
Spring is in the air, and now is the perfect time to enjoy a little bit of tranquility. There are few things more relaxing than taking a walk through lush gardens and beautiful landscapes. While there's no shortage of places to enjoy the outdoors in Ohio, visiting a professionally-cared-for arboretum is a different kind of experience.
It might surprise you to learn that there are many great arboretums in Northeast Ohio and the surrounding area. Here are a few of our favorites.
9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
Spanning more than 3,600 acres, the Holden Arboretum is one of the largest botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States. It features 600 acres that are exclusively dedicated to gardens and collections. This stunning arboretum truly is a"living museum."
When you visit, you'll have the chance to walk through over 20 miles of trails and explore multiple themed public gardens. They also offer tours and guided hikes. Even better, it's dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend on your adventure with you.
2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
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The Seacrest Arboretum is a free attraction that draws over 10,000 visitors each year. It's located on the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center campus and is open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. This attraction features themed gardens with over 2,500 varieties of plants. You'll love strolling along their paved walkways that run through the over 110 acres of forest, meadows, and gardens.
This space is perfect for taking a walk or even bringing a picnic lunch. Well-behaved pets on leashes are also welcome. Take a look at their website to learn about their guided walks, plant sales, and other community events.
16711 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136
A nonprofit arboretum and botanical garden, Gardenview Horticultural Park is open to non-member visitors on weekend afternoons. It features 6 acres of rare plants and flowers displayed in a natural, cottage-style landscape. Since this is a lesser-known garden, it's a great place to enjoy some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle.
This oasis of lush plants, trees, and unusual flowers is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing walk and the ideal setting for amateur photographers to practice their skills. The $5 admission fee is well worth the cost.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
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There's never a shortage of things to explore at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens! Start your adventure at the Conservatory's biodomes, where you'll find over 400 species of plants. These indoor glass greenhouses allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature in any kind of weather.
The John F. Wolfe Palm House is one of the oldest portions of the conservatory. It features 43 different species of palm trees from around the world, many of which are considered endangered in the wild. There are also a variety of outdoor gardens, collections of artwork, and more. The cost of an adult ticket is $19 and includes access to all of the gardens and displays. We're sure you'll find that it's worth every penny!
E. Weber Rd., Columbus, OH 43202
Located in the historic Clintonville area of Colombus, the Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum is home to hundreds of native trees and shrubs. There are markers identifying some of the trees, and you can print out maps that will guide you to interesting flora in the neighborhood. When you're done checking out the various plant species, make sure to visit the nearby ravines. They're a sight to behold!
152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210
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Chadwick Arboretum is located on the campus of Ohio State University in Columbus. It spans an impressive 62 acres and features various gardens that include native and non-native annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. While there, you can relax and reflect at The Learning Gardens, explore the Lane Avenue Gardens, and enjoy some time at The Arboretum North. The last is a hidden gem that features over 1,000 native trees, a 3.5-acre research lake stocked with several fish species, and a picnic area.
5100 Arboretum Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45223
The 30-acre Mt. Airy Arboretum is a public park that's set within Mt. Airy Forest. It features hundreds of different types of trees as well as garden areas and hiking paths. We recommend walking the 1.4-mile trail, where you'll have a good chance to see wildlife in addition to a wide variety of trees, plants, and flowers. We also recommend packing a picnic lunch so you can enjoy one of their secluded picnic areas while you're there.
4521 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
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You might not think of a cemetery as the best place to spend your free time, but the Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum is an exception! This 1840s cemetery is the third-largest in the United States. It's also an arboretum, offering an expansive collection of both native and exotic plants.
When you visit, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy approximately 450 acres of beautifully landscaped and maintained land. This makes it a "must-see" attraction whether you live in the Cincinnati area or are here visiting. It truly is both a local and a national treasure.
4600 Muchmore Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
The Stanley Rowe Arboretum is a public space in Cincinnati that is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. It spans 8.9 acres and features approximately 1,800 different species of trees and plants. There are also several well-kept winding trails and open green spaces where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.
Each tree and shrub on the grounds is labeled with a small sign that tells you its species and native origin. This makes it a dream come true for those who are into botany and want to learn more about plant classifications. From taking a leisurely walk to settling down with a good book, this arboretum is the perfect place to get away from it all.
Celebrate the change of season among the area's most beautiful flowers and trees.

