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11
Get in on the Bubble Tea Craze Around Columbus
The popularity of Asian food in the Columbus area now extends to a beverage. Bubble tea, created in Taiwan during the 1980s, usually contains milk and sugar along with a wide range of "toppings." While these add-ins include red beans, pudding and jelly, the most common one is tapioca pearls that give bubble tea its distinctive, Instagram-ready look.
Whether you're a bubble tea newbie or long-time fan, you'll find your perfect drink at these wonderful tea and juice shops (and one sushi joint!) around Columbus.
The Brewed Leaf
809 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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If you want a primer on bubble tea, head to The Brewed Leaf. Customers rave about the authenticity and wide range of drink options available. In addition to tapioca pearls, you can choose from toppings such as wild rice, red bean, pudding, and aloe. The Brewed Leaf even has tea topped with a layer of cream cheese, a popular variation in China that gives the tea a welcome savory touch. Settle in with your drink over one of the board games the shop keeps on hand. Hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
Chicken & Tea
2781 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202
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It may not be a traditional culinary duo like spaghetti and meatballs or bacon and eggs, but Chicken & Tea has become a favorite combo around Columbus. The food truck serves bubble tea along with traditional Taiwanese fried chicken dishes, including their signature giant chicken cutlet that's the size of your head. Complete your meal with sweet potato fries or fried broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms. Chicken & Tea operates March through November, so check their Facebook page for updates. Standard hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. weekends.
ZenCha Tea Salon
982 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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ZenCha Tea Salon has the elegantly soothing ambiance you associate with drinking tea. ZenCha's mission of promoting international tea arts is accomplished by their professionally-trained "tea ambassadors," who are charged with providing elite customer service and helpful knowledge to all customers. The tea menu lists nearly 100 options from Asia, Europe and Africa, while bubble tea comes in delicious flavors such as peach, hazelnut, and caramel. Enjoy classic afternoon tea, including finger sandwiches, scones, and petite sweets, weekdays from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Stop in from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday, when brunch is served all day.
Pochi Café
921 E. Johnstown Road, Columbus, OH 43230
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East meets West at Pochi Café with its blend of bubble teas and made-to-order sub sandwiches crafted with fresh meats and cheeses. Sandwiches like chicken parmesan, cheesesteak, and Italian come in 6-, 10- and 20-inch sizes. Other drink choices include smoothies with exotic flavors such as taro-coconut, peach-lychee, and mango-passion fruit. The updated diner-style seating area suits Pochi Café's stated belief in "The Art of Relaxing." Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. weekends.
Little Moon Café & Tea
2899 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
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Like a little karaoke with your bubble tea? Little Moon Café & Tea hosts Karaoke Night every Saturday from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. With other regular events such as Monday Game Nights and Tuesday Euchre League, the charming café is a great place to hang out with old friends and make new ones. Each Monday at 1:30 p.m., Little Moon also serves as the base for Clintonville Entrepreneurship Center, a community resource for current and aspiring small business owners. Little Moon is open daily from 1 p.m. - 9 p.m. except Friday and Saturday, when hours are extended to 10 p.m.
Knobu Sushi
1502 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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How good is the bubble tea at Knobu Sushi? Satisfied customers talk about the bubble tea as much as they do the sushi. What makes Knobu Sushi's bubble tea so special? The right degree of sweetness, size of the tapioca pearls and pearl-to-tea ratio. Sushi itself comes primarily in three different forms: rolls, burritos, and poke bowls, with each order customized for your choice of ingredients. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Sunday.
Wali Dessert
1440 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43220
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"Life is uncertain ... eat dessert first." Sometimes you just want to get down to the good stuff, and those are the times you head to Wali Dessert. Bubble tea fits perfectly into their menu of ice cream, smoothies, juices, and baked goods. Sit back in one of the comfy chairs or couches and indulge your sweet tooth. Order online for quick take-out. Wali Dessert is open noon - 10 p.m. every day but Tuesday.
