
While crafts have long been popular recreational activities in the United States, 2020 saw a surge in people picking up these relaxing pastimes. CNN reports that crafting provides valuable stress relief and improves cognitive abilities that keep your brain young.
Unleash your inner creativity with projects and supplies from these great craft stores around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1878 Pearl Rd., Brunswick, OH 44212
When it comes to paper, if you can't find it at Hollo's Papercraft, it doesn't exist. The warehouse-like store has shelf after shelf full of card stock, envelopes, stationery, and blank greeting cards in every color and style imaginable. Design to your heart's content with their amazing variety of pens, markers, stamps, stickers, and other artistic tools. Hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
15709 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
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In name and practice, The Quilting Bee honors the craft as a means of both individual expression and social connection. You'll be inspired by the impressive array of fabrics, organized by theme, designer, and color. Be sure to check out "Our Favorite Things," an assortment of supplies and accessories chosen by the shop's staff. Shop online for curbside pickup or delivery. The Quilting Bee is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
20085 Chagrin Blvd., Shaker Heights, OH 44122
After numerous conversations about what they wanted to see in a yarn shop, Pam Berkson and Beth Billings decided the solution was DIY and Around the Table Yarns was born. Customers are encouraged to post photos of their "Fabulous Finished Objects" for a chance to win gift cards. Hours for curbside assistance and pickup only are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The online shop is open 24/7 and there are two daily Zoom sessions for shopping, help, and socializing.
743 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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With so much interaction occurring online, eye-catching letters, invitations, and greeting cards are a fun way to make your communication stand out. On Paper has an extensive range of products, including gifts such as picture frames, ornaments, and guest towels, that can be personalized for added appeal. Brighten up your private writing with one of their stylish journals and notebooks. Embellish them with stickers and stamps to create your own individual design. Visit their new location Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
3607 Interchange Rd., Columbus, OH 43204
True to its name, Crafters Pantry serves as a convenient "storage" for your materials and supplies. Whether crafting is your hobby or business, Crafters Pantry can quickly provide whatever you need, when you need it. The shop buys in bulk from manufacturers and uses their own equipment to create smaller, more affordable pieces than you would be able to get directly. Order online for quick shipping.
4436 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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614 Knit Studio proclaims they are "fluent in fiber," and their goal is to help the local community become equally articulate. Owner Andrea Panzica has a strong background in fashion design and uses her experience to curate a yarn boutique with products from top independent dyers and artisans. The studio also offers a robust schedule of in-person and virtual classes focused on specific projects as well as general topics, such as knitting for beginners and spinning your own yarn. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday, 1 - 8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday.
735 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
Frequently named as the best yarn shop in the Cincinnati area, Knit On! lets you shop for yarns from around the world without leaving home. In addition to purchasing from the shop's own inventory, you can place a drop-ship order from one of their suppliers. Knit On! is currently open from 2 - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping. Call ahead to inquire about individual appointments outside regular store hours.
1334 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The quirky name isn't the only unique feature of Indigo Hippo. Founded as the brainchild of a group of Cincinnati art students, Indigo Hippo is a nonprofit "creative reuse" shop. Donated materials are sold under a price range, allowing customers to pay what they can so arts and crafts are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Shopping is currently by appointment Thursday through Friday from noon - 5 p.m., although walk-ins are admitted as space permits.
1207 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Carolyn Deininger has always loved the promise held by a blank sheet of paper. When Carolyn and husband Mike began receiving requests for more paper goods at their gallery MiCA 12/v, she saw it as the perfect excuse to open Paper Wings. The shop carries a lovingly curated selection of cards, notebooks, and accessories along with works from local artists. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m. Their online shop is open 24/7, with free delivery within the Cincinnati 275 area.
Do you have a handmade item in your Ohio home that holds a special memory?

Is it truly time to shake off the winter chill, and welcome the first signs of spring? You bet! The days are growing longer, the temperatures are rising, and the first flowers are emerging from the soil at greenspaces all around Columbus. Whether you're interested in a quiet, tranquil walk, a chance to gaze at gorgeous gardens, or the perfect place for a fun, outdoor family outing, there's certain to be a local greenspace with your name on it. Find your happy place with our guide to 9 of the best greenspaces in Columbus.
