
Ohio is such a beautiful state, offering so many lovely opportunities for family vacations and quick getaways. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to relax or a grand adventure to get the adrenaline pumping, Ohio is the place to be. Here are nine places to consider taking your family for a memorable summer vacation.
Cuyahoga National Park is a 33,000-acre park in Northeast Ohio. Inside the park, you can follow the 87-mile towpath along the Cuyahoga River, admire Brandywine Falls, and take a tour of the wetlands. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs through the park, and rides are just $5 a person. Visitors also enjoy the Canal Exploration Center, where they can learn about the construction and early operation of the canal.
If you're looking for places to stay, there are several options inside Cuyahoga National Park, including the Inn at Brandywine Falls and the Stanford House, a nine-bedroom, historic home.
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870
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Those who love an adrenaline rush will enjoy a vacation at Cedar Point, one of the nation's largest amusement parks. Located in Sandusky, the park offers 17 roller coasters, a thrilling water park, and an endless selection of kid-friendly rides. There's also an on-site mini-golf course, musical performances, brew tours, and more.
Cedar Point is also known for its beach. Along the shores of Lake Erie, this beach has soft sand, quiet waters, and paddleboard rentals. There are plenty of hotels in and around Sandusky, within easy reach of the park. Some guests also stay at Lighthouse Point, the on-site RV campground.
If you prefer a faster-paced, more urban vacation spot, then a trip to downtown Dayton could be perfect for your family. Dayton is a mid-sized city about an hour from Columbus with many fun attractions. If you stay in a hotel downtown, you'll be within easy reach of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and Dayton Art Institute.
Another great place to visit in Dayton is the Wright Cycle Company Complex. Here, you can learn how Orville and Wilbur Wright, the inventors of the airplane, once made and sold bicycles.
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Ohio's Amish Country is centered in and around Millersburg in Holmes County, home to about 37,000 Amish people. This quiet community is a lovely place to relax in nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can browse local shops selling baked goods, locally made cheese, and crafts. Eat at a real Amish restaurant, or learn about Amish culture on a guided tour. There are plenty of places to stay in Amish Country, including some quaint bed and breakfasts and RV parks.
Put-in-Bay is a village on the island of South Bass in Lake Erie. The village and surrounding island offer fun for all ages. There are several wineries to explore, and guests can go hiking at Oak Point State Park or South Bass Island State Park. Perry's Cave Family Fun Center offers a mini-golf course, butterfly house, and a climbing wall, along with tours of the limestone caves.
Several ferries offer service to and from South Bass Island from the mainland. Once on the island, most people stay in a lakeside cottage or condo for the duration of their vacation.
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Hocking Hills State Park is a great place to immerse yourself in nature. The park offers seven hiking areas, including Rock House and Ash Cave. Old Man's Cave is a popular mountain biking trail offering both a medium and hard loop for bikers of various skill levels. The park also offers guided nature tours throughout the week, many of which are designed with kids in mind.
There are cabins for rent on-site in Hocking Hills State Park. They also offer both RV and primitive tent cabin sites. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at Hocking Hills State Park Dining Lounge. The park is a short drive from Cincinnati, making it convenient for weekend getaways.
A vacation in downtown Cleveland is a great choice for families who like museums and a faster pace. The downtown area is quite walkable, offering attractions like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Cleveland Museum of Art. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is fun for all ages, too.
Those who love nature may enjoy a visit to Cleveland's Edgewater Beach or the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve. West Side Market is a popular destination for "foodies," selling locally grown produce and prepared foods.
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Marietta is one of the first towns settled in the Northwest Territory of the United States. As such, it's rich with history and a great place to visit with family. Learn about the village's history at the Campus Martius Museum or the Ohio River Museum, or see a show at the historic Peoples Bank Theater.
There are plenty of historic homes to admire in Marietta. Nature lovers often enjoy walking or cycling along the Marietta River Trail or watching the sunset along the Ohio River. Marietta has a bustling restaurant scene with plenty of cafes, Italian restaurants, and barbecue joints.
Marblehead is a tiny village on the Marblehead Peninsula along Lake Erie. The population is just under 1,000, although the village does receive a lot of tourism in the summer months. Once in Marblehead, you can relax on the sandy beaches, sip wine at one of the island's wineries, or browse the art galleries.
Marblehead is known for its lighthouse and the longest continually lit U.S. lighthouse on the Great Lakes. It was also the first lighthouse to employ a female lightkeeper. In the summer, guests can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy a stunning view of Lake Erie and its islands.
Where will you vacation in this great state? From nature to museums, there truly is something for every family.