Tea Zone Bakery & Café
5025 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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Want a light lunch to go with your bubble tea? Tea Zone Bakery & Café fits the bill. The menu features ramen and udon, two classic noodle dishes, along with lunch boxes that include your choice of protein with rice and kimchi. Be sure to try the bingsoo, a traditional Korean shaved ice dessert topped with fruit, ice cream, and other yummy add-ins. Don't leave without picking up some of the amazing baked goods such as potato bacon bread, apple fritters, or fresh fruit cake. Hours are 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Koko Tea Salon & Bakery
3951 Easton Square Place E., Columbus, OH 43219
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Add a little variety to your bubble tea at Koko Tea Salon & Bakery. Instead of tapioca pearls, go with popping pearls filled with strawberry, mango, or peach juice. Koko specializes in cupcakes, another sweet treat with widespread popularity. Mix and match from the extensive list of cake and icing flavors that includes salty caramel, cake batter, peppermint, and Hawaiian coconut. If you want a more classic tea experience, Koko's downtown location at 361 E. Broad St. is open exclusively as a tea house. Events include lunch hour teas, traditional high teas, mimosa teas, kids' teas, and themed teas. Reservations are required. Hours at Easton Square are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
Millions of Milk Tea
1990 N. High St., Columbus OH 43201
The name may not be literal, but it's close. Between bubble tea, fresh tea, slushes, espresso, and punch, Millions of Milk Tea has a seemingly endless number of beverage options. While beverages are the main event, Millions of Milk Tea also has a similarly impressive menu of Chinese appetizers, soups, and entrées. You could probably eat lunch AND dinner every day for a year without ever repeating a meal. Millions of Milk Tea is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Don't Burst My Bubble!
Which beverage found in Columbus fits you to a "tea?"
6
Where to Celebrate the Luck o' the Irish Around Northeast Ohio
Whether you're Irish or just Irish for a day, St. Patrick's Day is a huge holiday in Northeast Ohio. You'll find one of the country's largest St. Paddy's Day parades here, as well as pub crawls and even a sober gathering.
If you're planning to celebrate the holiday with some green beer or other adult beverages, make sure you've planned ahead for a safe ride home. Install Lyft and Uber apps on your phone in advance, and also consider public transportation. Cleveland's RTA, for example, typically offers all-day passes for St. Patrick's Day that you can buy on your smartphone.
Get in on the fun and celebrate the luck o' the Irish around Northeast Ohio. Check out the following events.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Starts on Superior Ave. at E. 18th St. and ends at the intersection of Rockwell Ave. and Ontario St.
March 17, 1:04 p.m. kickoff
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Cleveland has hosted a St. Patrick's Day Parade for 175 years, and the tradition continues in 2020. This year's theme is Ireland's Scenic Coastlines, so you'll see that some of the floats have incorporated this theme. Line up early so you can get a good view of the bands, floats, dancing groups, and much more as they wind their way through downtown Cleveland in one of the country's largest parades.
Shamrock Parade Shuttle and Dinner
Brennan's Party Center, 1300 Triskett Road, Cleveland, OH
March 17, shuttle leaves Brennan's at noon
Make transportation to the parade easy on yourself by taking a shuttle from Brennan's and then keep the fun going by returning on the shuttle at 3:30. You'll be able to enjoy Irish dancers, DJ, and an open bar while you treat yourself to a corned beef buffet — a perfect way to celebrate the day! A children's buffet is also available at a reduced price for kids under age 12.
Crawl with Us Pub Crawl
Check in at Dive Bar, 1214 W. 6th St., Cleveland, OH
March 14, 4 p.m.-12 a.m.
Pub crawls are a popular St. Patrick's Day activity, so gather some friends and try the Crawl with Us Public Crawl. You'll be able to visit eight popular venues, enjoy exclusive drink specials and two complimentary drinks/items, and try some food deals along the way. Save some energy for the after-party starting at 10 p.m. and make sure you're dressed up for St. Paddy's Day to compete in a costume contest with a $500 prize.
Jameson Cleveland St. Patrick's Day Run
Starts on W. 6 th St., Cleveland, OH
March 7, 5 p.m.
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Get your Irish on early and get some exercise by running a 5K. You'll head through some of Cleveland's trendiest areas, including the Historic Warehouse District and over the Detroit-Superior Bridge. And since it's a St. Patrick's Day race, you'll also have some special perks! You'll get one Jameson shot or one Coors Light, drink specials at designated West 6th Street bars and be able to participate in a costume content throughout the event. Post-race food and refreshments are also offered.
