Leah Ackerman Blog
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31
Start the New Year Out Right: January LoLo Gifts Are Here!
The holidays may be over, but the gifts keep coming! Beat the winter doldrums with this month's treats from your favorite local vendors, courtesy of Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Our agents at Cutler Real Estate love to spread the word about the joys of living in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. We've teamed up with LoLo to offer local gifts of the month designed to help you discover the diverse range of shops, restaurants, and services in our regions.
January Gifts:
Cincinnati: Latte and a Muffin
Cincinnati: Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Set
Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
Northeast Ohio: Two-Ounce Tea Tin
Northeast Ohio: $15 Certificate
Northeast Ohio: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
Cincinnati: Latte and a Muffin
Awakenings Coffee & Wine
2734 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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Mom says breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but who has the time? Jump-start your busy morning with a freshly-made muffin and latte from Awakenings Coffee & Wine.
About Awakenings Coffee & Wine
For many independent businesses, being the top coffee and wine shop in Cincinnati would be enough. The owners of Awakenings return the love by supporting the community as a gathering spot where customers can enjoy the work of local artists and musicians. In addition to responsibly-sourced coffee and baked goods made fresh daily, Awakenings has a wide selection of boutique wines not found in other shops.
Contact and Hours
513.321.2525
Monday - Thursday 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday 6:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Cincinnati: Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Set
Kofinas Olive Oil
1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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There's a reason Rachael Ray loves her EVOO. Pure, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, earning it the title of "healthiest fat on earth." Kofinas Olive Oil's EVOO and traditional balsamic vinegar set will elevate your cooking to another level.
About Kofinas Olive Oil
The founders of Kofinas Olive Oil named the company after the distinctive mountain overlooking their native village in Greece. Generations of love and experience go into making the olive oil that comes directly from their family groves.
Contact and Hours
Findlay Market, Stall 119
513.549.3866
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Columbus: Columbus Coaster
State & Third
65 E. State St., Suite 103, Columbus, OH 43215
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Show your hometown pride with a Columbus beverage coaster, one of the many delightfully unique hand-crafted items you'll find at State & Third.
About State & Third
Five years ago, founder Becky Brisker combined a love of her hometown with extensive retail and marketing experience to open State & Third. The shop offers a carefully curated selection of clothing, jewelry and accessories, home decor, and gift items from local and national artisans.
Contact and Hours
614.636.0130
Weekdays 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
The Rail
5839 Frantz Road, Dublin, OH 43016
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How do you make a beloved comfort food even better? The Rail adds a contemporary twist with deep-fried goodness and Buffalo ranch dip for their Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites.
About The Rail
After perfecting the modern steakhouse concept at The City Square, chef Mike Mariola and his wife Emily went casual with The Rail, a gourmet burger joint with a focus on upscale bar food and Ohio craft beers. Not a meat-eater? The Rail's got you covered with a plant-powered wrap, veggie burger, and variety of tasty salads.
Contact and Hours
614.725.3200
Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Northeast Ohio: Two-Ounce Tea Tin
Ohio Tea Company
5569 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
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Is there anything better on a chilly winter night in Ohio than a relaxing cup of tea? Choose a two-ounce tin with soothing flavors such as Perfect Peach Oolong, Hot Cinnamon Spice, and Green Apple Chai from Ohio Tea Company.
About Ohio Tea Company
If your experience with tea doesn't go beyond Lipton, you'll find a whole new world at Ohio Tea Company. The shop carries a wide range of fresh loose-leaf teas including white, green, black, oolong, and rooibos in pure, flavored and decaf varieties. Infusers, teapots and cups, iced tea jugs, and other supplies are also on hand.
Location and Hours
330.333.9454
Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Northeast Ohio: $15 Certificate
The Bird Store and More
117 Merz Blvd., Akron, OH 44333
Birds provide a colorful and entertaining show right in your own backyard. Get $15 worth of supplies from The Bird Store and More to help create your private at-home nature center.
