
Dining options are limited when you can't eat an ingredient that's present in virtually everything. Whether you're just mildly gluten-sensitive or have a more serious allergic reaction, navigating the dining establishments in your area can be tricky—especially when you've just moved to a new neighborhood. Don't worry, though. If you're looking for a good place to have lunch in Northeast Ohio with safe, gluten-free menu options, here are nine of our favorites.
12200 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
If you're craving Italian, Mia Bella is where you want to go. Not only is their food delicious, with a Mediterranean flair, but all of their pizza and pasta menu items have gluten-free options. Try the lobster ravioli with spinach, truffle oil, and tomato cream sauce. Or have some gnocchi with roasted garlic and kalamata olives, or pizzas like pepperoni and basil, prosciutto and arugula, and more. If you're going for lunch, be sure to go on Saturday, as they open at noon. But whenever you go, you're sure to have a great meal.
1809 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44301
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Ms. Julie's, in Akron, takes pride in their healthy and ethical menu options. The entire menu is vegan, and plenty of gluten-free options are also available. Try their Sloppy Mac—a cross between mac and cheese and sloppy joe, with dairy-free cheese and brown rice pasta. Many of their ordinarily glutenous dishes have gluten-free options as well, including brown rice flour donuts and gluten-free carrot cake with cashew icing. Ms. Julie's has all your favorite comfort foods, made healthy, ethically, and guilt-free. While the restaurant is temporarily closed for renovations, Ms. Julie's should be back in business later this month.
2835 Whipple Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44708
First opened in 1983, Gregory's provides Canton with fresh and delicious food with friendly, knowledgeable service. Plus, they have an entire, extensive menu for their gluten-free patrons. That includes burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches with gluten-free bread, waffles and pancakes with gluten-free flour, and more—plus soups, salads, omelets, and other options that are always gluten-free and always delicious. They even have a gluten-free fryer for their french fries to prevent cross-contamination. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gregory's is a great place for a worry-free breakfast or lunch.
23 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
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This locally owned lunch spot has a variety of sandwiches, wraps, quesadillas, and more—all with gluten-free substitutes available upon request. Try their Cuban Quesadilla, with pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard in a gluten-free tortilla. Or their BBQ chicken panini with gluten-free bread. And be sure to check out their array of grilled cheeses, like jalapeno popper, cilantro lime, and bacon pickle. They also serve a wide array of coffees, teas, energy drinks, and more. Open until 4 p.m., it's a perfect spot to grab lunch in Akron.
1400 W. 6th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
While many of the locations on this list offer gluten-free substitutes, Taza simply has a wide range of menu options that aren't bread-based, making them gluten-free naturally. The shish lamb specialty salad has tomatoes, olives, and feta, with lemon herb vinaigrette or tahini dressing. The mixed grill has a selection of beef, lamb, and chicken. They also have kabobs, kaftas, and other options, many of them served with rice rather than a glutenous side. Be sure to confirm with the staff which items are gluten-free before ordering, but your lunch options here are pretty wide.
2185 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
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Dedicated to making food that's both healthy and flavorful, Bam! makes it a point to accommodate a variety of dietary needs and restrictions, including those with gluten issues. If you're looking for a great lunch, try one of their amazing salads, like goat cheese and almond, or hot and spicy pecan. You can order in advance for pickup or delivery or just go in and let them know your dietary needs. They're always happy to help you find something safe and healthy that you'll love.
4223 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708
If you're looking for simple and delicious casual dining, Pete's Family Restaurant in Canton is a great option. Their gluten-free options aren't labeled on the menu, but ask your server, and they'll help you find something you'll love. Customers rave about their gluten-free pasta dishes, from spaghetti marinara to chicken alfredo, rotini, and more. And they prepare their gluten-free items separately from the rest of their menu to avoid cross-contamination.
5417 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44102
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This Mediterranean eatery features a wide variety of gluten-free offerings on its menu, all clearly labeled as such. Try one of their charcuterie boards, with various cheeses, fruits, honey, and roasted nuts. If you want something more substantial, go for the chicken avgolemono, poached with dill, parsley, lemon, and golden rice. Or try the Tuscan kale salad with pickled red onions, cherry tomatoes, and garlic-herb breadcrumbs, which can be made gluten-free upon request. Some of their menu offerings come with crackers, for which they also have gluten-free substitutes. Overall, Astoria Cafe is very accommodating to its gluten-free patrons and eager to help you find a lunch dish you'll love.
Which delicious, gluten-free menu options do you want to try?

