
If you're looking for something interesting and unique, head to one of Ohio's flea markets. You'll find a huge and eclectic variety of items filled with character, and whether you're shopping for yourself or a gift, you're sure to come away with something special. Plus, it's fun to browse and explore all the wares for sale.
Check out the following nine places around Northeast Ohio, Cincinnati, and Columbus to find flea market treasures:
46388 Telegraph Rd., South Amherst, OH 44001
Jamie's Flea Market, which bills itself as Northern Ohio's largest, has over 150 inside vendors and over 400 outside sellers. It's a good mix of established sellers plus temporary vendors holding garage or estate sales, so you'll be able to return to your favorite shops yet always have new items to browse through. If you need help navigating through the sellers and finding what you'd like, an office in the center building is staffed and ready to point you in the right direction. The market is open throughout the year on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
The folks at Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market must be doing something right since they've been in business for over 80 years. They've moved from their original location to one with 12 acres of outdoor space and 3 acres of indoor shopping. The marketplace also hosts special events such as coin and bike shows throughout the year and has been named a Top 20 Flea Market in the U.S. by Flea Market Insiders.
3000 McCartney Rd., Youngstown, OH 44505
The Four Seasons Flea & Farm Market is located on the grounds of a large former airport just three miles west of Pennsylvania, so you'll have plenty to explore when you visit. The indoor/outdoor market has 88,000 square feet of indoor space and 22 acres of blacktop. As the market owners say, it's like going to 600 yard sales at once. In addition to flea market finds, including home decor, clothing, toys, and much more, you'll also be able to shop for fresh fruits and veggies, home-baked bread, and other farmers market goodies. The market is open Wednesdays and Sundays year-round.
4343 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
You'll be able to shop year-round at Peddlers Flea Market, which has provided treasures for more than 30 years. Wear comfortable shoes because if you want to do some serious exploring, you'll have 25,000 square feet to cover inside and 1.5 acres outside. Shop at the 110 indoor booths or 300 outdoor vendors, stopping at a concession stand for food and drink when you need to refuel. With this many vendors, you'll have your choice of unique items, including collectibles, clothing, jewelry, home decor, toys, and more.
1230 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
You'll find The City Flea, a curated urban flea market, once a month at Washington Park and other locations from April-December. Currently, in its 12th year, the flea market has attracted many shoppers over the years and now sees thousands attend each market, and some of its sellers have grown from hobbyists to full-time business owners. Vendors sell items that are unique, creative, and visually interesting, including everything from plants to artisan pizzas, so there's truly something for everyone. Even kids can get in on the fun and money-making since some of the markets also feature kids' booths.
320 N. Garver Rd., Monroe, OH 45050
Drive north from Cincinnati about 25 miles, and you'll come to Treasure Aisles Flea Market, which covers over 44 acres and has over 500 shops. Make a day of it and enjoy some live music and entertainment on two stages. You can even start your day with breakfast from one of the concession stands and stay to enjoy a hot dog or taco for lunch. The market is open Saturdays and Sundays year-round, and admission costs $2 cash per car.
4170 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43228
Open for more than 25 years, Westland Flea Market has over 300 dealer booths in its air-conditioned interior and more than 80 vendors outdoors. The broad mix of vendors sells everything from trinkets to high-end items such as TVs, computers, and antiques. A snack bar is available, serving sandwiches, fries, ice cream, and other treats. The market is also home to a "flealess" version of the market, where flea market owners sell goods for dealers who aren't available. This convenience means that even if one of the dealers is away or their booth is closed, you can still buy from the flea market's owners and employees.
1045 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43206
View this post on Instagram
Located close to the Scioto River, Greater Columbus Antique Mall offers five stories of eclectic items housed in an interesting historic building. You'll find everything from glassware to vinyl records to furniture in the mall's unique building, so plan to browse for a while. And although it's called an antique mall, the space also carries vintage items. With such a large number and variety of items available, you're unlikely to leave empty-handed.
3050 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207
The South Drive-In Theater and Flea Market shows drive-in movies and serves as the site of a large outdoor flea market. You'll find various goods for sale, including electronics, tools, clothing, vintage pieces, art, and more. The flea market also sells items you'd typically find at a farmers market, such as fresh food, veggies, and freshly baked goods. Visit it on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from mid-March to mid-November.
Where is your favorite place to browse and buy unique items?