About The Bird Store and More
The Bird Store and More carries everything you need to turn your backyard into a vibrant nature center. Once you get the basics of bird feeders, houses, and baths, add a personal touch with wind chimes, spinners, flags, and other yard art. The shop's assortment of gift items is so delightful, you'll want to treat yourself.
Contact and Hours
330.869.9453
Weekdays 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Northeast Ohio: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
The Rail
4347 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, OH 44718
3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333
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Do the words "too much cheese" exist in anyone's vocabulary? Head over to The Rail for an order of their luscious Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites.
About The Rail
Burgers and beer go together like peanut butter and jelly, thunder and lightning, and R2-D2 and C-3PO. Find your favorite pairing among the numerous types of gourmet burgers and brands of Ohio craft beer on the menu at The Rail. Class is in session for Ohio Beer School, a lively event where one of The Rail's local brewery partners shares inside secrets and fun facts about the world of brewing.
Contact and Hours
Canton: 330.497.7550
Fairlawn: 330.864.7245
Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
No Strings Attached!
Participation in the LoLo Gifts program is complimentary through your Cutler Real Estate agent, providing you with a unique opportunity to sample offerings from local small businesses. You'll also receive new gift options monthly, so keep an eye out for your monthly LoLo Gifts round-up.
Interested in learning more about LoLo Gifts? Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.
29
Sweeten Up Your IPA at These 10 Cincinnati Area Breweries
On the list of the most popular US cities for craft beer, Cincinnati may not top the list — and that's the way we like it. With dozens of breweries on both sides of the Ohio River, we're happy to keep these hoppy hotspots a secret for Swine City residents only.
Are you looking for the coolest, craziest, and most creative beers Cincy has to offer? From milkshake IPAs to stouts brewed with peppers, peaches, and pies, you'd be surprised at just how tasty beer with beets or bacon actually is. Let's see what excitingly eccentric brews are on tap around The Queen City.
Streetside Brewery
4003 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
Kicking off our list is Streetside Brewery, a newer brewer that's already claimed their share of awards. When we're craving a milkshake IPA, they're our first stop! The John Lemon is a lemon meringue, while the Yowie Wowie is a sour with pink guava. I Drink Your Milkshake is bursting with blueberry, and the Trouble In Paradise is a fruity blonde that's anything but problematic. Leave room for other tasty taps, like the Interstate Pastry Flight chocolate cream donut stout, the P.U.C. It pineapple upside-down cake Berliner, the Robe red velvet donut stout, or the Doodlebob snickerdoodle coffee brown.
Brink Brewing Company
5905 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45224
Speaking of Darkness Brewing, they partnered with Brink Brewing Company to birth Damocles — a black milkshake IPA. Sweeten things up a little more with the Brink Tiramisu Stout, the Pillow Case Candy cinnamon coconut chocolate stout, and the Moozie chocolate milkshake stout. This College Hill brewery has plenty of other brews — like the Kickin' Wing mango habanero IPA — but nothing beats a freshly tapped pint of dessert.
Grainworks Brewing Company
7790 Service Center Drive, Suite B., West Chester Township, OH 45069
Still thirsty? How about a glass of Old Motor Oil or Defroster? If you've ever wanted to taste a Rusty Bumper or a Haybale, Grainworks Brewing Company has a pint ready for you. Their uniquely named beers, such as the Mom Claude Van Damme, are brewed with a range of different hops and malts to deliver full flavors that you won't soon forget.
Darkness Brewing
224 Fairfield Ave., Bellevue, KY 41073
Darkness is sweeping over Bellevue's brewery scene, bringing a storm of dark beers for your enjoyment. Darkness Brewing prides itself on mixing up new brews with uncommon ingredients. There's a batch of beets in the Witch Head Nebula red IPA. Maple syrup is mixed into the Ike Ike Baby vanilla brown ale. Cold-brewed coffee gives the Coffee Anomaly a smooth taste, while the bananas and cloves of the Beach Park After Dark lend a malty flavor to this dunkelweizen. Don't be afraid to wander into the Darkness — it's delicious.