The holiday season is fast approaching, and now is the perfect time to start planning for some enchanting family fun. With events like the Christmas Connection in Northeast Ohio, A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage in Columbus, A 19th Century Holiday Guided Tour near Cincinnati, and many more, you have tons of great options no matter which corner of Ohio you call home. Here are some events to look forward to as you plan for the holidays in Ohio.
605 N. Market Ave., Canton, OH 44702
Featuring former members of The Temptations, The Miracles, and The Contours, A Motown Christmas puts a soulful spin on your favorite classic holiday tunes. This family-friendly performance will be held on November 17, 2022, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. at the gorgeous Canton Palace Theater, and is sure to have you dancing in the aisles. Bring the whole family for a memorable night of music, choreography, and fun surprises to kick off the holiday season in style.
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Settle in for an evening of holiday music, spectacular acrobatics, and unforgettable performances when you attend Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall on the University of Akron campus. Featuring performers from around the world, a spectacular stage set, and an original score mixed with holiday classics, this show is sure to dazzle audience members of all ages. The show kicks off on December 6, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., with 20 unique acts leading you through an evening of holiday wonder, whimsy, and delight.
250 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
Enjoy sweet, holiday-themed fun for the whole family when you attend Holiday Cookie Camp with the Kids at Mitchell Hall on the Columbus State Community College Campus. Learn how to dazzlingly decorate holiday treats from chocolate-dipped pretzel rods to sweet sugar cookies, then finish off the event by sampling some of your creations paired with a delicious mug of hot chocolate. The fun starts on December 10, 2022, at 11 a.m., with instruction from chef Shawnie Kelley.
1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, OH 44135
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Get a head start on your holiday shopping while enjoying plenty of attractions and activities for younger family members when you visit the Christmas Connection in Cleveland. The event will take place November 18-20, 2022, at the International Exposition Center, with hundreds of vendors selling gifts for even the hardest to shop for people on your list. The kids will love visiting Santa Land, where they can meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. There's even a Sugar Plum Shoppe featuring thousands of pre-wrapped, affordable items perfect for kids with their own shopping lists.
34 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Turn back the clock and enjoy a true holiday classic for all ages with A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage at the Palace Theater in Columbus. This new touring show brings A Charlie Brown Christmas to the theater stage with all of your favorite characters and songs. The show starts at 6 p.m. on November 27, 2022, the perfect family activity to wrap up Thanksgiving weekend this year.
160 Easton Town Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43219
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Get ready for a night of dazzling lights, shopping, entertainment, and family fun with Easton's Grand Illumination at the Easton Town Center. There will be live music, costumed characters, holiday decorations, and plenty of fun activities for the youngest members of the family. The evening is highlighted by the Grand Illumination at 7 p.m. when more than 2 million lights will be turned on simultaneously to light up Easton Town Center. Easton's Grand Illumination will take place on November 18, 2022, from 6-9 p.m.
650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Prepare to be amazed by incredible illusions and marvelous magic for the whole family with The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays at the Aronoff Center for the Arts in Cincinnati. This fun, fast-paced show has delighted audiences around the globe, featuring some of the world's most talented illusionists and magicians. The show starts at 7:30 PM on November 25, 2022, ideal for an evening of family fun after a day of Black Friday shopping.
11500 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241
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The Heritage Village Museum is a living history museum that will transport your family to a different era, and the holiday season is an excellent time to visit. The museum will host A 19th Century Guided Holiday Tour, which will take your family throughout the historical Heritage Village to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season while learning how holiday traditions have evolved over centuries. Tours leave every hour on November 30 – December 3 and December 7-9, 2022, from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.
Where will you be celebrating the season in Ohio this year?

Pierogi are delicious dumplings originating in Poland but also popular in Germany and Eastern Europe. They're stuffed with a range of fillings such as potatoes and cheese, sauerkraut, and ground meat. You don't have to be Polish to enjoy pierogi — especially on October 8th! It's National Pierogi Day, the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to this satisfying comfort food. You could buy some pierogi and prepare them at home or visit a Northeast Ohio restaurant in celebration.
1979 West 25th Street #E5, Cleveland, OH 44113
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Pierogi Palace is a vendor inside West Side Market in Cleveland. It's a great place to get your pierogi fix after doing your weekly produce shopping. The pierogi here are huge; two or three could make a complete meal. Choose from multiple fillings such as mushroom and artichoke hearts, classic potato, and crab meat.
Pierogi Palace sells their pierogi individually, so you can purchase as many as you like. They're all on display in a glass case, and the employees pack them to order. If you need suggestions for cooking and preparing them, just ask.
