
Burying your nose in a good book is a great way to leave your worries behind for a few hours. People who read typically have more active imaginations. Plus, reading can help ease stress and depression, prevent cognitive decline, and build your vocabulary. Whether you love mystery novels, non-fiction, or something in-between, Northeast Ohio has several local bookstores worth visiting. Head to one of these book shops to find your next read.
10515 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120
Located in the historic Larchmere neighborhood, this Cleveland bookstore first opened in 1994 and has kept readers happy ever since. They have more than 100,000 different titles in stock, including many on women's history and literature. Loganberry Books carries both new and used titles, including some leatherbound books and first editions. If you're not only a reader but a book collector, this is the place to go.
Loganberry books is open daily. Shoppers can join their Perks Program for free and earn a $10 coupon for every $100 spent. Perks Program members also get a bonus coupon on birthdays and extra store credit when they sell books.
1607 Golden Gate Plaza, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
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Half-Price Books is a family-owned bookstore that sells secondhand books and other media. You can take them your already-read books to sell and go home with new titles to enjoy. The store has a good selection of books on philosophy, martial arts, and animals. The wide aisles and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to shop with kids.
Half-Price Books is open daily. They offer online ordering and curbside pickup, which are great if you're in a rush.
29 N. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Fireside Book Shop has been serving Northeast Ohio since 1963. The store has an old-fashioned appeal but in the best way. They not only have a great selection of books, but also countless puzzles, greeting cards, and board games. The helpful staff members can help you find the perfect book, whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one.
Fireside Book Shop is a woman-owned business and is open daily. Their Trade-In Program is a customer favorite, allowing shoppers to trade in their used books for store credit. Stop by regularly, and you'll always have something new to read.
204 N. Main St., Hudson, OH 44236
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The Learned Owl Book Shop has been open on Main Street since 1968. Although the shop is small, its selection of books is incredible. The owner knows everything on the shelves and is very helpful. They also have a children's nook and a selection of adult coloring books.
This bookstore is open daily and is within walking distance of many great cafes and restaurants. You could spend an afternoon picking out a book, walking around the neighborhood, then treating yourself to a nice meal.
1921 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
If you find yourself in Cleveland, stop by Horizontal Books and browse their shelves. This shop sells overstock books. If you purchase one, you save 50% off the standard retail price. Purchase more than one, and you save even more. Horizontal Books brings in new titles every day, so there's always something else to discover.
Horizontal Books is open daily from 10 am - 6 pm. They're in the process of opening up their own coffee shop, too.
1820 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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Mac's Backs-Books on Coventry is a one of the largest bookstores in Ohio. They have three stories of books and community rooms where they host educational events. This shop has a great sci-fi collection and lots of young adult fiction. The entire basement is full of non-fiction titles.
Mack's Backs is walking distance from Case Western Reserve University and is therefore popular with college students. Keep an eye on their website for events such as book signings, writing workshops, and live readings.
14948 Chillicothe Rd., Novelty, OH 44072
If you're looking for a specific rare or antique book, Novelty Shop is the place to go. This boutique book store sells used, rare, and antique books, along with a small selection of other antique items. You'll find original hardcovers of classics, leatherbound books, and first editions galore.
Novelty Shop has been open since 1999 and is frequented by many of Ohio's book collectors. You're bound to learn something just by stopping in and taking a look around.
2258 Professor Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Visible Voice Books wants to make reading cool again. This independent bookstore has a very relaxed, inviting atmosphere and stocks titles in almost every genre. But they also have so much more than books. There's a bar and coffee shop where you can grab your favorite drink to sip while you read. Selections include craft beers from Fat Head and Left Hand Brewing. They even host wine tasting events.
Inside Visible Voice Books, there is also a neighborhood pizza shop called Crust. So, you can enjoy lunch, find a new book, and buy a bottle of wine—all under one roof. The shop is open Tuesday-Sunday.
Where will you discover your new favorite novel? Let us know which one of these bookstores feels most like home.

