
People around the world love going out to see a performance of The Nutcracker at Christmastime. Whether it's a yearly tradition for your family or something you've always wanted to experience, you don't have to go far from home to see a performance of this classic ballet.
From high-production traditional versions to newer interpretations, there are so many places around Ohio where you can see a live performance of The Nutcracker this Christmas. Let's look at a few of the most popular in greater detail below.
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Every year around Christmas, the Ohio Theater hosts the talented artists of Ohio's BalletMet for a series of performances of The Nutcracker. This year, shows will run from December 8 all the way up to Christmas Eve. This production is extremely well-crafted, boasting gorgeous sets and visual effects as well as world-class dancing from the BalletMet's company dancers and students. With more than two weeks' worth of performances in Columbus' premier theater, you're sure to be able to fit one into your busy holiday schedule.
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
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Yes, you read that right: The Ohio Theater offers an additional performance of The Nutcracker. This time, it's a special performance called My First Nutcracker, taking place on December 22 at 11 a.m. This show is a slightly abridged version of the full BalletMet version designed to make the experience better for families with young children and people with disabilities like autism. The shorter 1-hour performance time, smaller crowds, dimmed house lights, and quieter music all help make this version much easier for kids to sit through. If your kids do get antsy, audience members are invited to get up and move around during the performance or even leave the theatre if they need to.
182 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308
Looking for a laugh or two this Christmas? On December 2 at 7 p.m., the Akron Civic Theatre will be hosting a performance of The Nutty Nutcracker, a parody version of the classic show. This production is an adults-only campy comedy that still showcases plenty of excellent ballet dancing. It turns the elegant timelessness of the original on its head in a way that veteran Nutcracker fans are sure to appreciate, and if nothing else, it's great for a fun, lighthearted night out during a hectic holiday season.
198 Hill Street, Akron, OH 44325
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The University of Akron's Dance Institute is partnering with the Verb Ballet's company dancers for a repeat performance of last year's hit new show, The Akron Nutcracker. This adapted version of the original aims to tell the classic story within a recreation of the Akron of the 1930s, complete with iconic local landmarks like Polsky's Department Store and the Stan Hywet estate. This limited-run Northeast Ohio show is being performed Dec. 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. each evening, so it's a great family activity to help you build up to the big day.
500 Lakeside Avenue East, Cleveland, OH 44114
If you want to see a world-class production of The Nutcracker right here in Ohio, check out this year's performance of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet on Saturday, December 10 at the Cleveland Public Auditorium Music Hall. This year marks the 30th anniversary of this adaptation of the classic ballet, and its goals of spreading world peace and harmony are more important now than ever. Come see the artistry of some of Ukraine's top ballet dancers as they bring this dazzling show to life – it's an experience you'll never forget.
1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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A yearly staple at the Cincinnati Music Hall, The Nutcracker is arguably the most popular show performed by the Cincinnati Ballet. It's a great excuse to watch some of Ohio's most talented dancers practice their craft. And because it's so popular, you can expect high production values that will make the experience even more worthwhile. This year's performances run from December 15 all the way up to Christmas Eve, so find a free day on your calendar and book your tickets!
650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telling a familiar story from a new perspective is a great way to make it feel fresh and current again. On December 9 and 10, the Aronoff Center for the Arts will be hosting Nutcracker Hot Chocolate, a modernized version of The Nutcracker that has been adapted to showcase African American performers and culture. Acclaimed dance icon Debbie Allen created the show in 2008 to help inspire young dancers of color to keep pursuing their dreams. It's won a bevy of awards since then and continues to be a favorite of families everywhere.
317 East 5th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The Nutcracker may be traditionally staged as a ballet, but who says it has to be? The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines this classic show as a thrilling hip-hop dance exhibition that is sure to make you think about Tchaikovsky's music in a whole new way. This touring performance will be stopping in Cincinnati for a show at the Taft Theatre on December 1 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. The tour features rapper Kurtis Blow as the show's MC, as well as a full troupe of talented artists dancing on a set that recreates modern-day New York City with gorgeous graffiti lighting effects.
Which of these exciting performances of The Nutcracker will you be seeing this holiday season?

The holiday season is fast approaching, and now is the perfect time to start planning for some enchanting family fun. With events like the Christmas Connection in Northeast Ohio, A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage in Columbus, A 19th Century Holiday Guided Tour near Cincinnati, and many more, you have tons of great options no matter which corner of Ohio you call home. Here are some events to look forward to as you plan for the holidays in Ohio.
