Posts with tag 'Best of Cincinnati'

John Francis Blog

Subscribe and receive email notifications of new blog posts.




rss logo RSS Feed
Explore Ohio | 95 Posts
LoLo Gifts | 33 Posts
Northeast Ohio | 135 Posts
Real Estate | 103 Posts
Uncategorized | 1 Posts
Cutler Real Estate Home Maintenance Home Safety Homeownership Cutler Real Estate Agents Cutler Realtor Decor Northeast Ohio Ohio Real Estate Real Estate Trends Realtor Cutler Real Estate News Ohio Association of Realtors Home Selling Tips House Hunting Real Estate Sell a Home Selling Your Home with a Realtor Staging Local Attractions Things to Do Relocation First-time homebuyer tips Columbus OH Buy a home Community Holiday Home Selling Tips Holidays Find a Home Cincinnati OH Things to do in Cincinnati Restaurants Akron OH Canton OH Cleveland OH Things to do in Northeast Ohio Akron Business Cincinnati Real Estate Columbus Real Estate Cleveland Real Estate Columbus Columbus Restaurants Thanksgiving Akron Real Estate Canton Real Estate Best of Cincinnati Best of Cleveland Traveling Stark County Columbus Events Best of Ohio Cincinnati Events Cuyahoga Valley National Park Akron Events Canton Events Things to do in Columbus Dublin OH Best of Columbus Cleveland Events Canton Cincinnati Family-Friendly Activities Brunch Homes for Sale Apple Orchards Corn Mazes Fall Fall Events Pumpkin Patches Events Columbus Bars Ohio State Sports Sports Bars Halloween Local Events Local Bloggers Ohio Bloggers Recipes Dining Gluten-Free Home Decor Home Inspiration Ohio Downtown Canton Bars and Restaurants Cuyahoga Falls Kent OH Mantua OH Silver Lake OH Stow OH Tallmadge OH Photography Christmas Holiday Chanukah Holiday Events Santa Boutique Shop Local Shopping Holiday Shopping A Christmas Story House New Year's Eve Fitness Healthy New Year Paleo Vegan Winter Lunch Record Shops Fireplaces Bookstores Farmers Markets Coffee Coffee Shops Valentine's Day Bars Beer Breweries Cincinnati Bars & Restaurants Newport Downtown Cleveland Neighborhood Guide St. Patrick's Day Copley OH Irish Massillon OH Medina OH Findlay Market Architecture Spring Easter Pets North Canton OH Charities Giving Back Karma Keg Strongsville Cocktails Happy Hours Eco-Friendly Sustainability Festivals Summer Roadtrips Moving Tips Memorial Day Cabins Camping Glamping Summer Events Kids Gardening Home Improvement Landscaping Fourth of July Fishing Hiking Outdoors Skiing Food Trucks Nonprofits Small Businesses Lake Erie Put-in-Bay Affordable Homes Over-the-Rhine OH Luxury Hyde Park OH Alliance OH Hartville OH Instagram Instagrammers Podcasts Wooster OH Specialty Foods Museums Virtual Tours Online Resources Libraries Wineries Dessert German Village OH Downtown Columbus OH Short North OH Independence OH Rocky River OH Garrettsville OH Jackson Township OH Green OH Hudson OH Bexley OH Delaware OH Galena OH Lewis Center OH Ostrander OH Powell OH Sunbury OH Florence KY Union KY Walton KY Westerville OH Lancaster OH Fayette County OH Blacklick OH Canal Winchester OH Clintonville OH Gahanna OH Grandview Heights OH Grove City OH Groveport OH Hilliard OH Granville OH Johnstown OH Louisville OH Worthington OH London OH Marysville OH New Albany OH Obetz OH Reynoldsburg OH Upper Arlington OH Whitehall OH Pataskala OH Mount Sterling OH West Jefferson OH Pickaway County OH Carrollton OH Beachwood OH Bedford OH Brecksville OH Avon OH Amherst OH Brunswick OH Aurora OH Canal Fulton OH Barberton OH Bolivar OH Burlington KY Western Hills OH West Chester OH Seven Hills OH Tremont OH Westlake OH Wadsworth OH Streetsboro OH Ravenna OH Perry Township OH Sandyville OH Uniontown OH Waynesburg OH Malvern OH Lake Mohawk OH Mayfield Heights OH Middleburg Heights OH Ohio City OH Pepper Pike OH Magnolia OH Navarre OH Plain Township OH Munroe Falls OH New Philadelphia OH Delaware County OH Elyria OH East Sparta OH Cuyahoga Falls OH Fairlawn OH Dover OH Union County OH Carroll County OH Fairfield County OH Franklin County OH Hamilton County OH Licking County OH Lorain County OH Madison County OH Portage County OH Summit County OH Tuscarawas County OH Wayne County OH Augusta, KY Wedding Venues Local Businesses Parks Farms Theater Boone County Chillicothe New Construction Homes for Sale Ohio
October
22

