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29
Northeast Ohio: Historical Buildings You Have to See
A breath of fresh air and the open road does us all good every now and then. For anyone trying to balance the need to maintain distance from others with a desire to get out and explore, a scenic drive might be just the answer.
If that sounds like you, then Northeast Ohio is a great place to be. Be sure to check out these amazing historical buildings on your driving tour in the Cleveland area!
Tiedemann House
4308 Franklin Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Commonly known as Franklin Castle, the Tiedemann House has overlooked Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood from its perch on the north side of Franklin Boulevard for more than 125 years. This spectacular stone mansion is a prime example of Victorian architecture in the American Queen Anne Style, complete with turrets, gargoyles, and more than 80 windows. The Tiedemann House also has more than 20 rooms, including a ballroom that runs the entire length of the fourth floor. The house is rumored to be haunted and also to include as-yet-undiscovered secret rooms and passageways used by bootleggers during prohibition.
Old Stone Church
91 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113
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The Old Stone Church looks oddly out of place among the high rises that surround it in present-day Downtown Cleveland. It wasn't always that way. Cleveland was a very different city when this Presbyterian church was first dedicated in 1834. But even as time has moved on all around it, the Old Stone Church remains virtually unchanged. It's the oldest building on Public Square and the second-oldest church within the city limits. No visit to Cleveland is complete without taking some time to admire this incredible piece of living history.
Rockefeller Building
614 W Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113
A memorable high-rise office building in Downtown Cleveland, the Rockefeller Building was built between 1903 and 1905. Seventeen stories tall and massively wide, the building was one of the city's most imposing structures at the time of its completion. The famous American business magnate John D. Rockefeller oversaw the construction of the building, which partly swallowed up the Weddell House, its historical neighbor. The Rockefeller family sold the building to Cleveland businessman Josiah Kirby in 1920, only to buy it back shortly thereafter to prevent the name "Rockefeller" from being removed.
The Louis Penfield House
2203 River Road #9685, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
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Nestled in the quiet Cleveland suburb of Willoughby Hills, the Louis Penfield House was built in 1955 and designed by none other than famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. With its floating staircase and several walls made entirely of windows, the house has a number of features typical of Wright's unique architectural vision. Many of those windows offer incredible views across the home's 30-acre plot to the Chagrin River. And while there are a handful of Frank Lloyd Wright homes scattered across Northeast Ohio, the Louis Penfield House is the only one where guests can spend the night.
Terminal Tower
50 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113
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One of Cleveland's signature landmarks, the 52-story Terminal Tower was formally dedicated in 1930, after a long process of demolition, excavation, and construction that lasted four years. Built during the peak of the "skyscraper boom" in the '20s and '30s, Terminal Tower was the second-tallest building in the world when it opened its doors. Today, it's the second-tallest building in Cleveland (after Key Tower), and it remains one of the city's most recognizable structures, with hundreds of LED lights that illuminate the building's iconic spire in different colors throughout the year.
Dunham Tavern
6709 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103
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Dunham Tavern is the oldest building in Cleveland. Originally built as a private residence by the Rufus and Jane Pratt Dunham family in 1824, the structure was expanded with the addition of a taproom. It was used for many years as a tavern and stagecoach stop, gradually falling into disrepair until it was purchased and restored by landscape architect A. Donald Gray in 1932. Dunham Tavern was then re-opened as a museum, which it remains to this day. Visiting the Dunham Tavern Museum is like stepping back in time, offering an unmatched glimpse into a time when Ohio was at the very edge of the Western frontier.
Saxton McKinley House
331 Market Ave. S, Canton, OH 44702
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Built in 1841 by the grandfather of Ida Saxton McKinley—first lady and wife of President William McKinley—the Saxton McKinley House is a beautiful Victorian building in Canton, Ohio. With its expansive porch and irregular massing, this incredible three-story brick house was Ida's childhood home. The couple lived there for years prior to his election as president and the house served as a stage for William's campaign. Today, it's the only surviving home with direct ties to the McKinleys in their hometown of Canton. The Saxton McKinley House is managed as a First Ladies National Historic Site and is home to the National First Ladies Library.