While many people out there may think that most live performances are limited to entertainment hubs like Los Angeles and New York, the truth is that Columbus has become of the greatest cities for all types of artists. If you're thinking about moving to the area or are already living here, rest assured that there are plenty of wonderful venues to choose from—and to get you started, we've put together a list of some of our favorites.
503 S. Front St. #260, Columbus OH 43215
If you've never been to Shadowbox Live because you're new to the area or just haven't taken the time, then it's time to give it a try. This amazing performance arts venue and cafe consists of the United States' largest full-time resident theatre ensemble. This award-winning, non-profit performance troupe features everything from rock operas and cabaret to sketch comedy and dance. Over the past 25 years, thousands upon thousands of people have also enjoyed the food, but it's the people and their performances that truly make this a special place.
1000 City Park Ave., Columbus OH 43206
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Another mainstay of art performance in Columbus has been the Actors' Theatre located in Schiller Park. In recent years, they've brought to life the works of William Shakespeare, Mary Shelley, T.S. Eliot, and many more all year round, but they're best known for their summer performances. These outdoor events bring people from all over and create a relaxing atmosphere where you can pull up a blanket and have a picnic while enjoying delightful entertainment. Outside of the summer months, residents are especially fond of their monthly Shakespeare Underground and Drunken Underground events.
177 E. Naghten St., Columbus OH 43215
As the name suggests, Columbus Children's Theatre concentrates on providing family-friendly entertainment. Founded in 1963, they've spent nearly 60 years honing and perfecting their crafts. They've done everything from The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe and Annie to the upcoming Crawls, Flies, and Squirms, and their newest addition, Think Spring. Some of their most notable features include programs tailored for kids under the age of 6 called the Theatre for the Very Young, the hosting of plays put on by local schools, educational programs, and sensory-friendly performances for families with special needs.
39 E. State St., Columbus OH 43215
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Although demolished in 1969 after 40 years of providing entertainment to the community, the Ohio Theatre was restored by the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA). The successfully loyal restoration to the original Spanish-Baroque design, along with the velvet seats, velvet curtains, gilded ceilings, and giant chandelier, is an incredible sight to behold. With performances that range from classical music to modern dance, not to mention popular Broadway shows like Wicked and The Lion King, there's a little something for everyone to be found here.
1187 N. High St., Columbus OH 43201
Spanning an incredible 90 years of entertainment, the Short North Stage has been everything from a vaudeville venue and movie emporium to a strip club and adult film theater. Taken over years ago by the Greater Columbus Arts Council, they've shed the notorious past and now specialize in reproducing Broadway and off-Broadway productions. Each year, you can find audience favorites such as Hair, Dreamgirls, Little Shop of Horrors, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and Altar Boyz, in addition to everything from puppet shows to concerts. You can also enjoy small productions at their Green Room Stage and food and drink at a speakeasy-style cocktail bar called Ethel's Lounge.
34 W. Broad St., Columbus OH 43215
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Aside from its delightful design, the first thing you'll notice about this original vaudeville house very well could be the excellent acoustics. The Palace Theatre was designed at a time when performers needed to be heard by everyone without the use of electronic amplifiers—and it certainly shows. Coupled with the fancy style that includes a grand staircase, fountains, chandeliers, and elegant ceilings, their performances of Broadway shows and symphony orchestras will bring you back time and time again.
227 N. 3rd St., Columbus OH 43215
If you've been on the lookout for live improv, sketch comedy, or original plays, this venue is definitely worth checking out. Over the years, MadLab has helped breathe artistic life into the city of Columbus by providing performance artists a place at which to experiment with their craft. Perhaps the greatest thing about this particular venue is that they're constantly producing short plays, often having close to two dozen cast at once. And if you're a performer by chance or would like to dip your toe in the water, you could always stop by during one of their open stage nights.
21 E. Main St., Columbus OH 43215
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Okay—hang on to your hats! The Southern Theatre has been around since 1896! This makes it the oldest surviving theater in all of Central Ohio. Somewhat early in its history, it spent some time as an opera house, followed by a full-time movie house, but was restored by (you probably guessed it!) the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts and transformed into a live performance entertainment hub. This venue has a very heavy focus on music including performances ranging from Henry Rollins to the Brentano String Quartet.
1871 N. High St., Columbus OH 43210
The Wexner Center for the Arts has hosted everything from visual art exhibitions and film screenings to live theatre and dance performances. This amazing hotspot features two stages that allow for both small, intimate performances and much larger productions. You'll find a wide variety of live performances that include everyone from singular artists to full production companies from around the world. There's always something going on, so feel free to stop by anytime and see for yourself.