While podcasts have been around for a while, over the past few years they've gained more popularity, with news outlets, journalists and small business owners delving into the audio-blogging world. Podcasts make it easier to get your news on the go, and since you can download them straight to your phone, you can listen whenever you have time.

Because of the DIY nature of podcasts, they can actually flourish in places other than media hubs like Los Angeles and New York—and Cincinnati is no exception! Our amazing city has seen an abundance of local podcasts poppi...

Click Here to Read More...

October
8

'Tis the season to dress up as your inner hero or villain and get free candy! The most committed of trick-or-treaters are already forming their routes and strategies for a successful night of trick-or-treating. When it comes time to knock on doors, there are several fail-safe methods for filling your bag with sweets. Of course, part of it has to do with wearing the perfect costume, but choosing a route that is safe, walkable and full of friendly, candy-bearing houses is just as important.

We rounded up the neighborhoods in Cincinnati that are the most ideal for trick-or-treaters. If you are new to the area or want to try some new locations to maximize your trick-or-treating loot, these are the spots where you want to ring doorbells!

Use our interactive map to find the best trick-or-treating neighborhood near you! 

Hyde Park

This upscale neighborhood located just east of town is known for its popular shopping district, safe streets and beautiful homes. The spacious front yards are always filled with crowd-pleasing decorations, and residents of the homes will generously dole out candy to those who approach their door. Regardless of what route you take, you will surely be met with friendly faces and other fun-loving families taking part in the candy hunt. For some extra fun before Halloween, make sure to stop by Hyde Park Square on October 29 for Halloween on the Square!

 

Mt. Lookout

Columbus Halloween Events

This Halloween, make your way to Mt. Lookout, located on the east side of Cincinnati next to Hyde Park, for a warm, welcoming atmosphere, extravagant Halloween decorations, and (most importantly) plenty of candy. Known as an accessible, family-friendly neighborhood, the streets of Mt. Lookout are filled with children of all ages on Halloween night. Make a day of it and check out the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in costume before trick-or-treating starts!

 

Deer Park

Known as a safe, family-friendly community with plenty of small-town charm, Deer Park is a prime location for trick-or-treaters on Halloween night. The streets in this area are well-lit, very walkable and incredibly festive. Because the area is such a well-kept secret on Halloween night, a huge candy haul is inevitable—so don't forget to bring an extra bag!

 

Oakley

The well-lit, decorated streets in Oakley make it an ideal location for trick-or-treaters. On Halloween night, expect the neighborhood to be teeming with foot traffic! The residents welcome locals and visitors alike with open arms, doling out generous amounts of candy and other goodies. And if you happen to be a little too old for trick-or-treating these days—no problem! Several businesses around the area are planning on hosting Halloween parties this year, including the 20th Century Theater who will be hosting their annual Oakley Masquerade on November 1st.

