So have you been naughty or nice this year? The good news is that it doesn't matter! When it comes to our monthly gifts from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, everyone can get in on the fun.
Some great local businesses in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati are out there waiting to be discovered by you. Enjoy some holiday cheer, courtesy of your friends at Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Cincinnati: A Breakfast Sandwich and a Coffee
425 Tuscarawas St. E., Canton, OH 44702
View this post on Instagram
Sandwiches are portable and come in various options, making them a perfect meal. Satisfy your hunger with one of the tasty sandwiches from Salumeria di Torre.
Nothing beats a hearty deli sandwich, especially when it's made with the fresh Italian meats and artisan cheeses found at Salumeria di Torre. Pair your sandwich with a side of pasta salad, chickpea salad, or cup of soup. Hosting a special event? Salumeria di Torre offers convenient catering with pastas, entrées, sandwiches, and dessert trays.
330.488.5763
Tuesday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
811 W. Liberty St., Medina, OH 44256
Appetizers have come a long way since cheese and crackers. Choose from creative starters such as duck bacon wontons, potato and cheese pierogies, and toasted mussels from Corkscrew Saloon.
The Corkscrew Saloon, located in a beautiful 1850s Victorian mansion, is "where the foodie comes to relax." Whether it's produce from local farms or seafood from the Pacific Ocean, Chef Ryan Marino takes pride in sourcing the freshest ingredients for their menu of new American cuisine.
330.725.0220
Tuesday - Thursday 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 2 p.m. - 9 p.m.
135 W. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691
View this post on Instagram
Need a morning starter or afternoon pick-me-up? Stop at Whippt Dalgona Coffee for your free drink and find out why people call Whippt coffee, "Heaven in a Cup."
While searching for a caffeinated drink to help her through her studies at the University of Akron, Nicole Norris discovered Dalgona coffee. Six months after earning her degree, Nicole opened Whippt Dalgona Coffee in downtown Wooster. The vegan frozen concentrate is used to make hot and cold coffee drinks, steamers, hot chocolate, and shakes.
330.439.0084
Tuesday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
1500 Polaris Pkwy., Polaris Fashion Place, Ground Floor, Columbus, OH 43240
Candy may not fit your conventional definition of art. Chances are you'll change your mind after you try the visual and edible delights of the sweet treats at MMELO Boutique Confections.
As the name implies, MMELO (pronounced "mellow") Boutique Confections has a mission to elevate candy above its junk food status. Their tea cakes, chocolate buttons, and other Instagram-ready treats are made with all-natural, quality ingredients. Following a special diet? MMELO offers a number of vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
614.822.9530
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 6 p.m.
405 E. Main St., Kent, OH 44240
View this post on Instagram
Get a slice of the Big Apple right here in Kent. Lucci's Place is serving up a free New York-style pizza for your December gift.
Guided by more than 30 years of experience, Lucci's Place has been firing up their stone deck ovens to turn out some first-rate traditional New York-style pizza. Homemade sauce and dough provide a fresh base for pepperoni, heirloom tomatoes, black or green olives, and any combination of more than two dozen toppings.
330.673.9833
Monday - Sunday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Lucci's Place is currently open for pick-up and delivery only.
7306 Detroit Ave., Suite 101, Cleveland, OH 44102
In the new millennium, coffee is more than just a beverage; it's a lifestyle. One sip of your free drink from Ready Set Coffee, and you'll know why they've become such a valued member of the community.
You've heard of garage bands? Ready Set Coffee may be the first roaster to originate as a garage coffee. Within a year, the coffee proved to be so popular that orders were coming in from as far away as Alaska. In spring of 2021, Ready Set Coffee moved into more spacious quarters in the fashionable Gordon Square Arts District.
216.736.8601
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
421 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
View this post on Instagram
Mom always said breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Make her proud when you pick up a breakfast sandwich and coffee from Press on Monmouth.
Yes, panini sandwiches are the headliner at Press on Monmouth, but the creative menu goes above and beyond. Customers keep coming back for flavorful dishes such as quinoa and rice bowls, tater tot waffles, and their signature biscuits and gravy. Complete your meal with hot or cold spiked coffee, Bloody Mary, mimosa, or one of their other specialty beverages.
