifications to add something truly unique to your home.
78th Street Studios
1300 W. 78th St., Cleveland, OH 44102
With art, antiques, furniture, and so much more, 78th Street Studios is sure to have something special for your home. This sprawling, four-story gallery and retail space is a fun place to visit even if you're just browsing, which can quickly turn into buying when you see all of the unique items on display. For a full day of artistic fun, stop by for Third Friday art walks. During these walks, more than 50 venues at 78th Street Studios are open all at once, with food, drink, music, and tons of fantastic art to explore.
Find Your Spark of Inspiration
The arts scene in Northeast Ohio is vibrant, thanks in large part to the imagination and inspiration of the many incredible artists that call the region home. Will you become the next great artist from the area, or do you dream of curating your own collection of amazing art at home? Either way, you're sure to find inspiration when you visit the diverse, delightful art galleries of Northeast Ohio.
7
Catch a Sunset at These 9 Stunning Ohio Destinations
Musician Carlos Santana once said no sunsets are ever the same. Thanks to nature's infinite variety, sunset-watching is an endlessly fascinating activity that never grows old. The varied landscapes around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati provide these wonderful spots to see the sun go down.
Lorain Lighthouse
1 W. Breakwater, Lorain, OH 44052
Once you see Lorain Lighthouse at sunset, with a backdrop of cotton candy clouds, you'll understand why it's known as the "Jewel of the Port." Its iconic outline has come to symbolize the city, and reproductions have been featured on everything from paintings and postcards to sweatshirts and needlework projects. Celebrate a special occasion with a romantic sunset wine dinner, held each Tuesday from June 15 through September 14. Tours are available for $20 per person, including the boat ride to and from the lighthouse.
Edgewater Park
4101 Fulton Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44144
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With 147 acres of land, including 9,000 feet of shoreline, you'll have little trouble finding your own sunset-viewing spot at Edgewater Park. As the westernmost location of the properties that make up the Lakefront Reservation, Edgewater Park affords majestic sightlines of the sunset as well as stunning views of Cleveland. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it by hiking or biking the all-purpose trails or taking Fido for a splash in the dog-friendly beach. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
Ledges Overlook
405 Truxell Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
Lake Erie may be Mother Nature's main event in Northeast Ohio, but she left a spectacular mark in several inland spots as well. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a popular destination because of features such as Ledges Overlook, a rock outcropping with unimpaired views of the western vista. Plan some extra time to hike the 2.2-mile loop trail to see the unusual rock formations. Many people love to visit Ledges Overlook during fall when the changing colors of the leaves and the pastel colors of the sunset make you feel as though you're in a painting. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open 24 hours, but Ledges Overlook closes from dusk until dawn. Admission is free.
Smale Riverfront Park
166 W. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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A spot that was once nothing but parking lots between the two stadiums is now one of the most beloved locations in Cincinnati. Even though Smale Riverfront Park has been open only since 2012, many residents can't remember what Cincinnati was like without it. Sunset is considered the best time to visit the park when the fading rays cast a glow across the already impressive Roebling Suspension Bridge. Filled with walking and biking paths, a splash pad and playground, fountains, gardens, pergolas, and a carousel, Smale Riverfront Park has plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep you entertained as you wait for the sun to go down.
Primavista
810 Matson Place, Cincinnati, OH 45204
How many restaurants have a section on their website dedicated to their view? Even the name, Primavista, translates to, "first sight." Readers of Cincinnati Magazine voted Primavista as the city's best Italian restaurant, and the views are cited as frequently as the food. Dine on traditional Italian favorites such as veal Marsala and spaghetti and meatballs as you take in breathtaking views of the city, enhanced by the day's last rays of sunlight. Planning a romantic sunset dinner at a local park? Everything on the menu is available for carryout. Hours are 5 - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 5 - 10 p.m. Friday, 4:30 - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 4:30 - 8 p.m. Sunday. Reservations are recommended.
Ault Park
5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208
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A bronze plaque on the terrace of Ault Park pays tribute to the legacy of former park commissioner Levi Addison Ault, who donated the property in 1911. Adopt-A-Plot Garden, with 39 sections developed and tended by volunteers, has earned national awards and acclaim for its innovative concept. One of the more popular spots in the dog-friendly park is Heekin Overlook, where sweeping views of the Little Miami River make it a prime spot for sunset-watching. Ault Park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Park of Roses
3923 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
Park of Roses is like a scene out of a dream any time of day, but it reaches a greater level of grandeur at sunset. Founded in 1953, this 13-acre space within Whetstone Park is covered with 11,000 roses of more than 350 different types. The park features several individual gardens, including the Heritage Garden and the Herb Garden, that showcase specific variations. Visit the park in summertime to see the flowers in full bloom. Hours are dawn to dusk daily, and there is no charge to enter the park.
Scioto Mile
233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
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Enjoy an urban sunset in the heart of the city at Scioto Mile. More than 175 acres of scenery are surrounded by the downtown skyline, resulting in a beautiful juxtaposition as the sun goes down. Scioto Mile is comprised of nine individual parks, each with its own attractions, so every visit is different. Admire the public artworks, do some bird watching, tackle a climbing wall, or just relax on one of the swinging benches. All parks along the Scioto Mile are open 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily and there is no admission fee.
Antrim Park
5800 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH 43085
A scenic quarried lake is the centerpiece of Antrim Park, named for the owner of the company that once quarried the 120 acres of property. Once a year, the waters are stocked with rainbow trout for fishing along the banks or off the dock. Bring your dog along for a brisk walk or run along the beautiful trails. Afterward, let your pet cool off with a swim in the lake. Antrim Park is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me
Experts say sunsets have a positive effect on mental and emotional well-being. What's your favorite reason to watch the sun go down?
