
While crafts have long been popular recreational activities in the United States, 2020 saw a surge in people picking up these relaxing pastimes. CNN reports that crafting provides valuable stress relief and improves cognitive abilities that keep your brain young.
Unleash your inner creativity with projects and supplies from these great craft stores around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1878 Pearl Rd., Brunswick, OH 44212
When it comes to paper, if you can't find it at Hollo's Papercraft, it doesn't exist. The warehouse-like store has shelf after shelf full of card stock, envelopes, stationery, and blank greeting cards in every color and style imaginable. Design to your heart's content with their amazing variety of pens, markers, stamps, stickers, and other artistic tools. Hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
15709 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
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In name and practice, The Quilting Bee honors the craft as a means of both individual expression and social connection. You'll be inspired by the impressive array of fabrics, organized by theme, designer, and color. Be sure to check out "Our Favorite Things," an assortment of supplies and accessories chosen by the shop's staff. Shop online for curbside pickup or delivery. The Quilting Bee is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
20085 Chagrin Blvd., Shaker Heights, OH 44122
After numerous conversations about what they wanted to see in a yarn shop, Pam Berkson and Beth Billings decided the solution was DIY and Around the Table Yarns was born. Customers are encouraged to post photos of their "Fabulous Finished Objects" for a chance to win gift cards. Hours for curbside assistance and pickup only are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The online shop is open 24/7 and there are two daily Zoom sessions for shopping, help, and socializing.
743 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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With so much interaction occurring online, eye-catching letters, invitations, and greeting cards are a fun way to make your communication stand out. On Paper has an extensive range of products, including gifts such as picture frames, ornaments, and guest towels, that can be personalized for added appeal. Brighten up your private writing with one of their stylish journals and notebooks. Embellish them with stickers and stamps to create your own individual design. Visit their new location Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
3607 Interchange Rd., Columbus, OH 43204
True to its name, Crafters Pantry serves as a convenient "storage" for your materials and supplies. Whether crafting is your hobby or business, Crafters Pantry can quickly provide whatever you need, when you need it. The shop buys in bulk from manufacturers and uses their own equipment to create smaller, more affordable pieces than you would be able to get directly. Order online for quick shipping.
4436 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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614 Knit Studio proclaims they are "fluent in fiber," and their goal is to help the local community become equally articulate. Owner Andrea Panzica has a strong background in fashion design and uses her experience to curate a yarn boutique with products from top independent dyers and artisans. The studio also offers a robust schedule of in-person and virtual classes focused on specific projects as well as general topics, such as knitting for beginners and spinning your own yarn. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday, 1 - 8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday.
735 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
Frequently named as the best yarn shop in the Cincinnati area, Knit On! lets you shop for yarns from around the world without leaving home. In addition to purchasing from the shop's own inventory, you can place a drop-ship order from one of their suppliers. Knit On! is currently open from 2 - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping. Call ahead to inquire about individual appointments outside regular store hours.
1334 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The quirky name isn't the only unique feature of Indigo Hippo. Founded as the brainchild of a group of Cincinnati art students, Indigo Hippo is a nonprofit "creative reuse" shop. Donated materials are sold under a price range, allowing customers to pay what they can so arts and crafts are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Shopping is currently by appointment Thursday through Friday from noon - 5 p.m., although walk-ins are admitted as space permits.
1207 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Carolyn Deininger has always loved the promise held by a blank sheet of paper. When Carolyn and husband Mike began receiving requests for more paper goods at their gallery MiCA 12/v, she saw it as the perfect excuse to open Paper Wings. The shop carries a lovingly curated selection of cards, notebooks, and accessories along with works from local artists. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m. Their online shop is open 24/7, with free delivery within the Cincinnati 275 area.
Do you have a handmade item in your Ohio home that holds a special memory?

When you're looking for special items for your home or a unique gift that didn't come from a big-box store, an antique shop makes the perfect destination. You'll find treasures that have withstood the test of time and add special character to your décor, and besides that, it's just fun to browse in these shops!