8467 Memphis Avenue, Brooklyn, OH 44144
Mom's Pierogies is a takeout restaurant known for traditional Polish pierogi. You can order your pierogi either boiled or fried. Their takeout menu includes a Pierogi Meal with four potato cheddar pierogi, caramelized onions, sour cream, and two sides. The cucumber salad and potato salad are both delicious side options.
Mom's Pierogies also sells frozen pierogi. In addition to their classic potato cheddar variety, they have mushroom and cheese, potato cheddar jalapeno, sauerkraut, and breakfast pierogi. The breakfast pierogi are stuffed with sausage, cheese, and scrambled eggs, and they're a crowd-pleaser.
13046 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44111
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Beer and pierogi pair together so well, which is probably why Der Braumeister serves both. This German restaurant has a great selection of German and Eastern European beers you can't find anywhere else in Cleveland. Grab a pint, then order a round of pierogi. Here, they are made with ricotta cheese and served with applesauce and sour cream.
The pierogi here are a starter, so you may want to order an entree too. The chicken paprikash is a tried and true favorite, as is the potato pancake Reuben.
12859 Brookpark Road, Parma, OH 44130
If you want to go out to eat for National Pierogi Day, then Dick & Alice Sausage and Pierogi Haus is a great choice. This casual, welcoming restaurant serves all of the polish favorites, plus a few unique twists. Guests love Moons Over Parma, a pierogi dish consisting of beer braised pierogi, pepperkraut, crispy pork belly, and Flaming Cheeto dust.
The Polish sausage at Dick & Alice is incredible and the perfect pairing for pierogi. Try the Buffalo chicken, Asian Persuasion, or Cleveland Standard sausage, and add on two pierogi for an extra $3.
2207 West 11th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113
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For a gastropub-like atmosphere, head to The South Side for your pierogi fix. This American restaurant has an awesome patio, great service, and a varied menu. Their pierogi are on the "Sharable" menu, and indeed, they are a great dish to share with friends at the bar. Served with rosemary garlic butter, they're a bit unique but not too far a departure from traditional pierogi.
You can order a larger portion of pierogi as an entree, too. Or, start with the pierogi and follow up with some tacos, chicken and waffles, or shrimp and grits. Pierogi heat up well, so having leftovers is never a bad thing.
5728 Pearl Road, Parma, OH 44129
If you're in the Parma area, stop by Das Schnitzel Haus for your pierogi meal. This festive German restaurant serves classic, house-made potato-and-cheese pierogi with grilled onions and sour cream. They also have other German favorites like sauerkraut balls and potato pancakes.
Don't leave Das Schnitzel Haus without ordering dessert. Even though it's National Pierogi Day, you have to try their handmade strudels. The cheese is incredible, as are the apple and cherry options. The German chocolate cake is delicious too.
1404 West 29th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113
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What do you get when you combine good music and pierogi? You get Jukebox, a unique Cleveland restaurant. Guests can select songs to play on the jukebox and enjoy their meal on a spacious patio, weather permitting. They have several options for vegans and those following gluten-free diets.
Jukebox has a whole menu section dedicated to pierogi. Fillings include potato and cheese, potato and bacon, sweet potato black bean, and Buffalo chickpea. You can also choose your dipping sauces, with options including creamy dill, stadium mustard, and house ranch. Add a side of kraut for good measure, and dig in while listening to your favorite band.
20 North Main Street, Hubbard, OH 44425
With a name like Lena's Pierogi House, you can bet this place serves some incredible pierogi. They serve the classic options daily but have specialty "Daily Pierogies." On Fridays, try the Sweet Cottage Cheese pierogi. The Buffalo Chicken variety is also incredible whenever it's featured.
In addition to pierogi, Lena's sells some other delicious German and Hungarian fare. Guests love the Hungarian Platter, which comes with cheddar pierogi, cabbage rolls, mashed potato, chicken paprikash, and slaw. The Kielbasa and Kraut Hoagie is also great and served with a cheddar pierogi on the side. Lena's sells frozen pierogi you can prepare at home too.
Where will you celebrate National Pierogi Day in Northeast Ohio?