Poet James Russell Lowell once declared, "And what is so rare as a day in June?" This beautiful month, the gateway to summer, is even more special thanks to the latest lineup of freebies from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Pick up some tea in Northeast Ohio, olive oil in Columbus, and a sandwich in Cincinnati as you discover the wonderful variety of small local businesses around our region.
Cincinnati: A Wrap or Sandwich
5854 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Need a quick pick-me-up? Or maybe you want some time to relax and reflect. Whatever your current mood is, you'll find what you need in a drink from Muggswigz Coffee & Tea.
About Muggswigz Coffee & Tea
Canton native Alex Haas, founder of Muggswigz Coffee & Tea, takes a scientific and global approach to creating the perfect cup. In addition to studying chemistry and biology, Alex has sampled numerous types of coffee and tea during his extensive international travels. It's not surprising that USA Today named Muggswigz one of America's 10 best coffeehouses.
Contact and Hours
330.754.1017
Monday - Friday: 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday: 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
5th Street Arcades, 530 Euclid Ave., Suite 17, Cleveland, OH 44115
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High school chemistry was never this much fun! Class is in session at The Tea Lab, where you can choose from more than 150 loose leaf flavors that brew up a great hot or iced drink.
About The Tea Lab
At The Tea Lab, they believe tea is more than just a great-tasting beverage. Their incredible knowledge can help you find blends that promote good health, from fighting heart disease to easing anxiety and depression. Follow them on Facebook for up-to-the-minute info on new products as well as special promotions, such as 10 percent off "Today's Tea Tomorrow."
Contact and Hours
216.650.7017
Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
23 Public Square, Medina, OH 44256
Do you believe that a balanced diet is a cookie in each hand? Then run, don't walk, over to The Honey Bee Bakery and fulfill your daily requirement with this month's tasty offer.
About The Honey Bee Bakery
Make any day special with a treat from The Honey Bee Bakery. Everything is made fresh in-house daily, including the from-scratch frosting on their hand-decorated sugar cookies. Send your taste buds to Europe with their delicate French macarons, available in more than two dozen flavors, including cherry Icee and salted caramel.
Contact and Hours
330.725.0912
Tuesday - Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
141 E. Main St. #101, Kent, OH 44240
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Everybody has that one person who's difficult to shop for. Problem solved when you use your $10 certificate toward one of the amazing items at McKay Bricker Framing & Black Squirrel Gifts.
About McKay Bricker Framing & Black Squirrel Gifts
For more than 37 years, McKay Bricker Framing & Black Squirrel Gifts has been Kent's go-to source for art and framing needs. Chances are you'll find Cass McKay herself behind the counter, sharing her incredible design expertise with customers wanting to display their beloved prints, photos, and other art pieces.
Contact and Hours
330.673.5058
Monday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
373 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44311
Fortunately, correct pronunciation or spelling of the shop's name isn't required to redeem this month's offer from Muggswigz Coffee & Tea. Your toughest job will be choosing among the wide range of flavors.
About Muggswigz Coffee & Tea
Other coffee shops may boast about being the best, but Muggswigz Coffee & Tea can back up their claims. Throughout its history, Muggswigz has been recognized with local, regional, and national awards. Accolades include top scores at the North American Tea Championship, Ken Davids Coffee Review, and the SCAA Regional Barista Competitions.
Contact and Hours
330.845.8770
Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
59 Spruce St., Columbus, OH 43215
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What's not to love about olive oil? It's a high-quality superfood that packs a punch in both flavor and health benefits. Take your cooking to a new level with olive oil from Green Olive Company.
About Green Olive Company
Not all olive oil is created equal. Green Olive Company sells "early harvest" extra-virgin olive oils made from the first press to maximize taste and healthy qualities. Green Olive also sources from artisan farmers who use sustainable methods to create products that are good for you and the environment.
Contact and Hours
614.512.7124
Sunday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
127 W. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691
Have you hopped on board the bubble tea bandwagon yet? Use your free offer from Boba Bowl to try this delightful beverage that's as much fun to create and look at as it is to drink.
