
Fall is a wonderful time of the year in Ohio. The cool autumn breeze, the spooky arrival of Halloween festivities, and the many community festivals make this our favorite season for living in Ohio. Of course, you can't mention fall in Ohio without noting the gorgeous colors of the changing leaves.
15610 Vaughn Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141
View this post on Instagram
Residents of Akron and Cleveland will agree that a trip to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park does wonders for the soul. A great place to reconnect with nature, there's so much to see and do in this national park that it's not surprising that it draws visitors from near and far each year. During the autumn, the Cuyahoga River weaves its way through rolling hills, farmland, and forests, glistening brightly as it collects falling leaves from the changing trees. With more than 125 miles of trail to hike, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit in autumn for anyone who loves to embrace the season's beauty.
Center Rd., Garrettsville, OH 44231
A few miles southeast of Cleveland is the Eagles Creek Nature Preserve which is full of Northeast Ohio's wonderfully diverse plants and animals. The landscape varies from marshes and swamps to woodlands and forests, offering a truly exceptional view into the many habitats that house such interesting biodiversity. Manageable trails lead you into this underrated gem, providing you with privacy and peace while you gaze at mix of yellows, reds, oranges, and browns that paint a stunning portrait.
12021 Echo Dell Road, East Liverpool, OH 43920
View this post on Instagram
Do you want a little outdoor adventure to mix in with your sightseeing? Then head to Beaver Creek State Park to watch the leaves change as you cruise down the Little Beaver Creek on a canoe. If you'd rather stay on land, you can hike the many trails on foot, atop a mountain bike, or on horseback. Whichever you choose, make sure you bring your camera to photograph the dazzling colors of this rugged landscape.
16396 Tar Hollow Rd., Laurelville, OH 43135
Immerse yourself in the dense woodlands and deep ravines of Tar Hollow State Park as you get lost in the beauty of the Appalachian Plateau. A walk through Tar Hollow State Park will make you feel like you're in the wilderness worlds away from Columbus. Turkeys, turtles, skinks, snakes, and more call this area of Ohio home. A stroll through Tar Hollow's 604-acres offers a great way to see the changing of the leaves, only rivaled by the beautiful colors that spring back to life once winter ends.
400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
Downtown Columbus may be a bustling cityscape, but the Scioto Audubon Metro Park offers an opportunity to get back in touch with nature just a few blocks from the skyscrapers. The park covers 120-acres of previously industrial land, now refreshed as a thriving oasis where wildlife flourishes. The views along the Scioto River, chirping of the birds, and miles of multi-use trails are ideal for working professionals who only have a small period of time to escape from the daily grind. Because it's so close to home, you can visit every weekend and watch as the landscape changes from green to bright reds.
834 Edgewater Dr., St. Marys, OH 45885
Where better to see the leaves change than from the water? The popular boating destination of Grand Lake St. Marys State Park is a beachside paradise where you can relax on or offshore and watch the trees transform around you. We think that this state park is a wonderful place to take the kids for an overnight stay, as fishing, hiking, hunting, and boating opportunities sit alongside volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a playground, basketball courts, and an off-leash dog park.
4404 OH-125, West Portsmouth, OH 45663
View this post on Instagram
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Shawnee State Forest is a breathtaking place to become one with nature. Totaling 1100-acres of the 63,000-acre forest, Shawnee State Park is a fantastic place for a weekend getaway with the family. This state park is a popular place to hunt, fish, boat, and hike, offering you the opportunity to take in the changing of the leaves on the banks of the Ohio River. The Shawnee Lodge & Conference Center is within the forest, making it a perfect location to enjoy unspoiled nature during the day before returning to cozy creature comforts at night.
5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
You don't have to leave Cincinnati's city limits to enjoy a getaway in nature. Mt. Airy Forest was one of the earliest urban reforestation projects in the country and now provides nearly 1500-acres of multi-use space for hiking, biking, picnicking, and more. Mt. Airy's accessibility isn't limited to its proximity to the city. The forest has an enclosed dog park for hikers to let their pets run free and also houses the state's sole public treehouse that is accessible for those using a wheelchair.
144 Lake Rd., Chillicothe, OH 45601
View this post on Instagram
Equal distance between Cincinnati and Columbus, Scioto Trail State Park is a fantastic destination to watch the leaves change this autumn. This park is within the 9,000-acre Scioto Trail State Forest but only encompasses 218-acres, making it an easy state park to tackle in a single trip. Bordering the Scioto River, this area offers amazing views of the Scioto River Valley. Bring a fishing rod to cast a line in the river or pack up the camping gear and spend an early-fall evening enjoying the quiet swaying of the trees.