 

College Hill

College Hill is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Cincinnati, welcoming anyone and everyone to their park-like streets on Halloween. The residents go all-out every year, slinging pumpkins, fake spiderwebs, eerie skeletons and spooky lights on every surface they can reach. The area also happens to be home to Mark Wiechman, a Halloween enthusiast who has been putting on a massive haunted house to scare families for more than 50 years. So put on your costume and head to 6791 Marvin Avenue, Cincinnati in North College Hill to start your spooky night off right. The haunted house experience is completely free, but they do accept donations for the Pray, Hope and Believe Foundation.

 

Mt. Washington

If you're a resident of the Mt. Washington neighborhood, make sure to get extra treats! This area transforms into a Halloween stomping ground for little monsters and their families on All Hallow's Eve. Also make sure to come back to the area the weekend after Halloween for the neighborhood's annual Pumpkin Chuck, where they'll launch leftover pumpkins from trebuchets and enjoy live music, craft beer, kids games and more!

 

Wyoming

Located about 15 miles from downtown Cincinnati, Wyoming is a quiet suburb full of tree-lined streets and historic sights. This year, the community is planning on handing out goodies from 6-8 p.m. on the 31st. If you're lucky, you might even snag a cup of hot apple cider or a bag of freshly popped popcorn.

 

Price Hill & West Price Hill

Fall Events in Cleveland Ohio

Just west of Cincinnati lie the Price Hill and West Price Hill neighborhoods, a candy-hunter's haven on Halloween night. An estimated 500+ trick-or-treaters gather in the area on the spooky holiday to beg for candy, popcorn and other tasty treats! Important note: Residents of Price Hill turn OFF their lights if they are giving out candy and turn ON their lights if they are not.

 

Pleasant Ridge

Located in Northeast Cincinnati, Pleasant Ridge is a charming neighborhood and very popular among families. The residents take their Halloween festivities seriously, hosting several Halloween events—including an annual pub crawl and Ghoul Fest—prior to October 31, and decorating their homes to the nines for trick-or-treating shenanigans.

 

Have a Great Halloween!

Did we miss your favorite spot to go trick-or-treating in the Cincinnati area? Tell us all about it in the comments or on Instagram using #CutlerExplores!

September
3

Named after the fashionable neighborhood in New York City, Hyde Park in Cincinnati oozes charm and luxury from every vantage point. The neighborhood was established in 1892 by several prominent Cincinnati businessmen who wanted to create a community exclusively for the city's wealthy citizens. Initially, only those deemed worthy by the gentlemen were able to purchase homes here, but the area has gained a lot of diversity since the early 1900s.

Today, Hyde Park is home to delicious restaurants, incredible boutiques, award-winning wineries and stunning parks—the only challenge is deciding what to see first!

Our guide includes the best ways to spend your day, starting with a visit to The Echo for breakfast and ending with stargazing at the Cincinnati Observatory and a nightcap at Dutch's. Enjoy!

9 a.m. — Breakfast at The Echo

Before you truly start your Hyde Park adventure, you'll need to fuel up. The Echo is one of the hottest breakfast spots in Cincinnati and has served the neighborhood for decades. Due to the friendly staff and comforting fare, the eatery has established itself as a local institution that people return to week after week. We love classics like the Oktoberfest omelet (featuring Glier's goetta), the corned beef hash, and the Belgian bird breakfast sandwich (with chicken tenders, a fried egg, cheddar and syrup).

 

10:30 — Go Shopping in Hyde Park Square

 
View this post on Instagram
 

A post shared by My Cincinnati Condo (@mycincinnaticondo) on

It isn't a day in Hyde Park without shopping. Located in the center of the neighborhood is Hyde Park Square, a two-block area on Erie Avenue that is full of one-of-a-kind shops. Spend a few hours exploring the streets and stopping into interesting stores. A few of our favorites include Cincy Shirts, Alligator Purse, 45/46, Soho Boutique and Fazel Rug Gallery.

 

1 p.m. — Lunch at Arthur's Café

For one of the best burgers in Cincinnati, you have to check out Arthur's Café. This casual and laid-back spot is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat during your Hyde Park adventure—or pretty much any other time. They have a great selection of local craft beers on tap, as well as some carefully crafted cocktails. Everything on their menu is especially good, but we highly recommend the black bean burger with a side of their homemade pink salsa!