160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
There's always something new to experience when you visit the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, a popular urban greenspace located in the heart of downtown Columbus. This park offers a little bit of everything, from flowery gardens and community events to a food truck court that features flavors from around the world. It's also home to the unique NEOS Electric Playground, which is certain to be a hit with younger members of the family.
120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215
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With beautiful fountains, a scenic pond, and stunning views of the Columbus skyline, Goodale Park is the perfect place to shake off the winter chill. This is the oldest public park in the city, built on land that was donated by the first physician to practice in Columbus. Along with the scenery, this park has tennis courts for enjoying some outdoor recreation, a playground that is sure to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of lovely places to plan a picnic.
1069 Jaeger St., Columbus, OH 43206
Ever since the land was first converted into a park in the 1800s, Schiller Park has been a local favorite for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park is named for German poet Friedrich Schiller, and the scenery just might be enough to inspire you to write some poetry of your own. At Schiller Park, you'll find a peaceful fishing pond, a collection of beautifully maintained gardens, and a wide variety of outdoor recreation facilities for enjoying your favorite sports. Schiller Park is also home to the Actor's Summer Theater, where you can enjoy public performances of Shakespeare during the warm weather seasons.
3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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What could be a better way to celebrate the signs of spring than visiting a beautiful rose garden? And the Columbus Park of Roses isn't just any old garden. It features one of the most extensive selections of roses in the entire country, with more than 12,000 specimens when the garden is in full bloom. There are paved paths that make it easy to explore the gardens and plenty of places to snap some great pictures for social media sharing. Be sure to check out the Park of Roses website, where you can see which roses are in bloom before you visit.
152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210
Looking for an educational setting where kids can learn while enjoying the great outdoors? The Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens offer a unique blend of outdoor fun and education. The facility is located on the Ohio State University agriculture campus and is free to visit all year long. Enjoy expansive gardens, native trees, gorgeous greenhouses, and plenty of opportunities to learn more about all of the flora on display.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
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When you're in the mood for a lush, scenic outdoor setting with activities galore, it's hard to top the experience at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This facility features more than 100 acres of natural beauty to explore, with some of the most stunning gardens that you'll find anywhere. While you're here, be sure to check out the schedule of gardening workshops, educational classes, community events, seasonal farmer's market, and expert-guided tours.
400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215
For unique outdoor recreation activities in Columbus, it's hard to top all that the Scioto Audubon Metropark has to offer. Scale a massive rock-climbing wall that can accommodate climbers of all skill levels and enjoy a wide range of recreational facilities for playing your favorite sports. There's also a popular dog park on-site, perfect for celebrating the start of spring with your furry friend.
233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
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In the mood for a full day of visiting some of the best greenspaces in Columbus? Scioto Mile is a beautiful greenspace on its own, and its paved, well-maintained paths connect to eight other greenspaces within the city. The paths wind along the Scioto River, and offer outstanding views of the city skyline. You'll find unique public art exhibits as you explore the area, and may even encounter some free, public performances depending on when you visit. Be sure to come back again in the summer, when kids can enjoy a splash in the interactive Scioto Mile Fountain.
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
If you're searching for something that is uniquely Columbus, then a trip to the Topiary Garden Park is definitely in order. What is a topiary garden, you might ask? It's a good question because this is the only garden of its kind in the whole world! The Topiary Garden Park is a recreation of Georges Seurat's painting, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." But instead of paint, the garden uses sculpted plants and landscaping features to recreate the painting. This is one Columbus attraction that art lovers won't want to miss.
Which outdoor oasis is at the top of your list for celebrating the first signs of spring? The diverse, beautiful greenspaces of Columbus are ready to be explored, with family fun waiting around every corner.

Food is more than simply fuel for our bodies. Throughout the years, cultures have defined, and been defined by, cuisines that reveal much about a specific time and place.