Which Columbus theater will you visit next?

Oh, cheesecake. It's hard to imagine any dessert more rich and delicious. Whether you prefer yours topped with strawberries, drizzled with chocolate, or layered with caramel sauce, you deserve to indulge every now and then. Here are some of the top places to enjoy cheesecake in Northeast Ohio.
4339 Dressler Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Studio Bakery creates beautiful, artistic baked goods. Everything is made from scratch, using high-quality ingredients. Their cookies are meticulously decorated and creatively designed, and their cheesecake is some of the best around. Guests love their chocolate crinkle and bananas foster, made with fresh bananas and rum.
This artistic bakeshop is always adding new options to the menu, so you never know which decadent cheesecake they'll have when you stop by. They serve coffee and have a few tables in the shop, so you can easily enjoy your dessert on-site.
706 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
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Sprinkle City is a cheerful little bakery on North Canton. They're widely known for their wedding cakes and special occasion cakes, but their cheesecake is incredible, too. There's an entire section of their menu dedicated to it, and they offer a variety of flavors, including classic, strawberry, chocolate, lemon, and pumpkin swirl.
Sprinkle City also sells miniature cheesecakes, which are the perfect weeknight treat. The shop is only open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, so be sure to plan your visit.
Sweet Sadie's Desserts was founded in 2015 and quickly became a favorite in Northeast Ohio. The owner, Sade, does all of the baking herself. The shop's motto is Real Flavors, Real Love, and the love comes through as you taste the cheesecake.
The best way to enjoy cheesecake from Sweet Sadie's is to order online via their website. Sade's menu changes regularly, with new items being added often. Past customers have loved the cherry cheesecake, which is smooth and creamy with a sweet cherry topping.
76 E. Mill St., Akron, OH 44308
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Sweet Mary's Bakery is a woman-owned business and an Akron staple. They recently expanded their kitchen and menu, making this the perfect time to stop by. Sweet Mary's does not have a dining room, so plan on taking your cheesecake to-go. Order a whole one and bring it home to share with your family for dessert, or just order a slice for yourself.
Raspberry cheesecake is a favorite here. It's topped with a house-made raspberry glaze and fresh berries. Other options include lemon meringue and turtle. Some of the cheesecakes are even gluten-free!
BB's Sweet Treats is an Akron-based online bakery that will deliver tasty cheesecake straight to your home. Browse their selection on their website, then contact them for a quote when you're ready to order.
While BB's does sell a lot of traditional cakes, their selection of cheesecakes is nothing short of incredible. The butter pecan is so buttery and creamy it melts in your mouth. They also have a tasty white chocolate raspberry cheesecake, along with a key lime cheesecake that will knock your socks off. Other flavors include blueberry, cherry, and strawberry. Add a few cheesecake-stuffed chocolate strawberries to your order for a special touch.
21 Furnace St., Akron, OH 44308
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Chef Gina's Bakeshop is the creation of Gina Giampietro, a professional pastry chef who studied at the Culinary Institute of America. She creates a variety of sweets, including eclairs, sugar cookies, and macarons. If you're looking for something unique to try, cheesecake macarons are a great choice.
Gina's menu also includes mini cheesecakes, which are lovely for serving at parties. Order them ahead on the bakery's website to ensure you have enough.
1455 W. 29th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113
Larder Delicatessen has quite the reputation in Cleveland. They were even nominated for the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2019. With an emphasis on Eastern European baked goods and ingredients, they create all sorts of treats, ranging from babka to knish.
While you're at Larder, it only makes sense to enjoy a full meal. Complete that meal with an order of cheesecake, which is classic and creamy. They'll wrap it up for you to take home if you're too full to enjoy it on-site.
13204 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
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Chanelle's Treatz is a popular, modern bakery in Cleveland. They make all sorts of creative cakes and cupcakes, and they have a whole menu of specialty cheesecakes. Chocolate peanut butter, cherry cobbler, strawberry crunch supreme, Oreo dream, and red velvet are all popular choices.
All of Chanelle's cheesecakes come in either regular size or "triple" size, which is great for a larger party. In addition to being delicious, these cheesecakes are beautifully decorated and look incredible on a table. Stop by their shop, or place an online order on their website.
12101 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Located in Cleveland's Little Italy, Presti's Bakery first opened in 1903. They still use traditional Italian recipes and ingredients to create their baked goods, including cheesecake. Should you want a meal before your cheesecake, their cafe serves pizza, stromboli, deli sandwiches, and other favorites.