Spring is in the air in the Cincinnati area, and you know what that means. It's time to get outside and enjoy it! After being cooped up all winter, we're all eager to see some greenery, unplug and get away from screens for a while.
The Cincy area offers virtually unlimited potential for adventures in the great outdoors, from hiking and biking to fishing and picnicking. These beautiful rustic campgrounds are perfect places to do all of the above, and they're all within a short drive of the city. That makes them perfect for a weekend getaway.
10174 Loveland Madeira Rd., Loveland, OH 45140
Just 20 minutes from Cincinnati, Lake Isabella is a great place to experience rustic camping without straying too far from the city. With 24 primitive tent sites, the campground is by a grove of trees not far from the lake. Each site has a picnic table, and each group of four sites shares a communal fire pit. Lake Isabella offers excellent fishing, and the campground is also within walking distance of a canoe and kayak launch on the Little Miami River.
2895 Lake Dr., Pleasant Plain, OH 45162
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Stonelick State Park sits less than 45 minutes from Cincinnati and offers a 1,058-acre wild getaway on the shores of Stonelick Lake. The park is home to one of the area's best family campgrounds for anyone who wants to get away from it all. Shady and secluded, the campground includes about 100 campsites, with a mix of electric and non-electric sites, including some right on the water. Primitive group sites are available too. Stonelick Lake is known for excellent bass, catfish, and bluegill fishing and also offers a public beach and boating for small craft.
651 Lakeview Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45231
A beautiful campground within the Cincinnati city limits? Yes, please! Winton Woods Campground is a perfect camping destination for families who don't have the time to travel to a far-flung wilderness. And while this campground may not exactly be "roughing it," they do offer lovely, shaded campsites for tents as well as RVs, with easy access to amenities like electricity, WiFi, and modern restrooms and showers. Its proximity to the city means this campground fills up fast on weekends, so book your site early!
8570 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068
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One of Southwest Ohio's top destinations for swimming, boating, and water sports, Caesar Creek State Park overlooks the picturesque waters of 2,830-acre Caesar Creek Lake. The park's campground offers nearly 300 sites, including full-hookup RV sites as well as many that are designated tents-only. Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring. Caesar Creek State Park is known for having one of the most beautiful public beaches in the region, but it's also a great place for hiking and bird watching. The park is home to about 25 miles of hiking trails, which explore a diverse habitat rich in plant and animal life.
6301 Park Office Rd., College Corner, OH 45003
Hueston Woods State Park offers more than 300 campsites, including both electric and non-electric sites, and even an equestrian group camp. The campground ranges from shady and secluded to open and spacious, and all campers have access to showers and modern amenities. Hueston Woods State Park offers hiking, fishing, horseback riding, disc golf, and a wide range of other activities. It's especially popular among fossil hunters, and its rich limestone beds yield rich deposits of fossilized marine life.
3294 Elklick Road, Bethel, OH 45106
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Offering one of the largest campgrounds in Southwestern Ohio, East Fork State Park is home to more than 400 campsites for tents as well as RVs. Electric hookups are available (a handful of sites also include water and sewer hookups), and all sites include picnic tables and access to drinking water. This spacious campground offers a mix of shady sites, as well as some that are more open. The park itself spans more than 4,000 acres and includes fishing and boating access to William H. Harsha Lake, as well as more than 50 miles of hiking trails.
130 Longworth St., Milford, OH 45150
Ohio's premier long-distance backpacking route, the Buckeye Trail is for campers who really want to get away from it all. The trail forms a 1,440-mile loop that circles the entire state, with lean-tos and primitive backcountry campsites all along the way for overnight hikers. One of the best places to start exploring the Buckeye Trail is the small town of Milford, Ohio. Just 25 minutes from Cincinnati, Milford is an official "Trail Town," and the Buckeye Trailhead at Jim Terrell Park is one of many prime entrances to the trail. Hikers can also get a permit to camp in the park overnight.
1750 Osborn Rd., Wilmington, OH 45177
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With a reputation for being one of Ohio's most beautiful state parks, Cowan Lake is a photographer's dream come true and a great place to spend a few days off the grid. The campground offers electric and non-electric sites, as well as primitive tent-only group camping areas. Several miles of trails meander through the woods and along the shore of Cowan Lake. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and inlets filled with blooming American Lotus water lily as you explore the lakeshore, and bring a fishing rod. The lake is known for excellent catches of Largemouth Bass.
