Posts with tag 'Things to do in Columbus'

With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.

Squire's Castle

North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094

If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Maltz Performing Arts Center

Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303

While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.

Decorative Arts Center of Ohio

145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130

Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Mink Hollow Covered Bridge

Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year. 

National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting

8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069

Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older. 

The Mercantile Library

414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.

Carillon Historical Park

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409

Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.

Yesterday Is History, Tomorrow Is a Mystery

What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?

December is a month full of holidays, and one that you won't want to miss is Brownie Day! It's happening on Wednesday, December 8th this year, and it's the perfect reason to sink your teeth into one of those chewy, chocolatey delights. Making your own brownies is certainly an option, but there are also some amazing Columbus bakeries where you can pick up a few pre-made treats.

Mrs. Turbo's Cookies

178 W. Olentangy Street, Powell, OH 43065

They may have named their shop after their cookies, but they make great brownies, too. Mrs. Turbo's is the place to visit if you find yourself north of Columbus near Powell. They rotate their brownie selection often, so there's always something different to try. Popular flavors include S'mores, Peppermint Patty, and Coconut. The Buckeye Brownies are also delicious!

The brownies at Mrs. Turbo's are quite traditional. They're halfway between cake-like and fudgy, and they just might remind you of the brownies your mom baked at home.

Chocolate Cafe

1855 Northwest Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212

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If you need a reason to stop by a place called Chocolate Cafe, Brownie Day can be that reason! This bakery crafts a wide assortment of tasty treats, many of which are gooey and chocolatey. Their Assorted Brownies are a customer favorite. They're sold by the dozen and come in a variety of flavors, including Salted Caramel Pretzel and Double Fudge.

While you're in Chocolate Cafe, you may want to order a cocktail to go with your brownies. The Chocolate Cake Martini and Double Espresso Martini both pair well with chocolate. Since this space does operate as a full-service cafe, they also have a menu of sandwiches, salads, and soups. 

Happy Little Treats

1203 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201

It's impossible not to be happy at a place called Happy Little Treats, especially if you're there to celebrate Brownie Day. This small bakery takes pride in their creativity. They always have colorful cookies and delectable donuts in their glass display cases. Their brownies are massive, and they make them both with and without pecans. Sometimes they even carry Oreo and blueberry brownies. You could easily buy one to share with a friend or family member — or eat it all yourself.

Happy Little Treats is a vegan bake shop, but even non-vegans rave about their products. They also have a coffee menu with plant-based options like their famous iced oat milk latte. If you're looking for something to bring home for breakfast the next day, try the vegan honey buns. They're as gooey and delicious as brownies.

Brownie Points, Inc.

5712 Westbourne Ave., Columbus, OH 43213

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Brownie Points was created by two sisters-in-law who are Ohio natives. The company started in their apartment kitchen and eventually moved to a brick-and-mortar store in Cleveland before relocating to Columbus. Since 1991, their brownies have brought smiles to countless faces. They've even begun shipping their brownies across the country.

At Brownie Points, they don't just have brownies. They have brownies in all different flavors and forms. The Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt is a fan favorite. If you like fruity flavors, then you may want to try the Raspberry Caramel Fudge. Not in the mood for chocolate? You're in luck! Brownie Points even has some non-chocolate flavors, like Very Vanilla and Butterscotch Sensations.

Cherbourg Bakery

547 S. Drexel Ave., Bexley, OH 43209

If you're on the east side of Columbus near Bexley, this is a great place to get your brownie fix. Cherbourg Bakery is a nut-free, gluten-free, and dye-free facility, aiming to make baked goods as safe as possible for their customers. But have no fear — even without these ingredients, their baked goods are incredible. The Espresso Brownies are mouthwatering if you're someone who loves coffee. 

In addition to brownies and other sweet treats, Cherbourg Bakery offers a lot of savory baked goods. You may want to pick up an olive oil mini loaf or a 3-cheese quiche to bring home for later. 

The Fat Girl Bakery

1347 Cameron Ave., Lewis Center, OH, 43035

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Located inside the Oak Creek Center, The Fat Girl Bakery is a fun and laid-back place to indulge your inner chocolate lover. The owner, Amy, considers herself an expert in flavors, and she has lots of fun pairing them together in new and unique ways. Their Buckeye Brownies bring peanut butter and chocolate together for a fun twist on the Ohio tradition.

The Fat Girl Bakery is known for its friendly staff and welcoming environment. While some people do take their treats to-go, staying to enjoy your brownie in-house is definitely encouraged.

Insomnia Cookies

2209 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201

Insomnia Cookies made a name for themselves by delivering cookies to college campuses late at night. But you don't have to be a college student to enjoy their baked goods, and you no longer have to stick with cookies, either. They now have brownies, cookie cakes, and even ice cream if you visit them on-site.

Of course, if you really don't want to leave the house, you can have Insomnia Cookies deliver some cookies and brownies to your home for Brownie Day. Placing an order via their website is simple, and they'll get cookies to you in no time. 

