
Summer can be sweltering in Central Ohio! Luckily, there are ample opportunities to hit the lake and cool off in the Columbus area. If you're looking for a place to swim and soak up some sun this summer, visit these beaches near Columbus, OH.
3400 Lewis Center Rd., Lewis Center, OH 43035
Located less than 30 minutes north of Downtown Columbus, Alum Creek Lake is one of the most popular lakes for outdoor recreation. The lake spans 3,387 acres and is known as one of the best fishing lakes in Ohio. Anglers often catch bass and panfish in the area around Alum Creek State Park, which is also the lake's primary swimming destination. The park features a 3,000-foot sandy beach—the longest beach in any Ohio state park—and includes amenities like restrooms and changing areas, outdoor showers, beach vendors, and sand volleyball courts.
2905 Leibs Island Rd. NE, Millersport, OH 43046
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Spanning 3,173 acres in Fairfield and Licking counties, Buckeye Lake is a beautiful swimming and boating destination just half an hour east of Columbus. The shoreline of this large reservoir is home to Buckeye Lake State Park, Ohio's oldest state park, which remains a popular day-use area for summer picnics, hikes, and beach trips. The park includes two beaches: Fairfield Beach on the south side of the lake and Crystal Beach on the north side. Both beaches are open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
4860 E. Park Dr., London, OH 43140
Madison Lake is located in a region west of Columbus known as the Darby Plains, which offers some of the few remaining wild prairies in the state of Ohio. A small 106-acre reservoir that was built in the 1940s, Madison Lake is a highlight of the region. The lake is surrounded by Madison Lake State Park, which includes a 300-foot swimming beach, picnic areas, and boat launch facilities on the east side of the lake. A separate dog swim area, where pets are allowed to swim off-leash, is located on the opposite side of the lake. Boats are restricted to electric motors and non-powered craft only, making this an excellent lake for paddling as well.
75 Downing Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
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Delaware Lake is a long, meandering reservoir just north of Columbus in Central Ohio. The lake spans 1,300 acres and offers excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and muskellunge. It's also a great swim spot, and Delaware State Park provides an 800-foot sandy beach where visitors can take a dip and soak up some sun. A picnic pavilion, playground, and modern restrooms are available at the beach, and there are also two designated boat swim areas on the lake. Delaware State Park also has a beautifully wooded campground with over 200 sites for tents and RVs.
20635 State Park Road 20, Mt Sterling, OH 43143
Just under 40 minutes south of Columbus, Deer Creek Lake is a picturesque 1,277-acre reservoir with a 15-mile shoreline surrounded by farmlands and forests. It's a great place to spend a long summer weekend, with rental cabins and over 200 electric campsites in Deer Creek Lake State Park. The park includes a beautiful 1,700-foot swimming beach, a popular spot to cool off on hot days. There's also a designated boat swim area located in the cove adjacent to the Deer Creek Lodge. Boats are allowed with unlimited horsepower, and Deer Creek Lake is also known for excellent fishing.
2755 Amity Rd., Hilliard, OH 43026
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Looking for a place where your four-legged friends can cool off? Located just minutes from Downtown Columbus, Prairie Oaks Metro Park is one of the city's best places to take dogs for a dip. The park has a designated dog beach on the shoreline of Lake 1, part of a cluster of small lakes within the park. Pets are also allowed on the park's hiking trails, but they must be leashed outside the immediate area around the dog beach. And while there's no designated "human swimming area" in the park, there's also no rule that says you can't go in with your canine pals!
Old River Road, Granville, OH 43023
Lake Hudson is a unique swimming destination in the Columbus area. This privately owned recreation lake offers crystal clear spring-fed waters that stay pleasantly cool even during the dog days of summer. There's a beautiful beach and picnic area on the lakeshore, along with fishing access and a place to launch small boats like canoes and kayaks. Membership grants you access to Lake Hudson any time, but there are also opportunities for some non-members to enjoy the facilities. Former members and residents of Licking, Fairfield, Perry, Muskingum, and Knox counties may visit the lake as guests.