Trains were once a primary mode of transportation in the United States. Although railroads now see less use, plenty are still around. There are a lot of places in Ohio where you can take a train ride, see some beautiful scenery, and in some cases, learn a little more about railroads and trains in the process. Here are some of the top Ohio train rides worth taking.
5700 OH-204, Mt Perry, OH 43760
This train follows a historic rail line called the Glass Rock Spur. The company is run by volunteers who make the experience fun and lighthearted. The train cars are historical, and that's part of the thrill. Many of the rides are themed for the seasons.
The Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad is a great place to visit with kids. The ride isn't too long, and tickets are affordable at $9 per adult and $5 per child.
7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
View this post on Instagram
If you happen to be in Northeast Ohio, take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This train runs from Independence to Akron, passing through Cuyahoga National Park. It's a great way to see more of the park's scenery and wildlife. There are several routes of varying lengths to choose from.
The trains on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad have a cafe car. Check out the ride schedule on the railroad's website, and buy your tickets in advance. Prices start at just $11 for some of the shorter routes. You can also buy an all-day pass, which allows you to board and deboard as you please.
2261 Hubbard Rd., Youngstown, OH 44505
J&L Narrow Gauge Railroad is a great place to learn about steel mills and their role in the railroad industry. The company maintains a 24" demonstration railroad where you can ride a heavy, steel locomotive. You can also see an original, full-scale steel locomotive by Jones & Laughlin Steel.
This train offers rides on the second and fourth weekends of every month through October. Trains depart every 30 minutes between 10 am and 2 pm, and the rides last about 15 minutes. Tickets are $8 per person.
400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
View this post on Instagram
The Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is a great place to learn about the use of railroads during WWII. The railroad was used to transport servicemen heading off to war. The Depot has been converted into a museum where you can see displays and films related to railroad history. You can also take a ride on the historic train.
During the holiday season, the train at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is converted into the Polar Express. This is a perfect opportunity for families with children to enjoy a festive ride.
Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45439
The Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society maintains a passenger train that travels on a small, 1/8-scale track. The train only operates on certain days; a ride schedule is available on their website. A $1 donation is suggested for each passenger, and additional donations are encouraged. All proceeds go towards track maintenance, fuel, and other expenses.
If you really enjoy your ride on the Carillon Park Railway, consider becoming a member of their society. Members help design and maintain the on-site tracks and get additional riding privileges.
990 Proprietors Rd., Worthington, OH 43085
View this post on Instagram
Ohio Railway Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of trains and streetcars, especially as used around Columbus, Ohio. An on-site train runs every Sunday at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 pm.
Rides are just $9 for adults and $7 for kids. This price also grants you admission into the museum and outdoor grounds. Plus, you can visit the gift shop for a souvenir.
46789 OH-18, Wellington, OH 44090
The Lorain & West Virginia Railway was built in 1906 and remained active until the 1970s. It is now maintained as a passenger train where you can enjoy different themed rides throughout the year. In October, there's a Fall Foliage ride, and in November and December, it becomes the Santa Train.
Learn more about these seasonal rides on the railroad's website. Tickets typically go on sale 60 days before an event.
16 E. South St., Lebanon, OH 45036
View this post on Instagram
The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad travels through Warren County, just outside Cincinnati. You can catch the train in Lebanon and ride for about 9 miles round-trip. You'll pass through Turtle Creek, Union Township, and Mason or Monroe along the way. Five railroad bridges are crossed on this ride, the longest of which stretches over Turtle Creek.
The trains on the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad all feature coaches built in the 1930s with bench-style seats and open windows. All train cars are heated, and some have air conditioning. You can buy tickets for the train in person at the railway ticket office.
Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers is a steam train club that offers public rides on certain dates. A few rides are coming up on September 17, October 14, and October 15, 20220. Rides are free, but donations are encouraged.
Some rides on the Northeast Ohio Live Steamers train are themed. For example, the October rides are Halloween-themed, and guests are encouraged to wear costumes. All ages are welcome.
Which one of these train rides will you embark on this year? Don't forget to blow the whistle as you roll by!

Fall is one of the most exciting times of year for festivals in Ohio communities, with celebrations of food, drink, music, history, and so much more on the schedule. Whether you visit an event like Cleveland Oktoberfest in Northeast Ohio, the Mohican Bluegrass Festival near Columbus, or the Ohio Renaissance Festival around the corner from Cincinnati, you're sure to find a place to make memories this fall. You can find information on those festivals and many more in our guide to Ohio fall festivals for 2022.