Get a fascinating glimpse into how Ohio's past ties into its present with a visit to one of these historic restaurants in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
3164 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
Despite the unassuming name, Johnny's Bar is a true icon among Northeast Ohio restaurants. Its roots go back to the glamorous days of the 1920s when Louise's Garden became a top dining destination. The name changed in 1952, but the restaurant continued to offer upscale Northern Italian cuisine and impeccable four-star service. Thanks to the addition of heaters, you can enjoy filet au Poivre and pasta Putanaise on the stunning courtyard year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday.
10150 Plymouth St., Hanoverton, OH 44423
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More than 150 years ago, Hanover was a thriving commercial port as well as a major stop on the historic Underground Railroad. During that lively era, the Spread Eagle Tavern was constructed by many of the same artisans who had worked on the Sandy & Beaver Canal. The upscale menu includes traditional favorites such as beef Wellington, pan-seared elk, and Maryland crab cakes. Reservations are strongly recommended. Lunch and dinner are served seven days a week, beginning at 11:30 a.m.
21490 Lorain Rd., Fairview Park, OH 44126
Legend has it that whiskey salesman Henry J. Gunselman acquired the bar that bears his name in 1936 when the previous owner couldn't pay the liquor bill. What's not in dispute is that Gunselman's Tavern serves up the best burgers in town, prepared old-school style in a cast-iron skillet. In addition to menu mainstays such as Black & Bleu and the Beast, "Gunny's" offers a special Burger of the Month. Order online for curbside pickup or delivery. Gunselman's is open 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 9 p.m.
240 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
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In Central Ohio, the Schmidt name has a long and illustrious association with food. The family-owned company, started in 1886 by German immigrant J. Fred Schmidt, includes a meat-packing plant, fair concession business, and Schmidt's Sausage Haus. With their signature sausage platters and authentic dishes such as cabbage rolls and weinerschnitzel, Schmidt's is still one of the most popular destinations in German Village. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.
819 Mohawk St., Columbus, OH 43206
Ghosts of bootleggers past keep watch over The Old Mohawk, which is rumored to have begun life as a speakeasy during the 1920s. Mohawk's famed turtle soup is a tradition from those days of old, when the ill-fated turtles were supposedly raised in the building's basement. In addition to the soup, the restaurant's signature meatloaf, and chorizo and beef lasagna are available as family dinners for four to serve at home. Mohawk is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
5030 Sawyer Rd., Columbus, OH 43219
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Aviators played a crucial role during World War II, and one of the most famous was Columbus native Eddie Rickenbacker, whose 94th Aero Squadron gave the restaurant its name. Situated between runways of the Port Columbus Airport, the restaurant is located in a 1917 French farmhouse filled with military memorabilia. The steakhouse-style menu includes the finest quality cuts of beef along with a selection of classic side dishes. Hours are 4 - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with brunch served on Sunday from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
210 E. Eighth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
At a sprightly 150+ years old, Arnold's Bar and Grill is the oldest tavern in Cincinnati, but it wears its age well. The old-school fixtures blend with new additions such as the courtyard dining area and music stage. Arnold's signature Greek spaghetti, made with olives, bacon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, has been a fixture on the menu since 1957. In a nod to the present, the Sean Evans Hot Ones burger is a tribute to a trendy YouTube celebrity. Hours are 4 - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 4 - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
302 E. University Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45219
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The prominence of Mecklenburg Gardens extends far beyond Cincinnati. In 1976, the restaurant was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it's been recognized as one of the top beer gardens in the country by sources such as Travel + Leisure and Thrillist. The charming building, with its canopy of decades-old grapevines, dates back to 1865. Customer favorites include the sauerkraut balls and portabella spaetzle, especially when paired with one of the German beers on tap. Hours are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
1000 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Washington Platform Saloon & Restaurant may be part of Cincinnati's history, but they bring the flavor of the Deep South to the Buckeye State. The restaurant's Canal Room refers to the building's location near the site of the once-thriving Miami-Erie Canal, while the original lagering cellars beneath the room are a regular stop on walking tours of the city. Menu highlights include shrimp and grits, Cajun grilled snapper, and Southern-fried oysters. 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.