St. Stanislaus Church
3649 E. 65th St., Cleveland, OH 44105
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Cleveland offers no shortage of spectacular churches, but few can match the grandeur of the St. Stanislaus Church. Known by the full name Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr, the church was built in 1873 and served Cleveland's growing Polish Catholic community. Many Polish immigrants settled in the part of Cleveland known then as Warszawa—today it's called Slavic Village—and the splendid architecture of St. Stanislaus Church was as prominent then as it is today. The church itself, as well as its surrounding neighborhood, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Find Your History
Northeast Ohio offers a rich history of architecture dating back centuries. Did we forget to mention your favorite Cleveland area landmark? Let us know in the comments section!
27
Spot These Iconic Signs Around Columbus
Did you know the city of Columbus has a long and interesting history that can be told through its iconic signs? It's true! Next time you're itching to get out of the house, we suggest taking a drive around so you can see some of these historic signs and buildings for yourself.
Follow this list in order and you'll have the perfect driving tour. Let's get started!
Hawk Galleries
153 East Main St. Columbus, OH 43215
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It's easy to spot the verticle red and white sign adorning the outside of Hawk Galleries. This retail art gallery was founded in 1986 and moved to this 5,000 square-foot location in 2002. It continues to be an icon in the culturally rich area of downtown Columbus.
Here you'll find museum-quality works of art made by world-renowned artists working in a variety of mediums including glass, sculpture, wood, metal, and paintings.
Little Palace Restaurant
240 S. Fourth St. Columbus, OH 43215
The original Littel Palace Restaurant was a staple of downtown Columbus for decades. When the location was purchased by new owners in 2010, they decided to keep the name, in part, because of the recognizable neon sign. It reads "Little Palace | Food | Liquor" with an arrow adorned with the word "Restaurant" pointing towards the entrance.
The restaurant itself is incredibly popular among locals and is also a "must visit" spot for tourists. From the 1960s look to the delicious selection of American, Greek, Italian, and other ethnic dishes, this locally-owned restaurant and bar has more than earned its stellar reputation.
Ho-Toy Chinese and Thai Restaurant
11 W. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The classic vertical sign adorning the Ho-Toy restaurant is easy to spot. It features a top that resembles a Chinese pagoda, large Asian-style lettering that reads "Ho Toy," and the words "Chinese & American Food & Cocktails" along the bottom.
The Ho-Toy restaurant, which was originally opened back in 1959, used to be located on Town Street. It moved to its current location, which was previously a two-story Burger King restaurant in 1980. The decor still has a 1980s flair and shows its Burger King roots including the original Formica counters, vinyl booths that are now covered in plastic sheeting. and faded paint, carpeting, and flooring that still bears the original Burger King primary colors.
Despite its unassuming interior, the restaurant is known for serving fresh and delicious Americanized Cantonese Chinese comfort food and Thai cuisine.
Planters Peanut Sign at Peanut Shoppe Columbus
21 E. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The Planters Peanut sign is one of the most notable historical signs in Columbus. It features the "peanut man" that has long been part of Planter's marketing and the words "Planters Peanuts" in red neon.
The sign has been in this location since it was erected in 1936 by the Planters Peanut company. At the time, there were over 300 of these shops across the country. They were sold to independent owners in the 1960s. Today, there are only about a dozen of them left, including this one located on E. State St. This nostalgic candy shop now sells roasted nuts, a variety of chocolates, and themed candy.
Ohio Theatre
36 E. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The 2,791-seat Ohio Theatre has been entertaining the people of Columbus since 1928. The building features stunning architecture and design, including the gorgeous original marquis. This red neon sign continues to be a local landmark to this day.
Tip Top Kitchen and Cocktails
73 E. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The historic building that houses the Tip Top is a long-standing icon located in the heart of downtown Columbus. The black and white sign reads "Tip Top" in large lettering and "Kitchen and Cocktails" along the bottom. Most notably, the "I" in Tip is topped with a bright red cherry.
This neighborhood bar offers "Ohio Comfort Food," delicious whiskey drinks, and microbrews on draft. They also have pinball machines, 22 beers on taps, and always offer PBR drafts for just two bucks.
Palace Theatre
34 W. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The 2,695-seat Palace Theatre was designed to resemble the Palais de Versailles in France. The inside is adorned with a grand staircase, fountain, mural, and stunning chandeliers. The red neon sign that reads "Columbus Palace Theatre" is impossible to miss!
Beacon Building
50 W. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The mid-century modern Beacon Building was built in 1957 and the huge teal blue and red sign remains a focal point of the area today. This beautiful six-story building faced in polished stone was purchased by the city in 1979 for $2 million. Today it's home Columbus' Public Service Department. Plans are currently underway to relocate the department, and, once this is complete, the building will be sold to a private party.