9001 Mt. Hope Rd., Harrison, OH 45030
Just 25 miles northwest of Cincinnati, Miami Whitewater Forest is a 4,670-acre playground for anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. The forest offers many miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, along with ample access for fishing and kayaking on 85-acre Miami Whitewater Forest Lake. Campers can choose among 45 campsites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and electric hookup, and all just footsteps away from the lake. Miami Whitewater Forest also includes an 11-acre dog park where you are welcome to let your dog run off-leash.
Where will you unplug and enjoy the great outdoors around Cincinnati?

National Library Week is usually recognized as the second full week in April, so it's a great time to explore what's available at your local library.
The Columbus Metro Library is much more than just books on the shelf – although those are certainly still there. You can also get all kinds of help, knowledge, and entertainment courtesy of the library, from downloading a movie to researching your family's history. And even better, resources are free with a library card.
Check out the following 10 things you probably didn't know about the Columbus Metro Library:
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Need some help from a lawyer? You may think even asking a few questions may be expensive, but you can sign up for 20 minutes of free legal advice from a volunteer attorney through the Columbus Metro Library. Common topics that these attorneys handle include eviction/foreclosure, custody issues, and debt collection, although they also help with other legal issues.
The Columbus Metro Library has plenty of resources to help you make sure your child is ready to start kindergarten. It has online classes with readiness tips, as well as free packets you can pick up at any branch library to help your child complete lessons, including cutting and writing, name recognition, and more. Virtual storytimes are held multiple times a week, including interactive ones. Finally, you can sign up to receive emails with tips, activities, and book suggestions for young kids.
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If you're like most parents, helping your child with his or her homework can get pretty tricky as they start to get older. Fortunately, the library will help answer homework questions for kindergarten through grade 12 via text, phone call, or online chat. For younger kids in kindergarten through grade 3, they're also available to read with your child. And if your child needs in-person homework help, it's available five days a week for 45 minutes a session at the Karl Road and Reynoldsburg branches.
The library plans to greatly increase the sizes of the Karl Road and Hilltop branches, and this work is already underway. Work has also started on new Gahanna and Reynoldsburg branches after being delayed because of COVID-19. This will give more patrons the ability to easily access a library close to them and also allow libraries to have more space for activities and materials.
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The Columbus Metro Library provides library cardholders with free access to Hoopla, a digital media service. You'll be able to borrow movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, ebooks, and comics to your TV, computer, tablet, or phone and enjoy them immediately or save them for later. More materials are added daily, so you'll constantly have access to new content.
The library isn't just available to help children learn to read or help with homework questions. It also has a wealth of resources for adult learners, including technology training for a wide variety of specific programs as well as basic literacy, ESOL, and GED assistance. You'll also find helpful links to community programs offered by The Ohio State University to help with homebuying, renter's education, and money management.
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Even though COVID-19 has caused in-person events to be canceled, the library is still hosting many events online. Storytimes for young children feature books and songs, and adults can attend virtual classes on everything from genealogy to networking and interview preparation. Different branches also host The Breathing Association Medical Mobile Unit, where you can have exams performed, find out information, and get help with prescriptions if you have a breathing issue such as asthma or COPD.
Finding a job – especially during the COVID19 pandemic – can be a daunting task. The Columbus Metro Library has many resources to help, including a job source resource that matches essential businesses with job seekers and a guide to using Indeed, a trusted job search platform. You can also book one-on-one help with a career counselor who can give you personalized advice on your job search and get your resume professionally reviewed within 24 hours.
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If you'd like to find out more about your ancestors or local Ohio history, the library has plenty of online resources to help. Links include sites with information about Central Ohio cemeteries, burial indexes, and gravestone photographs, as well as Fold3, which contains millions of military and genealogy records. You can even visit a site to learn about your home's history and articles, books, and images of historic Central Ohio buildings. And if you need more personalized help, you can reserve one-on-one time with an expert to get more help with any of these topics.
It's one thing to have access to digital content, but if you can't download it to your device, it won't do you much good. Fortunately, the library comes to the rescue with device help. It has step-by-step instructions for downloading content using Google Android, Amazon Kindle, Apple iOS, Windows OS, Nook Color, and Nook Simple Touch. And if you still need more help, book a one-on-one online appointment.
Which of the Columbus Metro Library's many resources have you used?