Listermann Brewing Company
1621 Dana Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45207
Listermann Brewing Company was founded in Cincinnati long before the craft beer craze hit the city, and you'd better believe that they spent the last 30 years honing their craft. Vanilla, hazelnuts, peanut butter, and chocolate are just a few of the sweet ingredients featured in their bottled brews. We suggest you start with a Shamrock Shake Irish cream stout, a Give Me Something To Bake imperial pastry stout made with raisin pie filling, or a Half Moon Cookie imperial brown ale. Do you need dinner before dessert? Try the Cincinnati Style Stout; it's made with chocolate, spices, and spaghetti!
Braxton Brewing Company
27 W. 7th St., Covington, KY 41011
Head across the river to Covington and taste the concoctions cooked-up at Braxton Brewing Company. Their year-round and seasonal beers are fantastic, but their limited-release offerings and Braxton Labs exclusives really take the cake. The Braxton Labs Cherry Turnover and Peach Cobbler are fantastic. Braxton's brewers also use Graeter's irresistible ice cream to make their Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip Stout. Beer that tastes like ice cream and pie? We know where we're going for a late-night sip.
Taft's Brewing Company
4831 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
Fibonacci Brewing Company
1445 Compton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231
You'd be forgiven for missing this small nano brewery in Mt. Healthy, but trust us, they're brewing up something big every day! If you're daring, try a pint of The Tollhouse Caps, a stout infused with the hottest chili peppers on the planet, or The Tollhouse Soma infused with curry powder, cayenne, and cumin. For a sweeter sip, try the Pepo Acer pumpkin porter aged with maple and bacon donuts from Holtman's Donuts or The Tollhouse Mentha chocolate peppermint stout that tastes just like a peppermint patty. Fibonacci Brewing Company's unique nano brews offer global ingredients in every pint-sized pour.
Bircus Brewing Company
Is it a circus inside of a brewery or a bar beneath the big top? Find out as you step into the surreal world of Bircus Brewing Company just across the river in Kentucky. Take your taste buds for a ride on Unicycle No.3, an oak-aged sour with grilled peaches. Behold the Cosmic Walrus, a golden ale featuring a crisp cranberry snap and a ginger finish. Sip on one of their other thirteen taps and enjoy live performances from jugglers, fire-breathers, and trapeze artists who take the stage in the recently opened Ludlow Theatre.
Rhinegeist Brewery
1910 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
No list of Cincinnati breweries is complete without an appearance from Rhinegeist Brewery. This local favorite produces dozens upon dozens of beers in nearly every style imaginable. Get your fruit fix with the pomegranate, blueberries, and limes in the Slangria, their hoppy Y'all Peachy made with peaches and Lemondrop hops, the UME Farmhouse Ale with plums, or the Centripetal Cherries Wild Ale. Stop into their taproom and seek out Truth, Knowledge, and their other year-round beers. Better yet, take your pint up to the roof and watch the sunshine Over-the-Rhine.
Sweet Deal
Which Cincy brew is your favorite? Let us know which round we should order next in the comments below.
24
12 Specialty Food Shops Around NE Ohio
Here at Cutler Real Estate, we love food in every form! More specifically, we love the diverse groceries and authentic items found in the unique purveyor shops that stock everything from meat and cheese to exotic spices and sauces. With a calendar full of meals to fill, we want our shopping list to be as tasty as possible.
If you're looking to introduce new cultures and cuisines into your diet, you've come to the right place. On this list, you'll find twelve of the finest specialty and gourmet food shops around Northeast Ohio that deliver the world's flavor right into your shopping cart.
Fromage du Monde
An homage to fromage, Fromage du Monde welcomes Canton residents into a world of cheese. This artisan cheese house is ready to serve you selections of the finest cheeses sourced from regions around the globe. Sample a few favorites with their cheese flight, pair the best cheeses and meats on their charcuterie board, or order up a cheese panini and cup of homemade soup for lunch. Interested in becoming a cheese connoisseur? They'll gladly teach you how to "speak cheese."