About Boba Bowl
Variety is the spice of tea at Boba Bowl. With dozens of different flavors available in fruit tea, milk tea, coffee, and boba pearls, the potential combinations are endless. Traditional boba and their signature crema are cooked in-house from the freshest ingredients. Following a special diet? Many of their drinks are gluten-free and vegetarian- or vegan-friendly.
Contact and Hours
330.462.8323
Tuesday - Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
108 W. Elder St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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When you're on the go, a sandwich makes the perfect portable meal. A healthy sandwich or wrap from Dean's Mediterranean Imports keeps you nourished and satisfied.
About Dean's Mediterranean Imports
A native of Lebanon, the namesake of Dean's Mediterranean Imports was inspired by his mother's homestyle cooking and his own entrepreneurial passion. After 30 years, Dean has passed the torch to his daughter Kate, who carries on his legacy of providing tasty Mediterranean dishes and top-quality specialty foods.
Contact and Hours
513.241.8222
Tuesday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Cutler Real Estate has teamed up with LoLo Gifts to bring a ray of light into everyone's day with our great free offers. It takes only a few minutes to keep the fun going year-round. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to learn more.

No matter what the calendar says, everyone knows Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer. So get the fun going with May's great offers from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, the latest in our monthly series of freebies.
Whether it's a bakery in Northeast Ohio, an artisan gift shop in Columbus, or a craft brewery in Cincinnati, there are all kinds of amazing small businesses waiting to be discovered.
65 E. State St. #01013, Columbus, H 43215
A good shower can start your morning off right or relax you after a long day. Whichever you prefer, pamper yourself with one of the sweet-smelling artisan soaps from State & Third.
About State & Third
The address of State & Third is conveniently featured right in the name of this delightful shop. Owner Becky Brisker, a veteran of the handmade market, thoughtfully curates a selection of unique products, many from artisans in Ohio. Categories include home decor, beauty and skincare, and jewelry.
Contact and Hours
614.636.0130
Tuesday - Friday: 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
2312 Akron Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
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If Homer Simpson ever tasted the delicacies at Lerch's Donuts, America's favorite toon family would be living in Wooster. Fortunately, you can travel no further than Portage Square Plaza to enjoy your free donuts.
About Lerch's Donuts
Since 1933, Lerch's Donuts has been an iconic fixture in Wooster. Founder John Lerch, Sr. discovered a method to fry cake donuts that left them soft but not greasy, and the rest is history. Lerch's Donuts has long been the #1 food item at the Wayne County Fair, and they can also be found on the shop's mobile wagons at various locations.
Contact and Hours
330.465.5517
Monday - Saturday: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
2307 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Sometimes you just need a bit of sugar in your day. Head over to The Sweet Fix Bakery for a tasty treat that's even better because it's free!
About The Sweet Fix Bakery
In 2014, The Sweet Fix Bakery started as a modest home-based bakery called Craig's Divine Desserts. The food was truly heavenly, as success led to expanding the business into its current location. Customers rave about the cheesecakes and peach cobbler, along with the homemade ice cream.
Contact and Hours
216.571.9866
Tuesday - Thursday: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday: Noon - 5 p.m.
1665 E. Main St. #100B, Kent, OH 44240
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Double your fun with this month's freebie from Main Street Nutrition. Their creative shakes and flavorful teas satisfy your taste buds while providing a welcome shot of energy.
About Main Street Nutrition
Shakes are often guilty pleasures, but not at Main Street Nutrition. Their shakes may have yummy flavors like German Chocolate Cake and Cherry Delight, but they're so filling and packed with nutrients that they make a complete meal. Tea flavors go beyond traditional Earl Grey with options such as Lemon Berry Punch.
Contact and Hours
330.968.3847
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
3227 Blue Heron Trace, Medina, OH 44256
Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, the warm Bavarian pretzel at Blue Heron Brewery is delicious on its own. But the Matrimony Ale beer cheese sauce, whipped cinnamon butter, and German mustard take the pretzel to a new level.
About Blue Heron Brewery
In just five years, award-winning Blue Heron Brewery has quickly established itself as one of the top regional breweries. Their cozy brewpub, with live music and patio seating, is a perfect setting to enjoy Blue Heron's signature brews, along with a Wagyu burger, tuna poke bowl, and other elevated pub fare.