Sober Seventeenth
Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, OH
March 17, 5 p.m.
Many St. Patrick's Day events feature opportunities to drink alcohol, but some are alcohol-free if you'd like to celebrate while enjoying a sober environment. Sober Seventeenth features Irish music, dance, and heritage in a family-friendly, alcohol-free setting.
All Irish Day
Ancient Order of Hibernians, 2000 Brown St., Akron, OH
March 8, starting at noon
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The AOH hosts a day of Irish-themed fun, complete with dancers and other entertainment. And if you think you may have some talent of your own, two open mic sessions are open during the day if you'd like to try to sing "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" or another favorite.
Official St. Patrick's Bar Crawl
Flats East Bank & Warehouse District, Cleveland, OH
Saturday, March 14, 1 p.m.-9 p.m.
Get your green on, grab some friends, and enjoy some special perks throughout your pub crawl. A ticket gets you a free color-changing cup, entry to 5+ top venues, up to 50% off drink specials, and up to 25% off food specials. You'll also be able to party the day away with a kick-off, half-time, and after-party.
Family-Friendly St. Patrick's Day Celebration
Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, OH
March 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
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Treat the kids to an afternoon at the zoo, where you'll also be able to enjoy a St. Patrick's Day-themed event. The zoo will feature food, music, crafts, and more fun that's related to the holiday.
Irish for a Day
Where will you be having fun in Northeast Ohio for St. Patrick's Day this year?
4
Cleveland: Where to Train for Your Next 5K
Lace-up your running shoes and fill up your water bottle — it's time to train for your next race! As the warm weather slides into Northeast Ohio, the many trails and pathways around the region are shaking off their snow and inviting runners to go the extra mile in preparation for 5Ks, 10Ks, and marathon races! Even if you're not training to beat your record time, frequent running will keep your form consistent and help you complete each race you enter. Check out these trails located in a few of our favorite green spaces around the Cleveland area.
Big Creek Reservation
4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44144
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The fishing, sledding, and picnicking at Big Creek Reservation are all enjoyable, but the gem of the park has to be the gorgeous Lake to Lake Trail. Connecting Lake Isaac to Lake Abram, this 2.4-mile all-purpose trail crosses through the wetlands and provides a steady pathway for runners entering into their first race to gain their footing.
Punderson State Park
11755 Kinsman Road, Newbury, OH 44065
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Just a short drive from downtown Cleveland is Punderson State Park. While others boat on Punderson Lake or play golf, you can take advantage of nearly 11 miles of trail. Of the eight trails in the park, the farthest is 2.2 miles, while the shortest is a simple 0.1 mile — most hover been 0.75 and 1.2 miles. With such easy and accessible trails available, this is a great place to get a quick run in before you enjoy the park's other amazing amenities.
North Chagrin Reservation
Cleveland Metro Park Drive, Mayfield Village, OH 44143
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The North Chagrin Reservation is a fantastic place for runners who love adventure. Within the reservation is Foster's Run, a stunning trail that connects a newly constructed all-purpose trail with an old roadway. Although this trail connects the Wilson Mills Road Trailhead parking lot with the Forest Picnic Area, you can choose to jump on the Buckeye Trail or Bridle Trail to extend your run. There's also a physical fitness trail on the reservation that offers additional opportunities to exercise.
Acacia Reservation
26899 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, OH 44124
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Looking for a place to run with nature while doing so on a paved path? Acacia Reservation sounds like the spot for you. Their 1.7-mile paved loop trail offers an opportunity to tackle a manageable run or work on your stamina with multiple laps.