Where is your favorite spot around Ohio to see the leaves change?

Alas, summer is with us but a short time each year. Fortunately, Cutler Real Estate and LoLo share the gifts that keep on giving. Each month we team up to feature a selection of free offers spotlighting the wonderful assortment of goods and services available from local vendors in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Grab lunch or satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious treats on the list for August. Each offer is good for 60 days, so have fun exploring the great small businesses in our area.
708 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
3769 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319
View this post on Instagram
Is there ever a bad time for ice cream? Indulge in your favorite flavor or sample a new one with a free scoop from Pav's Creamery.
Yes, there really was a "Pav." When Bill and Claire Micochero bought the business from founder Robert Pavlik, customers flocked to Pav's for the signature fried chicken and homemade custard. Bill and Claire later sold the business to their daughter Michelle, who remade Pav's into the Cadillac of ice cream shops. Specialties include ice cream sandwiches, custard cakes, and "adult" milkshakes. Visit the website to place carry-out orders for pints, cakes, ice cream sandwiches, and Pav's DIY Sundae Survival Pack.
North Canton: 330.472.3348
Daily Noon - 9 p.m.
Akron: 330.644.8524
Daily Noon - 9 p.m. (February through November)
4773 Glendale Milford Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242
View this post on Instagram
Writer Marie Williams Johnstone once said, "Cupcakes are sweet, and even sweeter when shared." Treat a friend or family member with two free cupcakes from Abby Girl Sweets.
Little girls and cupcakes are made from "sugar and spice and everything nice." Just ask Nathan and Andrea Thompson, who named their cupcake shop after their daughter, affectionately known as "Abby Girl." Every cupcake and cheesecake is made fresh from scratch, using high-quality ingredients such as pure cane sugar, sweet cream butter, and cocoa. Each week there is a new featured cupcake flavor to go along with the 18 daily options, including Carrot Spice and Cinnamon Bun. Four cheesecake flavors are offered in convenient cupcake-sized portions. Abby Girl has two other locations in downtown Cincinnati and Eastgate.
513.335.0898
Weekdays 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
3296 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
View this post on Instagram
Whether you're working, running errands, or wrangling kids, your days are spent on the go. Pick up a free sandwich or wrap from Corner Stone Deli & Cafe for a portable lunch that goes wherever you do.
"Fast food, but not junk food." That's the slogan of Corner Stone Deli & Cafe, a casual restaurant just minutes from the OSU campus serving food that's made-to-order from fresh ingredients. Corner Stone's truly eclectic menu includes an extensive selection of hot and cold sandwiches and wraps along with breakfast items, sushi, rice bowls, and seafood entrées. Vegetarians will appreciate options such as the Portobello melt and the Herbivore, a sandwich with tofu, sunflower seeds, onions, banana peppers, mixed greens, and hot sauce served on your choice of bread or bagel. Bubble tea with a cookie or brownie makes a nice mid-afternoon snack. Order online or use the handy app for carry-out or delivery.
614.267.3354
Daily 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (Delivery 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.)
How do you get to participate in our LoLo Gifts program? Ask and you shall receive! Yes, it's just that easy. Simply contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to sign up, and each month you'll receive notification of the current offerings.
There's no charge to join the program, so what are you waiting for? Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent now!

Who's ready to get out of the house and get away for a weekend? These last few months have brought our families together closer than ever. Unfortunately, that also meant pretty close quarters at home. While many of our summer vacation plans may be postponed until next year, there's still plenty of time to make the most of a quick trip around the state. Load up the kids, pack a handful of snacks, and head to one of these destinations that are perfect for a family weekend getaway.
Distance From: Cleveland (85 miles) | Columbus (130 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)
View this post on Instagram
Looking to get away only to kick back and relax? Then stay put in Put-in-Bay! This island in Lake Erie is a fantastic play to have an enjoyable yet relaxed family vaca. You can either stay on the island itself or take the ferry back and forth to the mainland. Perry's Cave Family Fun Center is a must-do as it has everything imaginable: mini golf, rock climbing, a maze, and even gemstone mining. There are also tons of hiking trails, nature walks, and on-water activities to fill your getaway!
Distance from: Cleveland (20 miles) | Columbus (129 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)
View this post on Instagram
Super close to Akron, your visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park will make you feel worlds away from the city. This wonderful natural space is a great place to camp and get your family in touch with nature. Hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, canoeing, kayaking, and stargazing are just the tip of the iceberg! Bring a few coolers of food for unforgettable picnics or eat one of the restaurants just outside of the park. You can stay in lodging within the park or camp at a nearby campground just outside of the park's limits.
