Posts with tag 'Delaware OH'

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.  

The Holden Arboretum

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. 

Seacrest Arboretum

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.

Gardenview Horticultural Park

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.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

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! 

Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum

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!  

Chadwick Arboretum

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. 

Mt. Airy Arboretum

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. 

Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum

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. 

Stanley Rowe Arboretum

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. 

Spring Has Sprung! 

Celebrate the change of season among the area's most beautiful flowers and trees. 

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.

Northeast Ohio

The Quarry Golf Club & Venue

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.

Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links

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. 

Shale Creek Golf Club

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.

Columbus

Wilson Road Golf Course

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.

Champions Golf Course

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.

Turnberry Golf Course

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

Blue Ash Golf Course

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.

Beech Creek Golf Course

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.

Glenview Golf Course

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.

Fore!

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.

Have you had a craving for something sweet lately? Nothing can satisfy a sweet tooth quite like a delicious piece of cheesecake. With a crumbly base, sweet creamy filling, and an endless variety of flavors, cheesecake is truly one of the tastiest treats. Whether you prefer chocolate, caramel, or fruit topping, cheesecake is a dessert everyone can enjoy.

For those of us fortunate enough to live in and around Columbus, we have an endless amount of options for great cheesecake in our area. Below are some recommendations for our favorite places to grab dessert:

Dave's Artisanal Cheesecakes

737 Parkwood Ave., Columbus, OH 43219

For some of the best cheesecake in Columbus, head on over to Dave's Artisanal Cheesecakes. Chef proprietor David Brooks has been practicing the art of cheesecake for more than 30 years. With a robust selection of flavors, this spot in Northeast Columbus is an absolute classic. Dave's offers online ordering, and they even have a cheesecake of the month club. Even if you don't live in our area, they have nationwide shipping available.

The Cheesecake Girl

5354 Center St., Hilliard, OH 43026

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For a great selection of over 20 varieties of cheesecake, stop by The Cheesecake Girl in Hilliard. This shop sells both full-size cheesecakes, mini cheesecakes, boozy mini cheesecakes, and cheesecake shooters. All items are made with local ingredients and baked from scratch. You have to try the White Chocolate Raspberry or the Red Velvet Cinnamon Roll. All orders must be placed online.

Katzinger's Delicatessen

475 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215

This New York-style joint is known for their deli sandwiches, but they are also famous for having some of the best cheesecake in town. It's a half-pound slice of cheese and sweetness, and you can choose any fruit topping you like. If you enjoy it, you can even order an entire 10-inch cake to take home. The original Katzinger's is in German Village, but they also have a location in Dublin. Either way, you have to stop by this Columbus staple when you have a chance.

Belle's Bread

1168 Kenny Centre Mall, Columbus, OH 43220

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Belle's Bread is actually a French-inspired Japanese bakery that specializes in all cakes and bread, but it's their baked cheesecake that has quite the reputation around town. All cakes are available by the slice, in round form, or by the sheet. The business actually has a team of 20 bakers that make all products on-site every morning. Online ordering is available. The shop is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm.

La Chatelaine French Bakery and Bistro

1550 W. Lane Ave., Columbus, OH 43221

This gourmet family-owned French bakery has three locations across Columbus, and its menu features a wide range of breakfast foods, pastries, and desserts. The cheesecake is absolutely delicious — order it by the slice or take a whole 9-inch cake to enjoy at home. The store is open daily from 8 am to 3 pm.

Fate Cakes

1360 Cherry Bottom Rd., Columbus, OH 43230

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If you're looking for the perfect cheesecake for a wedding, shower, or birthday, or any special celebration, look no further than Fate Cakes. This specialty cake shop is offering curbside pickup, takeout, and no-contact delivery. Orders can be placed online, and the store is open Tuesday through Saturday.

Portia's Cafe

4428 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214

This vegan cafe just north of Columbus is famous for its amazing "Cheezecake" that's made with raw nut-and-date crusts and delicious blends of fruit toppings. Available flavors include Berry Berry Mango, Lemon, Chocolate, Coffee, Coconut, Pineapple, Mocha, Chai, and Mint Chocolate Chip. The cafe is open Monday through Saturday 8 am to 9 pm, and Sundays from 8 am to 3 pm.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

8760 Sancus Blvd., Columbus, OH 43240

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Firebirds is a great date night spot for many reasons, but our favorite is their delicious selection of desserts. In fact, their Creme Brulee Cheesecake is actually the talk of the town. This sweet, savory dish is topped with fresh fruit and raspberry coulis and is the perfect way to top off a fine meal.

Due Amici

67 E. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215

Some of the best New York-style cheesecake can be found at Due Amici, an Italian restaurant classic in downtown Columbus. Their dessert menu features a huge piece of cheesecake topped with berry coulis and fresh fruit. If you'd prefer to eat at home, takeout can be ordered online!

Piece of Cake!

Where will you get your sweet treat around Columbus?

According to noted writer and food critic A.A. Gill, breakfast is a commitment to "a new day, a continuing life." Share that uplifting sentiment throughout February, which has been designated as Hot Breakfast Month.

Do you have tried-and-true breakfast favorites, or do you like variety? Whatever your individual style is, you'll find plentiful options at these great breakfast restaurants around Columbus.