Springfield Bog Metro Park
1400 Portage Line Road, Akron, OH 44312
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The Springfield Bog Metro Park is home to the Prairie Trail, an easy 1.6-mile jaunt that leads runners through a gorgeous prairie. This park is less than a decade old and was once unused farmland. As you run, you'll see more than 40 species of plant wave to you as this beautiful new boggy area continues to thrive.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
15610 Vaughn Road, Brecksville, OH 44141
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The parks and reservations above offer fantastic trails that will surely help you get in shape for your 5K, but we've saved our top pick for last — Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This massive park connecting Akron and Cleveland offers up over 125 miles worth of hiking trail for you to break in your running shoes and set your sights on breaking every goal you set. With so many trails to choose from, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get to know this park inside and out. Here are a few of the trails we suggest you conquer in each area of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Kendall Lake Area Trails
The trails in the Kendall Lake Area are practically built for runners who want to gradually increase their goals. We like to think of them as perfect markers to help track our progress. The Lake Trail is an easy one-mile trail while the Cross Country Trail is a little more challenging at 2.5 miles. Did you guess that the third trail, the Salt Run Trail, was 3.3 miles and the most challenging? Master each one individually, then combine them to really test your limits!
Ledges Area Trails
Here are two sets of trails for two types of runners. Those who are shaking off the rust or are running for their first time will love the easy Forest Point Trail and Haskell Run. Both are only half-of-a-mile long and hardly have an elevation change. The other two trails, Ledges Trail and Pine Grove Trail are each 2.2 miles long and offer a moderate challenge. We love running the longer trails for endurance and hitting the shorter trailers hard for an explosive final sprint to the finish!
Cuyahoga Valley Trails
The Cuyahoga Valley Trails tackle three areas of the park from Station Road to Boston to Everett. Their four loop trails have the following distances: Station Road Bridge to Red Lock 10.3 miles, Red Lock to Boston 8.1 miles, Boston to Peninsula 7.4 miles, and Peninsula to Hunt Farm 9.4 miles. While trekking through these areas, you'll use different pathways including the statewide Buckeye Trail, the Valley Trail, and Towpath Trail. These runs can be quite tiresome, especially if you're still getting into the groove of long-distance running. Thankfully, there are many parking lots lining the trails, which allow you to carve out small sections of them and gradually increase your out-and-back distance when you're comfortable.
Oak Hill and Plateau Trails
If you follow Oak Hill Road north just past the Cuyahoga Valley Environment Education Center, you'll be able to access the Oak Hill Trail and the Plateau Trail. Both trails are loops, with the Oak Hill Trail labeled an easy trail at 1.8 miles and the Plateau Trail stretching just under 5 miles, with a moderate to difficult ranking. Either trail alone offers a solid run; however, what we like most about this duo is the Oak Hill Trail connects to the Plateau Trail at six spots. If 5 miles is too much yet 2 miles is too little, you can break off of the Oak Hill trail, run through sections of the Plateau Trail, then jump back on the Oak Trail to finish. This allows you to make the Oak Hill Trail stretch as far as you desire.
Wetmore Area Trails
The Wetmore Area Trails are quite scenic, so much so that when we aren't training for a race, we love to take the slow route via horseback. You can access five trails from the Hunt House right on Bolanz Road — Wetmore Trail, Butler's Trail, Langes Run Trail, Tabletop Trail, and Valley Trail. Butler's Trail is a quick and easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail while the Tabletop Trail is a little longer at 0.75 mile that acts as a short cut through the Wetmore Trail. The Wetmore Trail and Langes Trail are longer, at 4.5 miles and 3.5 miles respectively, and offer a moderate to difficult run. However, we suggest that marathon runners set their sights on the 19-mile Valley Trail. It's quite a trek, but uninterrupted paths with ranging levels of difficulty offer a chance to really test your strength and stamina.
On Track
Where are your favorite places to run free around Cleveland? Let us know in the comments below!
28
You'll Fall in Love With These February LoLo Gifts
Who says candy is just for special occasions? Thanks to February's "sweet" deals from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, every day can be Valentine's Day!
Each month, our agents at Cutler Real Estate join LoLo to spotlight the amazing variety of shops, restaurants, and services in the area. Satisfy your sweet tooth as you explore these delightful candy and chocolate shops around Northeast Ohio, Cincinnati, and Columbus.
February Gifts:
Canton: Box of Chocolates and Bag of Chocolate Pretzel Rods
Akron: Peanut Brittle, Cashew Brittle, and Bag of Butter Mints
Canton: Box of Chocolates and Bag of Chocolate Pretzel Rods
Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates
6656 Wise Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
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Chocolate is so perfect by itself that pairing it with savory and salty flavors takes them to a new level. Try it for yourself with a free box of chocolates and bag of chocolate pretzel rods from Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates.
About Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates
The Anastas family continues to uphold the high standards of quality and customer service set by their father when he opened his eponymous chocolate shop in 1984. In addition to their Signature Series of gourmet chocolates, truffles, and caramels, Anastasiades carries fresh roasted cashews, fancy mixed nuts, and praline pecans.
Contact and Hours
330.494.5500
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Cincinnati: Three Truffles
Maverick Chocolate Co.
129 W. Elder St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Chocolate truffles are delicate treats that hide a delicious center of peanut butter, nuts, and sometimes even more chocolate! Visit Maverick Chocolate Co. for three luscious truffles made with their award-winning, bean-to-bar chocolate.
About Maverick Chocolate Co.
In 2014, founder Paul Picton chose the name "Maverick" for his new business to symbolize his ethic of questioning the status quo and taking a stand. Today Paul's wife and two sons are also involved in running Maverick, which uses ethically-sourced cacao beans to create small batches of chocolate for superior quality.
Contact and Hours
Findlay Market
513.381.0561
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Akron: Peanut Brittle, Cashew Brittle, and Bag of Butter Mints
Arnold's Candies Inc.
931 High Grove Blvd., Akron, OH 44312
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Do you prefer candy that has a satisfying crunch, or the kind that melts in your mouth? With February's gift from Arnold's Candies Inc., you don't have to choose! Enjoy the varied but equally delicious textures of peanut brittle, cashew brittle, and butter mints.
About Arnold's Candies Inc.
Arnold's has been an Akron institution since 1953. Their candies are still made by hand, combining classic techniques with the finest ingredients. The retail shop was recently joined by an online store so you can share Arnold's iconic peanut brittle and other goodies with family and friends around the country.
Contact and Hours
330.733.4022
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Columbus: Chocolate Bar
MMELO Boutique Confections
Vine St. and N. Wall, Columbus, OH 43214
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MMELO calls itself a confectionary to honor the traditional candy-making methods of using basic, all-natural ingredients to create something special. Sample one of MMELO's beautiful chocolate bars and savor the rich, complex flavors that come from simple, honest craftsmanship.
About MMELO Boutique Confections
After living in Barcelona for 12 years, founder Michelle Allen and husband Paul decided to bring a touch of Europe to Michelle's hometown of Columbus. MMELO is modeled after a European confectionary café, serving as a community gathering place where you can visit with friends, read, work, study, or just sit back and sip on a cappuccino. Pair your gourmet coffee drink with one of MMELO's exquisite chocolates or fresh-baked goods such as muffins, tarts, financiers, Danishes, and croissants.
Contact and Hours
614.372.5744
Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 5 p.m.
No Strings Attached!
Cutler Real Estate offers the LoLo Gifts program free of charge to help people discover the unique local businesses that make Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati such great places to live. New gifts arrive every month.
Want to learn more? Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent today.
26
Visit These Columbus Bookstores and Libraries for Read Across America Day
"There is no one alive who is you-er than you!" The gentle wisdom of Dr. Seuss is ageless and timeless, which is a big reason why his birthday is observed as National Read Across America Day. Join the celebration on Monday, March 2 with a visit to these terrific Columbus bookstores and libraries.
The Book Loft
631 S. Third St., Columbus, OH 43206
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A 32-room bookstore that occupies an entire city block? The Book Loft, located in charming German Village, is a reader's fantasy come to life. In previous lives, the pre-Civil War buildings now housing The Book Loft held general stores, a saloon, and a nickelodeon movie house. Join the Loyalty Club and receive newsletters along with members-only coupons and promotional codes. The Book Loft is open 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. seven days a week.
Cover to Cover
2116 Arlington Ave., Columbus, OH 43221
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Extensive research has clearly established the benefits of reading for childhood development of cognitive skills. Whether you read to your kids or they do the reading themselves, Cover to Cover is the perfect place to get them started on a lifelong love of books. Cover to Cover was founded by a teacher and is currently owned by another teacher who has a mission to share reading opportunities with other families. Events such as Storytime and Kids Yoga and the Harry Potter Book Club capture kids' imaginations. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sunday.