1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
The fun begins at Hartville Marketplace for the 17th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, which takes place on September 24 from 9 am to 4 pm. This family-friendly festival is filled with art, crafts, great food, live entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. Spend your day uncovering unique finds from more than 200 crafts vendors, enjoy various seasonal activities, or watch the kids have a great time playing on outdoor inflatables. Start your holiday shopping early with crafty gifts, or find the perfect piece to decorate your home.
19201 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44130
View this post on Instagram
The highly anticipated annual Cleveland Oktoberfest will occur at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds and Event Center from September 2-5, 2022. It's one of the best ways to enjoy Labor Day weekend in the city, with everything from wiener dog races to strongman competitions. Of course, there will be plenty of great beer, traditional German cuisine, and fantastic live music to enjoy all weekend long. Discover the latest beers from the best microbreweries in the Cleveland area, then cast your vote to help crown a Cleveland Oktoberfest champion.
8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
Fall is a great time to celebrate the harvest of the season, so it would be hard to pick a better time for the Apple Butter & Cider Weekend at Lake Metroparks Farmpark in Kirtland. This event takes place on October 1-2, 2022, from 9 AM through 5 PM. Learn all about how apple butter and apple cider are produced, watch traditional harvest activities, then sample the delicious dishes that result from the process. There will also be a variety of seasonal activities, highlighted by the three-acre Johnny Appleseed Trail corn maze.
View this post on Instagram
The 24th Annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a celebration of the pawpaw, North America's largest native tree fruit, taking place on September 16-18, 2022, around Lake Snowden. You will have the opportunity to sample meals that highlight the great flavor of the pawpaw, peruse pawpaw-related works of art, and enjoy tons of family-friendly activities while you explore. Enjoy live music from some of Ohio's best bands all weekend long, and be sure to check out the Kids Central area, which features plenty of fun, hands-on activities for younger visitors. Interested in the agricultural side of pawpaws? This festival also features educational panels on growing, cooking, medicinal use, sustainability, and even the genetics of the pawpaw.
22462 Wally Rd., Glenmont, OH 44628
Head to the scenic Mohican Wilderness campground for a weekend of live music and fun activities for the whole family September 15-17. The 31st Annual Mohican Bluegrass Festival features three days of live music spread across multiple stages, tons of great food from local vendors, and fun crafts from local artisans. Reserve a campsite in advance, and turn the festival into a weekend-long family vacation.
Historic Main Street, Waynesville, OH 45068
View this post on Instagram
The annual Ohio Sauerkraut Festival is always one of the biggest events of the year in Waynesville, and this year's event will be no exception. The festival takes place on October 8-9, 2022, with booths, vendors, food, drink, and activities all along Historic Main Street in Waynesville. You can try sauerkraut prepared in nearly every way imaginable, including the famous sauerkraut pizza, which tastes much better than it sounds. In addition to providing fun activities for the community, this event serves as a major fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. It even raises money for scholarships given to local graduating high school seniors.
10542 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068
Take thyself back to another era when you visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival, which will be open every weekend from September 3 through October 30, 2022. Experience a real-life recreation of a renaissance-era, 16th-century village filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors you've read about in the history books. The village will be filled with unique shops, live shows, fun activities for kids, delicious food, and games for all ages. There will be themed weekends throughout the event, like Fantasy Weekend, Pirates Weekend, Romance Weekend, and Tricks or Treats Weekend, so check the schedule to find the perfect weekend to visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival.
1241 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
Coffee lovers from around Ohio and beyond will meet up for the annual Cincinnati Coffee Festival on October 22-23, 2022. It's the largest coffee festival in the Midwest, with roasters, coffee shops, bakers, and chocolatiers coming together to create a weekend that your taste buds definitely won't want to miss. The event features delicious samples, live entertainment, coffee art, demos related to all things coffee, fun competitions, and plenty of surprises along the way. And this festival isn't just about coffee! Tea and chocolate lovers will also find plenty to enjoy at the Cincinnati Coffee Festival.
No matter which corner of Ohio you call home, there are fun festivals to be enjoyed all year long. So, which festival will you fall in love with this year?