Distance From: Cleveland (53 miles) | Columbus (190 miles) | Cincinnati (296 miles)
View this post on Instagram
Whether you're looking for indoor or outdoor family fun, Geneva-on-the-Lake is the place to be! Charter a fishing boat or play mini-golf. Take a zipline canopy tour or go canoeing down the Grand River. If the weather isn't cooperating, a roller rink and multiple arcades will deliver indoor fun. Just be sure to hit the beach when you can as no trip to Geneva-on-the-Lake is complete without actually being on the Lake.
Distance From: Cleveland (197 miles) | Columbus (57 miles) | Cincinnati (135 miles)
View this post on Instagram
If your family can't spend enough time outdoors then set a course for Hocking Hills! Southeastern Ohio's scenic wonderland has two nature preserves, five state parks/forests, and six natural attractions. Hike to the Old Man's Cave or Cedar Falls. Camp in a tent or stay in a cabin. Plus, there are plenty of other family-friendly attractions like High Rock Adventures, Skyview Drive-In, Rollerball Lanes, and R Adventure Park.
Distance From: Cleveland (63 miles)Columbus (112 miles) | | Cincinnati (225 miles)
View this post on Instagram
Have an adventure on the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky. This town is home to adrenaline-pumping action including Cedar Point amusement park, Ghostly Manor Thrill Center, Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark, Castaway Bay Waterpark, and Kalahari Resort. Add a new interesting museums and lovely state parks into the mix, and you've got an active weekend that your kids will love!
Distance From: Cleveland (227 miles) | Columbus (85 miles) | Cincinnati (24 miles)
View this post on Instagram
Travelers to the Cincinnati area know that there are hours of fun to be had just a few miles north in Mason. Home to King's Island, the largest amusement park and waterpark in the Midwest. In fact, there are so many great family-friendly attractions around Warren County that Mason is a great home base. Jump & Jack's playground, the WEB Extreme Entertainment, and EnterTRAINment Junction are a few miles east.
Distance From: Cleveland (136 miles) | Columbus (77 miles) | Cincinnati (185 miles)
View this post on Instagram
Looking to get a little wild on your family getaway? Then head to Cumberland and visit The Wilds. This unique zoo features animals from around the world and you can go on your own safari through the park. You can take a zipline tour, learn about animals in the nature center, and even spend the night on the property and let the sounds of wildlife rock you to sleep.
Distance From: Cleveland (195 miles) | Columbus (56 miles) | Cincinnati (70 miles)
View this post on Instagram
There's a reason Yellow Springs is known as "Everyone's Favorite Place." Arts, culture, local cuisine, and outdoor recreation all combine to give you an awesome weekend trip. Take a family bike ride through the trails within John Bryan State Park or hike around Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve. Grab fresh food from Flying Mouse Farms then dust off your new favorite book at one of the two Yellow Springs independent bookstores. With events nearly every weekend in downtown, there's always something fun to see and do for the whole family in Yellow Springs.
Distance From: Cleveland (78 miles) | Columbus (84 miles) | Cincinnati (200 miles)
View this post on Instagram
If you've never visited Ohio's Amish Country, then you're in for a yesteryear treat! Amish Country is full of unique little towns that give you a sample of true Amish life. Take an Amish Heartland Tour in Millersburg, eat at the Amish Door Restaurant in Wilmot, and visit the "Little Switzerland of Ohio" in Sugarcreek. Whichever towns you stop in, be sure to sample the fresh cheese and pick up a few handcrafted souvenirs around Berlin.
Distance From: Cleveland (114 miles) | Columbus (146 miles) | Cincinnati (202 miles)
View this post on Instagram
Instead of heading to the three Big C cities, head to Toledo and experience a different side of Ohio. The Toledo Zoo, Imagination Station, National Museum of the Great Lakes, and Wildwood Park are just a few of the great destinations inside Toledo. With dozens upon dozens of indoor and outdoor attractions that are ideal for all ages, Toldeo may just become your new favorite urban getaway in Ohio!
Where is your favorite place to take the family for a weekend getaway? Tell us where we should plan our next family staycation in the comments!

Did you know the city of Columbus has a long and interesting history that can be told through its iconic signs? It's true! Next time you're itching to get out of the house, we suggest taking a drive around so you can see some of these historic signs and buildings for yourself.