Ohio Tea Company
While we love a good cappuccino, we also love to curl up with a book and a nice cup of tea on a cold, wintery Ohio day. What better place to stock up on everything tea than the Ohio Tea Company? Opened in November 2015 by Terry Gabet, Ohio Tea Company is your source for loose-leaf teas ranging from favorites like Earl Grey and English Breakfast varieties, to herbal blends like Berry Blues and Lemon Ginger. Don't forget to stock up on tea filters and an infuser to start enjoying tea on a grand scale.
The Olive Tap
The right oils can lend remarkable flavor to any dish. At The Olive Tap in Medina, you have the opportunity to taste the difference and experience the quality that has earned the freshest olive oils and balsamic vinegars industry acclaim. They carry a selection of gourmet specialty foods like pastas, tapenades, olives, sauces, salsas, and jams to help you curate a meal precisely to your desired taste. Hoping to test out a few new recipes? The folks at The Olive Tap will be happy to suggest tasty dinners you can prepare with their oils.
Spice For Life
3441 Tuttle Road Ste 103, Shaker Heights
Spice up your pantry while supporting your local Northeast Ohio nonprofits by shopping at Spice For Life. Spices, herbs, salts, peppercorns, chili peppers, and seasoning blends are all on deck at this stall within the Van Aken District Market Hall. While their products will make your plate a tastier place, their kindness makes our world a better place too. All of their profits are donated to various nonprofit organizations throughout the area that support human trafficking victims and prevent future instances of this prevalent problem in Ohio.
European Specialty Food Market
You don't need to travel across the Atlantic Ocean for the best European foods — simply head to the west side of I-71 in Brunswick and stop at European Specialty Food Market. Check off your entire grocery list as you shop their imports of meat, fish, cheese, pastries, sweets, and alcoholic beverages. Get a jar of borsch, just like grandma used to make. Cook up a fresh smoked sausage from Hungary, kielbasa from Poland, or weisswurst from Germany. Wash it all down with French wine or a Belgian beer, and you'll be overjoyed that you can eat so well without a passport.
Heinen's Grocery Store
Heinen's Grocery Store is a Cleveland institution. Since the 1920s, this butcher shop turned grocery store has been the one-stop-shop for everything you need to fill your refrigerator and pantry. Among their inventory of fresh, frozen, and packaged foods, Heinen's also carries local favorites from the state in nearly every department. Experience Ohio the way it was meant to be tasted by loading your shopping cart up with produce, cheeses, meats, and pastries from local farms, butcheries, and bakeries.
Mel's Sweet Shop
A hidden gem that you must unwrap, Mel's Sweet Shop lets you indulge your confectionary cravings. Once known as Penny's Sweet Supplies, Mel's is a cake decorating and baking supply store full of delicious goodies. They'll make sure you're stocked with the molds, frosting, fondant, and candy you need to make any sweet treat. Keep an eye on their calendar, too — they host candy making and cake decorating classes throughout the year. Just do us a favor and save a bite for us.
Las Americas Latin Market & Restaurant
25650 Aurora Road, Bedford Heights
Say hola to the vibrant tastes of Latin America at Las Americas Latin Market & Restaurant. This specialty grocery store is full of flavor and ready to give your meals a little Latin flair. If you're new to Latin foods, you're in luck! Las Americas is also a restaurant. They serve up delicious Mexican and Peruvian cuisine so you can sample, savor, and plan your next meal.
Sunny's Asian Food
Authentic South Asian groceries and cuisine are available at Sunny's Asian Food. This family-owned establishment lures you in with their sweet complimentary chai and aromas that tempt you to venture over to their kitchen in the back of the store. Serving up homemade Indian foods all week, we dare you to taste an item off of their menu and try to leave empty-handed. Once you sample their authentic offerings on the all-you-can-eat buffet, you'll fill your hands with as many groceries as you can carry so you can make these South Asian staples at home.