As Presti's cheesecake is Italian cheesecake, it has a lighter texture and less-sweet flavor than you may be used to. It's a nice change of pace and well worth ordering. Presti's serves a turtle version of their cheesecake, too. Pair your slice with a cup of espresso or a delicious cappuccino for an indulgent experience.
What's your favorite style of cheesecake?

Every year, Women's History Month is celebrated throughout March, and Ohio is home to many fascinating historical sites that are perfect for celebrating this important month. Whether you visit the International Women's Air and Space Museum in Northeast Ohio, the Ohio Statehouse Museum Ladies' Gallery in Columbus, the Harriet Beecher Stowe House in Cincinnati, or one of many other destinations around Ohio, you have endless opportunities to explore women's history close to home. Start your journey with these nine places to celebrate Women's History Month in Ohio.
1501 N. Marginal Rd., Ste. 165, Cleveland, OH 44114
Located in Cleveland at the Burke Lakefront Airport, the International Women's Air and Space Museum is certainly a must-see Women's History Month destination. Throughout aviation and space exploration history, women have taken to the skies to explore new frontiers. In addition to famed female pilots like Amelia Earhart and astronauts like Sally Ride, this museum explores the many contributions made by women who didn't achieve the same level of fame. The International Women's Air and Space Museum also explores the vast impact made by women on the science, engineering, and advancement of aviation throughout history.
173 W. Lorain St., Oberlin, OH 44074
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Oberlin College has been a place of many firsts, championing the rights of women and all people throughout its long history. It was the first college in the United States to offer undergraduate degrees to women in a coeducational program in 1841, and the first to adopt a policy allowing people of color to attend college in 1835. The beautiful, historic campus is a great place to explore for Women's History Month, with exhibits where you can learn more about the college's history of advocating for the rights of everyone to have an education, some of the best on-campus museums in Ohio, and plenty more to experience as you tour Oberlin College.
380 Mahoning Ave. NW., Warren, OH 44483
Harriet Taylor Upton was an important figure in the Women's Suffrage movement in Ohio, and the Upton House has been preserved as a museum to share the story of her life. One room within the home has been converted into a Women's Suffrage museum, exploring the contribution made by local suffrage advocates, including Upton, Phebe Sutliffe, Elizabeth Hauser, and Zell Draz. Tour the museum with the help of one of the expert volunteers at the Upton House, or explore on your own.
205 Market Ave. S., Canton, OH 44702
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One of the only museums of its kind, the First Ladies National Historic Site tells the inspiring stories behind the women who have been First Lady throughout American history. Learn more about how the role of the First Lady has evolved and how First Ladies have found unique ways to make their own important historical contributions. In addition to the museum located in Canton, you can take a tour of the childhood home of Ida Saxton-McKinley right next door.
1 Capitol Square, Columbus, OH 43215
Ohio was one of the earliest states to ratify the 19th amendment, granting women the right to vote. A few years after the amendment was ratified, six women were elected to the Ohio General Assembly. The Ohio Statehouse Museum Ladies' Gallery explores the contributions made by those six women and the more than 150 women who have since served in the state legislature. This is one exhibit you won't want to miss when you tour the State Capitol.
480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Throughout history, female artists have shaped culture, shared stories, advanced women's rights, and inspired millions through their artwork. The Columbus Museum of Art is a great place to explore the work of female artists throughout history and learn more about the contemporary artists still working to champion women's rights in the present day. Visit the museum to explore various exhibitions from women artists or attend one of many events that celebrate women's creativity. All Columbus Museum of Art tours during Women's History Month will also be themed around women artists.
205 N. Broadway St., Greenville, OH 45331
Annie Oakley was a legendary sharpshooter, prolific performer, and beloved figure during her time. She achieved fame with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show and was one of America's first female superstars. But her personality goes far beyond those notable achievements, and the National Annie Oakley Center at the Garst Museum is dedicated to providing a comprehensive look at her fascinating life. The Garst Museum features more than 35,000 square feet of exhibit space and over 300,000 artifacts, many of which are housed in the National Annie Oakley Center.
1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203
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Many of the locations on our list are dedicated to specific women or groups of women who have made important contributions to our shared history, but what about all of the less famous women who have shaped Ohio history? The Cincinnati Museum Center is the perfect place to learn more about the many regular, everyday women who may not be famous but still made their mark by living, working, and advocating for women's rights in Ohio. Discover unique exhibits on the first all-female spacewalk, the fight for women's rights throughout history, and Cincinnati's inspiring female artists.
2950 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
A literary master with a complex legacy, Harriet Beecher Stowe was a fascinating figure who impacted American history. The Harriet Beecher Stowe House, located in Cincinnati, is dedicated to sustaining her legacy and educating future generations on her social impact. Visit the Harriet Beecher Stowe House to learn more about her legacy, participate in dialogue about social issues, and find inspiration for positive change.