Contact and Hours
330.870.2583
Tuesday - Thursday: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday: Noon - 10 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
21 Furnace St., Akron, OH 44308
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If Mary Poppins was being filmed today, Julie Andrews would likely be singing the praises of, "A Spoonful of Honey." Get your free portion of this natural superfood at the Akron Honey Company.
About Akron Honey Company
After growing up hearing stories of his great-grandfather's farm in Georgia, Brent Wesley spotted a vacant lot in East Akron and immediately saw the possibilities. That first apiary was the birth of Akron Honey Company, which has since spawned another apiary on the opposite side of town. Brent's goal? Making his product the "iPhone of honey."
Contact and Hours
330.552.8858
Tuesday - Friday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
3400 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709
Celebrate the arrival of summer with everyone's favorite creamy treat. Dig into an old-fashioned ice cream sundae while surrounded by the retro charms of Milk & Honey.
About Milk & Honey
Thanks to the friendly service and menu of comfort food, family-owned Milk & Honey has become a favorite destination for many other families. Customers give high marks for the generous portions and extremely affordable prices. With nearly two dozen types of sundaes, you'll find yourself coming back to try each one.
Contact and Hours
330.492.5884
Monday - Sunday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
1641 Blue Rock St., Cincinnati, OH 45223
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Ohio has wholeheartedly embraced the craft beer movement, with several highly-rated local and regional breweries. Sample creative beers such as Goldi Lincks and Pancake Porter at Humble Monk Brewing Co.
About Humble Monk Brewing Co.
Take your best friend along on a visit to Humble Monk Brewing Co. The pet-friendly taproom even has a regular Thursday night meetup for "Humble Hounds." NYPD Northside Pizza offers free delivery to Humble Monk, and you can also purchase from on-site food trucks or bring your own eats.
Contact and Hours
513.510.4615
Wednesday and Thursday: 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday: 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: Noon - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Our incredible free offers are always in season. Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to receive our monthly list.

What's not to love about strawberries? They taste delicious, look good on a plate, and are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants. Add some color and sweetness to your summer eating with strawberries you pick yourself at these wonderful farms around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
3275 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089
The property where Aufdenkampe Family Farm now sits dates back to the Western Reserve. After the Aufdenkampes purchased the farm from its original owners, they became a fixture at the Cleveland Produce Terminal, selling their fresh fruits and vegetables. In 2018, the family decided to focus on strawberries, their most popular crop. The 2022 picking season starts around June 1. Follow them on Facebook for updates.
4413 Center Rd., Avon, OH 44011
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Three generations of family work side-by-side at Fitch's Farm Market, founded in 1983 by Richard and wife Rita. Sons Adam and Daniel and grandfather Robert handle everything from field management and harvesting to mechanic duties. In addition to strawberries, visitors can pick their own beans, peppers, and tomatoes in season. Stop by the on-site market for other fruits and vegetables as well as flowers in flats and hanging baskets. Follow them on Facebook for information about u-pick availability. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
2901 Batdorf Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
From its humble beginnings in 1950 on a small patch of land along Highland Avenue, Maurer Farms grew into its current location in 1961. Strawberries have been the primary crop since day one, with peaches, sweet corn, and other fruits and vegetables added over the years. Maurer Farms offers u-pick strawberries and raspberries, and their on-site market sells their own produce along with products from other local farmers. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday between late May and mid-October. Watch their website and Facebook page for updates.
9331 Mitchell-Dewitt Rd., Plain City, OH 43064
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Farmer Paul and wife Shelly, aka Berrygirl, are a match made at OSU. Together they run Mitchell's Berries & Blooms on a farm that's been in the family for more than two centuries. After son Jake doubled their raspberry production, Paul and Shelly took his advice and added strawberries to their crops. With events like Sunrise and Sunset Yoga, Dairy Day, and the Berry Fairy Summer Tea Party, Mitchell's Berries & Blooms offers fun for the whole family. Follow them on Facebook for current information on hours and availability.