605 N. Market Ave., Canton, OH 44702
Featuring former members of The Temptations, The Miracles, and The Contours, A Motown Christmas puts a soulful spin on your favorite classic holiday tunes. This family-friendly performance will be held on November 17, 2022, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. at the gorgeous Canton Palace Theater, and is sure to have you dancing in the aisles. Bring the whole family for a memorable night of music, choreography, and fun surprises to kick off the holiday season in style.
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Settle in for an evening of holiday music, spectacular acrobatics, and unforgettable performances when you attend Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall on the University of Akron campus. Featuring performers from around the world, a spectacular stage set, and an original score mixed with holiday classics, this show is sure to dazzle audience members of all ages. The show kicks off on December 6, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., with 20 unique acts leading you through an evening of holiday wonder, whimsy, and delight.
250 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
Enjoy sweet, holiday-themed fun for the whole family when you attend Holiday Cookie Camp with the Kids at Mitchell Hall on the Columbus State Community College Campus. Learn how to dazzlingly decorate holiday treats from chocolate-dipped pretzel rods to sweet sugar cookies, then finish off the event by sampling some of your creations paired with a delicious mug of hot chocolate. The fun starts on December 10, 2022, at 11 a.m., with instruction from chef Shawnie Kelley.
1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, OH 44135
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Get a head start on your holiday shopping while enjoying plenty of attractions and activities for younger family members when you visit the Christmas Connection in Cleveland. The event will take place November 18-20, 2022, at the International Exposition Center, with hundreds of vendors selling gifts for even the hardest to shop for people on your list. The kids will love visiting Santa Land, where they can meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. There's even a Sugar Plum Shoppe featuring thousands of pre-wrapped, affordable items perfect for kids with their own shopping lists.
34 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Turn back the clock and enjoy a true holiday classic for all ages with A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage at the Palace Theater in Columbus. This new touring show brings A Charlie Brown Christmas to the theater stage with all of your favorite characters and songs. The show starts at 6 p.m. on November 27, 2022, the perfect family activity to wrap up Thanksgiving weekend this year.
160 Easton Town Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43219
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Get ready for a night of dazzling lights, shopping, entertainment, and family fun with Easton's Grand Illumination at the Easton Town Center. There will be live music, costumed characters, holiday decorations, and plenty of fun activities for the youngest members of the family. The evening is highlighted by the Grand Illumination at 7 p.m. when more than 2 million lights will be turned on simultaneously to light up Easton Town Center. Easton's Grand Illumination will take place on November 18, 2022, from 6-9 p.m.
650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Prepare to be amazed by incredible illusions and marvelous magic for the whole family with The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays at the Aronoff Center for the Arts in Cincinnati. This fun, fast-paced show has delighted audiences around the globe, featuring some of the world's most talented illusionists and magicians. The show starts at 7:30 PM on November 25, 2022, ideal for an evening of family fun after a day of Black Friday shopping.
11500 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241
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The Heritage Village Museum is a living history museum that will transport your family to a different era, and the holiday season is an excellent time to visit. The museum will host A 19th Century Guided Holiday Tour, which will take your family throughout the historical Heritage Village to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season while learning how holiday traditions have evolved over centuries. Tours leave every hour on November 30 – December 3 and December 7-9, 2022, from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.
Where will you be celebrating the season in Ohio this year?

From haunted houses to immersive experiences to real sites with a ghostly history, October has a plethora of fun and spooky things to see and do. But it's hard to know where all the best Halloween events are if you've just moved to a new area. Ohio is full of spooky destinations you won't want to miss. Here are some of our favorite haunts, tours, and other Halloween events near Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
605 Market Ave. N, Canton, OH, 44702
This one-day event runs Friday, October 28th, from 10:30 pm to 2 am and is limited to just 30 people, so get your tickets as soon as possible. Taking place at the historic Canton Palace Theatre, this is not a show or a haunt, but a real investigation into possible mysterious and paranormal goings on there, led by paranormal investigators Team S.P.E.C.T.R.E. Photographs and videos are encouraged, and attendees are welcome to bring their own ghost hunting tools, such as temperature and EMF meters, motion detectors, etc.
13463 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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While this one isn't a scary experience, if you're a fan of horror movies, you'll want to check out this restaurant. With posters and memorabilia on the walls, they serve up dishes inspired by all your favorite scary movies, from the Birdbox Sandwich (fried chicken breast with Cajun mayo, cheese, and maple sauce) to the Pennywise (red waffle sandwich with pepper jack and candied bacon) to Silence of the Lamb Chops, and more. And, of course, there's plenty of "creepy pasta" as well. They also have vegan options like the Ecto Burger, which pairs an Impossible patty with vegan pulled pork, and Children of the Street Corn. Come in for brunch or dinner to get into the Halloween spirit.