859.261.3397
Monday - Sunday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
2457 State Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223
Pizza provides common ground between vegetarian and meat lovers. Whichever you prefer, you'll find it New York-style at Lucci's Place.
When it comes to pizza, Lucci's Place is proof that you don't have to sacrifice quality for convenience. Their red and white sauces are made from scratch, while their pizza dough is made fresh daily. Pies include a luscious blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese along with your choice of meat, veggie, and herb toppings.
234.571.0053
Wednesday - Sunday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Lucci's Place is currently open for pick-up and delivery only.
Want to heat up chilly winter days with more hot freebies? Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to receive our monthly list of great special gifts.
Skating is a popular activity around Northeast Ohio, and you'll find plenty of ice rinks in the area where you can take a spin around the ice. Several offer great scenery, and some are located near shopping areas where you can also spend some time browsing in shops when you're out and about.
Dress in warm layers before you go since even indoor ice rinks stay cold to maintain the ice. Don't forget to bring your cell phone or camera to take photos of your kids or others in your group.
Check out the following indoor and outdoor ice rinks around Northeast Ohio, where you can glide away the stress of the day.
9999 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
The Pond Ice Rink stays busy, hosting figure skating and ice hockey as well as open skate sessions. If you'd like to drop by to skate, register online. The cost is $10, including skates and gliders (if available). And if you'd like to get more serious about your time on the ice, The Pond offers Saturday and Sunday skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. Private lessons are also available.
177 Market St., Westlake, OH 44145
View this post on Instagram
Browse in the upscale Crocker Park shopping center and then head out to the open skating rink to have some fun. Located at Union Square in front of Regal Cinemas, the rink has a surface that's made of real ice. Glide along as you listen to Christmas tunes, or keep a check on social media to see which select days DJs from 96.5 KISS-FM will be there to spin some tunes. The rink is open through Feb. 21, 2022, and costs $12 per person, including skates.
8319 Port Jackson Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
Center Ice Sports Complex is a hub for several types of ice-related activities and sports, including figure skating, hockey, and ice skating. If you'd like to do your own thing on the ice, register online in advance for an open skate. It costs $10 admission and $4 for skate rental. And whether you're just starting out or already have some skills you'd like to improve, the complex offers ice skating lessons for toddlers through adults and for everyone from beginners to more advanced levels. Before long, you might find yourself ready to tackle figure skating or hockey!
10820 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106
View this post on Instagram
The Rink at Wade Oval is located at University Circle, where you can spend time exploring this square mile that's filled with museums, parks, restaurants, and more. It's even been named the Best Arts District in the country by a USA Today poll of readers. The perfect place to spend a day or afternoon, University Circle also houses a skating rink to help you extend the fun. The rink is open through Feb. 27, 2022, and skating costs $3 for general admission and $2 for students. Skate rental costs $2 for general admission and $1 for students. As an added bonus, if you show your skating admission wristband, you can visit the nearby Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cleveland History Center, and Cleveland Museum of Natural History for $2 off same-day admission.
2085 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Try the ice rink in downtown Cuyahoga Falls, located at the plaza by the downtown pavilion and amphitheater. It's the perfect spot to skate after spending some time browsing at the town's outdoor shops. Park in one of three public parking decks, or try a metered spot on Front Steet when you're heading over to skate. Through Feb. 21, the rink is open from 3-8 p.m. on Fridays and noon-8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Holiday hours can differ, so check the website before you go. Admission is free for everyone, and skate rentals are $4 per person.
1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
Winter RiverFest, an annual holiday celebration held at Rivergate Park and Merwin's Wharf, brings an authentic ice skating rink to the park this year. You'll be able to enjoy scenic views of the Cuyahoga River as well as festive decor while you skate, and be sure to make time for other activities like visiting a beer garden or warming up at the firepits. Book your rink time online in advance since walk-ups are based on availability. Prices (including skate rental) are $15 for ages 6 and up and $8 for ages 3-5. Skating aid rentals can also be rented for $10. The rink is open until Jan. 2, 2022.