Find out why everything old is new again at these nine Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati antique shops:
1489 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
If you're looking for antiques, you're sure to find something at Grandview Mercantile, the largest store of its kind in the Midwest. It comprises 22,000 square feet of antiques and home items from 20 dealers and over 500 consignors. You can buy everything from fine art to vintage and estate jewelry at the store, and its inventory is constantly changing. Whether you're looking to decorate your new home or are searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, you're likely to find it at Grandview Mercantile. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday.
1580 Clara St., Columbus, OH 43211
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Located near the State Fairgrounds, Columbus Architectural Salvage Antiques & Artifacts is a unique 10,000-square-foot store that specializes in fixtures and other items that were salvaged from historic homes and properties. The shop's doors, windows, bathtubs, lighting fixtures, doorknobs, and other items can help make your décor interesting while giving it an authentic touch of the past. In addition to architectural items, the shop also carries vintage signs, artwork, home décor, and more. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday by appointment only.
1128-1130 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
Mary Catherine's Antiques encompasses two large storerooms in Columbus' Short North Arts District and has sold special antique and retro pieces since the late 1970s. They're stocked with antique and vintage furniture, artwork, jewelry, advertising signs, jewelry, and much more. Rounding out the inventory are unusual items from the mid to late 20th century, such as a recently sold vintage canoe. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and by appointment.
1410 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The best-selling items at Wooden Nickel Antiques may come as a slight surprise since they're so unique. The shop specializes in antique saloon back bars – most of which are from the late 1800s to the early 1900s – that they restore, so if you're planning to upgrade your home entertainment area, you might check them out. You'll also be able to find plenty of fireplace mantles, architectural salvage items, stained glass, furniture, and much more as you browse through their ever-changing items. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
339 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
Nestled in the heart of Clifton's Gaslight Business District, Lentz and Company prides itself in making its shop a fun treasure hunt where you're sure to find something you want to take home. If you're looking for furniture, kitchenware, bar accessories, art, or jewelry that's special, you'll be able to find it at this antique shop. Hours are 2-7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 2-8 p.m. Friday, noon-7 p.m. Saturday, and 1-5 p.m., but when the weather's nice and people are out and about in the area, the shop stays open later.
3742 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
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Riverside Centre Antique Mall has been described as "a fun, funky 30,000-square-foot treasure trove" by Cincinnati Magazine, which contrasts it with musty old antique malls of the past. The shop sells furniture, salvaged architectural items, jewelry, and more and is a frequent destination for set designers for television shows and movies. The shop has earned a reputation for a family-like atmosphere and serves coffee and cookies to its customers on the weekends. Hours are noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
7501 Lorain Rd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Sweet Lorain is celebrating its 29th year of helping Northeast Ohio residents find one-of-a-kind treasures. With over 8,000 square feet of merchandise to choose from, the shop truly has something for everyone. Find a vintage toy and relive your childhood, buy some travel-related mementos from Ohio, or spruce up your kitchen with some vintage canisters. Although the shop is packed with goodies, it's well organized into logical sections so you can find the areas you're most interested in. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday and Monday and noon-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.
11917 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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Located in the historic Little Italy neighborhood of Cleveland, Moonstruck CLE Vintage has a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The shop has a wide variety of vintage wares, including accessories, home décor, clothing, kitchen items, books, jewelry, and more. The search is half of the fun, but chances are good that you'll find something you love enough to buy and give a cherished spot in your home. Hours are 3-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday by appointment.
11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Stepping into Flower Child is like stepping into the past since items are displayed as they would have been when they were originally sold. You'll be able to browse in a living room that looks like it's been transported from the '50s and walk over to a plush bedroom from the '60s. The shop has an excellent mid-century collection of items, and the staff is happy to help you find some treasures. Hours are noon-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday; noon-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
What are some special treasures you've found at antique shops in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Northeast Ohio?

Itching to explore the diverse Ohio dining scene and take your taste buds on a trip to Mexico? Whether you're in the mood for curbside pickup, contactless delivery, or socially distanced in-person dining, you'll find countless fantastic, authentic Mexican dining options throughout Ohio communities. From tiny, well-known neighborhood taquerias to luxurious dining destinations with built-in bars, you'll find something for every taste at Ohio's many Mexican restaurants. Get ready to satisfy your craving for authentic Mexican food with our guide to 9 Mexican restaurants located in Ohio communities.