Old Brooklyn Cheese Company
Cheese and mustard — you need both in your refrigerator, and Old Brooklyn Cheese Company has them ready for you. Not only do they carry local, domestic, and imported cheeses, but they also produce their own raw milk cheeses using milk from Hartzler Family Dairy in Wooster. The Old Brooklyn Cheese Company cheeses are only rivaled by their handmade mustards — or as they like to call them, Cleveland Caviar. Grab both, get home, and savor the flavor of Cleveland's finest cheese and mustard pairings.
Grand Pacific Popcorn Company
8064 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls
We don't have just one reason why we love Grand Pacific Popcorn Company — we have nearly 40! #1: Cheddar Pretzel Ale. #2: Bulldog Blend. #3: Red Cinnamon. Better yet, why don't you pay a visit to their shop in the Grand Pacific Junction and sample their savory, sweet, and seasonal flavors. While you're there, pick up some old-fashioned candy and soda to keep your sweet tooth satisfied all year long.
Jerky -n- Spice
14492 Pearl Road, Strongsville
Jerky, smokies, sauces, and snacks — the best of the best are available at Jerky -n- Spice. They've got palate-pleasing variations of beef jerky, turkey jerky, exotic game smokies, seasonings, salsas, condiments, and sauces that cater to every taste imaginable. Where else in Ohio can you taste kangaroo, ostrich, alligator, buffalo, and antelope in the same shop? If you'd like to make your own sausage or jerky at home, they'll provide you with a kit and give you a few tips.
Foodies Unite
Where's your go-to destination for specialty and gourmet foods around Northeast Ohio? Let us know in the comments!
22
Keep Your New Year's Resolution at These Columbus Gyms
Keeping a New Year's resolution can be difficult, especially when the cold weather encourages us to cozy up on the couch. Warm up your body and feel better than ever by getting out and sticking with your fitness goals this year. From luxurious health clubs to small-group fitness classes, and one-on-one personalized training sessions, these 12 Columbus gyms will help you keep your New Years Resolution in great shape!
The Fitness Loft
625 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206
The best gyms build a sense of togetherness and belonging within the community, which is why The Fitness Loft strives to create an all-inclusive atmosphere for those who want to better their lives. With the finest exercise equipment, dedicated trainers who are passionate about health, and fun group fitness classes that make you feel part of The Fitness Loft family, this training facility will introduce you to wellness in exciting ways. Classes range from 30 minutes to an hour and are available throughout the day to accommodate your schedule, even during the most hectic of weeks.
The Athletic Club of Columbus
136 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Having an at-home gym is convenient, but if you want a truly luxurious workout space, head to The Athletic Club of Columbus. This five-star platinum club is known as Columbus' urban oasis for the mind, body, and spirit. A Columbus icon that's prioritized your health since 1912, you'll feel at home in this gorgeous facility. Make new fitness friends in over a dozen group classes. Swim laps in the heated indoor pool throughout the year. Pamper yourself with relaxing spa services after your workout. From certified personal trainers to an on-site restaurant with delicious, healthy dishes, membership at The Athletic Club of Columbus has so many perks that will keep you active all year long.
Kinetic Climbing & Fitness
717 Hadley Drive, Columbus, OH 43228
Photo courtesy of Kinetic Climbing & Fitness
Do you want to take your exercise routine to new heights this year? The folks at Kinetic Climbing & Fitness are willing to give your workout a boost — literally! As the leading bouldering and fitness gym in the area, Kinetic challenges you to go beyond your highest limits. Along with traditional indoor climbing walls, their fitness area houses other equipment such as medicine balls, stationary bikes, and free weights so you can get a comprehensive workout even if you keep your feet on the ground.
Chiseled
37 E. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43201
Everybody is different, physically and mentally. While some of us enjoy fun classes surrounded by our fitness friends, there are some of us that prefer to partake in challenging exercises privately. Chiseled is the number one private training studio in the Short North for many reasons — one of which is that you get one-on-one professional training in an empty gym. You'll never have to wait to use a machine, and you'll always get the full attention of your trainer. No matter your fitness level, you can achieve your wellness goals with customized training at Chiseled.
Sweat Box
935 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
What does it mean to sweat? Find out at Sweat Box, the local fitness studio that has all of the benefits of a large commercial gym. You're not alone in your wellness aspirations — getting you in shape is their goal too. Sweat Box also offers massage and cupping services to help your muscles and mind rest and recover after a fun workout. Get in the best shape of your life and learn what it really means to sweat at the Sweat Box this year.
Arena District Athletic Club
325 John H. McConnel Blvd. Suite 150, Columbus, OH 43215
Contract-free memberships and luxurious amenities in the heart of downtown Columbus — if you're serious about your health, bring your A-game to Arena District Athletic Club. Membership includes all-inclusive benefits like free nutrition consultation, laundry services, top-of-the-line equipment, unlimited group classes, and personal training. Perhaps one of the coolest perks, members also receive complimentary parking enabling you to get a quick workout in before heading out for a night of food and fun around the Athletic District.
Grandview Barbell
1488 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Are you tired of the same old, run-of-the-mill workouts you've been doing for years? Change up your exercise routine at Columbus' most unique training experience. Grandview Barbell is a small studio that delivers huge wellness results. Their HIIT Training and Conjugate Strength classes will keep you focused on fitness. All members also have 24-hour access to the facility, which means you can work out on your schedule without worry.
The Spot Athletics
1515 Delashmut Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Do you want to get toned, lose weight, and feel great? Would you like to get fast, get strong, and win games? The Spot Athletics is the spot for you. They'll provide the coaching, the planning, and the accountability — all you need to bring is a positive attitude and a willingness to train your body for a great life. The Spot Athletics specializes in personalized training to help you meet your unique health goals. Whether you want to train for a marathon, increase your athleticism, or simply get in the best shape of your life, this is the right spot.
Donskov Strength and Conditioning
7061 Huntley Road, Columbus, OH 43229
To feel better, look better, and perform better, you need a training facility that will bring out your best. At Donskov Strength and Conditioning, they use their knowledge, experience, and passion to help you achieve phenomenal results. Stop in for a free Fitness Strategy Session and let them design a personalized program that's tailored to your specific goals.
11athletics
1600 Alum Creek Drive, Columbus, OH 43209
View this post on InstagramFinding a fitness community that feels like a 2nd home is what @11athleticsgym strives for! ——
An exercise routine should do more than make you stronger — your fitness level should help you excel in life. 11athletics uses scientifically proven exercises and techniques to deliver real results. You deserve more than a gym; you deserve a space where you can responsibly and accurately meet your fitness goals. Join the community at 11athletics and push yourself to truly excel.
Go: Fitness Center
1459 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Finding a gym where you feel comfortable and confident in their programs can be difficult. Go: Fitness Center understands the struggle and invites you to try their facility for 10 days, connect with their trainers, and decide if their programs are right of you — no obligation required. Their trainers know that talk is cheap, which is why they're committed to your health even if that means their gym isn't the right fit for you. They hold themselves to a high standard and put a top priority on individual member results. Go: Fitness Center only succeeds if you do.
Ronin Training Center
1012 West 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Ronin Training Center is more than a fitness facility — it's a culture that benefits everyone. This innovative fitness company offers Mixed Martial Arts classes such as Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Krav Maga. Youth and kids sessions are also available if you'd like to get the whole family involved. Learn self-defense, forge new friendships, and fight for the results you desire at RTC.
Where's the best place to find your fit around Columbus this year? Let us know in the comments!
12
18 Things to Do On a Cold Day in Columbus
Winter is coming and it's bringing plenty of frigid days to Columbus! Instead of snuggling up in front of the fireplace—we encourage you to get out and explore our amazing community this season.
We've curated a list of the best things to do on a cold day in the Columbus area. Whether you're looking to spend the day outside in the snow or cozied up inside learning a new skill—we've got a little something for everyone on our list. Stay warm!
Get Wild at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Escape the cold with the help of some furry (and some not-so-furry) friends at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! With over 580 acres of exhibits and guest amenities, your kids will have a hard time running out of things to do. See animals from all over the world up close, spin around on the carousel, experience the 4-D Theater, or have a blast at one of their many events. Admission is just $21.99 for individuals ages 10-59, $16.99 for kids ages 3-9, $16.99 for guests 60 years and older, and free for kids 2 and under. Residents of Franklin County receive discounts off admission. And don't forget to stop by the Congo River Market Food Court to fuel up during your adventure!
Go Ice Skating
When the local ponds freeze over, Ohio locals don their skates, grab their mittens and hit the ice for a winter adventure. Ice skating is a fan favorite around the holidays and during these colder months, and luckily, the Columbus area has its share of pristine ice rinks just waiting to be carved. For some inside fun and to escape a bit of the cold, head to a Chiller Ice Rinks location in Easton, Lewis Center, Dublin or downtown.
Warm Up With a Hot Chocolate at Roosevelt Coffeehouse
Is there anything better than a cup of coffee or hot chocolate on a chilly day? To get your warm beverage fix, head to a Roosevelt Coffeehouse location and cozy up with a cup of the good stuff—just don't forget the whipped cream! As an added bonus, each item purchased at Roosevelt goes towards supporting organizations that are dedicated to providing clean water, fighting hunger and ending human trafficking.
Learn Something New at COSI
This winter, learn something new (and keep warm!) at one of Columbus' most famous attractions: Center of Science and Industry or COSI. Officially opened in 1964, COSI inspires interest in science, technology, engineering and math topics through a special "hands-on fun" brand of learning. All across their 320,000-square-foot facility, they bring science to life through 300+ interactive experiences and exhibits. Go stargazing in the Planetarium, interact with dinosaurs in the Dinosaur Gallery, or take a ride on the High Wire Unicycle which flies 17 feet above the ground!
See a Show at the Ohio Theatre
A tried and true Columbus institution, the Columbus Theatre is a great spot to escape the elements this winter. They host a variety of unique performances all year long—including popular artists, comedians, independent film showings and more. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the building a work of art in itself, featuring Spanish-Baroque architecture with breathtaking details, that will definitely distract you from the ugly weather outside!
Take a Cooking Class at The Seasoned Farmhouse
No matter what time of year it is, cooking is always a great skill to have. Whether you want to learn how to impress guests at a dinner party or are just looking to spice up your daily meals—the Seasoned Farmhouse has a class for you! Learn how to make vanilla extract, how to make the perfect soup and even learn some basic knife skills. All you have to do is sign up for a class on their website and you'll be whipping up delicious dishes in no time!View this post on Instagram
Go Sledding
The lighter side to a winter storm is the fun activities that come with it—snowshoeing, snowball fights, skiing, oh my! But while we love throwing a snowball as much as anyone, our favorite activity by far is sledding. In the Columbus area, we are graced with a large number of hills that, when coated with just the right amount of snow, are perfect for slipping, sliding and racing. A few of our favorite spots include Scioto Park, Antrim Park, Griggs Reservoir, Sharon Woods and Blacklick Metro Park.
Play a Round of Duckpin Bowling at Pins Mechanical Co.
Craft beer, ping pong, pinball, bowling, giant Jenga and more—Pins Mechanical Co. is the adult playground you never knew you needed! Explore both of their locations in the Columbus area this season and be sure to keep an eye out for the largest ping pong paddle in the world, which measures a whopping 11.5 feet and is hanging on a wall in their North 4th Street Location.
Explore North Market
Since 1876, the centrally located North Market has served Columbus residents—which makes it the most seasoned market in the area. The vendors (be they candy makers, fishermen, bakers or farmers) strive to promote the diversity and vibrancy of our Ohio community, serving only the best in locally produced products. They are open year-round and feature everything from ethnic foods to gourmet groceries and unique gifts.
Make Your Own Candle
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You can never go wrong with a good candle. The Candle Lab sells pre-poured natural soy candles in more than 100 fragrances, but they also invite you to customize your scent. One of their Scent Stylists can help you narrow down your list to just a few scents that blend perfectly together. Then, you'll design your own label, pick your favorite jar and mix your oils at the Fragrance Bar. They have locations all over the Columbus area, so visit their website to find one near you!
See the Stars at Perkins Observatory
Founded in 1923, the Perkins Observatory is a research facility used by the faculty and students of Ohio Wesleyan University. But while it's mostly used for scientific purposes, they also offer plenty of public programs where you can learn a little bit about astronomy and Ohio history. Plus you get a chance to look at the stars through the telescope. Click here for a full list of upcoming programs.
Get Lost in a Book at the Book Loft
There's nothing better than getting lost in a book on a cold day. The Book Loft is one of the nation's largest independent bookstores and is made up of a grouping of pre-Civil War era buildings that were once general stores, a saloon and a Nickelodeon cinema. The 32 rooms of bargain-priced books are bound to make you forget about the outside world for just a bit.
Eat Comfort Food at One of Our Favorite Restaurants
Winter is a time for comfort food and luckily, there are plenty of spots to get it right here! Get fluffy pancakes at Nancy's Home Cooking, massive slices of pizza from Mikey's Late Night Slice or tacos from Condado Tacos—because there's no shortage of great food in Columbus.
Check out The 10 Best Late Night Restaurants in Columbus or No Reservations Required: 10 Incredible Walk-In Only Restaurants in Columbus for more dining inspiration!
Play a Game at Kingmakers Board Game Parlour
Photo courtesy of Kingmakers Board Game Parlour
For a more relaxing experience, head over to Kingmakers where you can grab a beer and spend the day playing a game from their extensive library of board games! At this eclectic parlor, you can play anything from the Monopoly to the new classic Ticket to Ride all while enjoying a glass of wine, locally brewed beer and a snack. Not sure where to start? Their board game sommeliers are happy to help you find the perfect game!
Go Plant Shopping at Stump Plants
Just because it's looking cold and dreary outside, that doesn't mean you can't add a little bit of spring to your home! According to Stump owners Emily Brown and Brian Kellet, there's no such thing as a black thumb. At their minimalist plant boutiques in Columbus, Philadelphia and Cleveland, you can pick up a plant and learn exactly how to take care of it with the help of their friendly and knowledgeable staff. Every plant they sell is of the highest quality and comes with a sustainably made pot—from classic terracotta to custom, artist-made planters.
Get Crafty at Midwest Makery
Midwest Makery is an exciting place where you can get creative, learn a new craft and make something truly one-of-a-kind—all while meeting new people! They offer fun classes for all ages and skill levels, and they provide the materials, direction and the clean-up so you can sit back and enjoy the creative experience. Their class schedule varies by season, but they usually offer instruction on sewing and felting, and even workshops around fabric and wood painting!
Take a Tour of the Ohio Statehouse
The Ohio Statehouse is our state capitol building and is truly a magnificent sight to behold! Unlike many of the other states' capitol buildings, the Ohio Statehouse didn't take inspiration from the United States Capitol because it was actually designed and built before the glorious building in D.C. was ever erected. Instead, it was built in the Greek Revival Style, with many features drawing inspiration from the Tholos of Delphi and the Parthenon of Athens. You can tour our historic capitol building for free—Monday through Friday every hour on the hour, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
See a Movie at the Drexel Theatre
Photo courtesy of Brad Feinknopf via the Drexel Theatre
For generations, the Drexel Theatre has been Columbus' favorite destination for independent films and the best of Hollywood's mainstream releases. Nestled in downtown Bexley, this Art Deco theater is the perfect spot to spend a day. They also offer a wide variety of special events—including a Casablanca Night, a Holiday Film Series, the Shock Around the Clock Horror Marathon, and a Sci-Fi Marathon—all year long so be sure to check out their calendar to see what is coming up this season!
Brrrr!
What do you like to do in Columbus when it's cold outside? Let us know in the comments!
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