256 Mahoning Ave., Warren, OH 44483
Sponsored by the Trumbull County Historical Society, this ghost walk begins at the First Presbyterian Church and guides you through a one-mile walking tour of the historic Perkins neighborhood. Actors portray various members of the Perkins family and relate a variety of fun and chilling tales of the area. Now in its 34th year, the Ghost Walk is a favorite for children and adults alike.
325 E. Iron Ave., Dover, Ohio 44622
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The Reeves Victorian Home and Carriage House Museum has a variety of tours and events throughout the year, from tea parties to murder mystery dinners, which allow guests to explore this beautiful and historic 19th-century property. But if you're a fan of the paranormal, the one you'll most want to check out is the Ghost Tour. Happening October 14th and 15th, this guided tour will relate stories of the strange and unexplained things that have happened in the Reeves Museum, along with some old Victorian superstitions. Tours regularly from 7 pm to 10 pm, but if you're really brave, you can take the Midnight Tour!
100 Reformatory Rd., Mansfield, OH 44905
The Ohio State Reformatory is best known as the filming location for the 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption. In October, however, they use the facility in a very different way. Escape from Blood Prison is an intense haunt experience that turns the walls of the reformatory into a waking nightmare. Guests find themselves surrounded by the ghosts of some of the prison's more violent offenders and witness to the horrors that occurred there. Recommended for ages 10 and up, this is a wild ride you won't soon forget.
424 George St., Marietta, OH 45750
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Dating back to 1859, this 23-room mansion is filled with history, including connections to the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It also has a history of haunted occurrences and spooky happenings. On Saturdays in October, you can take a guided tour of the history and hauntings in this mansion. Or, if you're brave, you can take a flashlight ghost tour on Friday nights beginning at 10 pm.
118 Ridges Circle, Athens, OH 45701
What better way to celebrate spooky season than with a trip to a mental asylum? The Ridges (formerly the Athens Lunatic Asylum) treated patients for over 100 years. In addition to the facilities, there are also three cemeteries, with nearly 2,000 graves of the patients who died there over the years. Tours of the asylum are full of history, mystery, and just a bit of spine-tingling creepiness. The Halloween season isn't complete without a visit.
Hope-Moonville Road, McArthur, OH 45651
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Not a house, not a haunt, just a cool place with a spooky vibe. Formerly a railroad line leading to the town of Moonville, the line no longer runs, and Moonville is a ghost town. The tunnel is one of the only things still remaining. You can hike to it across the remains of the railroad line, and it's a great place to explore and take photos. And legend has it, the tunnel is haunted by the ghosts of railroad workers who died there. If you look closely, you can still see them waving their lanterns.
29100 W. River Rd. (OH-65), Perrysburg, OH 43551
Fort Meigs was a military base during the War of 1812. Now, you can take immersive history tours there and experience the era for yourself. But the last two weekends in October, they have a different sort of tour. Guides will take you back in time to experience a variety of unexplained occurrences that have been reported over the years. Tours are conducted entirely by lantern light, with stories told around campfires. Tours begin at 7 pm, but if you want the full experience, take the 18+ night tour at 8:45 or 9 pm.
What spooky goings-on are you looking forward to experiencing this Halloween season?

Fall is one of the most exciting times of year for festivals in Ohio communities, with celebrations of food, drink, music, history, and so much more on the schedule. Whether you visit an event like Cleveland Oktoberfest in Northeast Ohio, the Mohican Bluegrass Festival near Columbus, or the Ohio Renaissance Festival around the corner from Cincinnati, you're sure to find a place to make memories this fall. You can find information on those festivals and many more in our guide to Ohio fall festivals for 2022.
1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
The fun begins at Hartville Marketplace for the 17th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, which takes place on September 24 from 9 am to 4 pm. This family-friendly festival is filled with art, crafts, great food, live entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. Spend your day uncovering unique finds from more than 200 crafts vendors, enjoy various seasonal activities, or watch the kids have a great time playing on outdoor inflatables. Start your holiday shopping early with crafty gifts, or find the perfect piece to decorate your home.
