
Skating is a popular activity around Northeast Ohio, and you'll find plenty of ice rinks in the area where you can take a spin around the ice. Several offer great scenery, and some are located near shopping areas where you can also spend some time browsing in shops when you're out and about.
Dress in warm layers before you go since even indoor ice rinks stay cold to maintain the ice. Don't forget to bring your cell phone or camera to take photos of your kids or others in your group.
Check out the following indoor and outdoor ice rinks around Northeast Ohio, where you can glide away the stress of the day.
9999 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
The Pond Ice Rink stays busy, hosting figure skating and ice hockey as well as open skate sessions. If you'd like to drop by to skate, register online. The cost is $10, including skates and gliders (if available). And if you'd like to get more serious about your time on the ice, The Pond offers Saturday and Sunday skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. Private lessons are also available.
177 Market St., Westlake, OH 44145
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Browse in the upscale Crocker Park shopping center and then head out to the open skating rink to have some fun. Located at Union Square in front of Regal Cinemas, the rink has a surface that's made of real ice. Glide along as you listen to Christmas tunes, or keep a check on social media to see which select days DJs from 96.5 KISS-FM will be there to spin some tunes. The rink is open through Feb. 21, 2022, and costs $12 per person, including skates.
8319 Port Jackson Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
Center Ice Sports Complex is a hub for several types of ice-related activities and sports, including figure skating, hockey, and ice skating. If you'd like to do your own thing on the ice, register online in advance for an open skate. It costs $10 admission and $4 for skate rental. And whether you're just starting out or already have some skills you'd like to improve, the complex offers ice skating lessons for toddlers through adults and for everyone from beginners to more advanced levels. Before long, you might find yourself ready to tackle figure skating or hockey!
10820 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The Rink at Wade Oval is located at University Circle, where you can spend time exploring this square mile that's filled with museums, parks, restaurants, and more. It's even been named the Best Arts District in the country by a USA Today poll of readers. The perfect place to spend a day or afternoon, University Circle also houses a skating rink to help you extend the fun. The rink is open through Feb. 27, 2022, and skating costs $3 for general admission and $2 for students. Skate rental costs $2 for general admission and $1 for students. As an added bonus, if you show your skating admission wristband, you can visit the nearby Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cleveland History Center, and Cleveland Museum of Natural History for $2 off same-day admission.
2085 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Try the ice rink in downtown Cuyahoga Falls, located at the plaza by the downtown pavilion and amphitheater. It's the perfect spot to skate after spending some time browsing at the town's outdoor shops. Park in one of three public parking decks, or try a metered spot on Front Steet when you're heading over to skate. Through Feb. 21, the rink is open from 3-8 p.m. on Fridays and noon-8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Holiday hours can differ, so check the website before you go. Admission is free for everyone, and skate rentals are $4 per person.
1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Winter RiverFest, an annual holiday celebration held at Rivergate Park and Merwin's Wharf, brings an authentic ice skating rink to the park this year. You'll be able to enjoy scenic views of the Cuyahoga River as well as festive decor while you skate, and be sure to make time for other activities like visiting a beer garden or warming up at the firepits. Book your rink time online in advance since walk-ups are based on availability. Prices (including skate rental) are $15 for ages 6 and up and $8 for ages 3-5. Skating aid rentals can also be rented for $10. The rink is open until Jan. 2, 2022.
851 Oldman Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
If you're looking for a Northeast Ohio ice skating rink that offers skating year-round, head to Alice Noble Ice Arena in Wooster. The rink has open ice time on most days for $9 admission and $3 skate rental, except for Thursdays when admission is free. Lessons are also offered through the Learn to Skate USA program for kids as young as 3 and adults of all ages. And if you're ever ready to take your skating to the next level, figure skating and hockey lessons are available.
Where's your favorite place to skate in Northeast Ohio, and do you prefer an indoor rink or an outdoor one?

Planning a trip or looking for a new home? Thanks to social media, you no longer have to interpret vague written descriptions of people, places, activities, and events. High-quality, detailed pictures are just as close as your cell phone.