Bake Me Happy

106 E. Moler St., Columbus, OH 43207

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If you eat a gluten-free diet, then Bake Me Happy is a great place to get your brownie fix. This is a 100% gluten-free bakery. They specialize in nostalgic baked goods. So, as you browse their menu, you will notice gluten-free versions of classics like Zebra Cakes and SnoBalls. Don't worry — they do, in fact, offer a gluten-free version of colorful Cosmic Brownies, which are perfect for Brownie Day.

If you dine in, make sure you pair your brownie with a nostalgic beverage, too. The Cereal Milk Cold Brew is uniquely incredible, and guests also love the Strawberry Nesquick Cold Brew. The flavors will remind you of simpler times.

Where Will You Get Your Brownie Fix?

In this busy holiday season, don't forget to celebrate Brownie Day! Where will you sink your teeth into chocolatey goodness?

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.

The Polar Express™ Train Ride

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. 

North Pole Adventure™

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131

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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.

Christmas at the Junction

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.

Santa Train

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.

Puritas Nursery Holiday Trains

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.

Santa Christmas Train 

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764

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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. 

Youngstown Model Railroad Association Open House

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.

North Pole Express

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. 

Express Train

Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145

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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. 

Get On the Right Track

In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?

Is there a more rewarding feeling than giving a loved one just the right gift? Put smiles of delight on everyone's face when you do your holiday shopping at these wonderful shops around Columbus.

German Village

The Book Loft of German Village

631 S. Third St., Columbus, OH 43206

Whether you're shopping for a devoted bookworm or a budding reader, you'll find the perfect gift at The Book Loft of German Village. Located in a pre-Civil War building, The Book Loft boasts an incredible 32 rooms, covering an entire city block, filled with bargain-priced books. Give a gift of a Book Loft t-shirt that earns the wearer a 10 percent discount on purchases. Hours are 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Helen Winnemore's

150 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206

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Helen Winnemore's is the place to find a gift for that person who has everything. There really was a Helen Winnemore, and the shop originated in her Grandview home. While the shop eventually ended up at the corner of Kossuth and Mohawk in German Village, siblings Julie and John Jenkins still follow Helen's mission of offering one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable and useable art. Shelves are filled with jewelry, glassware, textiles, woodwork, and body care products made by regional artisans. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Short North Arts District

Global Gifts

682 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Your gift benefits more than just the recipient when it's purchased at Global Gifts. The non-profit shop carries only fair-trade items made by disadvantaged artisans and farmer from more than 40 different countries. Pick up some chili picante plantain chips for your favorite foodie, or a woven sari cotton laundry basket from Bangladesh for that friend who just moved into a new home. Can't decide? Give a monthly subscription for coffee, jewelry, socks, food, candles, or books. Global Gifts is open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Happy Go Lucky

787 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Happy Go Lucky is actually two stores in one. "Home" is a lifestyle shop with a full selection of furniture, wall art, rugs, and other home decor items. "Her" is a women's apparel boutique specializing in stylish dresses, pants and tops, outerwear, and loungewear that you'll want to have in your wardrobe forever. Follow them on Instagram for information on the latest arrivals, sales, and events. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Grandview

Glenn Avenue Soap Company

1166 W. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

Everyone needs a little more pampering in their life. Treat friends and family to some luxury with a gift from Glenn Avenue Soap Company. In 2009, Dr. Sandra Metzler, frustrated with the lack of natural products in the marketplace, used her biomedical engineering background to make soap in her kitchen. Four years later, she and her partner Phil began selling their high-quality products out of their home and eventually from their 4,200-square-foot storefront. Their soaps, lotions, essential oils, lip balms, and other skincare products are so amazing that you'll end up "gifting" yourself with some. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday.

Vernacular

1392 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

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While it's located in the heart of the Midwest, Vernacular has been described as "East Coast classic with a West Coast vibe." Husband-and-wife owners Kris and Chelsea carefully curate their womenswear and lifestyle store to offer on-trend merchandise at affordable price points. With their belief that where you shop matters, Kris and Chelsea source from brands that are eco-conscious, ethically sourced, organic, women- and minority-owned, and handmade in the USA. Each year, they donate a portion of their proceeds to local causes and educational outlets. Vernacular is open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 Sunday. They also have locations in German Village and Worthington.

Clintonville/Worthington

Sugarbush Gourmet Gift Baskets

7227 N. High St. #100, Worthington, OH 43085

Spread cheer from the Buckeye State to family and friends across the country. Since 1981, Sugarbush Gourmet Gift Baskets has been creating and shipping spectacular gift baskets full of fresh fruit, chocolates, wines, cheeses, nuts, and other gourmet specialty foods. Choose from dozens of themed baskets or build your own custom assortment. Bestsellers include the Buckeye Bucket, loaded with cheeses, crackers, nuts, and candies that any OSU fan will love. Hours are 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - noon Saturday.

The Electric Sheep

752 High St., Worthington, OH 43085

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The Electric Sheep may sound like a place to buy farm equipment, but the quirky name belongs to one of the more original gift shops you'll ever find. This family-owned business is a workspace where artisans create all the products by hand. Have an idea for a special personalized gift? The crafters will work with you to bring your concept to life. If you want to learn to make your own individual gifts, sign up for one of their workshops on crafts from painting and laser engraving to assembling a charcuterie board. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Santa Claus Is Coming to Town

What's the number one thing you're hoping Santa brings you from one of the shops around Columbus?