Elevator Brewing Co.
161 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43215
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It's hard to miss the giant beer glass sign with the words "Elevator Brewery & Draught Haus" along the side of the Elevator Brewing Co. This beautiful historic restaurant and brewery was founded in 1999 by a father-and-son team.
They've been producing award-winning craft beer for over 20 years and the menu features modern American fare that you're sure to love. When you're done enjoying your meal, you'll want to stick around to play a game on one of their three classic dartboards or restored antique billiard tables. Their eight-foot table dates back to 1891 while the seven-foot table was made in 1884!
North Market
59 Spruce St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The original North Market, located in downtown Columbus, is a 144-year-old market that houses an eclectic mix of over 30 independently owned small businesses. Here you'll find fresh produce, seafood, meat, poultry, specialty items, fresh flowers, prepared foods, and unique gifts.
Its huge neon sign, which reads "North Market" and is adorned with a sunshine pattern around the letter "O," is another iconic part of Columbus history.
Spot the Signs!
Which of these iconic buildings will you visit first?
22
We Bet You Didn't Know These Things About Cincinnati
You probably know Cincinnati is Ohio's largest metropolitan area, the setting for classic sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati and home to the second oldest zoo in the country. Originally settled in 1788, Cincinnati has a long and rich history yielding a number of fascinating stories.
Here are 11 fun facts to know and tell about Cincinnati. Which ones are new to you?
The Cincinnati Reds Were the First Professional Baseball Team
100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Cincinnati has an honored place in major league baseball history as home of the first all-professional team, the Red Stockings, better known as the Reds. Their first game took place on May 4, 1869, a 45-9 blowout win against the Great Westerns, also based in Cincinnati. The Reds have made it to the World Series nine times and emerged victorious five times, most notably with back-to-back wins in 1975 and 1976 during the heyday of the "Big Red Machine."
Empress Chili Served the First Cincinnati Chili
7934 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria, KY 41001
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Skyline and Gold Star may be more well-known names today, but Cincinnati's iconic version of chili originated at Empress Chili. Brothers Tom and John Kiradjieff, immigrants from Macedonia, started selling their uniquely seasoned meat sauce in 1922. Cincinnati chili can be enjoyed in a bowl, on a bed of spaghetti or atop a hot dog, with your choice of onions, beef or cheese. While there are now more than 150 chili spots around the city, Empress Chili remains "the first edition of a Cincinnati tradition."
Zinzinnati Is the Largest Oktoberfest Celebration in the United States
Third St. and Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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More than 25 percent of Cincinnati residents share a German heritage, which they proudly celebrate each September at Zinzinnati. More than half a million people attend this three-day event, making it the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the country. Approximately 80,000 bratwurst, 25,000 potato pancakes, and 23,000 soft pretzels are consumed while guests enjoy live musical entertainment, a wiener dog race, and the world's largest chicken dance. Every year, the mayor of Munich issues an official decree pronouncing Zinzinnati as the largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Germany. Zinzinnati 2020 is scheduled for September 20-22.
Cincinnati Was Originally Named "Losantiville"
At its founding in 1788, the settlement was named Losantiville by John Filson, the original surveyor. "Losantiville" is a hybrid of terms from four different languages meaning, "the city opposite the mouth of the (Licking) river." Two years later Arthur St. Clair, governor of the Northwest Territory, decided he didn't care for the name. He changed it to Cincinnati as a tribute to the Society of the Cincinnati, a group of Revolutionary War veterans which included St. Clair. The Society took its name from legendary Roman statesman Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus.
Findlay Market Is the Oldest Continuously Operated Public Market in Ohio
1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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More than 100 years ago, there were nine public markets located around Cincinnati. Findlay Market is the only one still standing today. The market is named after General James Findlay and his wife Jane, whose estate donated the land on which it's built. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, Findlay Market welcomes upwards of one million visitors annually. More than 40 vendors make up the year-round open market, and they're joined by dozens more in the outdoor farmers market running weekends from April through November. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Is the Only Two-Time Tony Winner Outside NYC
962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Since 1959, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park has been producing first-rate professional theater from its scenic hilltop location. Actors who have graced its stage include notable names such as Patty Duke, Anthony Perkins, Lynn Redgrave, Cicely Tyson, and Sam Waterston. In 2004, Playhouse was recognized with a Tony Award for Best Regional Theater. That accolade was followed up three years later with a second Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical for the production of Company.