Follow these wonderful Instagram accounts to learn more about all the amazing attractions of Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Want to learn more about Ohio's historical sites and impressive architecture? Ohio Travel shines the spotlight on the state's county seats and the distinctive buildings located there. Take in the stunning grandeur of locations such as the Hancock County Courthouse, Great American Crossroads Mural in Bucyrus, and Court Avenue in Bellefontaine, the oldest concrete road in America. Ohio Travel also features quirky landmarks like the former Longaberger Co. headquarters, AKA "the picnic basket building," and the New Straitsville Museum, with its recreation of a classic barbershop with the original chairs and mirrors.
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Taking its name from the state's tourism slogan, Ohio. Find It Here. promotes the diversity of attractions and experiences available to tourists and residents. Categories covered include Outdoor & Recreation, Family, Food & Shopping, and Hotels & Lodging. The site also features things to do and see based on seasons, holidays, and regions. Find information about weather, roads, and highways to help with your planning. You may find yourself in one of the Instagram posts showing people enjoying the Columbus Zoo, Hocking Hills State Park, and other attractions.
Florida and California may have year-round sunshine, but nothing compares to the four seasons of beauty found in Ohio. The natural wonders found in the photos on Ohio Explored include a rainbow over Lakewood, a cascading waterfall at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and a "tunnel" of trees in Sugarcreek MetroPark. Mother Nature's drama is on display during a stormy day at the Clifton Mill and a water spout hovering over Lake Erie. Since beauty can be found in several diverse places, there are also shots of ice cream cones, cookies, and coffee mugs.
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As the state capital and home of Ohio State University, Columbus is a huge draw. Experience Columbus is full of images showcasing the people, places, and activities that make up this dynamic city. Pictures celebrate outdoor murals, local sports teams, the downtown skyline, historic architecture, and scenic parks, to name just a few subjects.
614 is, of course, the area code for Columbus. It's also the title of a lifestyle magazine covering all things Columbus, from news and civic affairs to food and drink to arts and music. Their lively Instagram account features information about special events such as Restaurant Week, What? Music and Arts Festival, and Columbus Brewing's recent pop-up market. Have fun with the interactive posts, such as the poll for "Best Burger" that raised money for local charities.
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If you spend any time at all on social media, chances are you've seen the irresistible articles from Only in Your State. This site takes a deep dive into the unique features of each state, promoting the fascinating but little-known attractions that are off the beaten path. Only in Ohio is their account devoted exclusively to the charms of the Buckeye State. Marvel at a glowing full moon above Mile Long Pier in Lorain, step down into Old Man's Cave at Hocking Hills State Park and follow the boardwalk in Brown's Lake Bog near Wooster. Tag your photos with @only.in.ohio to share your favorite spots!
How many cities have a footprint that spans three states? The Cincinnati region extends from Ohio into Kentucky and Indiana, making it a great jumping-off spot to explore as well as a vibrant destination in its own right. Visit Cincy is the Instagram account of the Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau, so you can be sure they have the lowdown of all the points of interest. Did you know Cincinnati is home to the most extensive living mural ever created? What is the backstory of downtown's iconic Tyler Davidson Fountain, also known as the Genius of Water? These are only a couple of the fun facts you'll learn when you follow this account.
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According to Ohio Magazine, life in the Buckeye State is all about "beauty, adventure, and fun." The Instagram account is an offshoot of the popular publication documenting these aspects of Ohio for more than 40 years. Their photos continue the same theme, sometimes capturing all three features in one image. Recent posts include the Home for the Holidays tree lighting in Delaware, "A Christmas Carol" at Cleveland's Playhouse Square, and a flashback to the memorable OSU-Michigan "Snow Bowl" in 1950. Be sure to click on the link to their bio, which features a directory of links on a wide range of categories such as Best Hometowns, Road Trips, Famous Ohio Foods, and Ohio's Great Outdoors.
Ohio's second-largest city, situated on the shores of Lake Erie, certainly merits its own Instagram account. Destination Cleveland, maintained by the convention and visitors bureau, covers every inch of the area, from downtown and the neighborhoods to the suburbs and outlying region. In December, the site is doing a small business "Advent calendar" highlighting a different dining or retail option each day. These types of posts focus on Cleveland's identity as a fast-paced urban center, but you'll also be delighted at the spectacular scenery in many of the photos.