1779 E Market St., Akron, OH 44305
Known for its upbeat atmosphere, friendly staff, delicious drinks, and extensive menu of authentic, flavorful food, Azteca Mexican Restaurant is your destination for Mexican dining in Akron. Azteca Mexican Restaurant strives to create an inviting, family-focused atmosphere, whether you're dining in, enjoying a meal on the outdoor patio, or simply stopping by to pick up a takeout order. If you're searching for a restaurant that offers diverse vegetarian options, this is the perfect place to visit. Online ordering is available anytime, so all you have to do is stop by and pick up your meal.
12501 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
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Our journey around Northeast Ohio wouldn't be complete without a trip to the excellent Tapatias Taqueria located in Cleveland. Originally known for its legendary street tacos, this restaurant has grown into one of the city's best all-around Mexican restaurants. It's a casual dining destination with all of your favorite Mexican meals on the menu, along with a full bar serving the best Mexican beer and spirits. Everything on the menu is made from scratch, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. You can place your order online with the full lunch/dinner menu available for delivery throughout the Cleveland area, or stop by this neighborhood favorite to pick up your food at the curb.
3212 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708
When you're searching for a family-style Mexican meal in Canton, be sure to make a trip to El Rincon Mexican Restaurant. During these unique times, El Rincon is offering drive-thru pickup, so you can grab your favorite Mexican dishes without ever leaving the comfort of your vehicle. There are extensive specials available for both lunch and dinner, with steak, seafood, chicken, and vegetarian dishes available. Be sure to check out the website for some great coupons and deals before you order.
5221 Godown Rd., Columbus, OH 43235
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You'll have no shortage of outstanding options for Mexican food in Columbus, including the popular Los Gauchos Taqueria. While everything on the menu is excellent, Los Gauchos Taqueria is especially well-known for its famous Tacos al Pastor. These delicious tacos feature marinated pork, pineapple, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and other fresh ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. The original restaurant was so popular that there are now four locations in the city, so you can always find a convenient place to enjoy your Mexican favorites.
2700 Northland Plaza Dr., Columbus, OH 43231
A colorful, inviting restaurant with a reputation for serving excellent, contemporary Mexican meals, Fiesta Jalisco stands out among a great selection of Mexican restaurants in Columbus. The menu here is focused on the unique combination of Spanish and Indian flavors that have influenced Mexican cooking for centuries, with fresh ingredients that bring out the best in every meal. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a full, satisfying meal, you're sure to find what you seek when you order from Fiesta Jalisco.
4775 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43213
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Known for its enchiladas, shrimp quesadillas, nachos supreme, and much more, Mi Mexico Restaurant is a classic Columbus dining destination with a reputation for excellence. Everything is made fresh to order, and there are always new daily specials when you're in the mood for something different from the regular menu. There's also a unique rewards program, perfect for regular customers who want to earn a delicious, free meal. Place your order online for quick, convenient service, then pick it up at the curb or enjoy fast delivery throughout the Columbus area.
Incline District, 3108 Price Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45205
Family owned and operated with a convenient location in the middle of Cincinnati's Incline District, Veracruz Mexican Grill has long been a local favorite. Looking for a local Mexican restaurant with an extensive menu of vegetarian options? Then Veracruz Mexican Grill is sure to satisfy your craving. Of course, there are plenty of other great options on the menu as well, with all of the meat on the menu marinated in house. Place your order online for takeout/delivery during lunch and dinner hours every day.
611 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Living in Cincinnati means you're never far from your next great meal, and Mazunte Centro is a perfect place to start when you're in the mood for Mexican food. The menu here is as simple as it is delicious, with tacos, tostadas, tortas, tlayudas, soups, and a tempting selection of sides. There are multiple delivery options so you can use your favorite delivery service, along with convenient carryout options so you can skip the line.
