
Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.
But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features thatĀ make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.
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Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way.ĀView this post on Instagram
Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?

Shopping for the holidays might feel a little different this year, but we're still as excited as ever. As always, one of the great joys of Christmas is finding the perfect gift for each special someone on your list. If you happen to know a few outdoorsy types, you know they can often be some of the hardest people to shop for.Ā
Not to worry! Ohio is home to some truly amazing gear stores and outfitters. Head to one of these great shops to find a great gift for the hiker, skier, cyclist, or fisherman on your holiday shopping list.Ā
25401 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted, OH 44070
Village Ski & Snowboard is your destination for all things winter sports in Northeast Ohio. Founded in 1974, they excel when it comes to offering great winter gear because that's all they do. The store closes in spring after the ski and snowboard season is over, only reopening again in fall. The store is packedĀ with great gear and staffed by genuine ski-and-snowboard experts, so you can rest assuredĀ that any purchase you make here will be a good one. They're also running some great holiday sales right now.
60 Kendall Park Rd. Suite A, Peninsula, OH 44264
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If you're a hiking, backpacking, and backcountry camping enthusiast, Appalachian Outfitters is the type of place that will make you feel like a kid in a candy store. And if you happen to be shopping for someone who loves outdoor gear, you'll find just about anything they could possibly want here. From backpacks and tents to hiking boots, clothing, and camp cookware, every bit of equipment you need to make you a happy camperĀ is here.Ā
50 Plaza Dr., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Geiger's has been one of Ohio's premier outfitters since 1932, and they have three locations in Northeast OhioāCleveland, Lakewood, and Chagrin Falls. You'll find a lot of cool stuff in their stores, but where they really shine is outdoor apparel. This is a great store to find rugged, hard-wearing outdoor-wear that's as stylish as it is functional. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable, and the selection of merchandise always wide-ranging and unique.
833 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43214
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Named for one of Ohio's great fishing streams, Mad River Outfitters is the go-to destination for fly-fishing gear, tackle, and equipment in the Columbus area. Whether you're shopping for a fly-fishing novice or a seasoned pro, Mad River Outfitters is a perfect place to find them a gift. This store has you covered for all things fishing related, from rods, reels, flies, and line to men's and women's apparel. They even offer fly fishing classes and guided destination trips. If you're unable to make it to the brick-and-mortar store, they offer free shipping on orders over $50 within the U.S.Ā
3980 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219
Offering an amazing variety of high-end outdoor gear and apparel, FilsonĀ is one of the best places in Columbus to get a gift for the ruggedĀ outdoorsman or woman on your holiday shopping list. You won't find anything in this store that isn't of the highest quality. TheirĀ Mackinaw Cruiser and Rugged Twill Original Briefcase are classic gifts, but be sure to browse around, as they offer new and unique seasonal offerings every year. At present, the store is open for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping.Ā
4584 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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Columbus has a reputation as being a great bike-friendly city. As a result, it's also a city with its fair share of excellent bike shops. Even so, Beechwold Bicycles really stands out above the rest. Founded in 2019, they're relative newcomers on the local bike scene, but they've quickly made their reputation by selling only the highest quality bicycles and equipment. Beechwold Bicycles is currently open for in-person shoppingābike shops are considered essential businesses in Ohioābut curbside pickup and delivery are available too.Ā
9525 Kenwood Rd. #24, Cincinnati, OH 45242
Outdoorsy types in the Cincinnati areaĀ know that when they want the best hiking, camping, and climbing gear, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to go. Offering all the top brands in the outdoor supply world, this is a store that serious adventurers visit when they need to gear up. If you know somebody who loves to climb mountains, ford rivers, and cut new paths through uncharted territory, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to find that person a perfect gift.Ā
2708 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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The Cincinnati sporting community has been getting their gear from Delamere & Hopkins Outfitters for more than 25 years, and it's not hard to see why. Offering an amazing selection of fishing tackle, hunting equipment, outdoor clothing, footwear, artwork, gear, and accessories of all kinds, the store has a cozy mom-and-pop feel. It almost feels like walking into a field guide's house, except everything you see is for sale. Delamere & Hopkins is a great place to find a unique gift for the outdoor fanatic who thinks they have everything.Ā
118 Main St., Milford, OH 45150
Roads Rivers and Trails is one of Cincinnati's premier outdoor outfitters. This family-owned store is managed and staffed by folks who really know what they're talking about. Whether you're in the store to buy a pair of hiking boots, a new tent, backpack, or kayak, there's a good chance the person you buy it from has actually used it. Be sure to call ahead and ask about the store's current COVID-19 policy.Ā
From hiking the Buckeye Trail or fishing Lake Erie to camping in one of Ohio's 83 state parks, this is a great state to call home if you have a passion for the outdoors. Use the comments section to tell us about your favorite Ohio outdoor adventures!