Do you have a favorite photo that captures the essence of Ohio? Where was it taken?

Trains, both toy and real, conjure up pleasant memories of days gone by. Bring a welcome touch of nostalgia to this year's holidays with a visit to these Christmas train rides and displays around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
You and your family have loved the book and the movie. Now experience the magic in real life on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Storytellers are on board to read the book as elves lead everyone in games, songs, and other activities. Refreshments include beverages and cookies made by Mrs. Claus. The train makes a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, who will visit with the kids during the return trip. Trains run Friday through Sunday on the first two weekends in December. Visit the website for times. Tickets range from $45-$80.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
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Take in the winter beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley on your own North Pole Adventure™. Everyone can enjoy cookies and cocoa as kids write letters to Santa and take part in singing and dancing with elves. When the train stops at the North Pole to hand-deliver the letters, there's a good chance that a special guest will come on board. The train leaves the station at 7:30 p.m. daily through December 19. Tickets are $45-$92.
EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069
Remember the joy you felt watching your new model train circle the Christmas tree? Share that delight with your own kids at Christmas at the Junction. In addition to being the home of the world's largest indoor train display, EnterTRAINment Junction is a family fun center revolving around a railroad theme. Christmas at the Junction features a number of holiday train displays along with dazzling decorations, lively activities, and a visit with Santa. Festivities take place through January 2. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors open at noon. Admission is $15.95 per person when purchased in advance on the website.
Zanesville & Scenic Western Railroad, 5705 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760
During the holidays, the Mt. Perry Scenic Train transforms into the Santa Train. The 40-minute ride follows the historic Glass Rock Spur, named for the days when the line transported silica sand from Central Silica Company in nearby Glenford. Santa, assisted by the conductor, will be handing out gifts and treats along the way. The Santa Train departs each hour between 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the second and third weekends of December. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for ages 3-13. Receive a discount with a donation of food or a new, unwrapped toy.
19201 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, OH 44135
For the 18th year, Puritas Nursery is treating the West Park community to their delightful holiday train display. Three separate train sets, each in a different size, are fascinating to watch for "kids" of all ages. As if that wasn't reason enough to visit Puritas Nursery, you can shop their great selection of mistletoe, wreaths, and holiday greenery, as well as a wide variety of gift items and stocking stuffers. View the trains during store hours, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through December 31.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764
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Over three decades, generations of families have made the Santa Christmas Train a part of their holiday tradition. Historic Hocking Valley makes a perfect seasonal backdrop for the two-hour trip to East Logan and back. Santa will be along for the ride to visit with each child and collect their wish lists. At the end of the journey, they will also receive a special candy cane treat. Trains run each weekend through December 19. Visit the website for departure times. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for ages 3-12.
751 N. Four Mile Run Rd., Austintown, OH 44515
Members of the Youngstown Model Railroad Association love to share their enthusiasm for their favorite hobby with others. One of their more popular activities is their holiday open house, which they have been conducting for more than 65 years. Held at the group's headquarters, the open house features one layout upstairs and another downstairs, with surrounding "towns" that include carnivals and other life-like details. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the first two weekends of December. A $5 donation is requested from all visitors over the age of 11.
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay, OH 45840
Real trains? Toy trains? No need to choose at North Pole Express. Quarter-scale trains are ready to take you through a glittering wonderland of trees and lights. Meanwhile, toy train displays await in the festively decorated museum and train barn. You never know when Santa and Mrs. Claus may pop in for a visit! Activities take place 5:30 - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sunday through January 2. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under.
Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145
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Are your little ones a bit young for an actual train ride? Crocker Park's Express Train provides a healthy dose of excitement for kids who might not be ready for a longer trip. The whole family will enjoy the sight of Crocker Park done up in all its holiday finery. Before or after, kids can visit with Santa and get their picture taken at Santa's Village. The Express Train runs daily through Christmas Eve. Visit the website for hours. Tickets are $4 per person.
In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?