What stories will you discover and share during Women's History Month this year?

Did you know that maple syrup, like wine, has a specific flavor derived from the geographic area where it's produced? Maple syrup is a Northeast Ohio tradition that predates statehood, and the product is regarded as some of the finest in the country.
Maple tree sap starts running in February, making this a prime time to enjoy syrup and maple-flavored foods. Whether you participate in Maple Madness or conduct your own driving tour, check out the delicious products from these great maple syrup farms and shops.
16350 Hart Rd., Montville, OH 44064
In 1988, the fledgling run at KC Maple Syrup resulted in a half-gallon of syrup from the sap of about 20 trees. Continued expansion led to the addition of a sugarhouse in 1994. Now their first-class operation includes 450 taps, a 30" x 8' evaporator, and a reverse osmosis (RO) unit for water filtration. All the hard work at KC Maple Syrup was rewarded when they took first place at the 2010 Geauga County Maple Festival. You can even get maple-flavored doggie treats so Fido won't feel left out.
10055 Madison Rd., Montville, OH 44064
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Family-owned Seldom Seen Farm is one of the more recent additions to Northwest Ohio's maple syrup network. In 2008, Kevin and Morgan Holy purchased the property and turned their maple syrup hobby into a business. While Kevin hopes to give up his day job someday, he continues to work for local government as an equipment operator while Morgan cares for their two kids. That day may come sooner rather than later, as Seldom Seen Farm is the reigning champion of the Geauga County Maple Festival. Order online or visit the farm Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. by appointment only.
3736 State Hwy. 13, Lexington, OH 44904
While Mowry Maple Farm celebrated its 100th anniversary last year, it was originally known for cattle. About 10 years ago, third-generation family member Richard and his wife Carol became intrigued with maple syrup production on the recommendation of a friend, who loaned them supplies. Now maple syrup has become the farm's biggest claim to fame. Experiment in your own cooking with products such as BBQ rub, hot pepper butter, savory herb-maple blend, maple sugar and cinnamon, and habanero-infused syrup. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday.
15161 Main Market Rd., Burton, OH 44021
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Originally built in the 1820s, Ma & Pa's Gift Shack is just as cozy and charming as the name implies. The shelves in the rustic log cabin are filled with syrups, butters and spreads, and other maple products made on-site. Warm up with a cup of maple coffee after one of Ma & Pa's popular sleigh rides when the ground is snow-covered. Ma & Pa's is also known for its wooden lamps and furniture carved out of hickory. Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are required for sleigh rides.
17098 Messenger Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
The Messenger family began producing maple syrup in the mid-1800s. While Bill and Dee Belew purchased Messenger Century Farm in 1992, it remains a family-run operation, with three generations of Belews involved. State-of-the-art, "green" equipment replaces buckets and horses, but the original Messenger sugarhouse remains standing as a tribute to the earlier days. Be sure to return in July, when you can pick your own blueberries. The Messenger country store is open daily from 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
13034 Madison Rd., Middlefield, OH 44062
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How appropriate that Sugarbush Creek Farm had their first sap boil of 2022 on February 14, the "sweetest" day of the year. While the current farm was established in 1992, trees on the property have been tapped for more than 200 years. The sugarhouse is on the same spot as the original, but it was rebuilt to modern standards using wood sustainably harvested from the farm. Thanks to another update, the entire operation can be monitored on a smartphone app. Sugarbush Creek Farm is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.
545 Water St., Chardon, OH 44024
Maple salad dressing and maple bacon coffee? Those are only two in the remarkable assortment of items found at Richards Maple Products. Located in Geauga County since 1910, the shop truly seems to live up to its boast of "the world's largest variety of maple products." Surprise family and friends anywhere in the country with a gift box, basket, or crate filled with syrup, cookies, condiments, spreads, and other maple-flavored goodies. Subscription programs are available on a monthly or quarterly schedule. Store hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
14590 E. Park St., Burton, OH 44021
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As the first settlement in Geauga County, dating back to 1798, Burton is a quiet community full of history and charm. The town square is modeled after New England's iconic village greens, and maple syrup is such a part of local tradition that the Burton Log Cabin & Sugar Camp is operated by the Chamber of Commerce. Syrup produced each spring is used to make maple candy throughout the year. The Log Cabin also serves as the town's information center. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. seven days a week.
Blending sweet and savory flavors is one of today's popular food trends. Do you enjoy maple with bacon, hot sauce, and other savory items, or are you a purist who sticks with maple syrup?