Summer can be sweltering in Central Ohio! Luckily, there are ample opportunities to hit the lake and cool off in the Columbus area. If you're looking for a place to swim and soak up some sun this summer, visit these beaches near Columbus, OH.
3400 Lewis Center Rd., Lewis Center, OH 43035
Located less than 30 minutes north of Downtown Columbus, Alum Creek Lake is one of the most popular lakes for outdoor recreation. The lake spans 3,387 acres and is known as one of the best fishing lakes in Ohio. Anglers often catch bass and panfish in the area around Alum Creek State Park, which is also the lake's primary swimming destination. The park features a 3,000-foot sandy beach—the longest beach in any Ohio state park—and includes amenities like restrooms and changing areas, outdoor showers, beach vendors, and sand volleyball courts.
2905 Leibs Island Rd. NE, Millersport, OH 43046
View this post on Instagram
Spanning 3,173 acres in Fairfield and Licking counties, Buckeye Lake is a beautiful swimming and boating destination just half an hour east of Columbus. The shoreline of this large reservoir is home to Buckeye Lake State Park, Ohio's oldest state park, which remains a popular day-use area for summer picnics, hikes, and beach trips. The park includes two beaches: Fairfield Beach on the south side of the lake and Crystal Beach on the north side. Both beaches are open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
4860 E. Park Dr., London, OH 43140
Madison Lake is located in a region west of Columbus known as the Darby Plains, which offers some of the few remaining wild prairies in the state of Ohio. A small 106-acre reservoir that was built in the 1940s, Madison Lake is a highlight of the region. The lake is surrounded by Madison Lake State Park, which includes a 300-foot swimming beach, picnic areas, and boat launch facilities on the east side of the lake. A separate dog swim area, where pets are allowed to swim off-leash, is located on the opposite side of the lake. Boats are restricted to electric motors and non-powered craft only, making this an excellent lake for paddling as well.
75 Downing Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
View this post on Instagram
Delaware Lake is a long, meandering reservoir just north of Columbus in Central Ohio. The lake spans 1,300 acres and offers excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and muskellunge. It's also a great swim spot, and Delaware State Park provides an 800-foot sandy beach where visitors can take a dip and soak up some sun. A picnic pavilion, playground, and modern restrooms are available at the beach, and there are also two designated boat swim areas on the lake. Delaware State Park also has a beautifully wooded campground with over 200 sites for tents and RVs.
20635 State Park Road 20, Mt Sterling, OH 43143
Just under 40 minutes south of Columbus, Deer Creek Lake is a picturesque 1,277-acre reservoir with a 15-mile shoreline surrounded by farmlands and forests. It's a great place to spend a long summer weekend, with rental cabins and over 200 electric campsites in Deer Creek Lake State Park. The park includes a beautiful 1,700-foot swimming beach, a popular spot to cool off on hot days. There's also a designated boat swim area located in the cove adjacent to the Deer Creek Lodge. Boats are allowed with unlimited horsepower, and Deer Creek Lake is also known for excellent fishing.
2755 Amity Rd., Hilliard, OH 43026
View this post on Instagram
Looking for a place where your four-legged friends can cool off? Located just minutes from Downtown Columbus, Prairie Oaks Metro Park is one of the city's best places to take dogs for a dip. The park has a designated dog beach on the shoreline of Lake 1, part of a cluster of small lakes within the park. Pets are also allowed on the park's hiking trails, but they must be leashed outside the immediate area around the dog beach. And while there's no designated "human swimming area" in the park, there's also no rule that says you can't go in with your canine pals!
Old River Road, Granville, OH 43023
Lake Hudson is a unique swimming destination in the Columbus area. This privately owned recreation lake offers crystal clear spring-fed waters that stay pleasantly cool even during the dog days of summer. There's a beautiful beach and picnic area on the lakeshore, along with fishing access and a place to launch small boats like canoes and kayaks. Membership grants you access to Lake Hudson any time, but there are also opportunities for some non-members to enjoy the facilities. Former members and residents of Licking, Fairfield, Perry, Muskingum, and Knox counties may visit the lake as guests.
13156 OH-235, Lakeview, OH 43331
View this post on Instagram
Originally built as a shallow feeder lake for the Miami & Erie Canal in the 1800s, Indian Lake is now one of Western Ohio's most popular recreation lakes. Located just under an hour northwest of Columbus, Indian Lake offers 5,100 acres of water, making it one of the largest lakes in the state. Its wide-open spaces make it popular for boating, fishing, and jet-skiing, and the area around the lake offers great camping and hiking opportunities. If you're looking for a place to swim, head to Indian Lake State Park, where Old Field and Fox Island beaches offer 1,400 feet of beach access.