Is there a more rewarding feeling than giving a loved one just the right gift? Put smiles of delight on everyone's face when you do your holiday shopping at these wonderful shops around Columbus.
631 S. Third St., Columbus, OH 43206
Whether you're shopping for a devoted bookworm or a budding reader, you'll find the perfect gift at The Book Loft of German Village. Located in a pre-Civil War building, The Book Loft boasts an incredible 32 rooms, covering an entire city block, filled with bargain-priced books. Give a gift of a Book Loft t-shirt that earns the wearer a 10 percent discount on purchases. Hours are 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
150 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
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Helen Winnemore's is the place to find a gift for that person who has everything. There really was a Helen Winnemore, and the shop originated in her Grandview home. While the shop eventually ended up at the corner of Kossuth and Mohawk in German Village, siblings Julie and John Jenkins still follow Helen's mission of offering one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable and useable art. Shelves are filled with jewelry, glassware, textiles, woodwork, and body care products made by regional artisans. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.
682 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Your gift benefits more than just the recipient when it's purchased at Global Gifts. The non-profit shop carries only fair-trade items made by disadvantaged artisans and farmer from more than 40 different countries. Pick up some chili picante plantain chips for your favorite foodie, or a woven sari cotton laundry basket from Bangladesh for that friend who just moved into a new home. Can't decide? Give a monthly subscription for coffee, jewelry, socks, food, candles, or books. Global Gifts is open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
787 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Happy Go Lucky is actually two stores in one. "Home" is a lifestyle shop with a full selection of furniture, wall art, rugs, and other home decor items. "Her" is a women's apparel boutique specializing in stylish dresses, pants and tops, outerwear, and loungewear that you'll want to have in your wardrobe forever. Follow them on Instagram for information on the latest arrivals, sales, and events. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.
1166 W. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Everyone needs a little more pampering in their life. Treat friends and family to some luxury with a gift from Glenn Avenue Soap Company. In 2009, Dr. Sandra Metzler, frustrated with the lack of natural products in the marketplace, used her biomedical engineering background to make soap in her kitchen. Four years later, she and her partner Phil began selling their high-quality products out of their home and eventually from their 4,200-square-foot storefront. Their soaps, lotions, essential oils, lip balms, and other skincare products are so amazing that you'll end up "gifting" yourself with some. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday.
1392 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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While it's located in the heart of the Midwest, Vernacular has been described as "East Coast classic with a West Coast vibe." Husband-and-wife owners Kris and Chelsea carefully curate their womenswear and lifestyle store to offer on-trend merchandise at affordable price points. With their belief that where you shop matters, Kris and Chelsea source from brands that are eco-conscious, ethically sourced, organic, women- and minority-owned, and handmade in the USA. Each year, they donate a portion of their proceeds to local causes and educational outlets. Vernacular is open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 Sunday. They also have locations in German Village and Worthington.
7227 N. High St. #100, Worthington, OH 43085
Spread cheer from the Buckeye State to family and friends across the country. Since 1981, Sugarbush Gourmet Gift Baskets has been creating and shipping spectacular gift baskets full of fresh fruit, chocolates, wines, cheeses, nuts, and other gourmet specialty foods. Choose from dozens of themed baskets or build your own custom assortment. Bestsellers include the Buckeye Bucket, loaded with cheeses, crackers, nuts, and candies that any OSU fan will love. Hours are 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - noon Saturday.
752 High St., Worthington, OH 43085
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The Electric Sheep may sound like a place to buy farm equipment, but the quirky name belongs to one of the more original gift shops you'll ever find. This family-owned business is a workspace where artisans create all the products by hand. Have an idea for a special personalized gift? The crafters will work with you to bring your concept to life. If you want to learn to make your own individual gifts, sign up for one of their workshops on crafts from painting and laser engraving to assembling a charcuterie board. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
What's the number one thing you're hoping Santa brings you from one of the shops around Columbus?

Whether you're sick, chilly, or just feeling down, there's nothing like chicken noodle soup to get you feeling like yourself again. It's a specialty of moms and grandmas everywhere, and no other version will ever quite measure up to the one that was always served to you as a child.