Karen Wickliff Books
3527 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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Remember those old-school, no-frills used bookstores with floor-to-ceiling shelves and seemingly haphazard piles of books lining the aisles? Karen Wickliff Books is keeping that romantic image alive. Don't go in planning just to kill some time. You'll find yourself spending hours getting lost in all the fabulous finds. Please note that Karen Wickliff Books accepts cash only, so stop at an ATM on the way. Hours are 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Two Dollar Radio Headquarters
1124 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206
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Two Dollar Radio Headquarters is as quirky and delightful as its name. For 12 years, Eric Obenauf and his wife Eliza Wood-Obenauf operated their successful boutique publishing company from their living room. In 2017, the couple expanded to a brick-and-mortar multi-purpose location that includes a bookstore, performance space, bar, coffeehouse, and vegan café. Their own kids can frequently be found in the store, which features a family-friendly corner with table and chairs, toys, board games, and puzzles. Two Dollar Radio HQ is open 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday.
Kafé Kerouac
2250 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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No doubt Kafé Kerouac's namesake author would have enjoyed spending time at this cozy, laid-back bookstore that embraces art in all its forms. In addition to selling a wide range of books and records, Kafé Kerouac serves as a performance space where you can sip on a beer or glass of wine while watching a concert, comedy show, or poetry slam. Espresso drinks, with or without alcohol, are named after writers, such as customer favorite Jane Austen with white chocolate and hazelnut. Visit Kafé Kerouac from 8 a.m. - 1 a.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. - 1 a.m. Saturday, and noon - midnight Sunday.
Prologue Bookshop
841 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Book lovers in Columbus rejoiced with the December 2018 opening of Prologue Bookshop, which filled a void in the culturally rich Short North Arts District. Owner Dan Brewster was a software engineer for Goodreads when he realized he would prefer actually working with books instead of behind the scenes. Looking for suggestions? Staff members are also passionate bookworms who are happy to share recommendations. Prologue Bookshop proudly supports the community with readings and book signings by local authors. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
Gramercy Books
2424 E. Main St., Bexley, OH 43209
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How does Gramercy Books feel about being part of the Columbus community? The name is a play on the French phrase, "grand merci," which translates to "big thanks." Owners chose the name to symbolize their gratitude for books, customers, and the opportunity to be part of the neighborhood. Gramercy has devoted one corner of the store to Friends of the Library, with items to support the Bexley Public Library. Can't wait to start your new book? Settle in at Kittie's, the adjoining café serving Stumptown coffee along with their famous cupcakes and other delicious baked goods. Gramercy is open from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Sunday, when doors close at 5 p.m.
Columbus Metropolitan Library
96 S. Grant Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
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Books are indeed works of art, so it's only fitting that the main branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library resembles a world-class museum. The spacious three-story building is sleek, modern, and filled with every amenity a book lover could want. Library membership also gives you access to Hoopla, a digital media service through which you can borrow movies, TV shows, music, audio, and ebooks. Trace your background at the Local History and Genealogy section on the third floor. Grab a light lunch at Carnegie's Café and support Friends of the Library with a purchase from The Library Store or Carnegie Gallery. Library hours are 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
Grandview Heights Public Library
1685 W. First Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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While books are still the main event, Grandview Heights Public Library's impressive collection of CDs and vinyl records has earned it a reputation as heaven for music fans. You can even check out acoustic guitars and ukuleles! People also flock to the library's annual free Music in the Atrium, Music on the Lawn and Music at the Yard programs. Little ones will have fun in the kids' area downstairs, with books, computers, and play areas. GHPL is open 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
Northwest Library
2280 Hard Road, Columbus, OH 43235
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Northwest Library has the distinction of being only the second library in the United States to be jointly built and operated by two separate systems: Worthington Libraries and Columbus Metropolitan Library. The fireplace area is so cozy and comfortable, it's the next best thing to reading at home. There are two dedicated areas for kids and teens where they can read, work on the computer, and talk without disturbing other patrons. Take a break and walk the Poetry Path, a beautiful outdoor space with the work of six American poets on permanent display. Library hours are 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
Plot Twist!
Where will your personal Columbus story unfold? Let us know in the comments below.
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