851 Oldman Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
If you're looking for a Northeast Ohio ice skating rink that offers skating year-round, head to Alice Noble Ice Arena in Wooster. The rink has open ice time on most days for $9 admission and $3 skate rental, except for Thursdays when admission is free. Lessons are also offered through the Learn to Skate USA program for kids as young as 3 and adults of all ages. And if you're ever ready to take your skating to the next level, figure skating and hockey lessons are available.
Where's your favorite place to skate in Northeast Ohio, and do you prefer an indoor rink or an outdoor one?
Planning a trip or looking for a new home? Thanks to social media, you no longer have to interpret vague written descriptions of people, places, activities, and events. High-quality, detailed pictures are just as close as your cell phone.
Follow these wonderful Instagram accounts to learn more about all the amazing attractions of Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Want to learn more about Ohio's historical sites and impressive architecture? Ohio Travel shines the spotlight on the state's county seats and the distinctive buildings located there. Take in the stunning grandeur of locations such as the Hancock County Courthouse, Great American Crossroads Mural in Bucyrus, and Court Avenue in Bellefontaine, the oldest concrete road in America. Ohio Travel also features quirky landmarks like the former Longaberger Co. headquarters, AKA "the picnic basket building," and the New Straitsville Museum, with its recreation of a classic barbershop with the original chairs and mirrors.
View this post on Instagram
Taking its name from the state's tourism slogan, Ohio. Find It Here. promotes the diversity of attractions and experiences available to tourists and residents. Categories covered include Outdoor & Recreation, Family, Food & Shopping, and Hotels & Lodging. The site also features things to do and see based on seasons, holidays, and regions. Find information about weather, roads, and highways to help with your planning. You may find yourself in one of the Instagram posts showing people enjoying the Columbus Zoo, Hocking Hills State Park, and other attractions.
Florida and California may have year-round sunshine, but nothing compares to the four seasons of beauty found in Ohio. The natural wonders found in the photos on Ohio Explored include a rainbow over Lakewood, a cascading waterfall at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and a "tunnel" of trees in Sugarcreek MetroPark. Mother Nature's drama is on display during a stormy day at the Clifton Mill and a water spout hovering over Lake Erie. Since beauty can be found in several diverse places, there are also shots of ice cream cones, cookies, and coffee mugs.
View this post on Instagram
As the state capital and home of Ohio State University, Columbus is a huge draw. Experience Columbus is full of images showcasing the people, places, and activities that make up this dynamic city. Pictures celebrate outdoor murals, local sports teams, the downtown skyline, historic architecture, and scenic parks, to name just a few subjects.
614 is, of course, the area code for Columbus. It's also the title of a lifestyle magazine covering all things Columbus, from news and civic affairs to food and drink to arts and music. Their lively Instagram account features information about special events such as Restaurant Week, What? Music and Arts Festival, and Columbus Brewing's recent pop-up market. Have fun with the interactive posts, such as the poll for "Best Burger" that raised money for local charities.
View this post on Instagram
If you spend any time at all on social media, chances are you've seen the irresistible articles from Only in Your State. This site takes a deep dive into the unique features of each state, promoting the fascinating but little-known attractions that are off the beaten path. Only in Ohio is their account devoted exclusively to the charms of the Buckeye State. Marvel at a glowing full moon above Mile Long Pier in Lorain, step down into Old Man's Cave at Hocking Hills State Park and follow the boardwalk in Brown's Lake Bog near Wooster. Tag your photos with @only.in.ohio to share your favorite spots!
How many cities have a footprint that spans three states? The Cincinnati region extends from Ohio into Kentucky and Indiana, making it a great jumping-off spot to explore as well as a vibrant destination in its own right. Visit Cincy is the Instagram account of the Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau, so you can be sure they have the lowdown of all the points of interest. Did you know Cincinnati is home to the most extensive living mural ever created? What is the backstory of downtown's iconic Tyler Davidson Fountain, also known as the Genius of Water? These are only a couple of the fun facts you'll learn when you follow this account.
View this post on Instagram
According to Ohio Magazine, life in the Buckeye State is all about "beauty, adventure, and fun." The Instagram account is an offshoot of the popular publication documenting these aspects of Ohio for more than 40 years. Their photos continue the same theme, sometimes capturing all three features in one image. Recent posts include the Home for the Holidays tree lighting in Delaware, "A Christmas Carol" at Cleveland's Playhouse Square, and a flashback to the memorable OSU-Michigan "Snow Bowl" in 1950. Be sure to click on the link to their bio, which features a directory of links on a wide range of categories such as Best Hometowns, Road Trips, Famous Ohio Foods, and Ohio's Great Outdoors.
Ohio's second-largest city, situated on the shores of Lake Erie, certainly merits its own Instagram account. Destination Cleveland, maintained by the convention and visitors bureau, covers every inch of the area, from downtown and the neighborhoods to the suburbs and outlying region. In December, the site is doing a small business "Advent calendar" highlighting a different dining or retail option each day. These types of posts focus on Cleveland's identity as a fast-paced urban center, but you'll also be delighted at the spectacular scenery in many of the photos.
Do you have a favorite photo that captures the essence of Ohio? Where was it taken?
Winter is a wonderful time for family fun around Ohio, with indoor and outdoor activities that offer something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying some skiing in Northeast Ohio, watching some pro sports with the family in Columbus, or doing some stargazing at a historic observatory in Cincinnati, there's something to look forward to in every corner of Ohio this winter. Our latest guide has all of the delightful details on nine great places for winter family fun around Ohio this year.
10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
Just west of Cleveland you'll find Alpine Valley Resort, the perfect place to enjoy some winter sports with the whole family. While it's not the largest ski resort, its smaller size makes it an ideal learning destination for any family members who are still learning how to ski or snowboard. The resort features seven trails from beginner to advanced, along with a terrain park. There's also a talented team of instructors ready to teach visitors of all ages the basics of skiing and snowboarding.
200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
View this post on Instagram
The temperature may be dropping, but that only means that the fun is heating up in downtown Akron at Lock 3. This is where you'll find Akron's most popular outdoor ice skating rink, along with loads of other fun outdoor attractions. There's a nine-hole miniature golf course, rentable igloos where you can enjoy a meal in a unique setting, and fire pits where you can warm up. You'll also find a busy schedule of events during the holidays, like breakfast with Santa and dinner with the Grinch.
2260 International Pkwy., North Canton, OH 44720
For a great mix of education and family fun, try a visit to the fascinating MAPS Air Museum, which allows you to get hands-on with some of history's most impressive aircraft. You can actually sit in the cockpit of many historic aircraft, and see what it's like to be a pilot. There are also tons of interesting educational exhibits that trace aviation history from the early 1900s to the present day.
4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
View this post on Instagram
In most cities that are fortunate enough to have both an aquarium and zoo, you'd have to make two trips to enjoy both attractions. That's not the case at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, where you can enjoy it all in one fun-filled day. There are thousands of animals to see in countless habitats, and plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy along the way as you explore. You'll also find special experiences that allow you to feed the animals, see how the zoo works behind the scenes, and see fascinating shows like Dive into Adventure.
200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH 43215
The Blue Jackets are Ohio's only NHL team, and they're located close to home in Columbus! A trip to Nationwide Arena to see a Blue Jackets game is a great way to enjoy a winter evening with the family, and see some of hockey's biggest stars up close. There are special family ticket packages available, which include tickets to the game, food, and drinks for one price. On some nights, those family ticket packages even include the opportunity to skate on the ice before the game with the Blue Jackets mascot or try your luck on the ice with some slap shots after the game.
157 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219
View this post on Instagram
A massive indoor playground for both body and mind, LEGOLAND Discovery Center consistently ranks as one of the most popular attractions for families around Columbus. Kids will love building unique creations, racing LEGO cars, enjoying fun rides, and exploring a scaled replica of the city of Columbus made from more than 1.5 million LEGO blocks. Catch a popular LEGO movie at the 4D cinema, or take a behind-the-scenes factory tour to see how your favorite LEGO products are created.
3489 Observatory Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45208
Did you know that Cincinnati is home to one of the world's oldest public telescopes still in use today? The Cincinnati Observatory is the perfect place to plan a fun, educational family outing that will allow you to explore the stars. Visit at night to participate in the Astronomy Evenings program, which includes a guided tour and an opportunity to look at the stars through the observatory's telescopes. Or stop by during the day to see the facilities and take a historic walking tour of the lovely area around the observatory.
520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
Bumper cars on ice. If those four words won't get your kids excited this winter, what will? Every year, Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati is transformed into an icy playground, with bumper cars on ice and so much more. Buy a full pass to enjoy both bumper cars and ice skating, or simply choose one ticket for your favorite activity. The rink is open seven days a week and is also available for event rentals if you're planning an outing with a larger group. You can rent all of the equipment that you'll need at the rental stand, including dual-blade skates that make it easier for younger kids to learn the basics of ice skating.
1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203
Located in the beautifully restored Union Terminal, the Cincinnati Museum Center mixes education and entertainment in a way that few attractions can match. The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Cincinnati Children's Museum, the Cincinnati History Library & Archives, and a state-of-the-art Omnimax Theater. The latest featured exhibit is The Science Behind Pixar, which provides a fascinating look at how some of the most popular movies in the world are made.
How will you turn Ohio into your own winter wonderland this year?
The Ohio state flower is the carnation, but there are plenty of other beautiful flowers adding their colors to life throughout the state. One of them is the daffodil. Also known as the narcissus, the daffodil has been a symbol of rebirth for thousands of years because it's one of the first flowers seen every spring.
Realtor Jim Camp of Cutler Real Estate wanted to find a way to honor the nearly 800,000 Americans who have perished due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That figure includes nearly 27,000 Ohioans. Virtually everyone has a friend, neighbor, or family member who has suffered.
Jim is well known as a team player. He believes it's important to come together to tackle big challenges. It's just as crucial to remember our past and where we've come from. As the holiday season arrives, so many people will be thinking about those they've lost. Jim wanted to do his part for their memory.
Jim, the son of a broker, was licensed in Philadelphia at age 18. He settled in Ohio soon afterward and first held his Ohio brokerage license in 1978. Since then, he has had the opportunity to touch the lives of thousands of families and had received heartbreaking news from many people throughout 2020-2021.
To recognize the hard work of frontline workers as well as those lost from Northeast Ohio to Columbus to Cincinnati and beyond, Jim proposed the "Daffodils Across Ohio" service project. The goal was simple: Gather enough daffodils so they could be planted and provide new life all throughout Ohio.
The Buckeye State will now bloom with thousands of daffodils thanks to Jim and his colleagues.
Jim's vision was quickly embraced by his team at Cutler Real Estate. But everyone knew they had to go beyond their own office, even their own network, to make the biggest impact possible. Word spread quickly from Cutler Real Estate through Ohio's community of REALTORS.
All in all, Realtors purchased and planted more than 14,000 daffodil bulbs.
In late November, a donation of 500 bulbs was received at Ohio's statehouse in a grand ceremony. Gov. Mike DeWine, Sen. Jay Hottinger, and a variety of other community figures accepted the donation on behalf of state residents. Jim noted that his idea was inspired by Gov. DeWine's 2019 inauguration speech, where he related that his father, then battling cancer, encouraged his children to plant daffodils in the fall so they would remember him in the spring.
In 2020, Jim received the Mary L. Pollock Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades of tireless service to the real estate profession. "Daffodils Across Ohio" is poised to become another important part of his legacy. It also speaks to the dedication, camaraderie, and community spirit of Ohio's REALTORS®.
Ohio REALTORS® President Seth Task noted that the response of the state's real estate professionals to "Daffodils Across Ohio" was "remarkable." He also thanked Jim for his unique contributions, saying, "each spring, hundreds of daffodils will emerge across the grounds of our beautiful Statehouse." This would serve" as a reminder of our loss and tribute to the can-do spirit of the first-responders and health care professionals."
Here at Cutler Real Estate, we believe in making our community better one day at a time. Homeownership is the way to foster greater stability and commitment within the community. It means a better future for children and more opportunities to start a business, get an education, and advance together.
Contact us today to learn more about "Daffodils Across Ohio" or start your own home search.
At Cutler Real Estate, we pride ourselves on having the best Realtors in the business, who consistently exceed the expectations of buyers and sellers across Northeast Ohio, Columbus & Central Ohio, and Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. We believe in an environment that offers industry-leading tools and excellent business support to help our real estate agents realize success.
That's why we recognize those agents who have gone above and beyond to meet and exceed their goals each month. We congratulate the following Realtors and groups for providing the superior customer service people have come to expect from Cutler Real Estate. Join us in celebrating the top producers, production leaders, and listing leaders for November 2021.
Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
If you're looking for an experienced real estate professional, we can help. Find out how Cutler Real Estate can assist you with buying or selling a home across Ohio and Northern Kentucky. Find a Realtor today.
Trains, both toy and real, conjure up pleasant memories of days gone by. Bring a welcome touch of nostalgia to this year's holidays with a visit to these Christmas train rides and displays around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
You and your family have loved the book and the movie. Now experience the magic in real life on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Storytellers are on board to read the book as elves lead everyone in games, songs, and other activities. Refreshments include beverages and cookies made by Mrs. Claus. The train makes a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, who will visit with the kids during the return trip. Trains run Friday through Sunday on the first two weekends in December. Visit the website for times. Tickets range from $45-$80.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
View this post on Instagram
Take in the winter beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley on your own North Pole Adventure™. Everyone can enjoy cookies and cocoa as kids write letters to Santa and take part in singing and dancing with elves. When the train stops at the North Pole to hand-deliver the letters, there's a good chance that a special guest will come on board. The train leaves the station at 7:30 p.m. daily through December 19. Tickets are $45-$92.
EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069
Remember the joy you felt watching your new model train circle the Christmas tree? Share that delight with your own kids at Christmas at the Junction. In addition to being the home of the world's largest indoor train display, EnterTRAINment Junction is a family fun center revolving around a railroad theme. Christmas at the Junction features a number of holiday train displays along with dazzling decorations, lively activities, and a visit with Santa. Festivities take place through January 2. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors open at noon. Admission is $15.95 per person when purchased in advance on the website.
Zanesville & Scenic Western Railroad, 5705 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760
During the holidays, the Mt. Perry Scenic Train transforms into the Santa Train. The 40-minute ride follows the historic Glass Rock Spur, named for the days when the line transported silica sand from Central Silica Company in nearby Glenford. Santa, assisted by the conductor, will be handing out gifts and treats along the way. The Santa Train departs each hour between 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the second and third weekends of December. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for ages 3-13. Receive a discount with a donation of food or a new, unwrapped toy.
19201 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, OH 44135
For the 18th year, Puritas Nursery is treating the West Park community to their delightful holiday train display. Three separate train sets, each in a different size, are fascinating to watch for "kids" of all ages. As if that wasn't reason enough to visit Puritas Nursery, you can shop their great selection of mistletoe, wreaths, and holiday greenery, as well as a wide variety of gift items and stocking stuffers. View the trains during store hours, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through December 31.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764
View this post on Instagram
Over three decades, generations of families have made the Santa Christmas Train a part of their holiday tradition. Historic Hocking Valley makes a perfect seasonal backdrop for the two-hour trip to East Logan and back. Santa will be along for the ride to visit with each child and collect their wish lists. At the end of the journey, they will also receive a special candy cane treat. Trains run each weekend through December 19. Visit the website for departure times. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for ages 3-12.
751 N. Four Mile Run Rd., Austintown, OH 44515
Members of the Youngstown Model Railroad Association love to share their enthusiasm for their favorite hobby with others. One of their more popular activities is their holiday open house, which they have been conducting for more than 65 years. Held at the group's headquarters, the open house features one layout upstairs and another downstairs, with surrounding "towns" that include carnivals and other life-like details. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the first two weekends of December. A $5 donation is requested from all visitors over the age of 11.
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay, OH 45840
Real trains? Toy trains? No need to choose at North Pole Express. Quarter-scale trains are ready to take you through a glittering wonderland of trees and lights. Meanwhile, toy train displays await in the festively decorated museum and train barn. You never know when Santa and Mrs. Claus may pop in for a visit! Activities take place 5:30 - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sunday through January 2. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under.
Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145
View this post on Instagram
Are your little ones a bit young for an actual train ride? Crocker Park's Express Train provides a healthy dose of excitement for kids who might not be ready for a longer trip. The whole family will enjoy the sight of Crocker Park done up in all its holiday finery. Before or after, kids can visit with Santa and get their picture taken at Santa's Village. The Express Train runs daily through Christmas Eve. Visit the website for hours. Tickets are $4 per person.
In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?