If your family's cooking is not an option right now, though, there are plenty of places to get a comforting cup of soup in Northeast Ohio. With National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day coming up on November 12th, now is the perfect time to check one or two of the popular soup spots listed below.
2120 Byrd Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223
Pallotta's Pastries might not sound like a place where soup would be served, but this establishment is much more than just a bakery. They also sell a variety of fresh-cooked meals, including sandwiches, pastas, and omelets. Their excellent chicken soup is a local favorite and is available all week in addition to a rotating soup of the day.
If you have a sweet tooth, they also sell an assortment of baked goods, including breads, muffins, cookies, and cakes. All their food is homemade and as gorgeous to look at as it is delicious to eat.
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Berlin's Plain and Simple Diner lives up to its name in the best possible way. Run by a pair of home cooks who had a reputation for delicious barbecue in their community, this restaurant uses nothing but fresh ingredients in all of their dishes.
This diner serves hot dogs, hamburgers, wraps, fried fish, chicken wings, and all kinds of other comfort foods – including, of course, chicken noodle soup. It's available in a bowl or a cup and tastes very similar to the home-cooked recipes you remember from childhood.
1707 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, OH 44320
Primo's Deli has been named Akron's #1 Deli by the Akron Beacon Journal three times in its 35-year history, so you know they're worth a visit! Many locals love coming here for hot dogs, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and beer.
Their chicken soup is especially well-loved, featuring a rich broth, savory chunks of chicken, and distinctive shell noodles. It's only available on an occasional basis as part of their soup of the day specials, though, so be sure to call and ask when it will be available next before you head out to give this place a try.
3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333
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Located inside Fairlawn's Summit Mall, Hello Bistro has become a popular dining and takeout spot in their local community. You can get their delectable chicken noodle soup by the cup or the quart, depending on your needs. Still hungry? They also serve fresh-cut French fries, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, salad bowls, and more.
The nice thing about this place is that there are many healthy options to pair with your soup, allowing you to round out your meal with some extra nutrition. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options if you are dining with others with specific dietary needs.
5187 Manchester Rd., New Franklin, OH 44319
A favorite lunch destination for New Franklin residents, PLX Deli serves soups, salads, sandwiches, and everything else you need for a hearty midday meal. Their homemade chicken soup is available every Saturday and Sunday and is one of their most popular menu items among regulars.
If you need a little more to fill you up, the shop also serves a selection of signature entrees like Country Fried Steak and Bourbon Chicken. These dishes stick to the deli's general comfort food angle while also giving you something a bit more substantial to chew on.
7501 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103
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The aptly named SouperMarket is a specialty restaurant that serves nothing but – you guessed it – soup. Their Pulled Chicken Noodle soup is one of their staple offerings and is available all week long. All of their soups are served with a sizable chunk of bread and butter. If you're still hungry, you can round out your meal with a grilled cheese sandwich or a box of chicken wings fried in duck fat.
The shop also offers chicken stock by the quart or gallon, which can serve as a delicious savory base for your own soups at home. Neither the stock nor the soup contain any additives or preservatives. Both are also low in sodium, making them great options for people following a heart-healthy diet.
11750 Madison Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
Joe's Deli and Restaurant is one of many establishments run by the Abdallahs, a Lebanese family who immigrated to America in the 1950s and 60s. This shop serves a variety of specialty sandwiches alongside traditional Lebanese dishes, including dawali, kibbee, and baba ganooj.
Their esteemed chicken soup can be purchased in cups, bowls, or to-go quart containers. All of their soups are only available as part of a rotating selection, but no single type of soup is ever unavailable for more than a few days. If the chicken soup isn't on the menu when you first visit, come back a little later — it's worth it!
7402 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44102
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Local West describes themselves as a craft sandwich and beer bistro, but like any great sandwich shop, they also offer a selection of soups on the side. Their chicken soup is just one of the many soup varieties that they cycle through daily.
Their dishes are made with local meats and cheeses for maximum freshness and a uniquely Midwestern flavor. Stop by for lunch today and see what keeps people coming back again and again!
We all know chicken soup doesn't really cure colds or stop the sniffles, but it still has an undeniable healing power all its own. What's your best chicken soup story?