Cincinnati Is the Hometown of America's Most Beloved Movie Director
Before he reached the age of 30, Steven Spielberg revolutionized the film industry and ushered in the summer blockbuster with Jaws. His Hollywood career has been full of commercial and critical success, but few people know that Spielberg's roots are in Cincinnati. The Spielberg family came to the city in the 1900s when Steven's paternal grandparents emigrated from Ukraine, and he was born in Cincinnati on December 18, 1946.
Cincinnati Has the Nation's Largest Unused Subway System
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Underneath the streets of Cincinnati sits a network of incomplete tunnels just over two miles long. Construction on the framework of the Cincinnati Subway began in the early 1900s. Intended to upgrade the city's streetcar system, the subway project fell victim to spiraling costs and political in-fighting. Activity was indefinitely canceled in 1928, and the project has remained abandoned.
Metro Cincinnati's Vent Haven Is the World's Only Ventriloquism Museum
33 W. Maple Ave., Fort Mitchell, KY 41011
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High on the list of offbeat attractions is Vent Haven Museum, dedicated to showcasing the art of ventriloquism. The museum was founded by a man with the equally quirky name of William Shakespeare Berger, affectionately known as W.S. Berger was a self-made success in business, literally working his way from the mailroom to president of the Cambridge Tile Company, but he was fascinated by ventriloquism. After serving as president of the International Brotherhood of Ventriloquists for more than 20 years, Vent Haven Museum was created to preserve and share Berger's incredible collection of ventriloquist dummies. Tours are conducted seven days a week from May through September by appointment only.
The Town Crier Tradition Is Alive and Well in Cincinnati
Before the days of electronic and print media, town criers held the responsibility of sharing news throughout a community. While this tradition has all but disappeared, the Cincinnati village of Mariemont maintains one of approximately 14 town criers in the United States. The post is currently held by Dr. Bob Keyes, who "moonlights" as a geriatrician and co-director of the Christ Hospital Health & Aging Center. Keyes' duties include opening town meetings and leading the Memorial Day parade.
The Cincinnati Fire Department Was the First Professional Firefighting Unit in the Country
315 W. Court St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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In 1853, Cincinnati led the way for the country by establishing the first professional fire department. The Cincinnati Fire Museum documents the history of firefighting in Cincinnati with exhibits, events, and interactive displays. Their innovative fire safety education program simulates an actual fire event in a home while staff members identify risks and demonstrate ways to protect yourself. Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for kids aged 7-17.
Livin' on the Air in Cincinnati
What's your favorite episode of WKRP in Cincinnati?
20
Columbus: These Food Trucks Coming to a Neighborhood Near You
Dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, street food has been a staple of many global cultures. Today, the growing popularity of food trucks has brought the convenience and variety of street food to Columbus and other cities around the United States.
Find out firsthand how food trucks are changing the Columbus dining scene by visiting these upcoming events.
Aloha Aina
Seventh Son Brewing - 1101 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
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The Hawaiian cuisine of Aloha Aina is so authentic that you'll feel the tropical sun and breezes while you eat. Customers line up for their signature steamed buns with pork, chicken, tofu, or Spam filling. Their Maui Fresh rice bowl has been described as "deconstructed sushi" and the Loco No Moco bowl is a lighter take on the traditional Hawaiian dish. Find Aloha Aina outside Seventh Son Brewing on Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Cousins Maine Lobster
Care Point East - 543 Taylor Ave., Columbus, OH 43203
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Who knew lobsters and sharks made such a great team? Backing from Barbara Corcoran of Shark Tank turned Cousins Maine Lobster into a national sensation. Now owners Jimmy and Sabin (yes, they're cousins) have brought their New England seafood favorites to Columbus. Try an iconic lobster roll or shrimp tacos with a side of Cape Cod chips. Grab a tasty lunch from Cousins outside Care Point East on Tuesday, May 26 between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Two Fatt Indians
Ohio Theatre - 39 E. State St., Columbus, OH 43215
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No, Two Fatt Indians doesn't describe owners Amit Kumar and Raj Sabherwal. They just thought it was a funny, catchy name for their truck, which serves genuine North Indian cuisine. The chicken tikka masala earns unanimous raves, while the yogurt-based strawberry lassi drink is a treat rarely found in the Columbus area. Several vegetarian options are available, and the owners are happy to accommodate your preferred level of heat. Two Fatt Indians can be frequently found outside the Ohio Theatre from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Glazed Churro Bar
Harrison Pond - 4720 Shull Rd., Columbus, OH 43230
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The all-American ice cream sundae gets a Latin twist at Glazed Churro Bar. Vanilla soft-serve is spiked with two churro sticks and dressed up with a range of sauces and toppings, such as the best-selling Cinna-Crunch featuring Cinnamon Toast Crunch and salted caramel glaze. If you can't live by dessert alone, the truck also serves tacos, burritos, and other savory street food. Stop by Harrison Pond on Monday, May 25 between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. for dinner, dessert, or both.