13156 OH-235, Lakeview, OH 43331
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Originally built as a shallow feeder lake for the Miami & Erie Canal in the 1800s, Indian Lake is now one of Western Ohio's most popular recreation lakes. Located just under an hour northwest of Columbus, Indian Lake offers 5,100 acres of water, making it one of the largest lakes in the state. Its wide-open spaces make it popular for boating, fishing, and jet-skiing, and the area around the lake offers great camping and hiking opportunities. If you're looking for a place to swim, head to Indian Lake State Park, where Old Field and Fox Island beaches offer 1,400 feet of beach access.
Where's your favorite swimming hole in the Buckeye State?

Burying your nose in a good book is a great way to leave your worries behind for a few hours. People who read typically have more active imaginations. Plus, reading can help ease stress and depression, prevent cognitive decline, and build your vocabulary. Whether you love mystery novels, non-fiction, or something in-between, Northeast Ohio has several local bookstores worth visiting. Head to one of these book shops to find your next read.
10515 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120
Located in the historic Larchmere neighborhood, this Cleveland bookstore first opened in 1994 and has kept readers happy ever since. They have more than 100,000 different titles in stock, including many on women's history and literature. Loganberry Books carries both new and used titles, including some leatherbound books and first editions. If you're not only a reader but a book collector, this is the place to go.
Loganberry books is open daily. Shoppers can join their Perks Program for free and earn a $10 coupon for every $100 spent. Perks Program members also get a bonus coupon on birthdays and extra store credit when they sell books.
1607 Golden Gate Plaza, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
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Half-Price Books is a family-owned bookstore that sells secondhand books and other media. You can take them your already-read books to sell and go home with new titles to enjoy. The store has a good selection of books on philosophy, martial arts, and animals. The wide aisles and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to shop with kids.
Half-Price Books is open daily. They offer online ordering and curbside pickup, which are great if you're in a rush.
29 N. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Fireside Book Shop has been serving Northeast Ohio since 1963. The store has an old-fashioned appeal but in the best way. They not only have a great selection of books, but also countless puzzles, greeting cards, and board games. The helpful staff members can help you find the perfect book, whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one.
Fireside Book Shop is a woman-owned business and is open daily. Their Trade-In Program is a customer favorite, allowing shoppers to trade in their used books for store credit. Stop by regularly, and you'll always have something new to read.
204 N. Main St., Hudson, OH 44236
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The Learned Owl Book Shop has been open on Main Street since 1968. Although the shop is small, its selection of books is incredible. The owner knows everything on the shelves and is very helpful. They also have a children's nook and a selection of adult coloring books.
This bookstore is open daily and is within walking distance of many great cafes and restaurants. You could spend an afternoon picking out a book, walking around the neighborhood, then treating yourself to a nice meal.
1921 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
If you find yourself in Cleveland, stop by Horizontal Books and browse their shelves. This shop sells overstock books. If you purchase one, you save 50% off the standard retail price. Purchase more than one, and you save even more. Horizontal Books brings in new titles every day, so there's always something else to discover.
Horizontal Books is open daily from 10 am - 6 pm. They're in the process of opening up their own coffee shop, too.
1820 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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Mac's Backs-Books on Coventry is a one of the largest bookstores in Ohio. They have three stories of books and community rooms where they host educational events. This shop has a great sci-fi collection and lots of young adult fiction. The entire basement is full of non-fiction titles.
Mack's Backs is walking distance from Case Western Reserve University and is therefore popular with college students. Keep an eye on their website for events such as book signings, writing workshops, and live readings.
14948 Chillicothe Rd., Novelty, OH 44072
If you're looking for a specific rare or antique book, Novelty Shop is the place to go. This boutique book store sells used, rare, and antique books, along with a small selection of other antique items. You'll find original hardcovers of classics, leatherbound books, and first editions galore.
Novelty Shop has been open since 1999 and is frequented by many of Ohio's book collectors. You're bound to learn something just by stopping in and taking a look around.
2258 Professor Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Visible Voice Books wants to make reading cool again. This independent bookstore has a very relaxed, inviting atmosphere and stocks titles in almost every genre. But they also have so much more than books. There's a bar and coffee shop where you can grab your favorite drink to sip while you read. Selections include craft beers from Fat Head and Left Hand Brewing. They even host wine tasting events.
Inside Visible Voice Books, there is also a neighborhood pizza shop called Crust. So, you can enjoy lunch, find a new book, and buy a bottle of wine—all under one roof. The shop is open Tuesday-Sunday.