There are many things to love about spending the holidays in Ohio. One of our favorite traditions is piling into the car and driving around to see some of the incredible light displays. No matter where in the state you live, you've got some pretty amazing options! Here are a few of our favorites.Ā
3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109
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Once again, the Cleveland Zoo is transforming into an illuminated winter wonderland. This is by far one of the biggest and best light displays in NortheastĀ Ohio. This year, they're presenting an all-new display featuring over one million lights! Some of the themes you'll find include Santa's Workshop, Candyland, Conservation Trail, and Enchanted Forest.Ā
You'll enjoy walk-through displays, costumed characters, ice carvers, model train displays, and carousel rides. There will also be festive choirs providing live musicĀ and a massive 50-foot tall tree. Keep an eye out, because you're likely to see Santa working in his shop! If you're lucky, he might even smile and pose for a photo!Ā
Since tickets are limited, advance purchases are recommended. The cost for members is $18 each or $54 for a four-pack. For non-members, the price is $20 each or $60 for a four-pack. There's also a drive-through experience, which costs $54 per car for members and $60 for non-members.Ā
Seabury Ave., Fairview Park, OH 44126
There's something really special about an entire community gathering together toĀ spread holiday joy. That's exactly what the residents of Seabury Avenue and Fairview Park have been doing since 2012. What started as just a few homes in the neighborhood getting together and decorating has now grown to over a half-mile of lighted displays. Last year, there were 70 houses participating on Seabury Avenue and about 900 homes throughout Fairview Park.Ā
After you're done strolling through the light show, you're also welcome to stop by the "elf tent," where you can enjoy hot chocolate, cider and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus.Ā
While it's free to see the dazzling displays, donations are gratefully accepted. Last year, the event raised $1,100 for the Fairview Park Hunger Center.
4850 Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
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One of the most popular light displays in Columbus, Wildlights features thousands of twinkling lights and animated light displays set to festive music. It also features other fun attractions including The S'mores Experience, Polar Bear Express, Camel Rides, The Santa Experience, and more!Ā
This event runs now through January 3rd (excluding Christmas EveĀ and Christmas Day). Reservations are required, so make sure you book your spot ahead of time!Ā
1975 Noble Rd., East Cleveland, OH 44112
You definitely don't want to miss the 95th annual light display at the world headquarters of GE Lighting, Nela Park. This year's theme is "The Magic of Lights," and itĀ will feature more than half a million LED bulbs! Some of the things you'll find here include a 30-foot decorated gingerbread house and a replica of the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C. There's also a "selfie station" where you can take photos in front of a giant red ornament.Ā
The lights will remain on 24-hours a day until Jan.Ā 6, and they're visible from Noble Road.Ā
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
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Enjoy the magic of the season at the Franklin Park Conservatory's largest holiday event. You'll love the thousands of twinkling lights, incredible train display, and Candyland scene with a life-sized gingerbread house. Traditional favorites, like ornament trees and the rainbow tunnel, are also returning.Ā
In addition to light displays and shows, you can also catch live entertainment, enjoyĀ seasonal refreshments, and even meet Santa and his ReindeerĀ (Dec. 19th and 20th). General admission tickets are $22 ($11 for members). You'll need to reserve your tickets ahead of time. This popular event is likely to sell out, so don't delay!