From haunted houses to immersive experiences to real sites with a ghostly history, October has a plethora of fun and spooky things to see and do. But it's hard to know where all the best Halloween events are if you've just moved to a new area. Ohio is full of spooky destinations you won't want to miss. Here are some of our favorite haunts, tours, and other Halloween events near Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
605 Market Ave. N, Canton, OH, 44702
This one-day event runs Friday, October 28th, from 10:30 pm to 2 am and is limited to just 30 people, so get your tickets as soon as possible. Taking place at the historic Canton Palace Theatre, this is not a show or a haunt, but a real investigation into possible mysterious and paranormal goings on there, led by paranormal investigators Team S.P.E.C.T.R.E. Photographs and videos are encouraged, and attendees are welcome to bring their own ghost hunting tools, such as temperature and EMF meters, motion detectors, etc.
13463 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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While this one isn't a scary experience, if you're a fan of horror movies, you'll want to check out this restaurant. With posters and memorabilia on the walls, they serve up dishes inspired by all your favorite scary movies, from the Birdbox Sandwich (fried chicken breast with Cajun mayo, cheese, and maple sauce) to the Pennywise (red waffle sandwich with pepper jack and candied bacon) to Silence of the Lamb Chops, and more. And, of course, there's plenty of "creepy pasta" as well. They also have vegan options like the Ecto Burger, which pairs an Impossible patty with vegan pulled pork, and Children of the Street Corn. Come in for brunch or dinner to get into the Halloween spirit.
256 Mahoning Ave., Warren, OH 44483
Sponsored by the Trumbull County Historical Society, this ghost walk begins at the First Presbyterian Church and guides you through a one-mile walking tour of the historic Perkins neighborhood. Actors portray various members of the Perkins family and relate a variety of fun and chilling tales of the area. Now in its 34th year, the Ghost Walk is a favorite for children and adults alike.
325 E. Iron Ave., Dover, Ohio 44622
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The Reeves Victorian Home and Carriage House Museum has a variety of tours and events throughout the year, from tea parties to murder mystery dinners, which allow guests to explore this beautiful and historic 19th-century property. But if you're a fan of the paranormal, the one you'll most want to check out is the Ghost Tour. Happening October 14th and 15th, this guided tour will relate stories of the strange and unexplained things that have happened in the Reeves Museum, along with some old Victorian superstitions. Tours regularly from 7 pm to 10 pm, but if you're really brave, you can take the Midnight Tour!
100 Reformatory Rd., Mansfield, OH 44905
The Ohio State Reformatory is best known as the filming location for the 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption. In October, however, they use the facility in a very different way. Escape from Blood Prison is an intense haunt experience that turns the walls of the reformatory into a waking nightmare. Guests find themselves surrounded by the ghosts of some of the prison's more violent offenders and witness to the horrors that occurred there. Recommended for ages 10 and up, this is a wild ride you won't soon forget.
424 George St., Marietta, OH 45750
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Dating back to 1859, this 23-room mansion is filled with history, including connections to the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It also has a history of haunted occurrences and spooky happenings. On Saturdays in October, you can take a guided tour of the history and hauntings in this mansion. Or, if you're brave, you can take a flashlight ghost tour on Friday nights beginning at 10 pm.
118 Ridges Circle, Athens, OH 45701
What better way to celebrate spooky season than with a trip to a mental asylum? The Ridges (formerly the Athens Lunatic Asylum) treated patients for over 100 years. In addition to the facilities, there are also three cemeteries, with nearly 2,000 graves of the patients who died there over the years. Tours of the asylum are full of history, mystery, and just a bit of spine-tingling creepiness. The Halloween season isn't complete without a visit.
Hope-Moonville Road, McArthur, OH 45651
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Not a house, not a haunt, just a cool place with a spooky vibe. Formerly a railroad line leading to the town of Moonville, the line no longer runs, and Moonville is a ghost town. The tunnel is one of the only things still remaining. You can hike to it across the remains of the railroad line, and it's a great place to explore and take photos. And legend has it, the tunnel is haunted by the ghosts of railroad workers who died there. If you look closely, you can still see them waving their lanterns.
29100 W. River Rd. (OH-65), Perrysburg, OH 43551
Fort Meigs was a military base during the War of 1812. Now, you can take immersive history tours there and experience the era for yourself. But the last two weekends in October, they have a different sort of tour. Guides will take you back in time to experience a variety of unexplained occurrences that have been reported over the years. Tours are conducted entirely by lantern light, with stories told around campfires. Tours begin at 7 pm, but if you want the full experience, take the 18+ night tour at 8:45 or 9 pm.
What spooky goings-on are you looking forward to experiencing this Halloween season?

Summer may be over, but don't start hibernating just yet. Spectacular fall foliage is a great reason to head outdoors and hit the road or the hiking trails. Plan a day trip to view incredible color displays at these amazing locations around Northeast Ohio.