What food did you hate as a kid that you just love as an adult?

From improving your mood to strengthening your immune system, there are many benefits of going outside and taking a walk. The Cincinnati area is full of parks and outdoor areas perfect for everyone, from hardcore hikers to casual dog walkers.
Next time you want to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors, consider visiting one of these eight beautiful parks.
1558 Stanford Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Located in Cincinnati's Northside neighborhood, Buttercup Valley Preserve is a great option for avid nature hikers. The trails are very wooded, with steep inclines that will offer you a bit of a challenge. This trail is nestled in the middle of some of the city's best neighborhoods and is an excellent getaway that will make you forget that you're still in the city.
You'll find lots of flora and fauna in the preserve, including some trees that are over 200 years old. There are multiple walking and hiking trails here, including one that will provide a memorable view of Spring Grove Cemetery.
5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208
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As the highest point in Hyde Park, Ault park offers stunning views of the city. It's home to a 1.4-mile walking, hiking, and mountain biking trail that is one of the city's best-kept secrets.
This trail is hilly and will offer a bit of a challenge. However, once you get through it, you'll find that the beautiful views, scenery, and wildlife are well worth the effort. Many residents and visitors agree that this is one of the most beautiful parks in the Cincinnati area.
Riverside Dr. & Corbin St., Cincinnati, OH 45226
You can't beat the views on the Ohio River Trail. Once it's complete, this 23-mile trail will span along the north bank of the river. It runs from Coney Island through downtown to Sayler Park. While areas are still under construction, you can still enjoy 10 miles of it now. When it's completed, it will connect downtown to the Little Miami Scenic Trail and eventually extend all the way to Lake Erie.
There are many fun things to do here, including swinging on the 2-3 person swings, splashing in the interactive fountain, and riding the carousel. This family-friendly series of trails are ideal for running, walking, and biking. It's perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels.
6168 Given Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
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An easy urban trail with a lot of foot traffic, Red Bird Hollow Trail offers a nice walk near the river with plenty to see. It's a 3-mile in-and-out trail that's popular for running, hiking, and nature walks. We recommend starting at the top of the trail where you'll find plenty of parking spots.
This trail is also dog-friendly, although you must keep your furry friend on a leash while your walk. Generally, it's safest and most pleasant to use this trail between April and October.
3012 Section Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45237
One of the area's most underrated parks, French Park offers several looping trails that are good for walkers of all skill levels. Some areas offer a moderate challenge and a few inclines that might even qualify as strenuous.
This is an excellent kid-friendly trail. Little ones especially love heading down by the creek to explore. When you finish your walk, plan to drive to the top of the park to enjoy a beautiful view and a picnic lunch.
5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
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The 1,459-acre Mt. Airy Forest is Cincinnati's largest park. It offers miles of hiking trails, a multi-use mountain biking trail, and bridle trails for horseback riders. It also has an enclosed dog park, disc golf, and Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse. There are also picnic tables, charcoal grills, and swing sets, so you and the family can relax and spend an entire day exploring the park and taking in the beautiful scenery.
Mill Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233
The multi-use Mill Creek Greenway Trail currently spans just three and a half miles along the historic Mill Creek. However, plans are in the works to someday extend it to run over 50 miles and link to the Ohio River Trail.
There's a lot of cool stuff to see, including the Freedom Tree Edible Garden, where you're free to pick an apple or a pear and enjoy a tasty snack. You'll also want to visit the trail after dark so you can check out the 3/4-mile Space Walk, a 3.5-billion-to-one scale model of the solar system. Whether you prefer to walk, run, or bike, you'll want to add this trail to your list of "must-visit" sites.
5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
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The 113-acre California Woods Nature Preserve features more than 200 species of plants and 53 species of trees. Lick Run Creek also runs through the preserve. Here you'll find small fish, kingfishers, snapping turtles, beavers, ducks, and more.
There's also a hummingbird and butterfly garden in front of the nature center. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might see some woodpeckers and great horned owls as well. When you hike these trails, there's a good chance you'll get so caught up in the scenery that you'll forget you're also exercising.
Which walk-worthy park will you visit first?