19201 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44130
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The highly anticipated annual Cleveland Oktoberfest will occur at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds and Event Center from September 2-5, 2022. It's one of the best ways to enjoy Labor Day weekend in the city, with everything from wiener dog races to strongman competitions. Of course, there will be plenty of great beer, traditional German cuisine, and fantastic live music to enjoy all weekend long. Discover the latest beers from the best microbreweries in the Cleveland area, then cast your vote to help crown a Cleveland Oktoberfest champion.
8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
Fall is a great time to celebrate the harvest of the season, so it would be hard to pick a better time for the Apple Butter & Cider Weekend at Lake Metroparks Farmpark in Kirtland. This event takes place on October 1-2, 2022, from 9 AM through 5 PM. Learn all about how apple butter and apple cider are produced, watch traditional harvest activities, then sample the delicious dishes that result from the process. There will also be a variety of seasonal activities, highlighted by the three-acre Johnny Appleseed Trail corn maze.
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The 24th Annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a celebration of the pawpaw, North America's largest native tree fruit, taking place on September 16-18, 2022, around Lake Snowden. You will have the opportunity to sample meals that highlight the great flavor of the pawpaw, peruse pawpaw-related works of art, and enjoy tons of family-friendly activities while you explore. Enjoy live music from some of Ohio's best bands all weekend long, and be sure to check out the Kids Central area, which features plenty of fun, hands-on activities for younger visitors. Interested in the agricultural side of pawpaws? This festival also features educational panels on growing, cooking, medicinal use, sustainability, and even the genetics of the pawpaw.
22462 Wally Rd., Glenmont, OH 44628
Head to the scenic Mohican Wilderness campground for a weekend of live music and fun activities for the whole family September 15-17. The 31st Annual Mohican Bluegrass Festival features three days of live music spread across multiple stages, tons of great food from local vendors, and fun crafts from local artisans. Reserve a campsite in advance, and turn the festival into a weekend-long family vacation.
Historic Main Street, Waynesville, OH 45068
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The annual Ohio Sauerkraut Festival is always one of the biggest events of the year in Waynesville, and this year's event will be no exception. The festival takes place on October 8-9, 2022, with booths, vendors, food, drink, and activities all along Historic Main Street in Waynesville. You can try sauerkraut prepared in nearly every way imaginable, including the famous sauerkraut pizza, which tastes much better than it sounds. In addition to providing fun activities for the community, this event serves as a major fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. It even raises money for scholarships given to local graduating high school seniors.
10542 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068
Take thyself back to another era when you visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival, which will be open every weekend from September 3 through October 30, 2022. Experience a real-life recreation of a renaissance-era, 16th-century village filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors you've read about in the history books. The village will be filled with unique shops, live shows, fun activities for kids, delicious food, and games for all ages. There will be themed weekends throughout the event, like Fantasy Weekend, Pirates Weekend, Romance Weekend, and Tricks or Treats Weekend, so check the schedule to find the perfect weekend to visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival.
1241 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Coffee lovers from around Ohio and beyond will meet up for the annual Cincinnati Coffee Festival on October 22-23, 2022. It's the largest coffee festival in the Midwest, with roasters, coffee shops, bakers, and chocolatiers coming together to create a weekend that your taste buds definitely won't want to miss. The event features delicious samples, live entertainment, coffee art, demos related to all things coffee, fun competitions, and plenty of surprises along the way. And this festival isn't just about coffee! Tea and chocolate lovers will also find plenty to enjoy at the Cincinnati Coffee Festival.
No matter which corner of Ohio you call home, there are fun festivals to be enjoyed all year long. So, which festival will you fall in love with this year?

Beat the Midwest heat with a refreshing beverage to celebrate National Daiquiri Day on Tuesday, July 19. Whether you prefer frozen or on the rocks, you can't go wrong with daiquiris at these great bars and restaurants around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1313 Old River Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113
There's no mistaking the main attraction at Frozen Daiquiri Bar & Restaurant. Inspired by a daiquiri bar he visited in Miami, owner James Cleveland has fulfilled his dream of bringing the concept to Northeast Ohio. In addition to peach, strawberry, and mango, options include a Margarita daiquiri, mystery flavor, and Frozen Way with all flavors. Pair your choice with an order of boneless or bone-in chicken wings, available in 10 different sauces. Hours are 5 p.m. - 1 a.m. Wednesday through Friday and 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. weekends.