5
9 Ohio Trails to See Wildflowers in Bloom
Spring is in the air, which means Ohio's wildflower season has just begun. In parks and preserves all over the Buckeye State, the first flowers of the year have already started to bloom.
But the great thing about wildflowers in Ohio is that they don't all appear at once. We get to experience a rainbow of color that changes with the seasons. These wildflower hikes offer opportunities to see a dazzling array of native wildflowers throughout the spring and well into summer.
California Woods Nature Preserve
5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
Southern Ohio parks tend to see the state's earliest spring wildflower blooms, and California Woods Nature Preserve is a prime spot to see early spring flowers in Cincinnati. This Hamilton County preserve encompasses 113 acres of forests, with steep ravines and shady woods that harbor diverse spring bloomers. Visit in May to see Virginia spiderwort and fire-pink in bloom, along with the yellow blossoms of cinquefoil and trout lilies. California Woods is home to an extensive trail system, and the 1-mile Junction Loop is a great place to start. Stop back in summer to explore the preserve's butterfly and hummingbird garden!
Three Creeks Metropark
3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport, OH 43125
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One of the several picturesque Metroparks in the Columbus area, Three Creeks Metropark has a reputation as one of the most beautiful destinations for wildflower hikes in Central Ohio. This 1,053-acre park takes its name from the spot where Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks meet, and the area around the confluence of these three streams offers a diverse bounty of spring blooms. The 1-mile Confluence Trail meanders along the creek banks, and you may spy flowers including yellow and white trout lily, Dutchman's breeches and spring beauty, among others. The nearby Bluebell Trail abounds in its namesake flowers, and the small maroon blossoms of sessile trillium are also a common sight.
Wilson Nature Preserve
4082 OH-132, Batavia, OH 45103
Less than 30 minutes from Cincinnati in the small town of Batavia, OH, the James L. and Frances Wilson Nature Preserve spans 145 beautiful acres along the banks of the Little Miami River, including a 25-acre river island. Three miles of trails traverse this picturesque woodland, the ground often carpeted in spring wildflowers. Eagle-eyed hikers can spot several different species of trilliums here. Picnic areas and additional trails, including the aptly named half-mile Wildflower Trail, are available in the neighboring Sycamore Park.
Wildcat Hollow Trail (Wayne National Forest)
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Few places in Ohio offer a more immersive nature experience than Wayne National Forest, which spans a quarter of a million acres among the Appalachian foothills in the southeastern part of the state. There are endless wild experiences to be had here, but if spying spring and summer wildflowers is your goal, head to the Wildcat Hollow Trail. This 17.5-mile loop meanders through diverse woodland and meadow habitats, including carpets of the endangered running buffalo clover, and dense thickets of native rhododendrons in full bloom. The trail is about a 90-minute drive from Columbus, and worth every second of the journey.
North Kingsville Sand Barrens
A stone's throw from the shores of Lake Erie, the North Kingsville Sand Barrens represents a unique landscape of fossilized dunes that supports many plants and animals seen almost nowhere else in Ohio, including the endangered blue bead lily. The spectacular blooms of native blue lupine, which appear in late May and early June, are especially enchanting. This 174-acre property is managed by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and offers some of the most spectacular wildflower blooms in Northeast Ohio.
Holden Arboretum
9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
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The Holden Arboretum is a 3,600-acre wonderland for anyone interested in unique plants and flowers. Home to diverse gardens, collections, and ecologically sensitive habitats, it's one of the largest arboreta in the state and home to a vast network of walking paths. Keep an eye out for native beauties like marsh marigolds, trilliums, and Virginia bluebells. Just 30 minutes from Cleveland, the arboretum is one of the best places to see native wildflowers in Northeast Ohio. They even have an annual plant sale in early May, where you can purchase native wildflowers reared at the arboretum to transplant into your own garden.
Edge of Appalachia Preserve
4274 Waggoner Riffle Rd., West Union, OH 45693
A 16,000-acre preserve dedicated to restoring Southern Ohio's Appalachian landscape, the Edge of Appalachia Preserve's dense forests and vibrant meadows are home to many plant species that are found almost nowhere else in the state. It's a truly unique and beautiful place to go looking for native wildflowers. Be sure to explore the Lynx Prairie Trail, which offers a glimpse at rare species like Indian paintbrush, western sunflower, and the endangered scaly blazing star.
Bigelow Cemetery State Nature Preserve
600 Rosedale Rd, Irwin, OH 43029
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Although it spans just half an acre, Bigelow Cemetery Nature Preserve is a unique and special place. This small park 30 minutes outside Columbus has never been grazed or plowed, a fact that becomes all the more striking when one looks out at the cultivated farmlands that surround it. This small plot of land was first used as a cemetery in pioneer times, and the grave markers dating back to the 1800s still stand among the tall prairie grasses and blooming wildflowers, giving it an almost dreamlike appearance. The blossoms are frequented by hummingbirds and butterflies and reach their peak in July and August.
Brecksville Reservation
9000 Chippewa Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141
The largest of Cleveland's 18 Metroparks, the Brecksville Reservation is home to the striking Chippewa Creek Gorge, as well as a section of the 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail, which forms a circular loop through the entire state of Ohio. The Brecksville Reservation is a great place for a spring wildflower hike, with prolific blooms of trout lily, great white trillium, marsh marigold, spring beauty, Jack-in-the-pulpit, and many other species. The 0.75-mile Wildflower Loop Trail packs a lot of great flora into a short, sweet hike.
Walk on the Wild Side
Ohio has hundreds of amazing parks and trails where you can see blooming wildflowers throughout the spring and summer months. If we forgot to mention your favorite place, be sure to let us know in the comments below!
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