Bicentennial Park: 233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
Looking for a laid-back holiday light experience? Head to downtown Columbus to check out the holiday display along the Scioto River. This stunning display features over 250,000 LED lights spread throughout Bicentennial park. There's alsoĀ a life-sized Nativity scene.
While you're in the area, head over to Columbus Commons, which is just around the corner. They'll also have some incredible displays, featuring over 320,000 lights!Ā
6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
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Prefer to enjoy holiday lights from the comfort of your car? Check out Christmas Night of Lights at Coney Island! This dazzling light show is synchronized to both traditional and rocking holiday music, which you'll listen to through your car radio.Ā
You'll love the lighted tunnels, shimmering snowflakes, dancing candy canes, and larger-than-life trees. The entire drive-through is about two and a half miles and uses over a million lights.Ā
General admission is $7 per person and you can purchase your ticket at the gate when you arrive. The show begins each night at dusk and continues until 10 p.m. until Jan. 9.
3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220
One of the most popular events in Cincinnati, the 38th annual PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is sure to make a lasting memory! It features over 4 million LED lights, a Polar Express train ride, and a Wild Lights show on Swan Lake.Ā
You'll also love the unique decorations in Santa's Village, Roo Valley, and African Penguin Point. While you're there, make sure you roast s'mores at S'more Station, join in on the 2020 scavenger hunt and have a socially-distanced meeting with Santa himself! Reservations are required, so make sure you get your tickets before they sell out.Ā
4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, OH 45150
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The Cincinnati Nature Center is lighting up the forests with a beautiful light display! This year's theme is "Peace, Tranquility, and Inspiration." This walking tour will feature holiday shopping, bonfires, and music. Make sure you also stop by Abner Hollow Cabin and the historic Krippendorf Lodge so you can take a look at the period decorations.Ā
The event will run through Jan.Ā 3Ā (excluding Dec. 24 and 25). Tickets are on sale now. The cost for an adult ticket is $10 for members and $12 for non-members and pre-registration is required.Ā
After you get your fill of socially-distanced holiday light displays, you'll need a few more ways to safely enjoy this unique holiday season. Beginning Monday, Dec. 14th, our Realtors will begin sharing ideas via email for holiday-inspired activities that you and your family can safely enjoy, all the way up to the New Year. Here a few to look forward to:
How will your family celebrate Christmas this year?Ā

Ordering Thanksgiving dinner from your favorite restaurant is a great way to lighten your load on a busy holiday and enjoy a truly world-class meal without having to spend all day in the kitchen. Ready to feast? Check out these 9 Ohio restaurants where you can find the perfect Thanksgiving meal for your family this year.
1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
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Plan on a lovely Northeast Ohio Thanksgiving meal from Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery, which offers heat at home Thanksgiving dinners for groups of any size. Hartville Kitchen offers three different heat at home Thanksgiving packages, with meals to accommodate 6 to 24 guests. Every meal package includes all of your favorite fixings, along with a perfectly cooked turkey or ham and a delectable pie from the bakery to finish off the perfect meal. You can also create your own custom package with a la carte items from the menu ā just make sure to place your order early if you want a custom Thanksgiving meal.
4118 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Mulligan's Restaurant & Pub has been serving delicious Thanksgiving dinners for many years and will be bringing back all of your favorites for this year's holiday. A local favorite for nearly 40 years, Mulligan's offers a warm, inviting, family-friendly atmosphere that's perfect for a relaxed holiday meal. The special Thanksgiving menu features a full turkey dinner or your choice of filet or prime rib. Prefer to dine at home? Mulligan's also offers Thanksgiving family four-packs featuring four Thanksgiving meals, fixings included, that you can enjoy at home.