Always Eat Breakfast
W. Broad St. & N. Front St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Remember what Mom said about the most important meal of the day? Heath, owner of Always Eat Breakfast, does. Start the day off right with one of their breakfast burritos or bowls made to order with your choice of ingredients. Heartier appetites may choose biscuits or tots topped with sausage or bacon gravy. Pick up one of Heath's extra-large muffins, baked on the truck, for a great midday snack. In a hurry? Visit the website the night before to order ahead. Always Eat Breakfast will be brightening the morning around the intersection of W. Broad St. and N. Front St. from 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26.
Pitabilities
St. Vincent Family Center - 1490 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43205
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Pita sandwiches are portable and filling, two qualities essential in street food. The fresh and flavorful sandwiches from Pitabilities have earned them a frequent #1 rating by Columbus residents. In addition to the traditional Greek gyro pita, the menu includes variations such as New Delhi with tikka masala sauce and Philly Steak with grilled onions and mushrooms. Possibilities Fries, topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, and your choice of protein, are a meal by themselves. On Friday, May 22 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., they'll be Quantum Health 2 at 5260 Blazer Pkwy.
Schmidt's Sausage Truck
Fifth Third Bank - 1669 Fishinger Rd., Columbus, OH 43221
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For nearly 150 years, Schmidt has been a legendary name in the Columbus food industry. Schmidt's Sausage Truck is the most recent venture for a family business that includes a meat-packing company, concession stands, and a German-themed restaurant. The Bahama Mama, Schmidt's signature pork and beef sandwich, was voted the official food of Columbus. Other offerings include bratwurst, knockwurst, and bologna, as well as classic sides of red cabbage, sauerkraut, and potato salad. Save room for one of the award-winning jumbo cream puffs. Catch Schmidt's outside the UA Five Points branch of Fifth Third Bank on Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and Fridays from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Mya's Fried Chicken
DSW - 810 DSW Dr., Columbus, OH 43219
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If America had a national food, it would probably be fried chicken. Since 2012, people around Columbus have been flocking to Mya's Fried Chicken and their Korean-inspired, sweet-and-spicy take on the comfort food classic. The meat is brined in buttermilk for 24 hours and pan-fried to a crispy brown before the final touch: a drizzle of honey and vinegar infused with herbs and chilies. Choose from sandwiches, tenders, and wings with a selection of scratch-made sides. Stop by Mya's on Wednesday, May 27 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. outside the DSW home office and truck lot.
Ray Ray's Hog Pit
Ace of Cups - 2619 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
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No roundup of top food trucks in Columbus would be complete without Ray Ray's Hog Pit. Pork, beef, and chicken are coated with dry rub and cooked low-and-slow for that trademark pink smoke ring. Sauces are served on the side so you can apply to suit your individual taste. Can't decide? Go for the Meatsweats box filled with smoked brisket, pulled pork, jerk chicken, dry-rubbed ribs, and a hot link. Ray Ray's flagship location, adjacent to Ace of Cups, is open Thursday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Keep on Truckin'
If you opened a food truck, what would be your specialty?
15
Who Knew There Were So Many Drive-In Theaters Around Ohio?
Big-screen TVs, surround sound, and streaming brought movie-watching from theaters into homes. Classic drive-in theaters combine technology and privacy to offer the best of both worlds.
As we transition to the "new normal," drive-in theaters may provide the perfect solution to safely enjoying a night out. Now that drive-ins have received the green light, check out these fun-filled theaters around Northeast Ohio and other parts of the state. Visit the website or Facebook pages for current schedules.
Aut-O-Rama Drive-In
33395 Lorain Rd., North Ridgeville, OH 44039
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The name may have a nostalgic 1950s feel, but don't let that fool you. Thanks to modern theater enhancements, Aut-O-Rama Drive-In has remained up-to-date with the times. As the first Cleveland-area drive-in to offer two screens, Aut-O-Rama was also one of the local theaters to lead the way in transitioning from speakers to in-car audio. Outside food is not allowed, but the extensive concession stand menu includes vegan and gluten-free options for those with special dietary needs.