Where will you discover your new favorite novel? Let us know which one of these bookstores feels most like home.

While modern carousels are a beloved amusement ride, they have their roots in a combat preparation exercise from the Middle Ages. Knights attempted to spear small rings hanging overhead as they galloped in a circle. Commoners eventually adapted the game with the beginnings of our current form.
Did you know that the first carousel in the United States was built in the 1840s by Franz Wiesenhoffer in Hessville, OH? Our state is still recognized as the home of many incredible carousels, including those in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870
Everyone knows that carousels are a traditional part of any respectable fair, carnival, and amusement park. Not surprisingly, Cedar Point takes their carousel game to a whole new level, with three carousels that make frequent appearances on top-10 lists. The Kiddy Kingdom Carousel, dating back to 1925 and features 52 animals, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Next is the Midway Carousel, built in 1912 and operating at Cedar Point since 1946, making it the park's oldest ride. Finally, challenge family and friends to a spin on the Cedar Downs Racing Derby, one of only two racing carousels in the United States. Visit the website for hours and ticket pricing.
75 N. Main St., Mansfield, OH 44902
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In honor of the ride's European origins, Richland Carrousel Park uses the French spelling of the word in its name. This delightful park features the first new hand-carved carousel constructed in the United States since the 1930s, built at nearby Carousel Works. Scenery panels on the carousel depict Malabar Farm, Richland County Courthouse, and other iconic locations and notable figures from the local area. Carousel rides are $1, with discounts for purchases of 6 or 50 rides. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
505 Euclid Ave., Akron, OH 44307
Environmental education and awareness provide the theme for the Conservation Carousel at the Akron Zoo. The hand-carved figurines are likenesses of 33 animals from around the world, ranging from a ladybug and a penguin to a Komodo dragon, a peacock chariot that's wheelchair accessible, and a baby moose that contains a time capsule from 2010. Sustainable wood, repurposed concrete, and other green initiatives were incorporated in the construction of the carousel. Rides are $2 per person. Zoo admission is $14 for adults and $11 for ages 2-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.
160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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In 2011, the historic City Center grounds were transformed into Columbus Commons, a 6-acre park in the midst of the beautiful downtown area. The centerpiece attraction is a hand-carved carousel with 18 charming figurines, including the OSU Buckeye horse, a frog prince, and a clown fish. Ohio Stadium and Franklin Park Conservatory are two of the hand-painted scenes decorating the canopy. Carousel rides are also a popular draw for Commons for Kids, held each Friday through August 12 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Rides are free at all times. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220
Carousels are generally thought of as rides for youngsters. That's not the case at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, where their Conservation Carousel is one of the more popular attractions during adults-only events such as Toast of the Wild. Of course, the carousel is a big hit with kids as well. Zoo members often upgrade their memberships at the prompting of their children, who like the unlimited carousel rides that are included. Standard pricing for rides is $3. Mark your calendar for 2023, when the zoo's new carousel will be installed. At twice the size of the current carousel, this version will feature 65 animals in a vintage open-air gazebo perched alongside Swan Lake. Admission ranges from $9.50-$25. The zoo is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.
4850 Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
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After viewing real birds and wildlife in person, check out colorful recreations on the Grand Carousel at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The historic 1914 Mangels-Illions carousel revolves to the sounds of a fully restored band organ that plays periodically throughout the day. Rides are $2 per person. If you want the real experience, enjoy a camel ride for $7 or a pony ride for $5. Zoo admission is $16.99 for adults and $11.99 for ages 3-9. Prices are higher for non-Franklin County residents. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. through August. Visit the website for seasonal hours.
Travel to the continent of Africa on the carousel at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. The sole African carousel in the world lets you ride atop 42 exotic animals, such as giraffes, zebras, and gorillas. Artwork on the canopy showcases many of the featured animals in their native habitats. Rides are $3 per person, with passes available for multiple rides at discounted rates. Zoo admission is $24 for adults and $21 for ages 2-11, with an additional $2 charge for non-Lucas County residents. Visit the website for hours.
301 Jackson St., Sandusky, OH 44870
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Inspiration for the Merry-Go-Round Museum came from a series of carousel stamps issued by the U.S. Postal Service in 1988. Appropriately, the museum is housed in a former Sandusky Post Office building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to watching activities in the restoration shop, visitors can ride the museum's vintage 1939 Allan Herschell carousel as the band organ plays the classic "oom-pa-pa" sounds. The original figurines were unavailable, so the carousel is populated with pieces from the museum's collection or on loan from private collectors. Admission, including one ride token, is $6 for adults and $4 for ages 4-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday through Labor Day.