4000 Medina Rd., Akron, OH 44333
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Take the night off from cooking and head for Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, which has everything you need to enjoy a memorable holiday with your family. The Thanksgiving menu here features three courses, including a house-made soup or salad, a steak or turkey main course, delicious sides to share with the table, and a fantastic dessert from Fleming's kitchen. This steakhouse also features one of Akron's most extensive wine lists, including some special selections just for Thanksgiving dinner.
1 E Campus View Blvd., Columbus, OH 43235
Whether you're looking for an elegant Thanksgiving dining destination or a carryout kit to create your own amazing meal at home, you'll find it at J. Gilberts Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood. Planning to dine in? The restaurant's atmosphere is second-to-none, and the bar is known for churning out some of the best cocktails in Columbus. J. Gilberts keeps the menu simple for Thanksgiving, with a traditional holiday feast complemented by your choice of freshly made desserts and a wine list with something to suit every taste.
169 E Beck St., Columbus, OH 43206
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Locally owned and consistently ranked as one of Columbus's best restaurants, Lindey's is the perfect upscale dining choice for Thanksgiving if you're looking for a holiday menu that features extensive options. Of course, you can go with the classic turkey dinner and fixings, but Lindey's Thanksgiving menu also features steak, seafood, pasta dishes, and a savory selection of appetizers. Dessert even gets its own full page on the menu, with something to satisfy every sweet tooth and a wide variety of after-dinner drinks.
624 N High St., Columbus, OH 43215
For the classic Columbus Thanksgiving dinner, look no further than the Guild House restaurant, which offers fresh, seasonal meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a simple, perfectly curated Thanksgiving menu that features unique spins on your favorite holiday soups, sides, and desserts. Opt for food and order your own drinks to pair with each course, or order your meal with house-picked wine pairings that bring the best out of every bite. Just be sure to reserve your seat in advance, because spaces fill up fast!
609 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Cincinnati has a fantastic selection of restaurants where you can enjoy Thanksgiving this year, including the chic, trendy Metropole restaurant on Walnut Street. Metropole is located in the gorgeous 21c Museum Hotel, so it's hard to find a better atmosphere for your Thanksgiving meal. The team at Metropole changes the menu for every season, based on when the best fresh ingredients are available. That's no different for Thanksgiving, and the holiday menu here is sure to feature some unexpected takes on some of your favorite classic Thanksgiving fixings.
11320 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45249
For a casual yet upscale atmosphere with a beautiful waterfront setting and a menu to match, check out the Thanksgiving dinner options at deSha's American Tavern. The Thanksgiving menu here features something for everyone, including turkey, steak, seafood, and tons of fixings. There's also a full menu for kids, allowing younger visitors to customize their own holiday meal. If you'd rather dine at home, deSha's American Tavern has you covered there, too. The carryout Thanksgiving menu allows you to customize a meal for each of your guests, including entrees, sides, soups/salads, and of course, a delightful dessert to polish off the perfect meal.
580 Walnut St. Suite 100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Looking for the classic steakhouse experience for your Thanksgiving dinner? Prime Cincinnati is one of the top steakhouses in the city and the perfect place to dine if you're craving steak, seafood, or traditional turkey for Thanksgiving. Prime Cincinnati is big on atmosphere, with an elegant, art-lined dining room that provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday. The menu here is loaded with all of your steak and seafood favorites, along with a truly diverse wine list that includes the perfect pairing for any meal. And don't forget dessert! There are tons of sweet treats available, including delicious, locally produced ice cream from Loveland Sweet Shop.
There's an Ohio restaurant to suit every taste for Thanksgiving this year. Let us know where you'll be ordering your holiday meal from in the comments below.

Who's ready to explore a world of art? November 9th is National Go to an Art Museum Day, and art museums all around Ohio are calling your name! Whether you're close to Columbus, nearby Northeast Ohio, or living in Cincinnati, we encourage you to head to these fascinating art museums in Ohio.