Midway Twin Drive-In
2736 State Route 59, Ravenna, OH 44266
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Midway Twin Drive-In has the distinction of being designed by Jack Vogel, a renowned architect whose drive-in theater drawing collection is in the Library of Congress. While the theater's original screen tower was destroyed by a storm in 2000, the new tower carries Vogel's trademark diamond-and-flags sign. Head to Midway's FunFlick page on their website to purchase admissions, reserve parking spots, and order swag such as t-shirts and keychains.
Blue Sky Drive-In
959 Broad St., Wadsworth, OH 44281
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When Blue Sky Drive-In opened in 1947, the theater featured a wooden screen with large speakers attached to either side. Legend has it the sound could be heard six miles away in neighboring Doylestown. The street side of the screen was covered with twinkling stars that drew people to drive by just to see them. Unlike Magic City Drive-In, its sister theater, Blue Sky has only one screen, but both drive-ins are run with the same focus on customer service and quality entertainment.
Magic City Drive-In
5602 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Barberton, OH 44203
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Kids who came to Magic City Drive-In with their families in the 1970s and 1980s are now bringing their own little ones to share one of their favorite experiences. Digital projection and FM stereo sound are modern amenities, but visitors still find the same "magic" they enjoyed when they were young. A $5 permit fee is charged for bringing in outside food, but it can be applied to a minimum $15 purchase of additional snacks and beverages at the concession stand.
Lynn Drive-In
9735 State Route 250 NW, Strasburg, OH 44680
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Lynn Drive-In, opened in 1937, holds the honor of being Ohio's longest-running drive-in theater. As if that weren't enough, the Lynn is also #2 among continuously operating drive-ins around the world. Throughout its history, Lynn Drive-In has been owned by a succession of families. In fact, the drive-in is named after the daughter of Ray McCombs, who partnered with his father-in-law to run the theater in the 1940s. The concession stand accepts credit and debit cards, but admissions are cash only, so don't forget to stop at the ATM on the way.
Skyview Drive-In
2420 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130
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In 1994, after working at the theater for 30 years, current owner Walt purchased Skyview Drive-In from founder Carlos Crum, maintaining a welcome sense of tradition. Walt's wife upgraded the concession stand to include a more extensive selection than usually found at drive-ins. Choose from treats such as pork tenderloin sandwiches, quarter-pound burgers, apple dumplings, and funnel cakes. Please note that you're free to bring in your own food except for pizza, which is available on the theater's menu.
South Drive-In
3050 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207
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Located, appropriately enough, on the south side of town, South Drive-In is the last remaining drive-in theater in Columbus. Opened in 1950, the South is one of several regional drive-ins built by the Yassenoff family. Over the years, the theater has survived a tornado and incorporated high-tech improvements to continue serving the community. For your convenience, South Drive-In is adding online ordering for concessions, with a text alert when your order is ready for pickup.
Holiday Auto Theater
1816 Old Oxford Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
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The website of Holiday Auto Theater proudly proclaims, "60 Years of Drive-In Fun!" In particular, their concession stand is so good that it's remained open on weekends to serve carry-out food. Tops on the list is the Family Combo, which easily feeds up to four people. The combo includes a personal pizza, burger, fries, two hot dogs, popcorn, candy and four drinks for $38.75.
Drive-In Theater Etiquette Tips
- Obey posted speed limits. If there are none, don't go above 10 MPH.
- Use parking lights when driving in the theater lot.
- Always wear shoes when leaving the car.
- An adult should accompany kids to the restroom or concession stand.
- Many drive-ins are pet-friendly as long as dogs are leashed outside the car and owners clean up after them. Call first or visit the website to confirm.
- Outside food is permitted in several drive-ins, while some charge a nominal fee, and others forbid it completely. Again, check first to make sure.
- If you bring lawn chairs or other seating, place them in front of or behind the car, not in an adjacent parking spot.
- Cross-overs in dual-screen theaters are not permitted.
- Shows generally go on, rain or shine. Rain checks are issued for power outages and other technical problems.
- No littering. Take trash with you or dispose of it in the appropriate containers.
- Follow any specific rules regarding parking for trucks, vans, and SUVs.
- While drive-ins provide more freedom than walk-in theaters, there are still other guests around you. Be considerate about noise levels and other potential disruptions.
Baby, You Can Drive My Car
What are your favorite memories of drive-in theaters?
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