Posts in category 'Explore Ohio'

According to artist Martin Firrell, "The road to freedom is bordered with sunflowers." Follow your bliss to these spectacular sunflower fields around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Maria's Field of Hope 

Jaycox Road, Avon, OH 44011

The story behind Maria's Field of Hope makes a visit even more special. When Maria McNamara was diagnosed with brain cancer, her parents Ed and Megan founded Prayers for Maria in her honor. The foundation raises funds to support research and treatment of childhood brain tumors. Sunflowers became Maria's symbol, which inspired the development of the pet-friendly Field of Hope. There is no admission fee, but donations are welcome. You can also dedicate a sunflower for a minimum $20 donation. Fields are open daily from sunup to sundown. If you're visiting Cedar Point, stop by the second location of Maria's Field of Hope, adjacent to the hotel.

Bloom Hill Farm

10475 Hoover Ave., Uniontown, OH 44685

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bloom Hill Farm + Flowers | Flower Farm | Uniontown, Ohio (@bloomhillfarm)

North Canton natives Judd and Shannon Allen had a long-held dream of owning their own farm with a garden. Their wish came true when they purchased Bloom Hill Farm on Hoover Avenue, their favorite street. The couple turned a two-acre parcel at the back of the property into a flower farm that produces amazing sunflowers and other colorful blooms, such as zinnias and dahlias. Shop their convenient self-serve flower stand, where all bouquets are $20. The stand is stocked Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

JK Orchard & Farm

1345 Lutz Rd., Lima, OH 45801

Want to release the stress of everyday life? Immerse yourself in the sensory experience of walking through the sunflower and wildflower fields at JK Orchard & Farm. The two-mile long, six-foot wide path allows you to fully experience the sights and smells of sunflowers, poppies, morning glories, and other exquisite plants. There is also a designated patch where you can cut your own sunflowers. Visit their website or Facebook page for information about hours and admission fees. 

CherryHawk Farm

16220 Springdale Rd., Marysville, OH 43040

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CherryHawk Farm (@cherryhawkfarm)

CherryHawk Farm first made a name as a popular spot to pick your own apples, with varieties ranging from Braeburn and Fuji to Granny Smith and Red Delicious. Not long ago, the farm added sunflower fields for even more appeal. Admission is included with the purchase of one peck of apples, which covers an individual, couple, or family. Receive one sunflower stem to take home, with additional stems available for purchase. Visit their website or Facebook page for information about current hours. 

Blooms and Berries Farm Market

9669 S. State Route 48, Loveland, OH 45140 

Enjoy a fun-filled day for the whole family at Blooms and Berries Farm Market. Based on the season, farm crops include blueberries, peaches, potatoes, and sugar snap peas, many of which are available on a pick-your-own basis. In addition to the produce stand, Blooms and Berries has an incredible market barn with home decor items, specialty food products, garden supplies, and an on-site bakery. The sunflower fields are a main focus of Fall on the Farm, their signature annual event, with a corn maze, petting farm, hayrides, and many other activities. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-the-date schedule information.

Gorman Heritage Farm

10052 Reading Rd., Evendale, OH 45241

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gorman Heritage Farm (@thegormanheritagefarm)

At Gorman Heritage Farm, sunflowers are so important that an annual festival is dedicated to them. Live music, hayrides, sunflower and corn mazes, food trucks, and a Farm Fun Education Station are just a few of the activities packed into this popular event. This year's festival takes place on Saturday, October 1, and Sunday, October 2. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for ages 3-17 and must be purchased in advance. During the rest of the year, the farm is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for ages 3-17.

SchoolHouse Farms

5486 Ross Rd., Rockford, OH 45882

Local history meets Mother Nature at SchoolHouse Farms. Their office is in the restored Frysinger School, a classic one-room schoolhouse dating back to 1862. Sunflowers grown on the farm are used to make sunflower oils and roasted sunflower kernels, which are sold at retail along with gourmet popcorn and heirloom cornmeal and grits. Hours are 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays. 