4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, OH 44843
The history of Malabar Farm State Park is as colorful as the falling leaves of autumn. Louis Bromfield, Mansfield native and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, built the "Big House" as a refuge from the war-torn France of the 1930s, where he and his family had been living. Bromfield's good friends Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall were married at the farm, which also served as a filming location for The Shawshank Redemption. Today, visitors can tour the farm and house while kids enjoy the petting barn animals. Explore the full splendor of the grounds on a farm wagon tour. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Admission is free, with a $3 per person charge for farm wagon tours.
15610 Vaughn Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141
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When it comes to outdoor adventures in Northeast Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is bound to be at the top of the list. With 33,000 acres of stunning landscapes, including 20 miles of the Cuyahoga River, the park provides a beautiful oasis not far from the region's urban areas. Hike along more than 125 miles of pet-friendly trails or get a different perspective canoeing or kayaking on the Cuyahoga River. The park has been named an Important Bird Area (IBA) by the National Audubon Society, making it a great place to view our fine feathered friends as well as foliage. Admission is free, and park grounds are open 24/7.
9500 Lakeview Road NE, Mineral City, OH 44656
Get in some late-season boating on the namesake body of water at the center of Atwood Lake Park. Pontoons, fishing boats, sailboats, canoes, and kayaks can all be found on the lake. When you're ready for dry land, hike the pet-friendly trails which range from easy to challenging. Climb to the top of the observation tower for panoramic views of the surrounding foliage. The park also has a leash-free dog park where Fido can romp to his heart's content. Plan your trip along SR 212 from I-77 to the park for additional leaf viewings. Atwood Lake Park is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free from Labor Day until Memorial Day.
8765 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
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Leaves aren't the only things coming out of trees during fall. Have fun picking your own Honeycrisp and Gingergold apples at Patterson Fruit Farm. Several generations of Pattersons have been involved in running the family farm, dating back to patriarch Augustus and his wife Vandora in 1879. Don't miss their annual Family Fun Fest, which includes seasonal activities such as a corn maze, wagon rides, and pumpkin paintings. Afterward, stop by the farm market to take home some apple cider, maple syrup, and freshly-baked donuts. Orchard hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. The Family Fun Fest runs from September 17 - October 30 and admission is $6 Monday through Thursday and $10 Friday through Sunday.
All aboard the Fall Flyer! Sit back and relax as you view the autumn colors during a trip along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The two-hour trips pass through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For the ultimate experience, take in the sights from above through the panoramic glass enclosure in the upper dome. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase in the cafe car. The train leaves the station at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. each Sunday in October. Saturday trips depart at 9:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from the Independence station at 7900 Old Rockside Rd. Tickets are $20-$30.
9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
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"Bird's-eye view" is more than just an expression at Holden Arboretum. The breathtaking Canopy Walk spans 500 feet at a height of 65 feet above ground, offering incredible views of the forest and stream below. Want to catch some more air? Head to the Emergent Tower, which rises a full 12 stories above ground for sightlines all the way to Lake Erie. Other attractions include miles of hiking trails, 200 acres of cultivated gardens, and Stebbins Gulch, one of the most unspoiled preserves in Northeast Ohio. Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds. Arboretum hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $16 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.
All aboard the Fall Flyer! Sit back and relax as you view the autumn colors during a trip along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The two-hour trips pass through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For the ultimate experience, take in the sights from above through the panoramic glass enclosure in the upper dome. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase in the cafe car. The train leaves the station at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. each Sunday in October. Saturday trips depart at 9:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from the Independence station at 7900 Old Rockside Rd. Tickets are $20-$30.
1001 Canfield Rd., Youngstown, OH 44511
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Whether you use a top-of-the-line digital camera or a smartphone, Lanterman's Mill is one of the more photogenic spots in Northeast Ohio. In addition to the mill itself, a historic building perched alongside a picturesque waterfall, a classic covered bridge sits nearby. East Gorge Walk and West Gorge Trail take you further into the lush landscape around Mill Creek. The mill is open for tours 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday until the end of October. Admission is $1-$3.
Why not revive the tradition of Sunday family drives? Start at charming Geneva-on-the Lake and head south to Windsor along State Route 534. Dense forests, acres of vineyards, and two covered bridges offer some incredible sights. If you're in the mood for a lengthier trip, mark your calendar for the annual Ashtabula Covered Bridge Festival on October 8-9. Visit all 19 covered bridges in the county, including the longest and shortest in the United States.
A change in seasons can be a good time for personal change. What's your #1 goal for this fall?