When you're looking for special items for your home or a unique gift that didn't come from a big-box store, an antique shop makes the perfect destination. You'll find treasures that have withstood the test of time and add special character to your décor, and besides that, it's just fun to browse in these shops!
Find out why everything old is new again at these nine Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati antique shops:
1489 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
If you're looking for antiques, you're sure to find something at Grandview Mercantile, the largest store of its kind in the Midwest. It comprises 22,000 square feet of antiques and home items from 20 dealers and over 500 consignors. You can buy everything from fine art to vintage and estate jewelry at the store, and its inventory is constantly changing. Whether you're looking to decorate your new home or are searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, you're likely to find it at Grandview Mercantile. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday.
1580 Clara St., Columbus, OH 43211
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Located near the State Fairgrounds, Columbus Architectural Salvage Antiques & Artifacts is a unique 10,000-square-foot store that specializes in fixtures and other items that were salvaged from historic homes and properties. The shop's doors, windows, bathtubs, lighting fixtures, doorknobs, and other items can help make your décor interesting while giving it an authentic touch of the past. In addition to architectural items, the shop also carries vintage signs, artwork, home décor, and more. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday by appointment only.
1128-1130 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
Mary Catherine's Antiques encompasses two large storerooms in Columbus' Short North Arts District and has sold special antique and retro pieces since the late 1970s. They're stocked with antique and vintage furniture, artwork, jewelry, advertising signs, jewelry, and much more. Rounding out the inventory are unusual items from the mid to late 20th century, such as a recently sold vintage canoe. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and by appointment.
1410 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The best-selling items at Wooden Nickel Antiques may come as a slight surprise since they're so unique. The shop specializes in antique saloon back bars – most of which are from the late 1800s to the early 1900s – that they restore, so if you're planning to upgrade your home entertainment area, you might check them out. You'll also be able to find plenty of fireplace mantles, architectural salvage items, stained glass, furniture, and much more as you browse through their ever-changing items. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
339 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
Nestled in the heart of Clifton's Gaslight Business District, Lentz and Company prides itself in making its shop a fun treasure hunt where you're sure to find something you want to take home. If you're looking for furniture, kitchenware, bar accessories, art, or jewelry that's special, you'll be able to find it at this antique shop. Hours are 2-7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 2-8 p.m. Friday, noon-7 p.m. Saturday, and 1-5 p.m., but when the weather's nice and people are out and about in the area, the shop stays open later.
3742 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
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Riverside Centre Antique Mall has been described as "a fun, funky 30,000-square-foot treasure trove" by Cincinnati Magazine, which contrasts it with musty old antique malls of the past. The shop sells furniture, salvaged architectural items, jewelry, and more and is a frequent destination for set designers for television shows and movies. The shop has earned a reputation for a family-like atmosphere and serves coffee and cookies to its customers on the weekends. Hours are noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
7501 Lorain Rd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Sweet Lorain is celebrating its 29th year of helping Northeast Ohio residents find one-of-a-kind treasures. With over 8,000 square feet of merchandise to choose from, the shop truly has something for everyone. Find a vintage toy and relive your childhood, buy some travel-related mementos from Ohio, or spruce up your kitchen with some vintage canisters. Although the shop is packed with goodies, it's well organized into logical sections so you can find the areas you're most interested in. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday and Monday and noon-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.
11917 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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Located in the historic Little Italy neighborhood of Cleveland, Moonstruck CLE Vintage has a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The shop has a wide variety of vintage wares, including accessories, home décor, clothing, kitchen items, books, jewelry, and more. The search is half of the fun, but chances are good that you'll find something you love enough to buy and give a cherished spot in your home. Hours are 3-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday by appointment.
11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Stepping into Flower Child is like stepping into the past since items are displayed as they would have been when they were originally sold. You'll be able to browse in a living room that looks like it's been transported from the '50s and walk over to a plush bedroom from the '60s. The shop has an excellent mid-century collection of items, and the staff is happy to help you find some treasures. Hours are noon-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday; noon-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
What are some special treasures you've found at antique shops in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Northeast Ohio?