Rogish Farm 

8637 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rogish Farm Chesterland, Ohio (@rogishfarm)

Spend a leisurely afternoon picking your own sunflowers at Rogish Farm. For a $15 fee per car, receive an empty quart mason jar to fill with sunflowers. Additional jars are available for $10 each. During the rest of your allotted half-hour, take pictures of the spectacular views to document the experience. This year, the family-owned farm increased the sunflower field size and added a third planting to accommodate as many visitors as possible. Pick-your-own-sunflowers is offered by reservation only. Visit the website to select a date and time.

Follow the Sun(flowers)

Sunflowers have been memorialized in songs by several musical artists, from Glen Campbell to Frank Sinatra to Lenny Kravitz. What's your favorite flower-related tune?

Nothing beats the authentic Southwest flavor of a sizzling skillet of fajitas, which combines your favorite base (steak, chicken, shrimp, or chorizo) with sauteed bell peppers and onions. They're served with cheese, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, and warm tortillas. They're tasty, filling, and very easy to share! It's no wonder why everyone loves them.

With so many good Mexican restaurants across Ohio, you don't have to travel far to find some phenomenal fajitas. Here are some of our top choices.

Señorita Bonitas

6000 Enterprise Pkwy., Solon, OH 44139

Once you see a skillet of sizzling fajitas coming out of the kitchen at Señorita Bonitas, you'll know you have to order them. This colorful Mexican restaurant and cantina serves the specialty "Fajita Texanas," a spicy mix of steak, chicken, and shrimp with a side of fajita salad. You can also try the Fajitas Del Mar with scallops, shrimp, and broccoli. Either way, you'll definitely want to order your fajitas "suiza" style, which adds a layer of shredded, melted cheese on top. Enjoy your fajitas with a delicious margarita from the cantina!

El Jalapeños Authentic Mexican Restaurant

1313 W. 117th St., Cleveland, OH 44107

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by HUNGRY IN CLEVELAND (@hungryincleveland)

For some truly authentic Mexican cuisine and delicious fajitas in Cleveland, stop by El Jalapeños Mexican Restaurant. Seafood, steak, chicken, and shrimp fajitas are all options on the menu at this low-key restaurant, and each plate comes with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans. Fajitas are the special of the day on Sundays when you can order the #44 fajitas for only $15.50. Fajitas are great when enjoyed with a margarita pitcher.

Si Señor Mexican Restaurant

16800 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111

Si Señor Mexican Restaurant is one of the most popular local Mexican eateries offering many traditional dishes and great drinks. The food is high quality, and the service is fast. For something different, try the seafood fajitas, which mix scallops, mussels, and shrimp with sautéed peppers and onions. Steak, chicken, and shrimp are also available. Fajitas are the special of the day on Sunday, and a wide selection of beer and margaritas are also available.

La Casita

1355 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220

You'll find quite an extensive fajita menu at La Casita in Columbus. This cozy cantina actually serves octopus fajitas! If you're looking for something more traditional, try the La Tierra Fajitas, which combines steak, chorizo, and chicken breast with bell pepper, onion, rice, beans, and ensaladita. Choose to dine indoors or out on the beautiful patio and take advantage of numerous drink and happy hour specials.

Chile Verde Cafe

4852 Sawmill Rd., Columbus, OH 43235

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ChileVerdeCafe (@chileverdecafe)

This desert-themed Tex Mex restaurant has a colorful, comfortable interior and all your favorite Mexican dishes, including some unique fajita options. Choose from Chili Verde Fajitas (your choice of meat), Hawaiian fajitas (chicken, peppers, and pineapple salsa), or Uncle John's fajitas (low-carb and gluten-free). Enjoy excellent service, great drinks, and delicious food in this fun, festive, and colorful atmosphere. Curbside pickup and online ordering are available.

El Acapulco 

7475 Vantage Dr., Columbus, OH 43235

You'll find fajitas, tacos, burritos, and more at El Acapulco. Tender-sliced beef, chicken, or shrimp are all options on this menu, and be sure to add a side of Salsa Diablo for some extra spice. This family-owned and operated restaurant makes all dishes from scratch using fresh local ingredients. Happy hour is on weekdays from 4-7 p.m., with specials on nachos, daiquiris, beer, margarita pitchers, and more.

Los Potrillos

316 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220

Customers rave about the fajitas at Los Potrillos. Located in Cincinnati's Clifton neighborhood, this restaurant serves huge portions of your favorite Mexican dishes. The Fajitas Jalisco is a delicious combo of steak, chicken, and shrimp. Chorizo, crab, and fish fajitas are also options. Before your meal, snack on an order of fresh chips served with some of the best salsa in Cincinnati. 

Taqueria Mercado

100 E. 8th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kim (@kimbaz_lowcarb_life)

For some of the best fajitas and tacos in Southwest Ohio, head to Taqueria Mercado in downtown Cincinnati. This Mexican restaurant serves authentic cuisine made from recipes passed down for generations. We recommend the Super Fajitas for Two, which includes a shareable skillet of sizzling steak, chicken, shrimp, and chorizo with two fajita salads and warm tortillas. The menu is filled with tons of other great Mexican favorites, appetizers, and drinks.

El Jinete

3972 Red Bank Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45227

One of the most extensive fajita menus in Ohio can be found at El Jinete. This restaurant has friendly service, a beautiful atmosphere, and some fajitas you can't find anywhere else. Try the Fajita Tropicana (fajitas served inside a pineapple) or the Texas Parrilla for 2 Fajitas, a delicious combo of meats and sauteed vegetables. You'll also find tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and much more. They also offer a drink menu with several top-shelf margaritas.

Now We're Sizzling!

Where will you order fajitas around Ohio this weekend?

While modern carousels are a beloved amusement ride, they have their roots in a combat preparation exercise from the Middle Ages. Knights attempted to spear small rings hanging overhead as they galloped in a circle. Commoners eventually adapted the game with the beginnings of our current form.

Did you know that the first carousel in the United States was built in the 1840s by Franz Wiesenhoffer in Hessville, OH? Our state is still recognized as the home of many incredible carousels, including those in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

Everyone knows that carousels are a traditional part of any respectable fair, carnival, and amusement park. Not surprisingly, Cedar Point takes their carousel game to a whole new level, with three carousels that make frequent appearances on top-10 lists. The Kiddy Kingdom Carousel, dating back to 1925 and features 52 animals, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Next is the Midway Carousel, built in 1912 and operating at Cedar Point since 1946, making it the park's oldest ride. Finally, challenge family and friends to a spin on the Cedar Downs Racing Derby, one of only two racing carousels in the United States. Visit the website for hours and ticket pricing.

Richland Carrousel Park

75 N. Main St., Mansfield, OH 44902

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Richland Carrousel Park (@richlandcarrousel)

In honor of the ride's European origins, Richland Carrousel Park uses the French spelling of the word in its name. This delightful park features the first new hand-carved carousel constructed in the United States since the 1930s, built at nearby Carousel Works. Scenery panels on the carousel depict Malabar Farm, Richland County Courthouse, and other iconic locations and notable figures from the local area. Carousel rides are $1, with discounts for purchases of 6 or 50 rides. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Akron Zoo

505 Euclid Ave., Akron, OH 44307

Environmental education and awareness provide the theme for the Conservation Carousel at the Akron Zoo. The hand-carved figurines are likenesses of 33 animals from around the world, ranging from a ladybug and a penguin to a Komodo dragon, a peacock chariot that's wheelchair accessible, and a baby moose that contains a time capsule from 2010. Sustainable wood, repurposed concrete, and other green initiatives were incorporated in the construction of the carousel. Rides are $2 per person. Zoo admission is $14 for adults and $11 for ages 2-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.

Columbus Commons

160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Columbus Commons (@columbuscommons)

In 2011, the historic City Center grounds were transformed into Columbus Commons, a 6-acre park in the midst of the beautiful downtown area. The centerpiece attraction is a hand-carved carousel with 18 charming figurines, including the OSU Buckeye horse, a frog prince, and a clown fish. Ohio Stadium and Franklin Park Conservatory are two of the hand-painted scenes decorating the canopy. Carousel rides are also a popular draw for Commons for Kids, held each Friday through August 12 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Rides are free at all times. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220

Carousels are generally thought of as rides for youngsters. That's not the case at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, where their Conservation Carousel is one of the more popular attractions during adults-only events such as Toast of the Wild. Of course, the carousel is a big hit with kids as well. Zoo members often upgrade their memberships at the prompting of their children, who like the unlimited carousel rides that are included. Standard pricing for rides is $3. Mark your calendar for 2023, when the zoo's new carousel will be installed. At twice the size of the current carousel, this version will feature 65 animals in a vintage open-air gazebo perched alongside Swan Lake. Admission ranges from $9.50-$25. The zoo is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

4850 Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (@columbuszoo)

After viewing real birds and wildlife in person, check out colorful recreations on the Grand Carousel at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The historic 1914 Mangels-Illions carousel revolves to the sounds of a fully restored band organ that plays periodically throughout the day. Rides are $2 per person. If you want the real experience, enjoy a camel ride for $7 or a pony ride for $5. Zoo admission is $16.99 for adults and $11.99 for ages 3-9. Prices are higher for non-Franklin County residents. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. through August. Visit the website for seasonal hours.

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609

Travel to the continent of Africa on the carousel at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. The sole African carousel in the world lets you ride atop 42 exotic animals, such as giraffes, zebras, and gorillas. Artwork on the canopy showcases many of the featured animals in their native habitats. Rides are $3 per person, with passes available for multiple rides at discounted rates. Zoo admission is $24 for adults and $21 for ages 2-11, with an additional $2 charge for non-Lucas County residents. Visit the website for hours.

Merry-Go-Round Museum

301 Jackson St., Sandusky, OH 44870

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jamie Habanek (@jamie_habanek)

Inspiration for the Merry-Go-Round Museum came from a series of carousel stamps issued by the U.S. Postal Service in 1988. Appropriately, the museum is housed in a former Sandusky Post Office building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to watching activities in the restoration shop, visitors can ride the museum's vintage 1939 Allan Herschell carousel as the band organ plays the classic "oom-pa-pa" sounds. The original figurines were unavailable, so the carousel is populated with pieces from the museum's collection or on loan from private collectors. Admission, including one ride token, is $6 for adults and $4 for ages 4-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday through Labor Day.

Round and Round

When it comes to your preferred carousel mount, do you go old-school with the horses, or do you make a dash for one of the other animals?

Beat the Midwest heat with a refreshing beverage to celebrate National Daiquiri Day on Tuesday, July 19. Whether you prefer frozen or on the rocks, you can't go wrong with daiquiris at these great bars and restaurants around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Frozen Daiquiri Bar & Restaurant

1313 Old River Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113

There's no mistaking the main attraction at Frozen Daiquiri Bar & Restaurant. Inspired by a daiquiri bar he visited in Miami, owner James Cleveland has fulfilled his dream of bringing the concept to Northeast Ohio. In addition to peach, strawberry, and mango, options include a Margarita daiquiri, mystery flavor, and Frozen Way with all flavors. Pair your choice with an order of boneless or bone-in chicken wings, available in 10 different sauces. Hours are 5 p.m. - 1 a.m. Wednesday through Friday and 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. weekends.

Quintana's Speakeasy

2200 S. Taylor Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by speakeasy cle (@speakeasyqbds)

Just as the name promises, you'll feel like you're part of a secret club when visiting Quintana's Speakeasy. The first floor is a barber shop that's a throwback to the classic days of a place where customers make business deals and discuss sports. Head to the hidden bookcase passage in the back that leads upstairs to the bar. Be sure to order the Hemingway Daiquiri with light rum, lime and grapefruit juices, and Luxardo liqueur. Check the website for information about live music shows and special events such as "Prohibition 101 - Learn Hands-On Classic Craft Cocktails." Quintana's Speakeasy is open Tuesday through Saturday from 3 - midnight.

Don Ramon Mexican Restaurant

4866 Richmond Rd., Cleveland, OH 44128

Mexican restaurants might make you immediately think of Margaritas, but they also mix a mean daiquiri at Don Ramon. Choose from six different fruit flavors that come by the pint, jumbo-size, small pitcher, or large pitcher. The food menu features a wide range of traditional Mexican favorites, from nachos and fajitas to burritos and enchiladas. Customers love the spacious dining room with soft lighting, delightful Mexican music, and friendly servers. Hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily except Sunday when closing time is 9 p.m.

Huli Huli Tiki Lounge & Bar

26 W. Olentangy St., Powell, OH 43065

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Huli Huli Powell (@hulihulipowell)

The vibe at Huli Huli Tiki Lounge & Bar is so authentic that you'll feel the tropical breezes blowing through your hair. Part of the fun is the drink presentation, with colorful glasses holding traditional flowers and parasols. The pineapple daiquiri gets a little extra kick from spiced syrup. Try the signature Tiki fries, tossed in a house spice blend and topped with Kalua pork, Bang Bang sauce, and pineapple salsa. Watch their Facebook page for information about special rum tasting events. Huli Huli is open 4 - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 - 10:30 p.m. Friday, 1 - 10:30 p.m. Saturday, and 1 - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Kai's Crab Boil

839 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43214

Craft cocktails meet New England seafood at Kai's Crab Boil. Their namesake meals come with your choice of seafood, boiled in one of three different sauces and spiced in five levels, from "No Heat" to "OMG." Combos include two types of seafood and three add-ons, ideal for sharing. Daiquiris come in strawberry, pineapple, and mango, with three sizes available. Hours are 4 - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 - 10 p.m. Friday, noon - 10 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.

The Bar at Echo Spirits

985 W. 6th Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Echo Spirits Distilling Co. (@echospirits)

Old-school cocktails get a contemporary update at The Bar at Echo Spirits. Founders Nikhil Sharoff and Joe Bidinger have a mission to create artisan spirits that honor history and flavor. The drinks are bestowed with charming names that are as inventive as the recipes. A Bell Through the Night is a daiquiri for "lovers of meadows and witchy things," made with Echo Spirits rum, jasmine cordial, honeysuckle, and lime. Need some time to decide? Order a Snaquiri, a miniature daiquiri made with bartender's choice. Feel free to bring in off-site food or purchase from one of the food trucks that are usually on hand. Hours are 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. - midnight Friday and Saturday, and 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday.

Lost & Found OTR

22 E. 14th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

One customer aptly described the ambiance at Lost & Found OTR as "a work of modern pop art." The bar is housed in a four- to five-car garage attached to a home in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Funky furnishings and accessories, including the colorful mural in the front patio bar, are almost all works of local artists. Stop in Wednesday through Sunday for "Easy Hour," with special pricing on pitchers of daiquiris, mules, and Margaritas, as well as snacks and sandwiches. Follow them on Facebook for details about comedy shows, dance parties, and other special events. Lost & Found OTR is open 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Wednesday through Friday and 2 p.m. - 2 a.m. weekends.

Rosie's Cocktails & Pies

300 E. Seventh St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rosie's Cocktails and Pies (@rosiescocktailsandpies)

Daiquiris and pizza? It's a match made in heaven at Rosie's Cocktails & Pies. Rosie's brings East Coast tomato pie-style pizza to Cincinnati. Specialty pies include the popular Tie-Dye, with a pinwheel of pesto atop the tomato and mozzarella. There's even a breakfast pizza, topped with ham, sausage, bacon, spinach, and egg. The menu also includes several pasta dishes, paninis, and salads. OGPD, Rosie's spin on a daiquiri, mixes pineapple rum with ginger liqueur, pineapple, and lime. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Igby's

122 E. Sixth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Spacious and stylish, Igby's proudly proclaims that "the drinks are cold, but the hospitality is warm." The 7,500-square-foot Civil War-era building features two floors of bars, with balconies around the atrium for good visibility. Each level also has an outdoor balcony, one facing Sixth St. and the other with a bit more privacy. Giggle Water is their take on a daiquiri, featuring a blend of Bacardi Dragonberry Rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and tiki bitters, topped with Prosecco. Small and large charcuterie boards make tasty companions to the craft cocktails. Hours are 4 p.m. - midnight Monday through Thursday and 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

Belly Up to the Bar

If you went back in time to a Roaring Twenties speakeasy, what would be your classic cocktail of choice?

Farmers markets are the ideal destinations to buy local produce since what you're purchasing is typically grown nearby, and by the person you're buying it from. Not only will you be getting fresh, healthy food, but you'll also be supporting local farmers and vendors.

Many farmers markets have branched out to also feature live music and activities like cooking demonstrations to further their appeal. In fact, in addition to being local food destinations, they've also become places for the community to gather.

Check out the following nine places to stock up on local produce in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Frostville Farmers' Market

24101 Cedar Point Rd., North Olmsted, OH 44070

You'll find plenty of fresh, local food and handmade goods at Frostville Farmers' Market, located on the grounds of the Frostville Museum. All foods and goods come from within 75 miles of the market, so you know you're supporting local farmers and makers when you shop there. The market has become a destination for families, with music, children's activities, games, cooking demonstrations, and fun happenings such as a visit from a local farm's alpacas. Visit the market from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through November and then from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. from November through April.

Crocker Park Market

1800 Crocker Rd., Westlake, OH 44145

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by North Union Farmers Market (@northunionfarmersmarket)

Crocker Park Market is in a new location—on the corner of Crocker and Detroit Roads in front of Fidelity Investments—but it still provides the fresh items Northeast Ohio residents love to shop for. You'll find fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and more at the market, open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Sunday from April until mid-December. Local musicians are also sometimes featured.

Cleveland Clinic Main Campus Market

Cleveland Clinic Campus, across the street from the Crile Building, 2039 E. 100th St., Cleveland, OH 44106

Going into its 14th year, the Cleveland Clinic farmers market offers goods from over 35 local farmers and producers each week. In addition to buying local food and products, you can listen to live music, watch cooking demonstrations, score free samples, and learn more about your health. Unlike many markets, the Cleveland Clinic market is open during the week rather than on the weekend, with hours from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from June until mid-October.

Markets at Pearl

North Pearl and West Gay Streets, Columbus, OH 43215

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Markets at Pearl (@marketsatpearl)

Located in downtown Columbus, Markets at Pearl combines three separate markets under one umbrella. Pearl Market dates back to 1992 and is open every Tuesday and Friday from 10:30-2 p.m. from May 20-October. Visit the market to shop for farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, check out artisanal goods, and get some lunch. Sunlight Market is held every third Sunday until December, drawing visitors downtown to shop from pop-up vendors and enjoy music. Moonlight Market is held every second Saturday from April-October.

Franklin Park Conservatory Farmers' Market

Wells Barn parking lot at Franklin Park Conservatory 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

You'll find plenty you'll want to buy at the Franklin Park Conservatory Farmers' Market, including local produce, baked goods, specialty foods, handmade items, and health and beauty products. Each week brings vendors, live music, food trucks, and special giveaways and activities like a free tote bag or the chance to talk with master gardeners.

Westgate Farmers Market

2925 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43204

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Westgate Farmers Market (@westgatefarmersmarket)

Shop for fresh produce, handcrafted goods, gourmet pet treats, baked goods, and more at Westgate Farmers' Market, where everything sold is produced by the vendor. You can enjoy live music while you browse, and food trucks are also onsite if you'd like to grab a meal to enjoy at the market or take home. Visit the market from 9 a.m.-noon on the first and third Saturdays June-October.

Northside Farmers Market

4222 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223

You'll be able to shop year-round at Northside Farmers Market, which provides items produced within 70 miles. In addition to fresh produce, meats, eggs, and bread, you can shop for items like handmade body products and prepared foods at the market. It's become a place for neighbors to gather and kids to learn how to cook. The market is open from 4-7 p.m. April-November and 4-6 p.m. December to March.

Hyde Park Farmers Market

2700 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hyde Park Farmers' Market (@hydeparkfarmersmarket)

You'll find a wide variety of local foods and other items from growers at the Hyde Park Farmers Market, including veggies, fruits, meats, eggs, garden plants, and more. Rare heirloom veggie varieties and heritage breed meats are also sold, and the market's vendors employ regenerative and humane practices. Although the wholesome food is the main attraction, live music helps make the market a popular gathering spot. The market is open Sundays from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. May-October.

Sayler Park Farmer's Market

6600 Gracely Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45233

You'll find plenty of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and honey to candles and home and garden decor at the Sayler Park Farmer's Market. Live music will entertain you while you shop from producers including Two Amigos Salsa, PAWsome Puppy Treats, Sayler Park Coffee, Hippie Pop Kettle Corn, and more. The market is open 4-7 p.m. every Tuesday June-August.

Healthy Happens Here

Which local Ohio farmers' markets do you plan to visit, and what are some of your favorite items to buy?