6843 State Route 54, Mechanicsburg, OH 43044
Can't get enough fresh berries? You'll be in seventh heaven with a visit to Folck Family Farm. Berry picking season kicks off in late spring with strawberries, followed by raspberries in June and blackberries in July. After growing up on dairy and cattle farms, owner Bob Folck had a successful career in sales, but he couldn't resist the call of the farming life. Bob and wife Cindy began growing berries in 2003, and in 2018 they opened a winery and tasting room selling wine made from the fruits of their fields. Visit their website and Facebook page for updates.
5462 Babbitt Rd., New Albany, OH 43054
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In the 1970s, Farmer Jim Doran sold his produce right out in the front yard from one of the wagons that are such a nostalgic part of Americana. Fast forward to 2022, and Doran's Farm Market is a popular destination filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, jams and jellies, baked goods, and beverages. Customers also have the opportunity to pick their own strawberries and other select produce. Doran's Farm Market opens with the strawberry season in late May and runs through pumpkin season in early November. Check their website and Facebook page for information.
1640 Stubbs Mill Rd., Lebanon, OH 45036
A trip to Irons Fruit Farm is truly an event. Since its beginning in the early 1900s, the farm has expanded to include pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, apples, and pumpkins. The on-site market and bakery is known for the signature cinnamon cider donuts and apple fritters. They also carry jam, jellies, and other specialty products made from produce grown on the farm. Follow them on Facebook for information about the vendor fair, which features local craft artisans as well as food trucks and live entertainment. Summer hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
2822 Center Rd., Wilmington, OH 45177
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For more than four generations, Stokes Berry Farm has been a fixture in the Cincinnati area. Visitors can pick strawberries and black raspberries from the lush fields or preorder white Georgia peaches, tart Michigan cherries, and other fruits for convenient pickup. The whole family can enjoy a stroll along the creek or catch-and-release fishing in the six-acre lake. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch! There is a $25 fee for a three-hour fishing pass. In-season hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. Watch their Facebook page for posts about the current schedule.
5832 River Rd., Hebron, KY 41048
Located in a scenic rural area, McGlasson Farms is rich with family history. After moving west from Virginia in the 1860s, the McGlassons built a log cabin and began farming the land. While the family had success selling to various markets, they discovered there was even more potential in creating a produce stand on their own property. Today, McGlasson Farms even has a devoted following of customers from all around the region. Visitors can join in the fun picking their own strawberries, blackberries, and other fresh produce. In-season hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekends. Watch the website and Facebook page for schedule information.
Strawberries and cream has been a tradition at the classic Wimbledon tennis tournament since it began in 1877. What's your favorite way to eat strawberries?

Tired of the cookie-cutter big-box stores with limited selections, inflated prices, and impersonal service? Combine sightseeing and shopping with day trips to the wonderful small towns of Ohio, from Northeast Ohio to Columbus and Cincinnati, where the character and appeal of a traditional "downtown" is alive and well.
Founded in 1818, Medina was originally named "Mecca," which means, "a place to which many people are attracted." Residents and visitors agree that the town's friendly atmosphere and "Norman Rockwell" appearance make that an apt description. The charming town square, presided over by the beautiful brick courthouse, is surrounded by Victorian-style buildings that house a number of wonderful shops and restaurants. Support local causes by shopping at The Bookshelf, a used bookstore where all proceeds go to Project Learn, an adult literacy organization. You don't have to have a green thumb to visit the Gardener's Cottage, which offers a full assortment of furnishings, home accessories, seasonal decor, and gifts. Miss Molly's Tea Room and A Cupcake a Day have great treats to sit and enjoy or grab and go. The square, also known as Uptown Park, hosts regular community events such as Art in the Park and International Fest.
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From its picturesque name to the quaint, tree-lined streets, Chagrin Falls maintains a classic small-town feel in a 21st-century world. Noted cartoonist and Chagrin Falls native Bill Watterson featured a picture of his hometown on the back cover of The Essential Calvin and Hobbes Collection. With more than 75 independent shops and restaurants in the village center, you'll find anything you may need or want. The annual mid-summer Sidewalk Sale, featuring live music and kids' activities, has been a Chagrin Falls tradition for more than 70 years. Take a break from shopping to enjoy the view of the town's namesake falls from Bell Street Park, Riverside Park, or the Main Street bridge.