Follow this list in order and you'll have the perfect driving tour. Let's get started!
153 East Main St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
It's easy to spot the verticle red and white sign adorning the outside of Hawk Galleries. This retail art gallery was founded in 1986 and moved to this 5,000 square-foot location in 2002. It continues to be an icon in the culturally rich area of downtown Columbus.
Here you'll find museum-quality works of art made by world-renowned artists working in a variety of mediums including glass, sculpture, wood, metal, and paintings.
240 S. Fourth St. Columbus, OH 43215
The original Littel Palace Restaurant was a staple of downtown Columbus for decades. When the location was purchased by new owners in 2010, they decided to keep the name, in part, because of the recognizable neon sign. It reads "Little Palace | Food | Liquor" with an arrow adorned with the word "Restaurant" pointing towards the entrance.
The restaurant itself is incredibly popular among locals and is also a "must visit" spot for tourists. From the 1960s look to the delicious selection of American, Greek, Italian, and other ethnic dishes, this locally-owned restaurant and bar has more than earned its stellar reputation.
11 W. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The classic vertical sign adorning the Ho-Toy restaurant is easy to spot. It features a top that resembles a Chinese pagoda, large Asian-style lettering that reads "Ho Toy," and the words "Chinese & American Food & Cocktails" along the bottom.
The Ho-Toy restaurant, which was originally opened back in 1959, used to be located on Town Street. It moved to its current location, which was previously a two-story Burger King restaurant in 1980. The decor still has a 1980s flair and shows its Burger King roots including the original Formica counters, vinyl booths that are now covered in plastic sheeting. and faded paint, carpeting, and flooring that still bears the original Burger King primary colors.
Despite its unassuming interior, the restaurant is known for serving fresh and delicious Americanized Cantonese Chinese comfort food and Thai cuisine.
21 E. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The Planters Peanut sign is one of the most notable historical signs in Columbus. It features the "peanut man" that has long been part of Planter's marketing and the words "Planters Peanuts" in red neon.
The sign has been in this location since it was erected in 1936 by the Planters Peanut company. At the time, there were over 300 of these shops across the country. They were sold to independent owners in the 1960s. Today, there are only about a dozen of them left, including this one located on E. State St. This nostalgic candy shop now sells roasted nuts, a variety of chocolates, and themed candy.
36 E. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The 2,791-seat Ohio Theatre has been entertaining the people of Columbus since 1928. The building features stunning architecture and design, including the gorgeous original marquis. This red neon sign continues to be a local landmark to this day.
73 E. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The historic building that houses the Tip Top is a long-standing icon located in the heart of downtown Columbus. The black and white sign reads "Tip Top" in large lettering and "Kitchen and Cocktails" along the bottom. Most notably, the "I" in Tip is topped with a bright red cherry.
This neighborhood bar offers "Ohio Comfort Food," delicious whiskey drinks, and microbrews on draft. They also have pinball machines, 22 beers on taps, and always offer PBR drafts for just two bucks.
34 W. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The 2,695-seat Palace Theatre was designed to resemble the Palais de Versailles in France. The inside is adorned with a grand staircase, fountain, mural, and stunning chandeliers. The red neon sign that reads "Columbus Palace Theatre" is impossible to miss!
50 W. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The mid-century modern Beacon Building was built in 1957 and the huge teal blue and red sign remains a focal point of the area today. This beautiful six-story building faced in polished stone was purchased by the city in 1979 for $2 million. Today it's home Columbus' Public Service Department. Plans are currently underway to relocate the department, and, once this is complete, the building will be sold to a private party.
161 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
It's hard to miss the giant beer glass sign with the words "Elevator Brewery & Draught Haus" along the side of the Elevator Brewing Co. This beautiful historic restaurant and brewery was founded in 1999 by a father-and-son team.
They've been producing award-winning craft beer for over 20 years and the menu features modern American fare that you're sure to love. When you're done enjoying your meal, you'll want to stick around to play a game on one of their three classic dartboards or restored antique billiard tables. Their eight-foot table dates back to 1891 while the seven-foot table was made in 1884!
59 Spruce St. Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The original North Market, located in downtown Columbus, is a 144-year-old market that houses an eclectic mix of over 30 independently owned small businesses. Here you'll find fresh produce, seafood, meat, poultry, specialty items, fresh flowers, prepared foods, and unique gifts.
Its huge neon sign, which reads "North Market" and is adorned with a sunshine pattern around the letter "O," is another iconic part of Columbus history.