 

2:30 p.m. — Peruse Some Great Art at the Miller Gallery

Hyde Park Guide

Photo courtesy of the Miller Gallery | Featuring Work From Robert Mars, 40" x 60" Mixed Media

Established in 1960, the Miller Gallery is Cincinnati's oldest operating art gallery, specializing in contemporary art and sculptures. Their renowned exhibits actively promote over 40 artists in the global art market, featuring everything from photography to traditional painting. Take a breather and stop in to peruse some incredible artwork from local artists (and maybe purchase a piece) before heading on to your next destination.

 

4 p.m. — Refuel at the Coffee Emporium

Need a midday pick-me-up? We've got just the place! The Coffee Emporium has gained quite the reputation over the years—and with the gorgeous Victorian touches, outdoor patio and tasty bites, we're not surprised. This stop is a must for out-of-town guests and remains a local favorite. While you can't go wrong with any of the signature sips, we go wild over the cold brew aged in bourbon barrels.

 

5:30 p.m. — Marvel at the Mushroom House

 
View this post on Instagram
 

A post shared by Ohio Explored (@ohioexplored) on

When you leave the Coffee Emporium, you'll notice something across the street. While you might feel like you've just been dropped into a Cincinnati-fied version of Alice in Wonderland, don't worry—it's just the Mushroom House! This architectural wonder was created after a local architect allowed his students to redesign one of his properties. While you can't go inside this adorably whimsical home, it's still definitely worth walking by and snapping a few pictures.

 

6 p.m. — Dinner at Forno Osteria+Bar

When you're looking for some seriously good food in Cincinnati, there's no better place to go than Forno! This incredible, rustic and approachable Italian restaurant offers some of the most delicious dishes around, from Gorgonzola Tortelloni to Spaghettini Arrabbiata. If you're in the area on a Tuesday, you won't want to miss their Bolo Tuesday special where $12 will get you some pasta with Bolognese sauce, bread and a few trips to the salad bar.

 

8:00 p.m. — Stargaze at the Cincinnati Observatory

Photo courtesy of the Cincinnati Observatory

In 1842, Cincinnati professor Ormsby MacKnight Mitchel had a dream: to build a local observatory in the heart of Cincinnati that would help expand astronomy research. He went door to door, soliciting $25 a person to invest in his endeavor. Eventually, he was able to make his dream a reality, with the observatory building coming to fruition in 1843. The building served as a strictly research-focused center until 1999, when it was resurrected into a center for astronomy education. While you're in the area, a visit to this exquisite historic building is a must. And if you happen to be exploring on a Thursday or Friday—you'll definitely want to stop in for their weekly public stargazing sessions, just don't forget to RSVP online before you go!

 

9:30 p.m. — Late Night Bites at Dutch's

This intimate local favorite is the perfect place to finish off the night. Not only do they offer the widest selection of refrigerated beer in the region, but you can also order an incredibly delicious charcuterie board made with locally sourced ingredients—all for a great price!

 

Happy Exploring!

Do you have a suggestion on what we should add to our itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

August
2

Unbeknownst to many, Cincinnati just happens to be an antiquing destination—home to some of the largest yard sales, antique stores and vintage shops in the nation!  People from all around the country come to our area just for our amazing selection of antique shops. That's why we rounded up a few of our favorites in the area. On this list, you'll find everything from small shops to massive antique malls—all of which offer a trove of hidden treasures for you to explore!

Every Now & Then Antique Furniture Mall

Click Here to Read More...

May
30

Cincinnati is an incredible city located on the banks of the Ohio River bursting with plenty of great restaurants, picturesque parks, breweries, beautiful homes and a great community of residents — so we don't blame you for wantin...

Click Here to Read More...

⇦ Newer PostsOlder Posts ⇨

Login to My Homefinder

Pixel