Pumpkin spice is definitely one of the most iconic and popular flavors of fall, and it can be used in everything from beer to doughnuts to pancakes. If you're one of the many Columbus pumpkin-lovers who is looking forward to trying this flavor in a variety of ways as the temperatures cool down, you're in luck.
  
We've compiled a list of nine places around Columbus where you can get your pumpkin fix. Visit some of the following go-to spots to try yummy pumpkin drinks and other goodies.

Hadley's Bar + Kitchen

260 S. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43215

Head downtown to Hadley's Bar + Kitchen, where you can sample beer, cocktails, and brunch, lunch, or dinner in a hip, industrial-chic space. In addition to its Ohio drafts, Hadley's serves up signature cocktails and its popular boozy milkshakes. Several boozy shake flavors are available year-round, such as the Strawberry Shortcake, which is made with Smirnoff Strawberry, fresh strawberries, cookie crumbs, vanilla ice cream, and whipped cream. For a seasonal treat, try the pumpkin variety, which is packed with flavor and comes with pumpkin pie at its base and whipped cream all over.

Short North Piece of Cake Bakery & Cafe

772 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Located in Italian Village, a popular foodie destination near the Short North Arts District, Piece of Cake has gained a loyal following since its opening in 1998. Its well known for its wedding cakes but also has a variety of delicious goodies available for immediate purchase. They're all made in-house and include tempting treats such as tarts, mini-cakes, and cupcakes. To get yourself in the spirit of the fall season, try a pumpkin cupcake and order several extras to take home with you.

Sunny Street Cafe

6607 East Broad St., Columbus, OH 43213

You won't have to travel far to find a Sunny Street Cafe, since the restaurant has two additional locations in Columbus: one at 8461 Sancus Blvd. and another at 4733 Reed Rd. The family-run restaurants are definitely all-in on the pumpkin flavors and are famous for their Legendary Pumpkin pancakes that are big and fluffy and topped with cinnamon butter and a tres leches drizzle. If you have a bigger appetite, try the Pumpkin Breakfast Combo, which has two pumpkin pancakes along with two eggs, your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage, and your choice of side. Finally, treat yourself to made-from-scratch Pumpkin White Chip Muffins, which are loaded with white chocolate chip muffins.

Schmidt's German Village Restaurant

240 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206

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German Village's Schmidt's Restaurant is a family business that's currently operated by its fourth and fifth generations. You can also enjoy their food at the Ohio State Fair, where they've been serving up German food and beverages since 1914. A half-pound jumbo cream puff with a special whipped filling in a lightly baked pastry shell is a perennial customer favorite, and you can try it in flavors like vanilla and peanut butter fudge. A flavor of the month is also featured, and you'll want to try Schmidt's pumpkin version of their cream puff this time of year. It even comes topped off with a cute little candy corn pumpkin!

The Roosevelt Coffeehouse

Long Street Studio, 300 E. Long St., Columbus, OH  43215

When you stop in at The Roosevelt Coffeehouse, you'll not only be getting a great cup of coffee but also supporting the local and global fight against unclean water, hunger, and human trafficking. Try an iced or drip coffee or espresso, and pair it with a doughnut, bagel, or gluten-free pastry. And in the fall, check out menu additions like the Hot Chaider (chai plus apple cider) and the Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Pattycake Bakery

3870 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

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The taste alone is enough to make you want to try Pattycake Bakery's made-from-scratch goodies, but if you're also looking for primarily organic, all-vegan ingredients, you're headed to the right place. In addition to cakes and cupcakes, you'll find muffins, whole-grain granola, and whoopie pies on the menu. To satisfy your pumpkin craving, try a whole-grain pumpkin whoopie pie that's paired with a spiced filling.

Lineage Brewing

2971 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202

Lineage Brewing has a comfortable, casual atmosphere where you can meet with friends and relax inside or outside on the patio. In addition to food, you'll normally find 10-12 styles of beer on tap. If you'd like something other than beer, the brewpub also offers wine, mixed drinks, and locally made soda. Every fall, you can also order a pumpkin ale that's made with roasted pumpkin from a local farm. Its perfect pale orange flavor immediately evokes the thought of pumpkin, and it's deliciously spiced with cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.

Buckeye Doughnuts

1998 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210

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No matter when you get a pumpkin craving, you can score a pumpkin spice doughnut at Buckeye Doughnuts, where, as their saying goes, they're "Open Always, Closed Never." The shop is located across from The Ohio State University's campus, so you'll have an extra-large crowd after football games. If you're in a hurry, you can order your doughnut online so it will be ready for you to pick up when you arrive. The doughnuts are fresh and the coffee's hot, but if you're in the mood for something substantial, the shop serves all-day breakfast and entrees such as gyros and Greek salads.  

Sip and Savor the Season

What pumpkin spice menu item do you look forward to ordering each year, and which new treats do you want to try?