Which of these iconic buildings will you visit first?

When you need a breath of fresh air far from the city crowds, you'll find ample space to roam in Columbus. With many miles of bike paths and trails, our city has a lot to offer for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
Columbus is also a major hub for state-wide trails and greenways, some of which stretch for hundreds of miles across the Buckeye State. These bike paths in the Columbus area offer ample opportunities to get outside, get in shape, and simply enjoy the greener side of Central Ohio.
Three Creeks Metro Park, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125
View this post on Instagram
A favorite multi-use trail that stretches roughly 25 miles across Franklin County, the Alum Creek Trail offers a well-maintained hard surface for hikers and cyclists. The trail follows the picturesque Columbus river corridor, from Westerville to Three Creeks Park, passing through several parks and neighborhoods along the way. Construction on the trail was completed in 2015, and the Alum Creek Trail has quickly become the go-to destination for Columbus residents looking to get outside.
Whetstone Park, 3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
View this post on Instagram
The Olentangy Trail is a great place to go for a bike ride, but for many first-time visitors to Columbus, its central location makes it one of the most popular ways to explore the city on foot. The trail connects the community of Worthington to downtown Columbus, meandering through several neighborhoods along the banks of the Olentangy River. Along the way, the Olentangy Trail passes through the Ohio State University campus, with trailheads at Whetstone Park as well as several other major city parks.
Scioto Trail Park, 2951 S. High St. Columbus, OH 43207
View this post on Instagram
The first greenway ever built in Columbus, the Scioto Trail has been a treasured resource for hikers and cyclists in the city since 1976. It's still a favorite local bike path, with sections on either side of the Scioto River, including the downtown riverfront, where you can get a great view of the Columbus skyline. The most well-known section of the path is the Scioto Mile, which includes a string of prominent parks, promenades, and landmarks. Near the south edge of Downtown Columbus, the trail traverses the beautiful Scioto Audubon Park, including a trailhead at the Audubon Nature Center. The Scioto Trail also directly connects to the Olentangy Trail.
7262 Hayden Run Road, Hilliard, OH 43026
Following an old abandoned rail line from Old Hilliard to Cemetery Pike, the Heritage Trail one of the less-used bike paths in the Columbus area. That makes it a great place to beat the crowds, although the Heritage Dog Park at one end of the trail does make it a popular spot for dog walking. Paved, well maintained, and easy to follow, it's a great place for an afternoon bike ride, passing through about 7 miles of fields and farmlands just outside Columbus.
Three Creeks Metropark, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125
View this post on Instagram
Running parallel to its namesake creek for most of its 18-mile length, the Blacklick Creek Greenway stretches from Reynoldsburg to Groveport on the southeastern edge of Columbus. There are several parks and trails in the Columbus area where you can hop on the Blacklick Creek Greenway, but a favorite spot is Three Creeks Metro Park. This park marks the spot where the Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks join; and it's also home to sections of both the Blacklick Creek Greenway and the Alum Creek Greenway.
Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, 8445 Winchester Road NW, Carroll, OH 43112
View this post on Instagram
While many of Columbus' bike paths are great for easy rambles along relatively flat, paved trailways, the mountain bike trail at Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers something a little more extreme. Just a few miles southeast of Columbus, Chestnut Ridge is actually the first ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, and the Chestnut Ridge Mountain Bike Trail is a great place for an intense mountain biking experience. The trail runs a little over 9 miles through deep woods, with many steep climbs and descents, along with a few bridges and some steep, banked turns. The trail is divided into two loops, one for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers, and the other for experienced cyclists only.
Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH 43081
View this post on Instagram
The Big Walnut Trail stretches a little over 10 miles through several Columbus area parks, including Inniswood Metro Gardens, a lovely botanical garden and nature preserve that's open free of charge seven days a week to the general public. Popular for jogging and dog walking as well as biking, the Big Walnut Trail is a paved multi-use trail that also offers expansive views of Hoover Reservoir and the parks along the lakeshore.
Battelle Darby Creek Metropark, 1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119
View this post on Instagram
Just over 16 miles long, the Camp Chase trail runs between the cities of London and Columbus, acting as a connector between Madison and Franklin counties. The trail is relatively level and easy for biking, consisting of paved double-track that follows the course of a railroad line. In addition to being a great biking spot for Columbus residents, the Camp Chase Trail is also a crucial link in the much longer Ohio to Erie Trail, which stretches 326 miles across the state of Ohio from southwest to northeast.
Did we forget to mention your favorite trail? Be sure to let us know in the comments section!