8 Must-Visit Destinations Ohio Book Lovers Will Swoon Over
Here in Ohio, readers are celebrated. (Be sure to check out the Ohio Literary Trail for some awesome road trip stops.) If you enjoy curling up with a good book on a rainy (or sunny) day, you’ll swoon over the destinations listed below. The following are 8 of our favorite places to dine, browse and shop for books in Ohio. From stunning libraries to massive book stores, there’s something for every book lover in Ohio.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
You can't be a true bookworm in Ohio without getting lost in The Book Loft, one of the nation's largest independent book stores, at least once. Tucked away in central Ohio’s charming German Village, you’ll find the most enchanting bookstore that’s a seemingly never-ending maze of classic literature, modern day stories and a plethora of knowledge that book lovers only dream of. The Book Loft features 32 rooms of books—packed from floor to ceiling—that you simply have to see to believe.
For more than 25 years, this beloved purple bookstore has captured the hearts of bookworms all over northeast Ohio. Home to both new and used books (and Otis the Cat!), you can find nearly anything here. If it's your first time visiting, just look for the purple building with giant book spines painted on the side. (Fun fact: Every summer, this unique backdrop hosts Author Alley, a one-of-a-kind festival you'll want to mark your calendars for.)
April Dray/Only In Your State
Sine 1803, this historic hotel and restaurant has been serving guests exceptional food with unique lodging options. It is one of America's most historical inns and Ohio's oldest continually operated business. Over the years, 12 U.S. Presidents have visited the inn, as well as several notable authors such as Charles Dickens, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain. The Dickens Dining Room even features a rare collection of the famous English author's books on display.
The Mercantile Library in downtown Cincinnati is a beautiful book haven that avid readers will adore. The antique furnishings, beautiful books and glass-floored stacks could make any antique enthusiast, history buff or avid reader swoon. This special library is one of nearly two-dozen surviving membership libraries in the United States.
With more than 300,000 titles and 5 stories of book cases to explore, it can be easy to get overwhelmed at this literary lover's paradise. From brand new releases to vintage finds, there's truly a little bit of everything here. Additionally, the building itself dates back to 1916, so there's plenty of history to uncover during your visit. Since 1940, this beloved book store has been a best kept secret to locals and a pleasant surprise to visitors.
The Brumback Library in Van Wert is housed in a small castle, which makes a visit here feel like something straight out of a novel. It’s the picture perfect place to curl up with a good book. In addition to its castle-like appearance, The Brumback Library is also special because it was the first County Library formed in the United States.
Little bookworms will especially appreciate the Ohio Storybook Trails, which are in the process of being added to multiple Ohio State Parks. They’re perfect for a whimsical family adventure—and even a little education. Each trail features an interactive story with a focus on nature and a free little library. For more information about where these happy little trails are popping up in Ohio, check out our previous article here.
If you enjoy getting lost in a book for the entire afternoon with a cup of coffee or other delicious treat, then there’s a book shop cafe in Cincinnati you need to know about. Tucked along Main Street in Over-The-Rhine, this beloved book shop will make you fall in love with reading all over again. You'll find vintage books, locally roasted coffee and delicious foods made from local, all-natural ingredients here. (Fun fact: Iris Book Cafe has the largest collection of Polish books in the city of Cincinnati.)
Have you ever been to any of these destinations before? What other places would you add to this list? Let us know!
For more literary and historic fun in Ohio, check out our previous article: There Are More Than 70 Stops Along The Ohio Literary Trail For Avid Readers To Explore.
Address: The Book Loft of German Village, 631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206, USA
Address: 13015 Larchmere Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44120, USA
Address: The Golden Lamb, 27 S Broadway St, Lebanon, OH 45036, USA
Address: 414 Walnut St #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA
Address: 726 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA
Address: 215 W Main St, Van Wert, OH 45891, USA
Address: Iris Book Cafe, 1331 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA
