
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!

It's summertime and the livin' is easy, especially when enjoying free gifts from top local vendors. Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts are excited to present this month's special treats.
Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati are rich in restaurants, shops, and services that make an area a great place to live. Our agents at Cutler Real Estate have teamed up with LoLo Gifts to offer this monthly program showcasing the best local businesses.
Cincinnati: Wrap, Juice or Smoothie
32 Erie St. S., Massillon, OH 44646
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Want a quick and satisfying meal on the go? Pick up a tasty meal replacement shake from Healthalicious. Choose from dozens of mouthwatering flavors such as cherry cordial, banana nut muffin, and Fruity Pebbles.
You'll have a whole new concept of nutrition after a visit to Healthalicious. The smoothie and juice bar offers an incredible variety of meal replacement shakes, energy drinks, and herbal teas. With more than 100 flavors to choose from, you'll find something to fit any mood or cravings.
330.556.4523
Monday - Friday 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
631 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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During summer, higher temperatures and more activity often lead to lighter eating. Stay nourished and refreshed with a wrap, fresh-squeezed juice, or smoothie from Total Juice +.
For more than 20 years, family-run Total Juice + has been committed to educating the community about healthy eating. Located in downtown Cincinnati, the quick-service shop provides convenience without sacrificing quality. The menu of wraps includes vegetarian options, while juices are fresh-squeezed to order and smoothies include natural fruit with no syrup added.
513.784.1666
Monday through Friday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
75 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
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Who says hot dogs are just for baseball games? Stop in at the charmingly-named Stray Dog Cafe for a gourmet grilled dog (beef, turkey, or veggie) dressed up with your choice of toppings and condiments.
Since 2009, Stray Dog Cafe has been on a self-proclaimed mission to "make Akron more Akrony." Originally operated as a street cart, the business moved into a brick-and-mortar spot connected to the Main Library in October 2017. Not a fan of hot dogs? Go with a panini, hot sandwich, wrap, or one of the all-day breakfast items. A wrap with a bottle of water and chips or fruit for $5 is one "Doggie Bag" you'll be happy to carry out.
330.594.5392
Monday through Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
4316 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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When it comes to games, everyone's a kid at heart. Indulge your competitive spirit with a free board game rental at Tabletop Game Café. Choose from a wide range of titles for adults, kids, casual fans, and serious gamers.
At Tabletop Game Café, Life is literally a game. The shop stocks an incredible selection of classic and new board games, including recent release Half Truth, co-designed by legendary trivia champion Ken Jennings. Games can be rented by the week, and a $19 monthly membership lets you take two games at a time. If you stay and play from the collection of free games, keep up your energy with sandwiches, snacks, and drinks from the café menu. Please note that social distancing measures are being observed, including mandatory use of face masks.
614.725.0328
Tuesday through Thursday 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday Noon - 10 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 4 p.m.

So what does it cost to enroll in LoLo Gifts? Absolutely nothing! Cutler Real Estate offers the complimentary program as a way to connect area residents with local small businesses.
Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started with your free LoLo Gifts.

What is a mother? A best friend, a shoulder to cry on, a compassionate caretaker, a role model, and guide through our toughest moments in life — being a mom involves being everything a son or daughter needs, whenever they need it. Moms, step-moms, mothers-in-law, grandmothers, and maternal figures all deserve recognition and celebration for their profound impact on our lives. This Mother's Day will certainly be different than all others, and while social distancing may prevent us from being together physically, it doesn't have to stop us from showing the women in our lives just how much we care about them. Send the mom in your life a beautiful floral arrangement from one of these florists that conveniently deliver around the Cleveland and Akron areas.
730 S. Arlington St., Akron, OH 44306
Looking for a Mother's Day arrangement that will suit any style mom may have? Look no further than Robinson Florist. Not only will they match you with a bouquet that is bright and beautiful, but they will also deliver it to any doorstep across the nation. No matter if your mom lives in downtown Akron or all the way in San Jose, California, Robinson Florist is determined to deliver the perfect Mother's Day gift to your mom wherever she may be.
1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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This florist in the heart of historic Cleveland creates upscale floral arrangements that exceed expectations. Urban Orchid specializes in crafting bouquets and floral designs for special events such as weddings which means your everyday order will be made with the same talent and stunning beauty that men and women desire for the most important days of their lives. With one location in Ohio City and another in Little Italy, they'll send your mom a completely customized creation that will leave her breathless.
17458 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
Why can you unquestionably trust Al Wilhelmy Flowers with your Mother's Day gift? They've been the reliable, professional florists that Cleveland men and women have counted on for over 140 years! Al Wilhelmy Flowers will go the extra mile to make sure your mother only receives the finest floral arrangement. With delivery available across the United States, Canada, and other international locations, Al Wilhelmy will be your first choice for flowers for every occasion.
11520 Buckeye Rd., Cleveland, OH 44104
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The best and freshest flowers in Cleveland are available from Orban's Fruit & Flowers. Their popular bouquets, fruits, and gourmet baskets can include everything from roses and pineapples to roses and champagne. Please keep in mind that Orban's is functioning with a limited staff to prioritize the health and safety of their employees so consider making your order as soon as possible or opting for a delivery date other than Mother's Day Sunday.
1843 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44301
With sweet gifts and fragrant flowers readily available, shopping for a Mother's Day gift is effortless with Colonial Florists. Unlike other services that may deliver flowers in a box — sometimes causing the arrangement to become damaged during shipping — Colonial Florists always create your arrangement by hand and deliver it anywhere in the United States personally. When you choose Colonial Florists for a Mother's Day gift, you're ensuring that your mom receives an arrangement that's as beautiful and cared for as she is.
2132 Noble Rd., East Cleveland, OH 44112

Show you care even if you can't be there with Mother's Day flowers from Nela Florist. Since 1939, Nela Florists has delivered thousands of gorgeous arrangements to mothers and grandmothers around the city. They offer a wide variety of bouquets for a range of prices, including their special Deal of the Day bouquets that are perfect for sons or daughters who want to pick out the perfect Mother's Day gift on a tight budget.
110 Merz Blvd., Akron, OH 44333
Offering free delivery for local online orders, Pam's Posies guarantees your complete satisfaction with all of their florist-designed and hand-delivered arrangements. If you're not sure which flowers would be best for your mom, choose the Florist's Choice Bouquet. One of their talented florists will create a custom arrangement with the freshest flowers available with a vase included.
11519 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111

Don't worry if you don't have a green thumb — the talented staff at Green Thumb Florist have the talents necessary to create an unforgettable Mother's Day arrangement. Although they have a number of excellent Mother's Day bouquets ready for delivery, we suggest looking at their "Flowers in a Gift" options as well. These bouquets come in a number of adorable vase designs such as water pitchers, smiley-faced mugs, and even a cute terrarium. Not only will you give mom a beautiful bouquet, but you'll also gift her a great vase that she can use again and again.
1099 Grant St., Akron, OH 44301
It's all about mom at Amedeo's Florist this month, and they're ready to help you show your love and appreciation to the maternal figure in your life! This local florist knows exactly how to say "Thank you for everything" with an amazing floral arrangement — they've been doing so for over 70 Mother's Days! Make this Mother's Day extra special with one of their colorful bouquets that can be delivered right to your mom's doorstep.
What's your favorite flower for Mother's Day? Let us know in the comments below!

Let's be honest — these last few weeks have been tough on everyone.
To say that COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, has disrupted life around the world is an understatement. Within a matter of weeks, our everyday lifestyles were completely altered in unprecedented ways — so much so that the CDC recommends that all men, women, and children wear protective masks over their mouth and nose when leaving the house. This is, understandably, a scary reality for all of us, but it's an especially frightening way of life that our essential workers have to adopt.
At Cutler Real Estate, we want to support our family members, friends, neighbors, and service workers in the communities throughout Northeast Ohio in any way we can. One way that we can unite and proactively slow the spread of coronavirus is to make, wear, and donate homemade masks. You can make these masks from many items that you already have in your home. Let's go over a few ways that you can make these masks at home, why you can protect yourself by wearing them in public, and how do donate these masks and other vital medical supplies to facilities around Northeast Ohio.
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Sadly, there are thousands of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ohio. Until widespread accessibility to testing, more effective treatment options, and a better understanding of the virus itself become a reality, we need to take every opportunity we can to slow the spread. This means practicing social distancing by staying in our homes as much as possible and always wearing a protective mask whenever we leave home.
Although the virus itself is microscopic and can pass through most face coverings, the virus often attaches itself to water molecules that come out of our noses and mouths when we sneeze or cough. Many types of fabric can effectively contain most of these molecules, which means any type of face covering is better than none at all.
While officials ask that all non-medical personnel refrain from purchasing the N95 surgical masks and procedure masks so that our healthcare workers who come in contact with this virus on a daily basis have access to them, the CDC encourages all individuals to make their own face masks. Currently, JOANN fabric and craft stores across the nation have free tools, supplies, and guidance available for anyone wanting to make masks. Many other businesses and organizations around Northeast Ohio are also providing supplies to those who want to join the effort and support the community.
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There are two ways that you can make a homemade mask, the first of which is to sew one. Here are the abridged UH-approved steps to make your own (full directions and materials needed available at this link).
An alternative way that you can make a mask is with a simple pair of scissors. While you can use any fabric on-hand, it's suggested that you use at least two layers of cotton. A bandana, old shirt, or pillowcase are good options. You can fold and tie these fabrics around your face, with or without a filter inserted into the center. You can also cut out ear holes or use ties, rubber bands, or other straps to secure it around your face.
Ideally, this fabric will completely cover your face from the bridge of your nose down underneath your chin. It shouldn't restrict your breathing or speaking, but it must be thick enough to prevent water molecules from passing through the fabric. Please also remember to refrain from touching the front of your mask as that could place your hands in contact with the virus, which you could potentially spread to other parts of your face or to others you come in contact with.
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You have the option of either disposing of your mask or washing it in the washing machine for safe reuse. If you're social distancing, you'll ideally only need to wear your mask a limited number of times throughout our quarantine. Unfortunately, our healthcare workers are constantly exposed to potentially infected patients which means their supply usage is drastically higher.
Believe it or not, healthcare workers in Ohio will use 13 N95 face masks, 14 protective gowns, and 36 pairs of medical gloves while caring for a patient in the Intensive Care Unit over a 24-hour period. As potential new coronavirus cases continue to rise, as well as the daily need for medical care not associated with the virus, our healthcare workers will need more masks than ever before.
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There are dozens of medical facilities around the area that desperately need masks. Here are a few that you can send homemade masks and other supplies to right now:
If you know of any other healthcare or frontline facilities that need masks or other vital medical supplies for their essential workers, please tell us in the comments below.