Where's your favorite swimming hole in the Buckeye State?

Burying your nose in a good book is a great way to leave your worries behind for a few hours. People who read typically have more active imaginations. Plus, reading can help ease stress and depression, prevent cognitive decline, and build your vocabulary. Whether you love mystery novels, non-fiction, or something in-between, Northeast Ohio has several local bookstores worth visiting. Head to one of these book shops to find your next read.
10515 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120
Located in the historic Larchmere neighborhood, this Cleveland bookstore first opened in 1994 and has kept readers happy ever since. They have more than 100,000 different titles in stock, including many on women's history and literature. Loganberry Books carries both new and used titles, including some leatherbound books and first editions. If you're not only a reader but a book collector, this is the place to go.
Loganberry books is open daily. Shoppers can join their Perks Program for free and earn a $10 coupon for every $100 spent. Perks Program members also get a bonus coupon on birthdays and extra store credit when they sell books.
1607 Golden Gate Plaza, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
View this post on Instagram
Half-Price Books is a family-owned bookstore that sells secondhand books and other media. You can take them your already-read books to sell and go home with new titles to enjoy. The store has a good selection of books on philosophy, martial arts, and animals. The wide aisles and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to shop with kids.
Half-Price Books is open daily. They offer online ordering and curbside pickup, which are great if you're in a rush.
29 N. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Fireside Book Shop has been serving Northeast Ohio since 1963. The store has an old-fashioned appeal but in the best way. They not only have a great selection of books, but also countless puzzles, greeting cards, and board games. The helpful staff members can help you find the perfect book, whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one.
Fireside Book Shop is a woman-owned business and is open daily. Their Trade-In Program is a customer favorite, allowing shoppers to trade in their used books for store credit. Stop by regularly, and you'll always have something new to read.
204 N. Main St., Hudson, OH 44236
View this post on Instagram
The Learned Owl Book Shop has been open on Main Street since 1968. Although the shop is small, its selection of books is incredible. The owner knows everything on the shelves and is very helpful. They also have a children's nook and a selection of adult coloring books.
This bookstore is open daily and is within walking distance of many great cafes and restaurants. You could spend an afternoon picking out a book, walking around the neighborhood, then treating yourself to a nice meal.
1921 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
If you find yourself in Cleveland, stop by Horizontal Books and browse their shelves. This shop sells overstock books. If you purchase one, you save 50% off the standard retail price. Purchase more than one, and you save even more. Horizontal Books brings in new titles every day, so there's always something else to discover.
Horizontal Books is open daily from 10 am - 6 pm. They're in the process of opening up their own coffee shop, too.
1820 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
View this post on Instagram
Mac's Backs-Books on Coventry is a one of the largest bookstores in Ohio. They have three stories of books and community rooms where they host educational events. This shop has a great sci-fi collection and lots of young adult fiction. The entire basement is full of non-fiction titles.
Mack's Backs is walking distance from Case Western Reserve University and is therefore popular with college students. Keep an eye on their website for events such as book signings, writing workshops, and live readings.
14948 Chillicothe Rd., Novelty, OH 44072
If you're looking for a specific rare or antique book, Novelty Shop is the place to go. This boutique book store sells used, rare, and antique books, along with a small selection of other antique items. You'll find original hardcovers of classics, leatherbound books, and first editions galore.
Novelty Shop has been open since 1999 and is frequented by many of Ohio's book collectors. You're bound to learn something just by stopping in and taking a look around.
2258 Professor Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
Visible Voice Books wants to make reading cool again. This independent bookstore has a very relaxed, inviting atmosphere and stocks titles in almost every genre. But they also have so much more than books. There's a bar and coffee shop where you can grab your favorite drink to sip while you read. Selections include craft beers from Fat Head and Left Hand Brewing. They even host wine tasting events.
Inside Visible Voice Books, there is also a neighborhood pizza shop called Crust. So, you can enjoy lunch, find a new book, and buy a bottle of wine—all under one roof. The shop is open Tuesday-Sunday.
Where will you discover your new favorite novel? Let us know which one of these bookstores feels most like home.