Ever feel like technology is taking over your life? Step into a more relaxed way of life with a visit to Berlin. As the oldest existing village in Holmes County, Berlin is the center of the world's largest Amish community. The streets are lined with dozens of shops that carry one-of-a-kind items featuring high-quality craftsmanship. Spend an afternoon exploring Berlin Antique & Craft Malls, two side-by-side facilities where you'll also find the best fudge in the area. If that's not enough, check out Berlin Village Antique Mall, a two-story building filled with classic pieces and collectibles. Sample the cheese, produce, and all the bounty of Amish farms at German Village Market, Bunker Hill Cheese Chalet, and Troyer's Country Market. Don't miss Streb's General Store, where the third generation is running this classic shop.
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If Granville reminds you of a town in New England, that's no coincidence. Settlers from the East Coast planned the Ohio community using familiar concepts from New England villages, right down to sharing the name of their original hometown in Massachusetts. Granville's layout follows the traditional grid pattern, with two major thoroughfares meeting in the center at the town square. Several original buildings, including churches, inns, and private homes, are still standing, with more than 100 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The downtown business district, part of Granville's established historic area, includes boutiques such as Cedar and Thread, featuring clothing and home décor, and Green Velvet of Granville, a Parisian-style shop with an eclectic mix of merchandise. For a modern touch, stop for lunch or dinner at Three Tigers Brewing Company, a craft brewery and taproom that serves Vietnamese-inspired street food.
As its preservation society proudly proclaims, you don't have to live in German Village to feel like you belong. Located just south of downtown Columbus, German Village is the largest privately funded preservation district on the National Register of Historic Places. Though technically not a town, this neighborhood has gained worldwide recognition as a premier example of successful restoration, retaining much of the same character and appeal as it displayed during its origins in the mid-19th century. The Book Loft of German Village, housed in a pre-Civil War building that takes up an entire city block, is worth a visit all on its own. Other notable shops include Helen Winnemore's, a women's clothing store that originated in its namesake's home, and Vernacular, a clothing and lifestyle boutique that specializes in ethically sourced, organic, and minority-owned brands.
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Earlier this year, travel website Only in Your State proclaimed Yellow Springs to be one of the coolest small towns in America, referring to it as a "little slice of paradise" based on its charm and originality. Just how cool is it? Comedian Dave Chappelle, whose father was a professor and dean of students at Antioch College in Yellow Springs, still lives here with his wife and three children on a 65-acre farm. Who can resist shops and restaurants such as The Smoking Octopus, a tobacco store located in a uniquely designed building, and Ha Ha Pizza, with its iconic mural featuring a jackalope, gremlin, flying saucer, and the Loch Ness Monster?
Shopping is in Loveland's DNA. The town is named for James Loveland, who ran the general store and post office near the downtown railroad tracks. In the 1980s, the railroad corridor was converted to a bike trail that became part of the Little Miami Scenic Trail, which hosts nearly 750,000 hikers and bikers each year. Not surprisingly, Loveland has several shops, such as JackRabbit, Montgomery Cyclery, and Vertical Drop, specializing in clothing and outdoor activities equipment. If indoor pursuits are more your style, make stops at Busy Bee Boutique and Bond Furniture and Design.
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With more than 60 shops and restaurants in a compact, five-block area, you can shop in Waynesville without fear of dropping. Want more credentials? Waynesville is known as the "Antiques Capital of the Midwest," and it has been recognized by USA Today as one of the "Most Walkable Towns in America." Waynesville Antique Mall, housed in a brick building built in 1882, includes nearly 50 vendors offering classic items, collectibles, and historical memorabilia. Don't miss Buckeye Charm, a family-owned retro boutique with an actual vintage truck as its centerpiece.
Friendly residents? Fewer crowds? Good walkability? What's your favorite feature of small towns?