La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro

1550 W. Lane Ave., Columbus, OH 43221

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Enjoy a European getaway without leaving Columbus. La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro features the food and ambiance of a charming Parisian cafe. Owners Stan and Gigi use recipes passed down in their family for dishes such as French toast made with vanilla brioche. Breakfast isn't complete without one of the delectable pastries and baked goods made fresh onsite. Order online for quick carryout. Breakfast hours are 7 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekends.

Olive & Thyme Mediterranean Cuisine & Cafe 

4519 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

Did you make a New Year's resolution to eat healthier? Try the heart-healthy ingredients and bright flavors at Olive & Thyme Mediterranean Cuisine & Cafe. Their breakfast menu includes traditional dishes such as fatte, made with garbanzo beans cooked in house-blend spices and topped with garlic-infused yogurt. Lovers of classic breakfast can go with eggs scrambled in olive oil and seasonings and an optional side of lamb or beef sausage. Carryout and delivery available. Breakfast is served weekends from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Scotty's Cafe

2980 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43209

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Scotty's Cafe refers to itself as "the best-kept secret in town." But considering the restaurant has been in business since 1989, they're not having any trouble finding customers. Breakfast is served all day, including the specials, which start at just $5.95 for two eggs, toast or bagel, and coffee or tea. The real crowd-pleaser is the French toast, which one delighted customer likened to crème brûlée. Friendly, attentive service adds to the cozy vibe. Scotty's also offers both carryout and delivery. Hours are 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays.

RH Rooftop Restaurant

4120 Worth Ave., Columbus, OH 43219 

Fine dining at a hardware store? At RH Rooftop Restaurant, you can have a leisurely brunch before heading downstairs to pick out light fixtures or window treatments for your new home in Columbus. The upscale brunch menu includes items from the regular menu along with tempting breakfast dishes such as RH Scramble, with eggs, crème fraîche, avocado, and chives. Elegance of the food is matched by the luxurious glass and steel atrium setting with fountains and trellised London plane trees. Hours are 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.

Katalina's 

1105 Pennsylvania Ave., Columbus, OH 43201

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Southern sass meets Latin flair at Katalina's, a funky cafe housed in a 100-year-old former gas station that's been featured in USA Today's 10Best. The main event at breakfast is the spectacular pancake balls. These fluffy spheres of goodness are stuffed with your choice of Nutella, dulce de leche, or pumpkin-apple butter. Katalina puts her own spin on migas, scrambling the eggs with crema, crushed Shagbark chips, and housemade spiced pepitas. The patio is open for dining seven days a week, plus carryout and delivery are available. Katalina's is open daily from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Stav's Diner

2932 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43209

When you want comfort for your stomach and your soul, head to Stav's Diner. As you walk in, the owner (yes, his name is Stav) will extend a warm greeting from behind the counter where he's preparing orders. In addition to a menu of classic breakfast dishes, Stav's offers rotating daily specials. One recent special was the Polish Cowboy, an omelet with kielbasa, green pepper, mushrooms, onions, and Swiss cheese. You can also order ahead for curbside pickup. Hours are 6 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekends.

Northstar Cafe

951 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

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Farm-to-table is more than just a trendy dining concept. Northstar Cafe uses locally-grown and artisan-produced products as part of its commitment to the environment and the community. The sweet potato hash adds a vegetarian twist to the classic breakfast dish with roasted beets, arugula, and red peppers. Several items can be made meat- and dairy-free, and the smoothies are a healthy breakfast on their own. Order online for curbside pickup. Northstar is open daily from 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner

2563 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202

Does the term "gut-buster breakfast" automatically cause you to salivate? If so, then longtime Columbus favorite Jack & Benny's is the place for you. Their Gut Buster is a towering stack of hash browns, potato pancake, bacon, ham, egg, sausage patty, and cheese topped off with country gravy and toast. Still not enough? Go for the James Buster Douglas, which doubles the portions. With dozens of omelet, pancake, and burrito options, there's a breakfast to suit any size of appetite. Jack & Benny's is open for dine-in and carryout. Hours are 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays.

HangOverEasy

53 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43215

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Despite the clever name, you don't have to suffer from the previous night's overindulgence to enjoy the amazing breakfast dishes at HangOverEasy. Menu items bear names that follow the same quirky sense of humor, such as Walk of Shame, a breakfast sandwich served on a grilled, glazed buckeye donut. Their oatmeal pie pancakes with buttercream icing are the stuff dreams are made of. HangOverEasy has a second location on the Ohio State University campus. Order online for carryout or curbside pickup at both spots. Hours are 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekends.

Emmett's Cafe

744 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43206

Owners Ben and Michael Kelley wanted Emmett's Cafe to reflect their passion for their home town. Named after their young nephew, Emmett's has a distinct charm and personality that more than fulfills their mission. The One-Handed, a breakfast sandwich with prosciutto, egg, cheese, and rosemary aioli, is well-suited for dining on the go. Another customer favorite is the breakfast burrito, with ups the ante by adding tots, avocado, and salsa. Visit the website to order for contact-free carryout. Emmett's is open daily from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Which Came First?

So where do you stand on the eternal breakfast debate: break the yolks for a scramble, or go sunny-side-up?

January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.

Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:

Northeast Ohio

Sweets & Geeks

342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256

The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.

Once Upon a Time

19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116

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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Toyrifix

885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677

Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Columbus 

The Book Loft

631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206

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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.

Gramercy Books  

2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209  

Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.

Beanbag Books

25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015

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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Cincinnati

Downbound Books

4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.

King Arthur's Toys

3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.

The Bookshelf

7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243  

You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Piecing It Together

What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?