11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106
The ever-changing Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland has a history of developing the city's cultural landscape. It was one of the first museums in the area to display works from artists like Andy Warhol, and they continue to feature innovative works from emerging artists. MoCa Cleveland reopened in October and invites visitors to gaze at their current exhibits from artists Nina Katchadourian, Paul Ramirez Jonas, Martin Creed, and Margaret Kilgallen.
11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The Cleveland Museum of Art was founded over a century ago for the "benefit of all the people forever." Since then, it's been renovated and expanded to enhance and engage the Northeast Ohio art community. Today, you can view their current exhibitions dedicated to Korean, Chinese, and Latin American artists. Music lovers will enjoy the special Behind the Beat series, which celebrates the legacy of music at the museum, which can be viewed and heard online.
1305 W. 80th St. Suite 016, Cleveland, OH 44102
Those who love art but wish to appreciate regional work rather than globally curated collections should head to ARTneo, the Museum of Northeast Ohio Art. Located in Gordon Square, this unique museum showcases artists from past and present who called Northeast Ohio home. Plan your visit ahead of time, as they're currently open by appointment only. If you can't find an appointment that works for you, consider heading to their free open house event at 78th Street Studios on Friday, November 20th. These Third Friday events have been voted the Best Arts Event in Cleveland.
480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The Columbus Museum of Art is open and ready to welcome art lovers back. Among their many wonderful pieces, they host the world's largest collection of artworks from local artists, including George Bellows and Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson. Spend hours browsing their permanent collection and latest exhibitions or take part in one of their creative events in-person or online. Although the Columbus Museum of Art is closed on Mondays, which is National Go to An Art Museum Day, you can browse their collections online from home to help plan your visit.
1871 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
The Ohio State University is home to acclaimed athletics and academics, but many don't know that they also house a fantastic art center. The Wexner Center for the Arts is an on-campus laboratory for advancing contemporary art. As one of the most dynamic contemporary art programs in the country, it showcases its students' works throughout exhibition space. These exhibits feature art in every medium, with many showcased indoors and outdoors. There are five interesting exhibits on display during National Go to an Art Museum Day to provide you with a memorable visit to OSU that requires no tailgating.
5819 Chantry Dr., Columbus, OH 43232
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If you're looking for one of the most unique art experiences in Columbus, head to Otherworld. This 32,000 square-foot immersive art experience in Chantry Square takes you through dozens of rooms. Some display large-scale artworks while others offer mixed-reality playgrounds or secret passageways. Over 40 artists have contributed to this tech-infused space, creating a truly other-worldly experience for art lovers and anyone who loves an immersive experience. Note that tickets can only be purchased online in advance.
953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
There are few better ways to spend the day in Cincinnati than in Eden Park. It's home to some of the city's best attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum, which boasts nearly 70,000 pieces from across 6,000 years. Their collection includes stunning African, Islamic, Asian, and Native American artwork. One of November's featured exhibits is Women Breaking Boundaries, which showcases works from the museum's permanent collection completed by female artists. Another interesting exhibit is Do It (Home), an interactive exhibit that you can also download and create at home.
316 Pike St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Fine art has lived at the Taft Museum of Art in downtown Cincinnati for the last 200 years. Art and history come alive in ways unlike any other museum in the state. Though one of the finest small art museums in the country, there are countless hidden gems throughout the historic building. Eleven different period-inspired rooms display masterpieces from the 17th to 19th centuries. Current exhibits available for viewing during Go to an Art Museum Day include galleries celebrating local Cincinnati art over the history of the Taft Museum.
44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Enjoy free admission to the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center and view their current exhibits, including works from Marjolijn Dijkman, Vhils, Kader Attia, and Tania Candiani. One of the reasons why we love the Contemporary Arts Center is because it also hosts the UnMuseum. This innovative area allows adults and children alike to get hands-on with art and unleash their creativity. If you're unable to go to CAC on Go to an Art Museum Day, you can view their collection virtually online for free.
Let us know which destinations we should head to on National Go to an Art Museum Day in the comments!