2200 S. Taylor Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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Just as the name promises, you'll feel like you're part of a secret club when visiting Quintana's Speakeasy. The first floor is a barber shop that's a throwback to the classic days of a place where customers make business deals and discuss sports. Head to the hidden bookcase passage in the back that leads upstairs to the bar. Be sure to order the Hemingway Daiquiri with light rum, lime and grapefruit juices, and Luxardo liqueur. Check the website for information about live music shows and special events such as "Prohibition 101 - Learn Hands-On Classic Craft Cocktails." Quintana's Speakeasy is open Tuesday through Saturday from 3 - midnight.
4866 Richmond Rd., Cleveland, OH 44128
Mexican restaurants might make you immediately think of Margaritas, but they also mix a mean daiquiri at Don Ramon. Choose from six different fruit flavors that come by the pint, jumbo-size, small pitcher, or large pitcher. The food menu features a wide range of traditional Mexican favorites, from nachos and fajitas to burritos and enchiladas. Customers love the spacious dining room with soft lighting, delightful Mexican music, and friendly servers. Hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily except Sunday when closing time is 9 p.m.
26 W. Olentangy St., Powell, OH 43065
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The vibe at Huli Huli Tiki Lounge & Bar is so authentic that you'll feel the tropical breezes blowing through your hair. Part of the fun is the drink presentation, with colorful glasses holding traditional flowers and parasols. The pineapple daiquiri gets a little extra kick from spiced syrup. Try the signature Tiki fries, tossed in a house spice blend and topped with Kalua pork, Bang Bang sauce, and pineapple salsa. Watch their Facebook page for information about special rum tasting events. Huli Huli is open 4 - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 - 10:30 p.m. Friday, 1 - 10:30 p.m. Saturday, and 1 - 9 p.m. Sunday.
839 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43214
Craft cocktails meet New England seafood at Kai's Crab Boil. Their namesake meals come with your choice of seafood, boiled in one of three different sauces and spiced in five levels, from "No Heat" to "OMG." Combos include two types of seafood and three add-ons, ideal for sharing. Daiquiris come in strawberry, pineapple, and mango, with three sizes available. Hours are 4 - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 - 10 p.m. Friday, noon - 10 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.
985 W. 6th Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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Old-school cocktails get a contemporary update at The Bar at Echo Spirits. Founders Nikhil Sharoff and Joe Bidinger have a mission to create artisan spirits that honor history and flavor. The drinks are bestowed with charming names that are as inventive as the recipes. A Bell Through the Night is a daiquiri for "lovers of meadows and witchy things," made with Echo Spirits rum, jasmine cordial, honeysuckle, and lime. Need some time to decide? Order a Snaquiri, a miniature daiquiri made with bartender's choice. Feel free to bring in off-site food or purchase from one of the food trucks that are usually on hand. Hours are 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. - midnight Friday and Saturday, and 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday.
22 E. 14th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
One customer aptly described the ambiance at Lost & Found OTR as "a work of modern pop art." The bar is housed in a four- to five-car garage attached to a home in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Funky furnishings and accessories, including the colorful mural in the front patio bar, are almost all works of local artists. Stop in Wednesday through Sunday for "Easy Hour," with special pricing on pitchers of daiquiris, mules, and Margaritas, as well as snacks and sandwiches. Follow them on Facebook for details about comedy shows, dance parties, and other special events. Lost & Found OTR is open 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Wednesday through Friday and 2 p.m. - 2 a.m. weekends.
300 E. Seventh St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Daiquiris and pizza? It's a match made in heaven at Rosie's Cocktails & Pies. Rosie's brings East Coast tomato pie-style pizza to Cincinnati. Specialty pies include the popular Tie-Dye, with a pinwheel of pesto atop the tomato and mozzarella. There's even a breakfast pizza, topped with ham, sausage, bacon, spinach, and egg. The menu also includes several pasta dishes, paninis, and salads. OGPD, Rosie's spin on a daiquiri, mixes pineapple rum with ginger liqueur, pineapple, and lime. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.
122 E. Sixth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Spacious and stylish, Igby's proudly proclaims that "the drinks are cold, but the hospitality is warm." The 7,500-square-foot Civil War-era building features two floors of bars, with balconies around the atrium for good visibility. Each level also has an outdoor balcony, one facing Sixth St. and the other with a bit more privacy. Giggle Water is their take on a daiquiri, featuring a blend of Bacardi Dragonberry Rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and tiki bitters, topped with Prosecco. Small and large charcuterie boards make tasty companions to the craft cocktails. Hours are 4 p.m. - midnight Monday through Thursday and 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
If you went back in time to a Roaring Twenties speakeasy, what would be your classic cocktail of choice?