No matter which corner of Ohio you call home, you're likely to have a great public golf course located close to your front door. Ohio has a long tradition of outstanding golf, with a variety of PGA Tour events happening in the state every year and several inviting courses for golfers of all experience levels. Best of all, you won't need a membership to play at some of the most enjoyable public courses in Columbus, Cincinnati, Northeast Ohio, and beyond. With golf season around the corner, now is the perfect time to find your new favorite course with our list of nine of the best public golf courses around Ohio.
5650 Quarry Lake Dr., Canton, OH 44730
Start your tour of Northeast Ohio golf courses with a trip to The Quarry Golf Club & Venue, which was built on a historic quarry and features some of the most stunning scenery that you'll find on any golf course in Ohio. With towering cliffs, large water features, tree-lined fairways, and scenic streams winding throughout the course, you're sure to love the views from the tee box. The 18-hole layout here is challenging but accessible, with unique course design thanks to the quarry setting. You will also find a full pro shop, an inviting clubhouse, and a great place to grab a bite after your round at the Granite Grille.
294 W. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd., Akron, OH 44319
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Established in 1925, Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links has been providing an outstanding golf experience to Akron residents for nearly a century, with a 27-hole layout that will appeal to golfer of all experience levels. This is a great place to play if you're new to the game, with multiple PGA Golf Professionals available for lessons every day. Enjoy a quick 9 holes, play a full 18, or make it a marathon and play all 27 holes. The course includes challenging water features, tight, tree-lined fairways, and well-manicured greens.
5420 Wolff Rd., Medina, OH 44256
With a 4.5 star rating from Golf Advisor and a reputation for excellence, Shale Creek Golf Club is a public course with all of the trappings of a private club. The 18-hole course, surrounded by woods and water features, is as scenic as it is challenging. There's great dining on-site for unwinding after your round, whether you're playing in a league or hitting the links with a few friends. Thinking of starting your own golf league? Shale Creek Golf Club can help, with league slots available on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday afternoons.
1900 N. Wilson Rd., Columbus, OH 43228
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In the mood for a golf outing, but don't have time to play a full 18 holes? Wilson Road Golf Course has you covered, with a 9-hole, executive golf course that's perfect for a round after work or on a weekend morning. It's a great place to visit if you're new to the game or want to teach your kids how to play golf. There are also leagues for all ages – kids included – where you can enjoy great golf and make some new friends in the process.
3900 Westerville Rd., Columbus, OH 43224
Champions Golf Course is a long-time Columbus favorite and is part of an excellent collection of courses maintained by the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. The course was designed by famed golf course architect Robert Trent Jones and is known as one of the most challenging public golf courses in the area. Stop at the driving range before your round to sharpen your skills, and grab some new gear from the pro shop. Champions Golf Course also has an expansive new 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, which includes a grill room and banquet space.
1145 Clubhouse Ln., Pickerington, OH 43147
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Named after one of the most famous, historic golf courses in Europe, Turnberry Golf Course provides an exciting, links-style layout that you won't have to travel across the Atlantic to enjoy. This 18-hole course is filled with rolling hills, high fescue grass in the rough, large fairways, and tight greens that reward excellent approach shots. While it's quite a challenging course to play from the back tees, there are five different tees that make the course enjoyable and approachable even if you're brand new to the game.
Cincinnati
4040 Cooper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241
Blue Ash Golf Course is one of best public golf courses in Cincinnati and has been rated as one of the top 75 municipal golf courses in the country by Golf Digest. If you're looking for a challenge, then you're sure to find it at this championship-style layout. The course is always beautifully maintained, and is open year-round weather permitting. After your round, stop by the Sandtrap Grill for some delicious seafood, steaks, and all of your favorite drinks.
1831 Hudepohl Ln., Cincinnati, OH 45231
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Searching for a local golf course that the whole family can enjoy? Beech Creek Golf Course features an 18-hole layout that's perfect for introducing kids and new players to golf in a fun yet challenging setting. Play the full 18 holes including the more challenging front 9, or simply play the back 9 for a quick round with the family. The pro shop is the perfect place to stock up on supplies before you enjoy a round of golf, while the bar & grill has everything you need to recharge while discussing your latest round with your group.
10965 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45246
When you're in the mood for a long, enjoyable round of golf, be sure to check out the 27-hole Glenview Golf Course, where you can pick your favorite 18 holes to play from three unique 9-hole layouts. It's also a great place to work on your game, with expansive practice facilities and expert instruction available. Glenview Golf Club offers extensive junior golf programs where kids of all ages can learn about and fall in love with the game.