When it comes to your preferred carousel mount, do you go old-school with the horses, or do you make a dash for one of the other animals?

Now that summer is upon us, there are many outdoor activities that families can enjoy together, such as biking, hiking, picnics, sports, and more. But what happens when the sun goes away, and rain clouds appear? Being stuck inside playing video games and watching movies sounds like fun, but there are so many other things to do.
Cincinnati is chock-full of exciting places to visit, and many of them are perfect for a rainy summer day. We can't list them all, but we've compiled a list of our favorites found in Cincinnati and the surrounding areas we're sure will surprise and delight your entire family.
1330 Monmouth Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45225
There's little doubt that the American Sign Museum will be one of the most unique attractions you'll visit in the Cincinnati area. Although the art and history of signs and sign-making might not seem like something kids would enjoy, we think they'll love the spinning signs, flashing lights, and pop culture imagery. This is a great way for kids and adults to learn about something that's just a little unusual.
980 Loveland Madeira Rd., Loveland, OH 45140
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Even though roller rinks may not be as trendy as they used to be, they continue to be a fun time for kids and adults. Castle Skateland is a family-owned and operated place of entertainment and features the largest skate floor in the greater Cincinnati Tri-State area. Its bright and friendly atmosphere will be very welcoming on a rainy day, and you can also treat your kids to a variety of music, arcade games, food, and drinks.
662 Cincinnati Mills Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45240
While your kids probably have plenty of console games at home, you simply can't beat a good, old-fashioned arcade. With more than 60 arcade games and pinball machines, gaming console stations, and giant projection screens, the only bad thing about Arcade Legacy is that your kids might not want to leave. You can also check out the media store, where you'll find movies, comic books, board games, action figures, artwork, and other collectibles.
9501 Union Cemetery Rd., Loveland, OH 45140
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Nothing says summer fun quite like expending some of that built-up energy that every child seems to have at all times. Mosaic Climbing provides an exciting indoor adventure for kids and adults of all ages. If you've never been there before, that's perfectly fine. You'll go through a short orientation and be given access to different climbing areas designed for a variety of skill levels and ages.
We're going to cheat a little by adding the Recreations Outlet to our list because it's such an awesome place. They feature many outdoor activities like trampolines and playground equipment, but that won't help you when it's pouring outside. But they also offer several items perfect for creating an indoor game room, such as table tennis, foosball, and shuffleboard. This will give you an alternative to keeping kids inside only to watch them play video games all day.
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Since being voted the top family entertainment center in the world, Scene75 has had a lot to live up to—and it never disappoints! There are more than a dozen indoor attractions, including go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, bumper cars, mini-bowling, and a 4D motion theater. You'll also be treated to a huge game room with more than 100 arcade games, in addition to air hockey and several redemption games where you win tickets that can be exchanged for prizes.
2692 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208
If you're looking for something a little low-key, you may want to head over to Joseph-Beth Booksellers. This is easily one of the best bookstores in Cincinnati and the surrounding communities. Parents and kids alike will be able to find plenty of books to choose from, including hugely popular favorites and a bunch of indie titles. In addition to a large selection of books, they also have games, toys, planners, puzzles, clothing, and a whole lot more.
5897 Pfeiffer Rd. Suite B, Blue Ash, OH 45242
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This huge indoor playground and party place is incredible. As soon as you and your kids walk into the Run Jump-n-Play facility, you can see their excitement build up as they gear up to start running around everywhere. The facility is filled with swing sets, basketball hoops, trampolines, and more. There's also a large area for birthday parties and other special events.
8 E. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
If you're looking for something simple but fun, head to Carol Ann's Carousel. Not only is this carousel an amazing work of art that features 44 different characters, it's simply a great way for children to have fun and relax. This carousel can stay open all year round because it's enclosed in glass, making it perfect for a rainy summer day. Your kids will even be able to watch the droplets hit the glass as they ride their favorite horse, tiger, or other animal.
With so many incredible places to duck indoors and avoid the rain, where will you and your family choose to go?

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?