316 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
With soups, salads, steak, burritos, appetizers, and so much more, Los Potrillos Mexican Restaurant brings the flavors of Mexico to the heart of Cincinnati. There are unique daily specials available every day of the week, including drink specials on some of your favorite Mexican drinks from the bar. Simply place your order online, schedule your delivery at your convenience, and get ready to enjoy an authentic Mexican meal from the comfort of home.
Which small business will you order from?

Why not make 2021 the year you get to know the wonderful local businesses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati? Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts want to get you started with January's selection of free offers.
37 - 1st St. SW, Massillon, OH 44647
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Don't feel like cooking? Kozmo's Grille has a tempting assortment of upscale bar food favorites such as house-made potato chips, hearthstone pizza, and gourmet mac and cheese. Dine in or order ahead for carryout.
From its setting in a modestly updated historic building to its menu of elevated comfort food, Kozmo's Grille has a goal to be "just different enough." Customers keep coming back for their award-winning pizza, prepared with homemade dough and baked in a hearthstone oven.
330.832.8807
Monday - Friday 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
1947 W. Market St. #104, Akron, OH 44313
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Who doesn't love a good sandwich? The healthy, made-to-order deli sandwiches at Niko's Sandwich Board include vegan and vegetarian options, so there's something to satisfy everyone's tastes.
With its emphasis on fruits and vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and whole grains, the Mediterranean diet has gained acclaim as a heart-healthy way of eating. Niko's Sandwich Board features traditional favorites from the owner's home island of Ikaria, including falafel, curried lentil, garbanzo salad, and pita bread.
330.794.5444
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
3210 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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Whether you're starting your day or need a quick pick-me-up, coffee and a pastry does the trick. Stop by Red Tree Gallery and Coffee for a freshly brewed cup of joe and locally-sourced pastry to go with it.
Red Tree Gallery and Coffee loves to showcase products and talent from the Cincinnati community. In addition to serving coffee and pastry from local vendors, Red Tree maintains a gallery where customers can view and purchase jewelry, paintings, and other works from regional artisans.
513.321.8733
Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
745 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43125
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One Line Coffee combines the finest globally- and locally-sourced ingredients for a menu of creative beverages for purists and adventurous souls alike. Pair your drink with a scratch-made cookie, muffin, or scone from OLC's own kitchen.
Quality ingredients call for quality equipment. One Line Coffee uses the La Marzocco Strada LP, one of the rarest machines in the world, to pull espresso for their extensive offering of coffee drinks. Their signature honey and maple lattes are sweetened with products from nearby Honey Run Farm and Milligan's. Order online and your carryout order will be ready when you are.
614.564.9852
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
116 N. Main St., Orrville, OH 44667
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If you have a sweet tooth, cupcakes are one of the four main food groups. You'll be hooked on these mini delicacies from The Faithful Little Cupcake, which are matched only by the excellence of their delightful cookies.
At The Faithful Little Cupcake, variety is the spice of life. Each day features a rotating selection from their 100+ flavors along with a core menu of the six most popular flavors. Not surprisingly, one of them is Buckeye Blitz, a chocolate cupcake topped with peanut butter buttercream, ganache, and a buckeye. Have a special occasion coming up? Ask about their custom-designed cupcakes and cookies.
330.683.2253
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
103 Liberty St., Medina, OH 44256
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When it comes to coffee, are you old school or do you go trendy with lattes and cappuccinos? Whichever you prefer, you'll come away happy after a visit to Cool Beans Cafe. Add one of their luscious pastries for a great light breakfast or midday snack.
Voted "Best Coffee in Medina County" the last seven out of nine years, Cool Beans Cafe literally has a winning formula. The espresso bar offers five different blends of brewed coffee, including Flavor of the Day, along with a full range of specialty drinks such as lattes, chai tea, Italian sodas, and smoothies. Customers have been impressed with the knowledgeable baristas and their ability to make special request drinks not on the menu.
330.723.7174
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Who doesn't love free stuff? Every month, Cutler Real Estate teams up with LoLo Gifts to provide a new selection of offers designed to showcase local small businesses.
It doesn't even cost anything to join! Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.

January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.
Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:
342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256
The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.
19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116
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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677
Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.
631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206
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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.
2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209
Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.
25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015
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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.
3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?