Ohio golf courses are the perfect places to stretch your legs and enjoy some outdoor fun throughout the spring, summer, and fall this year. With so many outstanding courses to choose from, your Ohio golf journey is only just beginning.

Need a little pick-me-up to get you through the last gasp of winter and into spring? How about a free gift from a local shop or restaurant in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati?
Cutler Real Estate loves supporting small businesses in our area. We've partnered with LoLo Gifts to bring you exciting freebies so you can discover these great shops and restaurants for yourself.
Columbus: Milk Tea or Bubble Tea
Kent/Stow: Beer, Wine, or T-shirt
3214 Lincoln Way E., Massillon, OH 44646
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No excuse is needed to treat yourself to one of the scratch-made cookies, cupcakes, and other baked goods from Sweet T's Cafe and Confections. If savory is more your thing, Sweet T's also serves lunch and dinner.
Sweet T's Cafe and Confections is a true labor of love for owners Kristy and Tim Baumgardner. Kristy runs the kitchen and bakery, while Tim grills the steaks and made the dining tables using recycled 1890s barn siding. In addition to baked goods, the cafe's specialty is soup, with 28 different varieties in rotation. Reservations are required for indoor dining, and Sweet T's also offers curbside pickup.
330.418.2675
Tuesday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Wednesday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.
125 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
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Don't you deserve some pampering? Wash off the cares of the day with a bar of sweet-smelling artisan soap from Hope Soap Ohio.
Nathan Walden, founder of Hope Soap Ohio, was inspired to create his line of natural skincare products after years of struggle with dermatitis. Each purchase benefits the community, as Nathan pays it forward by donating a bar of soap to someone in need for each item sold.
330.203.1316
Friday - Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
2060 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
It's not your grandmother's tea that they're serving at The Brewed Leaf. Stop in for a refreshing milk tea or bubble tea in your choice of flavors.
Get your caffeine fix with a bit of "pop." Bubble teas from The Brewed Leaf include tapioca pearls for some added texture and a touch of whimsy. Choose milk tea if you like your drinks with a bit of creaminess.
614.369.8095
Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
317 Main St., Milford, OH 45150
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Fudge ... it's not just for the holidays. Tickled Sweet Artisan Chocolates and Candies features a whopping 33 flavors, so there's something for everyone. Each square comes with a small spoon so you can savor every last bite.
Bambi Merz is an entrepreneur, but chocolates were never on her radar until she attended a candy and snack expo. After working as an "apprentice" at Auel's Fine Chocolates, Bambi eventually bought the shop, and Tickled Sweet Artisan Chocolates and Candies was born.
513.880.4169
Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 5 p.m.
120 Beall Ave., Wooster, OH 44691
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At JAFB, half the fun will be selecting the brew for your free pint. With choices like Wayne County Cream Ale, Apricot Actually, and Rain Delay IPA, you can't go wrong whichever way you go.
JAFB Wooster Brewery has wholeheartedly embraced the eclectic nature of the craft beer movement. Their brews are inspired by a wide range of international styles, including American, Belgian, and German. JAFB's focus is on the beverage side, so you're free to bring your own food from a nearby restaurant or one of the food trucks frequently parked outside.
330.601.1827
Monday - Thursday 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - Saturday Noon - midnight
Sunday 1 p.m. - 8 p.m.
28 Public Square, Medina, OH 44256
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Find out why Circles on the Square is a two-time winner of the Cleveland Donut Fest. Their menu of classic, glazed, sprinkled, and gourmet donuts is the stuff of Homer Simpson's dreams.
Is there anything worse than biting into a stale donut? At Circles on the Square, they're making donuts fresh throughout the day instead of letting them sit in a display case for hours. When you order, your donut is handcrafted right before your eyes. Check out the tempting pictures on their Instagram page.
330.952.2728
Tuesday - Friday 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
101 Crain Ave., Kent, OH 44240
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The neighborhood gathering place is alive and well at North Water Brewing Co. Kick back with a beer or wine or pick up a new t-shirt for your collection.
What makes the beer from North Water Brewing Co. so special? According to co-owner Don Schjeldahl, there's a clue in the name. Thanks to the glaciers that once covered the area, Kent's water supply is even more pristine than water from reservoirs.
330.778.4677
Tuesday - Thursday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 1 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday 1 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Each month, Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts bring you a selection of free gifts just like this. Wondering how you qualify? It couldn't be easier. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to learn more.